Pregnancy is the last time (at least for quite a while) you will have a chance to travel by yourself or just with your partner. Planning a trip mid-pregnancy can be a great way to celebrate the occasion of your impending parenthood. But it can also lead to questions about safe travel for the mom-to-be.

If you do not have any complications, travel during pregnancy is typically just fine. The best place to start your planning is to ask your healthcare provider if you have any risk factors that would limit your ability to travel. Let your provider know if you plan to travel by car or by air, as this may make a difference in his or her recommendations.

If you are planning to fly somewhere, consider these travel tips for pregnancy:

• Most airlines let women fly up to 35 or 36 weeks of pregnancy, but be sure to check before you purchase your tickets. Your destination – domestic or international – might make a difference, too.
• Avoid nonstop overseas or cross-country flights. These high-altitude flights can increase your heart rate, as well as your baby’s, and cause both of you to receive less oxygen.
• If swelling has been a problem, wear loose-fitting shoes and clothes. Consider not wearing pantyhose, knee socks or anything with a tight waistline.
• Find out if a meal will be served, and if there are options for pregnant moms. Bring along nutritious snacks, especially if the flight is long.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your trip.
• Try to walk as often as you can during your flight, at least every hour. Sometimes just standing up helps your circulation, and your comfort level.
• Try to get an aisle seat, close to the bathroom – especially important for pregnant moms!

If you are traveling by car (or bus or train), here are some things to consider:

• Always wear your seatbelt. Seat belts do not increase the risk of injury to you or your baby, but actually protect you both. Wear the lap portion across your hips and under your belly, and the shoulder portion across your chest.
• If you are in an automobile, move your seat back so you have at least 10 inches between your body and the airbag.
• If possible, share the driving time with your partner or other travel companion.
• Stop frequently to stretch and use the restroom. This will help with your circulation, and can keep your back from hurting from long periods of sitting.
• Dress comfortably. You want clothes that don’t constrict – including socks!

The biggest risk of traveling during pregnancy – and probably your biggest worry – is developing a problem while you’re away from those who know your medical and pregnancy history. It’s common to feel that way, but don’t make it your deciding factor. Take time to plan your trip with pregnancy in mind, be sure you don’t try to do too much while you’re there, and then relax and enjoy yourself!

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 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 2018. All rights reserved.

What the heck is happening to my partner? (And your partner may be wondering what the heck is happening to himself!) Truth is you are the one that is supposed to be pregnant, but your spouse seems to be having the same symptoms as you do. Is he just trying to steal some of the attention back, feeling a little left out – or are dad’s pregnancy symptoms something that is REAL?

According to experts, around 90% of all men have some pregnancy symptom of their own while their partner is pregnant. This is so prevalent that experts have called this ‘couvade syndrome,’ which translated means “WE ARE PREGNANT!” This phenomenon, where your partner seems to be sharing in your increased appetite, morning sickness, and may even be gaining weight at a rapid pace, is heralded by sympathy pains and anxiety.

For many men, this is their way of dealing with the anxiety that coincides with their partner’s pregnancy. Experts believe that many men have a hard time sharing their pregnancy fears, and pre-parenting worries with their partner, so the stress manifests in physical symptoms that often mimic their pregnant partners. Additionally, this anxiety can cause nausea, or ‘morning sickness,’ and may even have your partner reaching for the donuts and potato chips more often than not.

It can also be a way that your partner sympathizes with you. After all, they certainly don’t want you to have all the fun! So when your back hurts, you feel sick – or you have an insatiable midnight appetite, so does he!

If your partner is gaining weight along side of you, it may be because of rising cortisol levels that are triggered by stress more than the fact that they are grabbing for seconds alongside of you. Increases in cortisol can also make your partner feel sleepy and sluggish, have a reduced sex drive and be prone to mood swings. Just. Like. You!

While it is fun (and sort of liberating) that men, too, are prone to pregnancy symptoms – the reality is that they aren’t also carrying the cumbersome weight of the baby. But they may be carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders as they prepare to become parents. Pregnancy changes everything. It changes relationships and it changes the future in many ways. It is only normal and natural for your partner to have a symptomatic reaction of sorts to the changes that are coming. As you progress through your pregnancy – getting larger and closer to your due date – your partner may have increased pregnancy symptoms triggered by stress.

The best thing to do is to keep the lines of communication OPEN! Make sure that you and your partner talk to one another and discuss the future together. Often, his opinions become overshadowed by the needs of the pregnant partner, and in their attempts to make sure you are happy and satisfied and stress free, their own needs get looked over. So talk to one another. Laugh together. Be optimistic about the future.

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.

When you are pregnant, even the littlest things are essential to making you feel comfortable. Some products are specially designed to make your pregnant life simpler, calmer, and more relaxing. May it be to stop the itching in your belly, clothes for easier movements, or anything that will get you through the night, these pregnancy products are your best bet!

BODY PILLOW

A body pillow is a lifesaver for some pregnant women. It is that one thing they sleep with every night, lounge on the couch with, and wrap around their back. It is a very valuable sleep aid when you have trouble sleeping due to discomfort. It also eases stiff joints and supports your body.

BELLY SUPPORT BELT

Belly support in the form of elastic belly belt may help relieve pubic pain and prevents progress of discomfort. At a very low cost, it provides instant relief with its light and small feature. It is highly recommended for pregnant women who have lots of back and pelvic bone problems.

MORNING SICKNESS RELIEF

If you’re suffering from morning sickness you may benefit from natural morning sickness relief. It can be a baggie full of crackers, fruit-and-juice popsicles, or even sea bands. You can also have preggy pops which come in different flavours such as ginger and lavender.

PREGNANCY BRA SOLUTIONS

Ever heard of bra extenders? You can get it for a few bucks and save yourself from buying new bras that you will not use in a week. With extenders, you can still wear your bras a bit longer by letting out the ribcage part.

SOOTHING SKIN LOTION

Soothing skin lotion is essential for your breasts, butt, and belly. Use it after the shower for a softer pregnancy skin. Aloe Vera gel helps with your hot and swollen feet, providing you a good night sleep. When massaged to the perineum, it may also prevent tears during labour.

SLIDE-ON SHOES

With swollen feet, slide-on shoes are great pregnancy products that every expecting mother should have. Choose some cute and support slide-on shoes for support and cushion.

PREGNANCY PLANNER

During the course of your pregnancy, there are simply too many things to keep track of. The pregnancy planner is a handy notepad where you can write down emergency contact numbers, health details and things you like to do to prepare for delivery. If you have a lot of things on your mind, the planner is a great way to organise your thoughts and schedules so you don’t miss those important prenatal appointments or just simply hanging out with your friends.

What products are your “must-haves”?

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 2018. All rights reserved.

One of the greatest worries for parents-to-be, is the family finances. How will you afford to feed another mouth? How will you cope financially while on maternity leave? How will you afford to buy all of the baby paraphernalia available in the shops? Before you get yourself worked up into a credit card frenzy, it’s important to remember that it is possible to have a baby on a budget. In fact, you could make that your mantra for the next few months and you could save yourself a small fortune. Here are six easy tips for having a baby on a budget:

• Beg, borrow and steal – ok, well don’t actually steal, but borrowing is always a good idea. If you have friends and family offering to lend you cots, strollers and toys, accept their kindness. Babies don’t need brand new, they’ll be more than happy using preloved items. Thrift, charity and second-hand stores are great places to find bargain baby gear. If you are using heirloom hand-me-downs, though, be sure to judge them by today’s safety standards.
• Breastfeed – formula milk can end up costing quite a lot, and you can bypass the cost completely by making the most of what nature gave you. Breastfeeding is free – totally and completely free – and will keep your baby completely nourished until he’s ready to be weaned onto solid foods. Of course, you can buy a breast pump and bottles to express milk if you like, but you may not need to. For some women, breastfeeding allows them to feed their baby for free for the first six months of life.
• Cloth bum – disposable nappies can cost a lot, too, but by opting for cloth diapers you can bypass this ongoing expense. You will have a larger outlay at the beginning, but then the diapers will last your baby until he’s potty trained. They’ll even be fine to use for any future babies too. If you add them to your baby registry, you may even get the cloth nappies as gifts!
• Only buy what you need – a lot of the items you see in baby stores don’t really qualify as necessities. They’re things you can spend money on, but by no means need to. You don’t really need to buy a brand new baby bath, you could wash your baby in your bath or sink. Your baby doesn’t really need an expensive musical mobile to go above the crib. He doesn’t really need brand new matching nursery furniture. He doesn’t need the tiny pair of expensive shoes you’ve been eyeing up, even though they are very cute. Food, shelter, clothing and love – aside from that, everything else may be nice to have but not a necessity.
• Be realistic – draw up a realistic budget and stick to it. Give yourself room for the occasional splurge so that you don’t feel guilty about little purchases.
• Shop around – once you’ve decided what you want to buy, do your research and shop around to make sure you get the best deal. It may take a while, but you could save a lot of money.

Remember, money isn’t love – of course it feels good to spend money on your baby, and to feel that you’re ready for his arrival. But don’t feel bad if you can’t afford to buy everything new. Your baby won’t know whether a pram is new or second hand. Your baby won’t care whether he has matching outfits, a cute cot bumper, or a personalised teddy, all he will care about is being close to you.

Are you sticking to a tight budget for the baby, do you have any tips to share with other budgeting mums?

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 flu is a highly infectious virus. It tends to occur seasonally, and is usually around during the winter months. During pregnancy, your weakened immune system means you have an increased risk of catching flu. The weakened immune system also puts you at a greater, though still very small, risk of developing complications if you do contract the virus.

Flu vaccine during pregnancy

Pregnant women are offered the flu vaccine each year. Usually offered in the fall, it takes a couple of weeks for you to develop an immunity after the shot. The flu vaccine is considered safe to administer at any point during pregnancy. There is no need to wait until your second trimester, as the vaccine is considered safe even during early pregnancy.

If you have not been offered the flu vaccine, speak to your healthcare provider to find out why. It is not possible to catch flu from the vaccine, although you may experience some mild side effects that mimic flu symptoms. As with all vaccines, there are a number of possible side effects, please ask your healthcare provider about these before being vaccinated. There is a nasal spray flu vaccine available, but this is not suitable for use during pregnancy.

Symptoms of flu

If you contract flu, you will experience a fever of over 38C/100.4F, and at least two of the following symptoms:

• runny nose
• headache
• sore throat
• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• muscle aches
• cough
• shortness of breath
• diarrhoea or vomiting

The potential complications of suffering from flu during pregnancy include pneumonia, dehydration and difficulty breathing. If you think you may be suffering from flu, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Treatment for flu during pregnancy

The following tips may help you to manage your flu symptoms:

• get plenty of rest
• increase your fluid intake
• eat little and often
• use cold flannels to lower your temperature
• speak to your pharmacist for advice on which over the counter medications are safe to take during pregnancy

When to call your healthcare provider

Pregnancy puts you at a slightly increased risk of a number of complications. For this reason, it’s important to seek immediate medical help if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• difficulty breathing
• shortness of breath
• coughing up a bloody mucus
• turning blue
• pressure or pain in your chest or abdomen
• dizziness
• severe vomiting
• reduced foetal movements
• a high fever that cannot be lowered with over the counter medications

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.

Constipation causes difficulty when passing stools. You may notice you are passing stools less often, or simply being less effective when you do. If you are suffering from constipation, you may notice that your stools are:

• dry and lumpy
• abnormally large
• abnormally small

You may also notice the following symptoms:

• bloating
• stomach ache and/or cramps
• nausea
• loss of appetite

What causes constipation during pregnancy?

During early pregnancy, hormonal changes make you more susceptible to constipation. As your body begins to nourish a developing baby, your digestive system slows down to allow your body to absorb as many nutrients as possible from the food you eat. This slow and sluggish digestive system can lead to constipation. As the pregnancy progresses, your growing uterus will put pressure on your digestive system, which could cause constipation.

How to avoid constipation during pregnancy

Try the following tips to reduce your chances of suffering from constipation:

• Increase your fibre intake – make sure you eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds dried fruits, and whole-grain cereals and breads.
• Reduce your intake of refined foods – far from helping you avoid it, some foods can actually increase your likelihood of suffering from constipation. Refined foods such as white bread and white rice can add to your problems, as can a high intake of red meat or dairy products.
• Stay hydrated – during pregnancy you need to drink at least two extra glasses of water a day. Dehydration can cause constipation, so it’s important to make sure you are drinking enough water.
• Eat little and often – gorging on big meals can lead to a back up in your digestive system. Instead, try to eat six smaller meals each day, this may help to relieve constipation.
• Keep exercising – light exercise can help to get things moving, so try to exercise at least a few times each week. Swimming, yoga and walking are all great exercises during pregnancy, and can help you to stay fit and healthy as you prepare for the birth.
• Supplement carefully – some iron supplements may cause constipation. If you are taking iron supplements, speak to your doctor about trying another brand.

When to call your healthcare provider

If you have tried all of the above, and still can’t go, it might be time to give your healthcare provider a call. Your healthcare provider will be able to advise you on safe treatments for constipation during pregnancy. Your doctor may advise laxatives, although only certain types are suitable for pregnant women so you must seek medical advice before taking these.

Do you have any tips to help readers suffering from constipation?

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 some, a pregnant woman’s body is a sight to behold. Some women find that they are radiant during pregnancy. They may love their growing bump, their fuller breasts and their glowing skin. Not all women feel that way, though. In fact for some women, pregnancy can feel more like an alien invasion than a gift. If you are one of these women, you may be finding it difficult to love your changing body. Here are some tips for learning to love your changing body:

1. Understanding is key to acceptance – if you understand why a change is taking place, it is easier to accept. While the sight of your enlarged, vein-ridden breasts may be troublesome, once you realise this is your body’s way of preparing to nourish your baby, you may feel less worried about the changes.
2. Pregnant doesn’t mean unhealthy – if anything, pregnancy should mean healthy. While your body is busy growing you a baby, you should be taking care of it. Eating healthily, taking regular exercise and making sure you get enough rest are all very important things you can do. If you continue to exercise throughout pregnancy, you may find it easier to regain your shape after the birth.
3. Pregnancy is a temporary change – while it may be quite a drastic change, remember it is just a temporary one. In just nine months, you’ll be helping your baby into the world, and your body will begin its transformation back to its pre-pregnancy state. Ok, you may find your breasts are always a little bigger, or your ribs are a little wider, but generally, things should go back to normal.
4. Celebrate your body – though you may not feel it all the time, pregnant bodies are beautiful. Your bump is something to be proud of, and you should feel comfortable showing it off. Rather than dressing to hide your bump, have at least a couple of outfits that showcase your growing bump for the world.
5. Create some memories – you may feel huge and heavy now, but one day you will look back on this time and think about how amazing pregnancy is (you can hardly believe it, can you?). Make sure you have some great photos of yourself pregnant, so that you can look back and remember just how big you got.
6. Be honest – there’s no need to pretend you love pregnancy. Some women love pregnancy, and others hate it. Be honest about your feelings, and talk about them with people you trust. This may even help you to see yourself in a more positive light.

How are you finding pregnancy? Do you love your new body, or shudder at the sight of yourself in the bathroom mirror?

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.

Pregnancy is a daunting time for all mothers, but this can be especially true for younger mums-to-be. You may feel isolated by your pregnancy, or be worried about your finances, but rest assured, you’re not alone as a young mum-to-be. If you are young and pregnant, you may have many questions, and we can answer some.

Am I ready to be a mum?

Whether your pregnancy was planned or a surprise, you will probably still worry about whether you are ready to be a mum. Most pregnant women worry about how they will adapt to life as a mother, this is a normal pregnancy concern whatever your age or lifestyle. By preparing for the birth and motherhood, you can help yourself mentally prepare for being a parent.

How will I cope financially?

It may seem that there are lots of things to buy before the baby arrives, and even more to purchase once she gets here. Try not to worry though, there are ways to bring the costs down. Shopping around, buying second-hand and borrowing what you need can help you to stick within budget.

What about my career?

Having a baby while you’re still young may delay you progressing on the career track for a couple of years, but that doesn’t mean your career has come to an end. Take some time to enjoy your new role as a mother, and then refocus your work ethic to progressing your career once you feel settled at home.

Feeling left out

If you are the only person expecting in your social circle, it’s easy to feel left out. You may worry about missing out on the fun, being left behind while all your friends leave home, or being seen as ‘boring’ now that you’re a parent. Of course, there’s no guarantee that your friends will stick around, but chances are the true ones will. Try to get them involved with the baby, and make sure you still allow yourself to have fun and socialise with your friends.

Feeling judged

You may worry that you are being judged by your age. Chances are, your own worries and insecurities are bubbling to the surface. Your age doesn’t mean you will be a bad mother, you may be a better mum than someone twice your age. Only you get to decide what sort of mother you will be.

Feeling isolated
It can be hard to get out and meet other mums, but it’s important to have a support system in place. Baby groups and new mum meet ups are great places to meet other mums in your local area. There may even be a group for young mums like yourself, so that you can socialise with people who know exactly what you’re going through.

Are you a young mum? Do you have any concerns about the pregnancy, or are you feel ready and excited to begin your new life as a mother?

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.

Oh baby, it’s cold outside!

For many expectant moms who are due in the winter, there is a hint of worry and anxiety about the risks associated with having a baby in the cold months. The reality is that there are many more viruses and bacterial infections floating around in the winter months, such as the seasonal flu and the common cold, that can be much more dangerous for newborns. Additionally, the stoic cold makes it impractical for many parents to take their newborns outdoors often, and makes routine outings feel overly stressful.

Obviously, babies are born during every season of the year. And while there are risks involved for newborns no matter when they are born, the cold winter months do pose some more health hazards. The following risks and accompanying tips can help you enjoy your winter baby and hopefully worry a little less.

1. Over-bundling your baby. Your cold season baby will come home with a hat. Infants have an especially hard time regulating body temperature and many parents keep the baby’s hat on for weeks after delivery. However, it is important to realize that just because your baby is little and the temperatures are cold, you shouldn’t over-bundle your baby in clothing. Too many layers of clothing along with too many covers or blankets can actually pose a health risk for your little one, as they struggle to regulate body temperature at both spectrums. Getting too hot, or being over-bundled, has been linked to SIDS. Pediatricians say you should feel your baby’s hands and feet to see if they are warm or cold. Dress and bundle your baby as you would do yourself and then add one thin layer. Keeping the hat on your baby’s head is a good idea especially since most of their body heat escapes from the head. If you head outdoors, bundle your baby, paying careful attention to keep their face covered from the elements – but check their body temperature regularly to make sure that they aren’t overheating. When you get indoors, remove the outer layers, such as a coat and mittens, so your baby can adjust to the indoor temperature.

2.  Winter illness. In the colder months, illness abound and you should be very strict and careful about people touching your baby. Ask them to wash their hands before handling your baby, and keep hand sanitizer nearby and ready to use. Even you, as the parent, should make sure to sanitize you hands often. Additionally, politely decline invitations to attend large parties and try to keep your infant away from places with many school aged children who are often carrying germs. Since there are very few medications you can give newborns when they get a cold or virus, you should be prepared to contact your pediatrician and keep supplies such as a nasal syringe and saline spray on hand. Also, keeping your baby out of places where lots of people congregate – such as churches, airports, grocery stores, schools etc. – can get you through the first few months with less risk for illness. Remember, if your baby does get sick, it is important to contact your pediatrician right away.

The good news is that the weather will warm up quickly and as your newborn grows he or she will be even more resilient. As long as you use common sense, an outing with your winter newborn is not cause for concern or worry.

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.

Many women are upset to realize in the third trimester of pregnancy that they have stretch marks many places on their bodies. Some women get one or two, while others get multiple stretch marks on their abdomens, legs, back, buttocks, and breasts.

Its true as your skin stretches while you are pregnant, stretch marks may occur. Experts believe that your predisposition to stretch marks has more to do with genetics than the amount of weight you gain. And the truth is while they may appear purplish or red now – and maybe even itch like crazy – as your body shrinks back to normal, the appearance of the stretch marks will lessen.

While there are many products on the market that boast eliminating or removing stretch marks, doing so is actually tricky. One of the best things that you can do during pregnancy, is liberally apply natural oils or lotions on your body as you expand. Not only can this help the stretch marks, but it can also help diminish the itching and redness. There are several creams on the market specially designed for pregnant women. You can find them in the baby aisle or lotion aisle of most pharmacies or grocery stores. Ask some pregnant friends, family members or co-workers which cream they used. Chances are you will get multiple recommendations. Some women even use olive oil to gloss up their baby bumps!

It’s also important to drink plenty of water to help avoid stretch marks. Your skin is the body’s largest organ and as such, it needs lots of hydration from water to stay healthy. If you don’t drink enough water, your skin will suffer and excessive stretch marks can be the result.

Another important aspect of reducing stretch marks is eating a healthy diet. Your skin requires anti-oxidants, Vitamin E, Omega-3 fatty acids, and Vitamin A to stay in healthy shape. The best way to nourish your skin with the vitamins and minerals it needs is to eat a diet rich in these substances.

Believe it or not, another way to minimize stretch marks is to exercise during pregnancy. Exercise helps the skin maintain its elasticity which is critical in avoiding stretch marks. It can also keep you from gaining weight too quickly, which can result in stretch marks. And, its healthy for you and your baby.

At the end of your pregnancy, you shouldn’t worry too much about your stretch marks. Many women see them as their marks of courage, and are proud to have them, especially knowing that they came from the birth of their child. After you give birth, the stretch marks will fade into a silvery color and will not be as noticeable. And chances are everyone who loves you will only see you as more beautiful. So, be easy on yourself.  

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.

You’re pregnant, yay!  You and your spouse couldn’t be more excited. But suddenly as the conversations have shifted to child rearing and future plans, you realize that the two of you don’t see things quite the same. For instance, while your husband is already talking about your son becoming a linebacker, you are dreaming of raising a son that is everything but cliché BOY! And while you’re thinking about how the crib is going to fit in your bedroom, your partner says “NO WAY! The baby is sleeping in his room.” Two parents with two opinions about the best way to do things.

The clash of ideas and opinions about child rearing is extremely common among new parents. It starts during pregnancy, and can sometimes overshadow the joy and excitement you feel about having the baby as you wonder (and worry) how you and your spouse are going to be able to agree on anything when it comes to the baby. Is this a sign of things to come?

The reality is that few people have in-depth conversations about how they feel about things such as religion, or allowance, or the family bed, or desserts before dinner BEFORE they have kids. And, the way we were raised is never fully revealed until we start thinking about children of our own. These differences, also referred to as inherent differences, don’t have much room in our lives before we are actually faced with child-rearing. So although you may be surprised at how much you and your partner disagree, you shouldn’t be alarmed. Most couples have vastly different ideals about parenthood in the months prior to the baby being born.

It is also important to realize that everything you think you know about raising a child, and everything you think you will do when you have your own kids – means nothing until you actually have the baby. No matter how much you swore you would never do this or that, the actual baby has a way of changing all that. For instance, even though you and your partner may be butting heads about the best way to wean a baby NOW while you’re pregnant, the reality is that you don’t really know which bridge you will cross until you get there. So settle down just a little: You and your partner are not doomed, or headed for trouble because you seem to be disagreeing on a few things.

Two parents, with two opinions is natural. And, having differing opinions about things enables us to see there is more than one way to do things. Just because you are the MOM and he is the DAD doesn’t mean that one of you is better equipped or smarter when it comes to child rearing. When the conversations arise where the two of you disagree, the best thing to do is simply allow yourselves to get there when you get there. After all, you needn’t be arguing about the perfect age for your daughter to date, when your daughter hasn’t even been born yet.

Time has a way of changing things and you will realize that most things work themselves out in time. Cherish your pregnancy, and if you really want to have fun – write down all the things you swore you would and wouldn’t do, so when your child is a teenager you can look back and realize just how wrong you were. About everything. 🙂

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.