Baby Care

Archive for February, 2010

As your due date approaches you’re bound to feel excited about the prospect of holding your baby for the first time. But you’re also likely to feel nervous about the birth itself, especially if this is your first baby. And if you already have a child whose birth was complicated, the fear that history might repeat itself is likely to prey on your mind.

One of the best things you can do to assuage your fears is to find a GP or midwife who shares your philosophy when it comes to birth, and can help you draw up a birth plan of how you’d like your baby’s delivery to be. If you feel you and your GP or midwife don’t click, find another as far ahead of your due date as possible, so you can rest assured that your labor will take place under the care of someone who is in tune with your hopes and wishes.

Another good tactic is to arm yourself with the facts about labor and birth. Read up as much as you can about it and attend childbirth education classes, especially if this is your first baby. The tutor will explain the process and physiology of childbirth, which should help allay any fears you have over your physical ability to give birth. She’ll also explain what might happen if you do have any complications during your labor.

Here are some tips for soothing the most common labor fears and worries:

I’m afraid I won’t know I’m in labor.
Fear not – women who don’t realize it’s the real thing until they feel the urge to push are few and far between. There are various signs that tell you you’re in early labor, including cramping pains across your lower back, and more intense Braxton Hicks contractions. If you’re at all suspicious you’re in labor, call your GP or midwife for advice. They’ll likely want to see you to make sure – and don’t feel embarrassed if it’s false alarm because that’s way better than hanging on so long that you get the urge to push in the car on the way to the hospital!

I’m panicking over the idea of an emergency birth.
The fact is that labor and birth are a long process – typically 15 to 20 hours from first contraction to the moment of birth – with a first baby, making an emergency home birth extremely unlikely. So ignore those movies where the plucky pregnant heroine has to be whisked to hospital at the very first twinge. However, if this is a second or subsequent baby, your cervix will know exactly what it’s supposed to do and the process will usually happen faster, assuming your baby is in a good birth position. As a rule, whether it’s your first or a subsequent baby, as soon as contractions become regular you should make your way to the hospital or birthing center.

I’m worried my water will break at the store.
Only about 10 percent of women’s water breaks before labor actually starts. For many women it happens when labor is well underway, and for some it happens just before the actual delivery. And just to reassure you further, if your water does break in a public place it won’t be the flood of epic precautions that you might have seen on TV and in the movies, because once it happens your baby’s head will move down and seal the exit of your uterus, slowing any flow to a trickle.

I’m terrified of the pain.
We won’t lie to you: labor is painful, though if your pain threshold is high you might find it isn’t completely unbearable. There are tactics you can use to help you cope – breathing techniques, keeping up and active, and natural and/or narcotic pain relief. You also can find out about epidural anesthesia – ask your midwife if the hospital where you are going to have your baby has 24-hour anesthesia, so you’ll be able to opt for an epidural at any time if the pain becomes too much to bear. The bottom line is that you don’t have to suffer the pain of labour if you don’t want to.

I’m scared at the thought of having an epidural.
You may hear birth horror stories that include accounts of epidurals not working properly – for example, they may only numb one side of the body so that the pain of contractions is felt in the other side. This is a remote possibility but it’s very unlikely to happen to you because complications like this are so rare. Short-term side effects, such as a headache afterwards, are more common but they’re easily treated.

I’m nervous about pooping while I push.
This is a possibility you’re bound to obsess over before the delivery but we can assure you that at the time you’re pushing it’ll be the very last thing on your mind. In any case your GP or midwife will have seen it all before and will actually view it as a positive sign that your baby is moving along the birth canal and all is going well.

I’m worried I might need a cesarean.
Although the cesarean rate has increased and headlines imply it’s the birth method of choice for most women, you’re likely to view the prospect with trepidation as your due date nears. You might worry about the surgery itself, as well as the pain you might suffer in the aftermath and your ability to care for your baby if you do need one. Ask your midwife to carefully explain the reasons why a cesarean might be necessary. You’ll only be presented with that option if it’s absolutely necessary for the safe delivery of your baby. If it does happen during your labor, make sure you’re absolutely clear as to why it’s being done. Common reasons include your baby being in an awkward position or your cervix not dilating far enough to allow for her passage out of the uterus.

If your brain has turned to mush now you’re pregnant, you’re not the only one! Many women report being forgetful and absentminded at different stages during pregnancy – in fact it’s referred to as pregnancy brain, and also pregnancy ‘mumnesia’!

Don’t panic about it though – although pregnancy affects women physically, it also affects you mentally too, so while your pregnancy forgetfulness might be frustrating, it’s perfectly normal. In fact, some studies suggest that up to 68 percent of mums-to-be suffer memory lapses, 54 percent have difficulty concentrating (especially when tackling new and/or unfamiliar tasks) and 52 percent suffer from absentmindedness. And don’t expect it to clear up the minute you have your baby – it can continue for the first year or so after the birth, although most will agree this is down to continuous sleepless nights in the early days!

What is pregnancy forgetfulness?

Forgetfulness is the main symptom of pregnancy brain: you’ll forget where you left your purse, and your friends may inform you that you keep repeating yourself! Pregnancy hormones are likely to blame (those hormones have a lot to answer for!): progesterone often causes fatigue in the first trimester (weeks 0-12), and tiredness contributes to short-term memory loss. Its worth remembering that Oxytocin has been shown to have amnesia-like effects during pregnancy and research indicates that the brain cell volume actually shrinks during the third trimester (weeks 29-40).

Evolution may play a role – some experts suggest that this forgetfulness is designed to shield you from outside distractions that may prevent you from focusing on your baby, and that you need to see it as a sign that you need to simplify your life so that your newborn is your main focus.

The emotional side of pregnancy plays a part in your forgetfulness. Many women report their symptoms are worse during the first and third trimesters, and if you think about it that makes sense. In the first trimester you’ll be overwhelmed by starting on this incredible journey and exhausted by the changes your body is going through. In the final trimester you may not be sleeping well, and may be worried about the birth, your baby’s health, and the changes you are about to experience.

Don’t worry, pregnancy brain isn’t actually harmful  – but where it can cause problems is after your baby is born, if your memory lapses are putting her safety at risk. If for example, you are forgetting to buckle her into her car seat or you keep losing your car keys on a regular basis you may need some extra help. Getting more sleep can help – but often this is easier said than done.

Tips to help you cope with pregnancy forgetfulness.
Sleep is a key factor in helping you combat the effects of pregnancy brain. Get as much as you can and don’t fight the overwhelming fatigue that can strike in the first trimester – go to bed early if you need to, cut back on socialising, and eat a healthy, energy-boosting diet. Sleep may be difficult to come by as your baby’s due date nears. Use pillows to support your bump in bed at night, and if you find you’re having to get up several times to go to the bathroom, cut back on the amount of fluid you drink after 6pm. Drink plenty of fluids during the day to avoid dehydration, which can exacerbate memory problems and confusion. Avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee and soda, as caffeine is a diuretic and can cause you to become dehydrated.

Another good coping strategy is to write down things that you really need to remember – for example, appointments, reminders of when your baby needs his next vaccination ¬ on a dry-wipe board or chalkboard and hang it somewhere prominent so you can’t help but see it. Keep a notepad and pen in your purse for reminders when you’re out and about. Remember that you also can use your, Blackberry, laptop, or other electronic organizer to remind you about things and help you stick to a routine.

Pregnant women deserve to look just as good as their non-pregnant counterparts. You can look and feel great during your first, second and through your third trimester. There is no reason to walk around wearing sweatpants when various fashionable and often inexpensive maternity wear exists. There are also some tips and tricks you can use to minimize the expense often associated with buying maternity fashions.

The first step toward looking great during pregnancy is feeling good about the changes occurring in your body. Some women grimace at the idea of gaining weight, though they are overly excited about having a baby. Remember that a pregnant woman is the most beautiful woman on earth. The better you feel about yourself the more likely you are to look and feel great, even in a pair of your husband’s old sweatpants and a dirty t-shirt. Fortunately, you can get by with a few well selected pieces that will keep you feeling fashionable and hip throughout your pregnancy.

First Trimester Fashion
During your first trimester of pregnancy you can probably stick with most of the items already hanging in your closet. This is especially the case if this is your first pregnancy. Most women don’t start showing until sometime in the early second trimester. Most women find during the later half of their first trimester their pants begin to feel a little snug. The rubber band trick works well for keeping pants and jeans comfy until you really need to move into maternity clothes. Simply loop a rubber band through the button and top loop of your pants to provide you a little extra fastening room.

Second Trimester And Beyond
Once you hit your fourth or fifth month you’ll start expanding and looking for maternity wear to accommodate your growing figure. Fortunately you can find fashionable and chick maternity wear without breaking your bank. One of the easiest solutions is buying a 4-piece kit that provides you with some basic maternity essentials you can mix and match through your pregnancy. You should look for the following pieces:

* Stretch pant that accommodates your growing belly
* Slim skirt with belly panel
* Dress
* 3/4 sleeve top

Aside from these essentials there are other items you may want to include in a basic maternity wardrobe. While your personality, budget and personal preferences will ultimately decide the style of clothing you prefer, there are a few items you can buy as separates that will last you your entire pregnancy. Some women consider the following items must haves during their pregnancy.

1. Tunic length sweater – This will help keep you warm on chilly days and will adjust to accommodate your belly as it grows.
2. Stretch Pants – Stretch pants are a must have during pregnancy. If you get a khaki or black pair you can be sure they’ll go with anything at any time of the year.
3. T-shirt – Or two for that matter. You can buy one or two tees that go with and under just about anything.
4. Button Down Shirt – You can dress this up and accessorize for work or other more formal functions.
5. Undergarments – There is maternity underwear you can buy, though most women find they can get away with a larger size bikini version of their normal underwear. You may decide midway into your pregnancy however to buy a well fitting maternity bra. Be sure if you do you buy one that will accommodate your increasing breast size as your pregnancy continues.
6. Tank Top – Every pregnant woman should have a tank top they can wear throughout their pregnancy. You’ll find as your pregnancy continues you tend to feel hotter and hotter. You may be surprised to find yourself lounging on the couch in a tank top in the dead of winter.
7. Jeans – Every pregnant woman should have a pair of jeans that fits them well. You don’t have to resign yourself to a panel pair of ugly jeans. There are plenty of hip styles that fit under the belly during early pregnancy, and those with flattering panels or full stretch capability for later in pregnancy. Look for jeans with built in stretch in order to maximize your comfort throughout your pregnancy.

Accessorizing During Pregnancy
You can get buy with a skirt, dress, pair of slacks and couple of blouses even if you work in corporate American during your pregnancy. The key to freshening your outfit is accessories. The more accessories you have the better. You can accessorize your outfits from day to day to keep them looking and feeling fresh. That way the fiftieth time you show up to work in your slim fit pregnancy skirt, you don’t feel like a fashion flunky. Flowers, bright scarves, chunky jewelry, pins… find anything and everything you can use to accentuate your features and liven up your maternity wear.

While having a huge maternity wardrobe may be convenient, most women find it is really unnecessary during pregnancy. Stick to a few basic yet classic pieces and you’ll find you look and feel great from months one to nine.

When you discover that you’re pregnant, you will hopefully be filled with excitement and anticipation. However, you may also feel slightly anxious as you’re suddenly confronted with a list of pregnancy do’s’ and ‘don’ts.

These feelings are entirely normal and they don’t mean that you’re neurotic or paranoid; you simply want the best for your baby and are therefore keen to ensure that your pregnancy runs as smoothly as possible.

You may well be aware that there are certain foods you should avoid and exercises that are not recommended during pregnancy.

One area where a certain amount of confusion arises, however, is whether or not it is safe to dye your hair when you’re pregnant.

Is it safe to colour hair during pregnancy?

It is always best to consult your GP before having your hair coloured; you should always be guided by your doctor, rather than a hairdresser. Although there is no evidence that the chemicals present in hair dye are dangerous, there have been suggestions over the years that they might harm your unborn baby through causing birth defects. However, the tests that have been conducted have been inconclusive and hair dyes have come a long way in recent years; previously, some hair dyes contained certain chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which would possibly pose a threat to an unborn baby’s health. Most of the chemicals now used in hair dye are not very toxic, but some doctors may advise you not to have your hair coloured during pregnancy or might suggest that you wait until after your first trimester. This is because the development of your baby’s brain and nervous system is at it’s most active during the first three months.

If the doctor says it’s safe to colour hair, should you do it yourself or go to a salon?

If the doctor gives you the go-ahead, the next question you may ask yourself is whether you should dye your hair yourself or have it done professionally. As your hair will probably undergo changes when you’re pregnant, you may choose to have it done in a salon as you can’t be quite sure what colour it will come out! If you choose to colour it yourself, make sure that you wear gloves and choose products which are low in ammonia and peroxide. It’s also a good idea to dye your hair in a well-ventilated room, so you minimise the amount of chemicals that you breathe in – you are also less likely to feel sick from the smell of the fumes.

Your doctor may suggest that, rather than having your whole head of hair coloured, you ask for highlights, as these do not come into contact with your scalp.

Are any hair dyes completely safe?

The only hair dye that is considered to be completely safe to use during pregnancy is henna. As a rule, most vegetable-based products will be safe to use, although you should always check with your GP if you have any concerns.

Will hair change during pregnancy?

Many women report that their hair gets thicker and more glossy when they’re expecting. This is one of the positive side-effects of pregnancy, as even women who have previously had fine, limp hair may now be blessed by a thick mane to be proud of! This is due to increased levels of oestrogen produced by your body during pregnancy.

Don’t be shocked, however, if you shed a considerable amount of hair in the first few months following birth. This is because your hormones are returning to their pre-pregnancy state and you are now shedding the hair that you didn’t lose during pregnancy. Obviously, if you are concerned at all then make an appointment to see your GP.

Signs of Illness:

Does your baby look different? Has your baby’s skin lost color, or is it rosy? Are there any rashes?

Does your baby have a fever? Any of these changes could indicate illness. If you notice any of them, or other worrisome changes in your baby, call your baby’s medical professional.

Has your baby been acting unusual? Is your baby crying more often than usual? Is your baby more short-tempered than usual? Is your baby sleeping more or less than usual? Does your baby seem worn-out?

Has your baby’s eating habits or stools changed? Has your baby thrown up more than once, or has thrown up harshly? Are her stools more hard than usual? Are her stools more runny than usual? Do you need to change more dirty diapers than usual, or not much at all, meaning she isn’t urinating as much as she should? Check for any changes in color in her urine or stools. Anything like this could mean she is sick or dehydrated. You should contact her medical professional as soon as possible.

Does your baby’s breathing seem different? Does your baby have trouble breathing? Does your baby sound congested? You can check by putting your ear to her back, and listen to her breaths. Is your baby coughing?

Steps you and others should take to decrease the chance of your newborn getting sick:

1. Wash your hands before handling your newborn.
2. Wash your hands before and after a diaper change.
3. If anyone is sick, they should keep their distance.
4. Newborns need at least 3-7 baths per week. They don’t need as many as we do simply because they don’t get as dirty as we do, and they have resilient skin.
5. Keep their play toys clean by washing with soap and warm water. Make sure they are thoroughly dry, and clean them often, depending on how often your new baby uses them.
6. Keep their sleeping area clean. Wash their crib with soap and water. You might also want to change their sheets daily, because of the way newborns drool and spit up.
7. All bottles should be sanitized before the baby uses them.
8. Pacifiers should be cleaned continuously throughout the day with soap and water.
9. Be sure to keep your baby warm and cozy in the winter, and comfortably cool in the summer.
10. A humidifier or air filter placed in their bedroom can help keep the air they breathe clean as they sleep.

Welcoming a baby into this world requires more than making sure he or she is healthy in your tummy. At some point, your little love will make his or her way out of your belly and you need to be prepared. This list should help you get all you need to take care of your baby during the early months. As your baby gets older, you will find other items that will make your life easier (like a jumpy seat or an exer-saucer!).

The Nursery

* Cradle, bassinet, or crib: If you choose to have your baby sleep in your room at night, a cradle or bassinet is a nice option for the first few months. When the baby gets bigger, you will need to get a crib. When choosing a crib, make sure it meets the latest safety standards and that there are no more than 2 3/8 inches between the slats.
* Crib mattress: Unfortunately, most cribs do not come with mattresses so you will need to purchase one. Pick out a mattress that has good back support, is not too soft, and meets all the fire-retardant regulations.
* Musical mobile for crib: This isn’t essential, but a nice addition to the crib. Find one with the figurines facing down so that baby can see them better.
* Dresser: You will need a few drawers to store baby’s clothes and toys.
* Changing area: This can be on top of a dresser or a separate changing table. It is a good idea to purchase a pad to lay baby on top of when changing. Never take your hand or eyes off baby when changing him or her, especially if your changing area is off the ground; babies can roll off the table at the blink of an eye.
* Rocking chair or glider: Although not essential, it’s nice to have when feeding baby. Pick one out that has padded arms for extra support and comfort. A footrest adds additional comfort, especially if breastfeeding.
* Nightlight: Not essential, but it helps you see during those middle of the night diaper changes and feedings.
* Tape or CD player: Lullaby music is a nice way to lull baby into a peaceful sleep or soothe baby when he or she is upset.

Crib Linens

* 1 quilted mattress pad
* 2 fitted crib sheets (smaller sizes are sold for cradles, bassinets, or port-a-cribs)
* 2-4 waterproof mattress pads or waterproof sheets
* 2 light blankets
* 1 sleep positioner: This is not essential but it does helps keep baby sleeping on his or her back or side. It is sold in most baby stores.

When making the crib, you have a few options. You may choose to use a waterproof mattress pad on the bottom and put the fitted crib sheet on top of that or you may want to look in to purchasing a waterproof pad/sheet (called sheet-savers) that goes on top of the fitted crib sheet. These can be found in most baby stores and make cleaning up accidents easier since all you have to do is change the top sheet of the crib. If you go this route, be sure to get one that snaps or ties on to the crib railings (you do not want the ones that you just place on top of the fitted sheet – these can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome).

If you choose to use the waterproof sheet savers you really only need 1 fitted crib sheet and 2-4 waterproof sheet savers. The fitted crib sheet should require few changes since the waterproof sheet savers on top will keep it dry. You do, however, want to get multiple waterproof sheet savers since you will need to change those regularly.

Note: Babies don’t need pillows or fluffy comforters in their crib! They also should not sleep with stuffed animals or toys. They could cause your baby to suffocate since he or she is not strong enough to roll over or push them away.

Diaper Time: What You Need for the Changing Table

* Diapers (plan on using 70-90 per week for the first six weeks, then 50 per week)
* Disposable diaper wipes (alcohol-free)
* Diaper rash ointment or cream (such as Desitin or A&D)
* Rubbing alcohol to wipe around base of umbilical cord
* Cotton swabs to apply rubbing alcohol
* Petroleum jelly to apply on circumcision (so the baby’s penis doesn’t stick to the diaper)
* Pad for baby to lie on during changing
* Diaper pail to dispose of soiled diapers

Layette: Baby’s First Clothes

* 6 undershirts that snap on the bottom or tie on the side, commonly called “onesies” (3 in three-month size and 3 in six-month size)
* 3-4 infant gowns with elastic bottoms or draw strings. These make for easy diaper changes. All you have to do is pull the gown up over the belly to change the diaper and then pull it back down when finished. There is no stumbling around trying to snap the gown back together, which is especially nice when it’s 3 am and all you want to do is get baby back to sleep so that you can get back to sleep.
* 6 sleepers/stretch suits (3 newborn to three-month size and 3 in six-month size). These are nice to put baby in during the day, but are not essential items. When buying these, make sure you get the kind that zip up the front. These are easier to get baby in and out.
* 3-4 pairs of booties or socks with stretch elastic band at cuff
* 3-4 receiving blankets
* 1 blanket to cover swaddled baby in crib
* 1 sweater and hat

Bathing Baby: What You Need

* Baby bathtub (sloping with foam pad or flat with molded sponge insert)
* 4 terry cloth bath towels (hooded towels are OK, but not necessary)
* 4-6 washcloths
* Tearless shampoo
* Baby soap. Many brands make baby shampoo and soap all in one.
* Brush and comb
* Rounded-tip nail scissors or clippers. Baby’s nails grow quickly and can scratch his or her face.
* Bulb syringe nasal aspirator. These are used to suction excess mucus from baby’s nose and mouth (the one you receive in the hospital is a keeper!)

You may want to check with your baby’s doctor before the first bath. Some doctors recommend that you wait until the umbilical cord has fallen off and the circumcision site has healed before giving your baby a tub bath. In the meantime sponge baths work great.

Washing Baby’s Laundry

It is a good idea to wash all clothing and bedding in a detergent safe for babies. Some popular brands are Dreft and Ivory Snow. These products have been tested for their safe use for all skin types, especially infants.

Wash all infant clothing, bedding, and towels, prior to first use.

To remove tough stains (such as spit-up), spot-treat the item with one of these detergents or soak prior to washing.

Feeding Baby

* 12 nipples and covers
* 1 bottle and nipple brush for cleaning
* Dishwasher basket for bottles and nipples (optional, but makes for easy cleaning)
* Infant formula and measuring cup (if you are not breastfeeding). Use the brand recommended by your child’s doctor.
* 12 Burp cloths
* 6 Bibs
* 12 bottles. Even if you are breastfeeding, you should have bottles to use for pumped breast milk.

The Diaper Bag

When buying a diaper bag, pick one that has lots of pockets and places to store individual items. Also, keep in mind that your diaper bag often becomes your purse, so find one large enough to keep your wallet, keys, glasses, cell phone, and other items you need for yourself.

It’s a good idea to keep this bag packed with the following items at all times so if you need to leave the house in a hurry (especially if you have to take baby to the doctor unexpectedly), you’ll be ready:

* 5-6 diapers
* Disposable wipes
* Diaper rash cream or ointment
* Pad to lie your baby on top of when changing the diaper
* Plastic bags to wrap dirty diapers in until you can find a trashcan to throw them out
* Change of clothes for baby: Infant onesies, a pair of socks, hat, baby outfit.
* Blanket
* 2 clean bottles and powdered formula (if bottle feeding)
* Burp cloth
* Pacifier (if using)
* Baby toy or rattle
* Sunscreen for babies older than 6 months.
* Baby Tylenol

Other Baby Essentials

* Newborn-size pacifier: Many lactation consultants recommend not using a pacifier if you are breastfeeding to prevent nipple confusion in your baby.
* Infant car seat: This can also be used as a baby carrier. And you can find stroller frames that the infant car seat can snap into so that you don’t have to carry the car seat at all times, which can get heavy. If you decide to get a stroller that your infant car seat can snap in to, make sure you get one that fits your infant carrier.
* Breast pump for breastfeeding moms: Breast pumps allow you to pump milk so that someone else can feed your baby. This is important if you need to leave your baby for a significant amount of time (for example, if you are working). Breast pumps also come in handy when your breasts get engorged and baby is too sleepy to help you out. With a breast pump you can pump some of the milk out and save it for when baby is ready to eat.

The Baby Medicine Cabinet

Discuss the use of over-the-counter medications or treatments with your doctor.

* Thermometer: There are many types available. Some doctors prefer that you use a rectal thermometer to get the most accurate temperature. A digital, plastic thermometer that you can place under your baby’s armpit may be easy for you to use for the first six months. There are also digital pacifier thermometers that can be used. Ear thermometers can be used after age 3 months.
* Calibrated medicine dropper
* Pain reliever/fever reducer medicine: (acetaminophen, such as Tylenol infant drops, is recommended). Infant Motrin works great to relieve inflammation associated with teething. Do not use aspirin!
* Mylicon drops to relieve gas.
* Teething rings to soothe teething gums. Talk with your doctor about using a teething gel since some contain benzocaine and can cause allergic reactions.
* Small gauze squares to clean wounds.
* Hydrogen peroxide to clean wounds.
* Wound cream such as Bacitracin Antibiotic or Johnson & Johnson First Aid Cream. Do not use Neosporin on babies under age 6 months, as it contains an ingredient, neomycin, which can cause sensitivity in infants.
* Small bandages.
* Cool mist vaporizer. Good for when baby has a cold.
* Infant sunscreen for babies over age 6 months. If you live in a very sunny climate and your child is exposed to sun often, talk to your baby’s doctor about applying sunscreen earlier.
* Pedialyte or Ricelyte to be used as directed by your child’s pediatrician for fluid replacement during diarrhea.

Baby Gear: Nonessentials (But Nice to Have)

* Baby monitor
* Swing
* Baby book: Essential if you want to record your baby’s firsts.
* Infant seat: A “bouncy” seat is great! It gives you a safe place to put baby while you do things for yourself.
* High chair: You will use it when baby is 4-6 months old
* Baby sling or pouch: These come in handy when you need to have your hands free to get things done around the house, but still carry your baby.

There’s nothing quite like packing a hospital bag for focussing you on the imminent arrival of your baby, especially if you’re a first-time mum.

It’s best to get your bag packed at least four weeks before your due date, just in case!

We’ve put together a list of things that lots of mums – and their birthing partners -  find useful to have with them.

Before the birth:

Your maternity notes.
Your birth plan (if you have written one).
Change for the carpark and money for snacks and drinks.
Loose clothing such as a nightshirt or big T-shirt. Pack a few just in case they get messy.
Warm socks and slippers (hospital floors can be cold!).
Dressing gown.
Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash (if used) and your make-up bag and beauty products.
Hairbrush and, if you have long hair, hair bands.
A pillow, if you wish to use your own.
Deodorant.
Essential oils if you choose to use them.
Snacks and drinks for you and your partner (cereal bars and energy drinks will give you a much needed boost).
Books, magazines, ipod, puzzles – anything that will keep you entertained.
Your camera or video equipment.
Maternity knickers.
A TENs machine, if you’re using one.
If it is hot, you may want a mini fan or a face spray.

For after the birth:
Nightdresses (a couple, in case you have to stay in longer than expected). If you are planning to breastfeed, it’s a good idea to get nightdresses that are specially designed for breastfeeding or have button fastening at the front.
Dressing gown.
Very important: shower gel, moisturiser, shampoo and conditioner (treat yourself to a luxurious brand, you deserve to feel pampered after giving birth).
Maternity sanitary towels.
If you plan to breastfeed: nursing bra, breast pads, and nipple cream/guards. Breast pump (this is optional as most maternity units have breast pumps, but they are usually shared so you might want to use your own – check with your maternity unit).
Shawl or pashmina (optional), so you can look glamorous when guests arrive.
Comfy clothes (this is no time for skinny jeans!) and flat shoes to go home in.

For your baby:
Two/three newborn baby grows (sleepsuits).
Two bodysuits (with sleeves if it is cold, without in the summer).
A baby blanket (cellular blanket).
Baby hat and scratch mittens.
A going home outfit – if it is winter make sure you pack a warm cardigan; in the summer a hat to keep the sun off little eyes is essential.
One pack of newborn nappies.
Cotton wool or baby wipes.
One pack of muslin cloths – essential for pretty much everything, but come especially in handy when your baby possets (brings up milk).

For your partner:
A spare set of clothes for labour and after the birth. He or she may be there for the long haul so make sure they bring a change. Maternity units are set at a higher temperature so that babies are kept warm at all times, which means they’ll probably be more comfortable in lighter clothes.
Books, magazines, CD player/ipod, food and drinks.
Camera and video equipment.
A list of friends’ and family phone numbers plus lots of change or phonecards in case calls cannot be from the hospital.
Change for car parking, drinks, snacks etc.

Going home:
Infant car seat – most hospitals won’t let you leave until they see you have a car seat for your baby. Buy it in advance of the birth and practise fitting it properly.

Mum’s tip – You’ll be surprised at how little you had with you when you arrived at the hospital, and how much you take home. Flowers, gifts for you and the baby, not to mention your baby, baby bag, toys etc! A good tip is to ask friends and relatives to take a few things with them when they come to visit (flowers, for example) so you won’t have so much to carry when you leave.

Obese women who gain more than the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy are much more likely to retain a portion of that weight one year after they give birth, according to a new US study. It followed 1,656 obese pregnant women and found that most of them gained too much weight during pregnancy, then, on average, kept on 40% of the weight one year after they gave birth.

This study defined excess weight as more than 6.8kg (15 pounds), which until recently was the minimum amount of weight gain recommended for obese pregnant women by the US Institute of Medicine. The NHS points to 7–12 kg (about 1.5-2 stones) as being a healthy amount of weight to gain in pregnancy with women carrying multiples expected to gain more. Any more than this and you may compromise your and your baby’s health – extra weight gained in pregnancy puts you at a higher risk of pregnancy and birth complications like diabetes,  pre-eclampsia, a bigger baby, and a caesarean delivery.

The study found that, on average, women retained 40 percent of the weight they gained during pregnancy one year after delivery. Compared to women who gained less than the recommended 6.8kg, women who gained 6.8-11kg (15-25 pounds) were twice as likely to retain 4.5kg (10 excess pounds); women who gained more than 35 pounds were nearly eight times more likely to retain at least 15kg (10 pounds). The study also found that younger women and first-time mums were most likely to gain too much weight.

The study underpins that obese women (those with a body mass index, or BMI, of 30 or more) should take steps to control weight gain during their pregnancies, since once your baby is born, it’s much harder to change eating habits and start an exercise program.

Try these tips for controlling pregnancy weight gain:

* Eat regular meals and small healthy snacks between meals – research shows that this eating pattern may be better for pregnant women than the traditional three large meals way of eating.
* Avoid junk food and keep snacks healthy. Fresh fruit is one of the best snacks as it’s packed with vitamins and fiber (great for helping to relieve constipation).
* Reduce your fat intake to less than 30 percent of your daily calories.
* Reduce your consumption of sweets and sweetened drinks.
* Keep a food diary to check for nutritional adequacy and portion management.
* Eat only 100-300 extra calories per day beyond what your calorie needs were before you became pregnant.
* Exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days (ask your midwife if you’re at all unsure about what you should be doing in regard to exercise).

The placenta sounds like a planet from another solar system and looks like an alien life form. But it has a very important job to do. It is your baby’s life support system whilst in the womb and not only supplies your baby with everything she needs, but also keeps anything harmful out of her way.

For the first 12 to 13 weeks the placenta is developing rapidly inside you and attaches itself to the lining of the uterus. Some scientists think that this is the reason some women feel very drained in early pregnancy. Their bodies are not only creating a tiny baby, but it’s life support system too. First and foremost the placenta helps your baby to breathe. Each time your heart beats, blood from your arteries flows into the placenta so that oxygen and nutrients flow to your baby. It also carries waste products like carbon dioxide away from your baby. The success of the placenta functioning properly depends on a good supply of maternal blood. If the maternal blood supply is reduced, the mother smokes for example or is suffering from pre-eclampsia, the blood flow to the placenta is reduced and this can have an effect on your growing baby.

As well as linking your blood supply to your baby’s, the placenta also keeps the two blood supplies completely separate, even though only a thin membrane separates the two. This is important because the maternal and foetal systems must not mix. The placenta keeps any harmful substances away from your baby as well as protecting her against infection. The placenta can’t always distinguish between what is good and what is bad, which is why pregnant women are advised not to drink, smoke or take drugs during pregnancy. Some viruses can pass to your baby from the placenta. German Measles or Rubella can be particularly dangerous if caught by the mother and can lead to defects such as blindness, deafness and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) in your baby. It is important to ask your GP before you plan to get pregnant whether you have been immunised against Rubella or not.

The placenta also secretes hormones such as chrorionic gondotrophin, progesterone and oestrogen that all help to maintain your pregnancy and also help to prepare your breasts for breastfeeding.

During the last stages of pregnancy, antibodies will pass from you to your baby via the placenta, which will help to protect her for the first three months. After that her own body will start to build up immunity from what she is exposed to on a daily basis.

Once your baby is born, the placenta’s job is done. As the cord is cut and clamped the placenta can be delivered, as it no longer supplies your baby with all she needs. The delivery of the placenta is called the ‘third stage’ of labour. Some women choose to have a managed third stage and others choose to have a natural third stage.

A managed third stage is when the mother is given an injection (usually syntometrin or syntocinon) into her thigh to speed up the delivery of the placenta. The mother won’t have to push as the midwife will usually wait for a contraction and gently pull on the cord, or press the abdomen until the placenta comes out. With this option the placenta comes out very quickly after birth, usually in about ten minutes.

Some mothers prefer a natural third stage, which is when the mother waits for the placenta to dispel by itself. This can be immediate or can sometimes take over an hour. Breastfeeding your baby can help to dispel the placenta because nipple stimulation releases oxytocin, a hormone that helps with uterine contractions.

Once the placenta is out it will be examined to see if it is complete, that all of it has come out and what state it is in. The state of the placenta can tell the medical team a lot about the condition of your baby at birth.

In rare cases the placenta can become trapped and the mother may need an operation to remove it under epidural for pain relief.

The placenta is amazing. It protects, nourishes and provides everything for your growing baby. The placanta will do all it can to protect your baby so if you get a glimpse of the alien-like organ, remember to say thank-you for looking after your little one for all those months.