Medical App & Medical Advice with Hello Doctor

Pregnancy piles? Here’s how to treat them

Piles, or haemorrhoids, are described as varicose veins in your bottom, and they can be painful. When these vessels are swollen, they’re likely to cause aggravation and may hang out of the anus after passing a stool. The sizes of piles vary too.

The good news is that there’s treatment for your piles which has no risk to your baby.

Piles are usually caused by strain on the area due to:

  • Constipation or diarrhoea.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Difficult bowel movements causing straining.
  • Sitting on the toilet for long periods.
  • Obesity.
  • Anal intercourse.
  • A low-fibre diet that can cause difficult bowel movements.

Why are piles during pregnancy so common?


Piles is a very common condition for women during pregnancy or labour. You’re more likely to be effected by the condition when you’re pregnant due to the change of hormones, particularly progesterone. This hormone relaxes the walls of your blood vessels and makes piles more likely to develop. Fortunately, they often clear up in days or weeks after giving birth.

Another cause for the condition is the weight of your baby as it grows. Your baby puts more pressure on your veins and along with constipation; it increases the likelihood of developing piles. If you’re concerned about the length of time you’ve had piles, speak to your doctor or midwife.

Symptoms include:

  • A hard and painful lump around the anus.
  • After passing a stool, you may experience the feeling that the bowels are still full.
  • Visible bright red blood after a bowel movement.
  • Itchy, sore and red area around the anus.
  • Pain during passing a stool.

Piles can worsen into more severe conditions like:

  • An infection.
  • An inability to control bowel movements.
  • Anal fistula (an infected tunnel that forms between the skin and anus).
  • Excessive anal bleeding which could possibly lead to anaemia.

Avoid getting piles in pregnancy

  • Be sure to drink enough fluids to avoid dehydration and constipation.
  • Eat a diet that’s high in fibre which includes fruit, veggies and wholewheat bread.
  • Exercise regularly to improve circulation.
  • While on the loo, don’t strain, take your time or try again later after drinking some water.

How to treat piles in pregnancy

  • Place a towel that’s been dipped in ice-cold water on the piles to relieve the pain and irritation around your bottom.
  • Carefully clean the area around your bottom after going to the loo. It might be easier to use moist toilet wipes rather than toilet tissue. It’ll also help to pat rather than wipe.
  • You may try and gently push the piles back into the rectum using a lubricating gel when in the bath or shower.
  • Speak to your doctor or midwife who can prescribe ointments or medication to help soothe the symptoms.

References:

Natural remedies for postpartum depression

Many mothers experience immense contentment and love after giving birth, but for some new moms, this time can be stressful, worrying and may cause depression.

Unlike the “baby blues”, which is related to hormonal changes after birth, “postpartum depression” (PPD) is a clinical mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth.

After giving birth, oestrogen and progesterone levels in a woman’s body drop drastically. This leads to chemical changes in the brain that may trigger mood swings.

Common symptoms include:

  • Feeling sad, hopeless, and/or overwhelmed
  • Trouble sleeping and eating
  • Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
  • Fatigue
  • Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
  • Withdrawal from family and friends
  • Lack of interest in your baby
  • Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby

Sleep deprivation can lead to physical discomfort and exhaustion, which further contribute to the symptoms of postpartum depression. 

The most effective ways to treat the condition is through medication like antidepressants, psychotherapy to help with underlying psychological factors and triggers, and support groups.

In addition to these medical interventions, there are also many natural ways a new mom can manage her symptoms PPD.

Eat right

Poor eating habits can throw your system out of whack. Processed or fried foods, sugary treats, refined grains, and alcohol are linked with a higher likelihood of depression or anxiety disorders. Instead, fill up with plenty of liquids like water, milk, and fruit juice. Eat foods that have protein, like milk, cheese, yoghurt, meat, fish and beans. Protein-rich foods help you recover from childbirth and keep your body strong.

Up your vitamins

Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most common supplements used to naturally treat depressive symptoms.

According to research, there’s growing clinical evidence that suggests a low dietary intake or tissue levels of Omega-3 fatty acids are associated with postpartum depression. Omega-3 benefits include helping to relieve depression and feelings of anxiety.

Seafood is a good source of DHA. Flaxseed oil is a great source if you’re a vegetarian. Alternatively, you can find supplements at your pharmacy.

Get active!

Any kind of physical activity helps release endorphins. These feel-good chemicals calm you by improving your mood, increasing your body temperature and lowering your perception of pain. Moderate exercise is very helpful for women with postpartum depression. Taking a walk with your child is an excellent strategy and a way to bond with your baby. Bundle your little one up in a pram and you’ll be good to go. Yoga will also help you relax and help you deal with postpartum depression.

Let the sunshine in!

Sunlight is a mood-enhancing vitamin. Take baby for a walk outside and bask in the much-needed Vitamin D.

Avoid isolation

Speak to your partner, family and friends about how you’re feeling and let them know you need help. Talk to other mothers about their experiences, too. Ask about parenting skills that include caregiving techniques to improve your baby’s sleep and soothe any fussing and crying throughout the day and night. The more you are able to sleep, the better you will feel.

When to see your doctor

PPD is marked by deeper and longer-lasting feelings of sadness and agitation. Being in a state of sadness can get worse and escalate to chronic depression without medical help. Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice feelings of depression after birth, especially if they don’t go away after a couple of weeks or get worse with time.

If you feel disoriented or confused, are experiencing obsessive thoughts about your baby, paranoia, or hallucinations, see your doctor immediately. These could be signs of a more severe condition called postpartum psychosis.

References:

Foetal alcohol syndrome 101

You’re pregnant and your doctor has advised you steer clear of alcohol. But it can’t be such a big deal, right? Surely the odd glass of wine won’t do much damage? Wrong.

Rather safe than sorry!

If you drink during your pregnancy, there’s a high risk that your baby could be born with foetal alcohol syndrome. Here’s what you need to know about this serious condition, and what you can do to prevent it.

What is Foetal Alcohol Syndrome? (FAS)

FAS is a pattern of mental, physical and behavioural problems that range from mild to severe.

These problems could include:

  • Poor growth in the womb, resulting in low birth weight and/or small head size.
  • Delayed development (i.e. your child doesn’t reach his developmental milestones).
  • Heart abnormalities.
  • Vision and/or hearing problems.
  • Language and speech delays.
  • Neurological problems.
  • Memory problems.
  • Learning disorders.
  • Psychological problems.
  • Behavioural problems.

Children with FAS usually have abnormal facial features. These include small eyes, a thin upper lip, and a smooth skin surface between the nose and upper lip.

What causes FAS?

FAS is caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Even small amounts of alcohol can pass across the placenta to your growing foetus, where it can damage your child’s brain, central nervous system and organs.

Your foetus processes alcohol much slower than you do. Because of this, the alcohol may prevent oxygen and other nutrients from reaching your baby.

How can FAS be prevented?

FAS is completely preventable if you avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Remember that no amount of alcohol is safe: even low levels of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to brain dysfunction and behavioural problems in children.

If you find it hard to stop drinking before or during your pregnancy, it’s important to talk to your doctor. The most damage to the foetus occurs during the first trimester.

How is FAS diagnosed?

If you used alcohol during pregnancy, and you’re worried that your child’s health may be affected, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a doctor.

Your doctor will base the diagnosis of FAS on the following features:

  • Poor growth during and after pregnancy.
  • Abnormal facial features (as mentioned above).
  • Central nervous system problems.
  • Neurobehavioral disabilities.

How can FAS be managed?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for FAS. If your child has the condition, your doctor will focus on managing the following:

  • The conditions that tend to occur with FAS (e.g. eye, ear and dental problems).
  • Your child’s nutrient intake (many children with FAS don’t get enough fibre, calcium, or vitamins D, E and K through their diet).
  • Behavioural and learning problems (e.g. temper tantrums, hyperactivity, and difficulty paying attention).

References:

Should you do a lotus birth?

Lotus birth, also known as umbilical non-severance, is the practice of leaving the baby attached to the placenta until the cord naturally dries and disconnects from the belly button.

In a lotus birth, instead of cutting the umbilical cord within a few minutes of birth, the parents carry the placenta still connected to the newborn baby in a bowl or special pouch. While the placenta is still attached, it continues to supply the newborn with blood and nutrients.

One study found that delaying cutting the umbilical cord by just by a few minutes could help boost brain development. Children whose cords were cut more than three minutes after birth had slightly higher social skills and fine motor skills than those whose cords were cut within 10 seconds.

Delayed clamping

The World Health Organization recommends delayed cord clamping of not less than one minute. This is believed to help improve maternal bond and connections.

Researchers from the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health at Uppsala University in Sweden randomly assigned half of 263 healthy newborns have their cords clamped more than three minutes after birth.

The other half were clamped less than 10 seconds after birth.

Four years later, the children underwent a series of assessments for IQ, social, motor, and communication skills, problem-solving and behaviour. Those with delayed cord clamping showed modestly higher scores in social skills and fine motor skills. When separated by sex, only the boys showed statistically significant improvement.

With a lotus birth, the cord is never intentionally detached. After the cord eventually falls off, both the cord and placenta are placed in a special pot or pouch. They’re treated with herbs and salt until the cord breaks.

This procedure is different from the standard medical practice, which cuts the umbilical cord within 10 seconds after birth or slightly longer; at least one minute.

Is it safe?

People who support the procedure believe that cutting the umbilical cord creates a physical shock and deprives the baby of the extra blood and nutrients remaining in the placenta after birth.

Supporters of lotus birth believe in treating the baby, placenta and umbilical as one; and that the cord and placenta will instinctively “know” when it’s time to separate.

While there may be advocates for this procedure, experts are sceptical about lotus birth, and some warn that it may even be harmful to the baby. One way of looking at it is that you’re keeping a newborn connected to a dead and decaying organ, which could be a source of infection for your baby. The placenta is considered “dead” tissue, and because of this, the blood in it is prone to bacterial overgrowth.

Is a lotus birth for you?

Delayed cord cutting; can help transfer an additional blood supply and is becoming more common. However, there isn’t really enough evidence about the health benefits and risks of lotus birth. Ultimately the decision to go this route is a personal one.

References:

Natural remedies for pregnancy symptoms

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey for many, but it comes with a few bumps along the way. These bumps are the pregnancy symptoms you experience. Don’t worry, though. Home remedies can help with several pregnancy hiccups.

Here are some of the worst symptoms and how to remedy them.

Nausea

One of the most common side-effects of your baby bump is nausea. Nausea during pregnancy is usually caused by the flood of pregnancy hormones in your body. The best way to deal with nausea is to try and prevent it.

Do this by eating smaller, frequent meals rather than big ones. Choose bland foods over spicy dishes which is what is more likely to trigger nausea. Sipping ginger or peppermint tea can help ease your symptoms too.

Headaches

Everyone has a headache now and then, but pregnancy headaches can really be a pain in the neck! This is mainly due to dehydration, so it can be easily fixed by upping your fluids.

Drink at least eight glasses of water a day and eat foods with a high water content; like lemons and watermelon. If your headaches persist even after rehydrating, talk to your doctor to ensure there isn’t an underlying reason. For migraines, avoid trigger foods, sleeping too little and excessive stress.

Heartburn

Progesterone is a hormone that’s released by the ovaries and is important in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It can also relax the valve between your stomach and oesophagus. This means that it’s easier for stomach acids to splash around, and it’s often this that causes heartburn during pregnancy. The pressure of your expanding uterus can also contribute to the discomfort. Try to identify what may be bringing on the burn. A likely culprit is acidic foods like oranges or tomatoes. Everyone is affected differently so talk to your doctor about your diet. In the meantime, avoid laying down for one to two hours after eating and take a walk after supper.

Morning sickness

If you find yourself running to the bathroom to vomit first thing in the morning, you have “morning sickness”. This may even be an all-day sickness for some unlucky pregnant women. For a quick fix, try to have something to eat before you get out of bed. For example, keep a stash of wholegrain crackers in your bedside drawer and have a quick snack as soon as you wake up. Dehydration may also be the culprit so drink plenty of water once you wake up too. Talk to your doctor if the morning sickness doesn’t subside after you’ve tried these remedies.

Constipation

Nothing can ruin your day like being clogged up, and constipation is a common symptom of pregnancy. This is usually because of the rising progesterone levels which lead to changes in your gastrointestinal tract. Increasing the fibre in your diet can help keep things moving. Add foods high in fibre like prunes, carrots, jacket potatoes, beans, oatmeal and ground flaxseed to your diet. Exercise like walking can also help, together with staying hydrated.

Back pain

Unfortunately, back pain is inevitable when you’re expecting. But, the good news is that there are ways to ease the aches. When you’re pregnant, your weight isn’t distributed evenly. This means that maintaining good posture can be difficult, and you hunch over often, which can cause back pain. It may be difficult but try to stay conscious of your posture and avoid stooping down when you’re standing. Ask your doctor about supports or belts you can use for your stomach. Prenatal stretching exercises can help, as well as standing up frequently. Always talk to your doctor before trying anything new.

References:

Want to get pregnant? Do this first

So you’re ready for a little bundle of joy? There are a few things you need to put in place before you bring your little one into the world.

With some important lifestyle changes, you can prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.

It’s time to get off birth control

Before you start trying for a baby, you’ll have to stop your birth control a couple of months in advance. This will give you a bit of time to see what your natural menstrual cycle is like, so you can figure out when you’re ovulating (the time of the month when you’re most fertile). Your cycle may be different from what you’re used to after you’re off your contraceptives.

Figure out your fertile days

Your most fertile days are between three to five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. Your best chances are a day or two before ovulation. Have sex at least two to three times every week. As long as your partner has a normal sperm count, having sex every other day or every day will boost your chances of getting pregnant.

How to calculate when you’re ovulating  

You need to know how long your average menstrual cycle is. Day one is the first day of the menstrual period and the last day is the day before the next period begins. Ovulation happens about two weeks before the next expected period. So, if your average menstrual cycle is 28 days, you ovulate around day 14.

Take prenatal vitamins

Prenatal vitamins contain more folic acid and iron than normal adult multivitamins. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects in a baby, which are serious abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord.

Iron will support your baby’s growth and development. It also helps prevent anaemia. This is a condition where your blood has a low number of healthy red blood cells.

Start including important foods in your diet.

  • Spinach is good for healthy egg and sperm production as it contains zinc.
  • Bananas are filled with Vitamin B6, which will help regulate hormones.
  • Eggs and fortified cereals will help you get your dose of Vitamin D.
  • Beans, lentils, and nuts are great plant-based proteins to boost fertility.

Amongst men, having a low sperm count has been linked with zinc deficiency. Making healthy nutritional changes can help to increase your sperm count.

Curb your alcohol intake

The first four to eight-week period of your pregnancy is a critical time as this is when the foetus organs and structures are formed. It’s important to stop drinking as soon as you start trying for a baby as you may be pregnant without knowing it!.

Stub it out

Smoking can make it difficult for you to fall pregnant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking during pregnancy can cause tissue damage in the unborn baby, particularly in the lung and brain. Studies also suggest a link between tobacco and miscarriage. Carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke can keep your developing baby from getting enough oxygen. Tobacco smoke also contains other chemicals that can harm unborn babies.

Cut back on caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant which can increase your blood pressure and heart rate. It’s also a diuretic (increases production of urine). This is not recommended during pregnancy as it can cause a reduction in your body fluid levels and lead to dehydration.

Get ready to take tests

Commit to taking a pregnancy test when your period is at least a few days late. Don’t put pressure on yourself. And don’t get upset if you don’t succeed the first time. Most couples don’t.

Get medical help if needed

If you don’t conceive within six months, (if you’re over 35), or within a year (if you’re younger than 35), see your doctor. He or she will be able to refer you to specialists to run fertility tests to check if there could be a medical reason as to why you’ve been struggling to conceive.

Some causes of infertility get worse with time. Get help and treatment sooner than later.

References:

Can I fall pregnant if I have diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition and once you’ve been diagnosed with it, you need to take care of your health by monitoring and keeping your sugar levels in check.

These checks become more important and necessary when you’re pregnant, as your body goes through a lot of changes.

Yes, you can fall pregnant if you have diabetes, but managing your condition becomes important for your own health and the health of your baby.

How will diabetes affect your pregnancy?

Poorly controlled diabetes increases the chances of having a big baby, weighing of more than four kilograms (a larger-than-average newborn). This is caused by the high blood glucose (sugar) that leads to more glucose crossing the placenta, to the baby. All this excess sugar means your baby produces more of the hormone insulin, which changes to fat. This fat will mostly be found around the baby’s shoulders and trunk. This is bad news as it might up your chances of having a difficult labour and birth.

The most common complications of diabetes affect the eyes, kidneys and nervous system. After you’ve delivered your baby, these symptoms usually disappear but you or your baby might need treatment.

Let your doctor know about any changes in your body as these could be symptoms of an underlying condition. Common conditions with pregnant women are:

  • Urinary tract infection that leads to fever.
  • Swelling in limbs and face.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome that leads to numbness and tingling in hands.
  • High blood pressure that leads to fluid build-up.
  • Protein in urine.
  • Risk of premature delivery.

Most of your baby’s organs start forming during the first trimester of your pregnancy. It’s very important to start controlling your diabetes not just when you are pregnant, but before you even plan to have a child.

A healthy mom means a healthy baby:

  • Do a pre-pregnancy test to assess your blood sugar levels. This will help you plan diet and lifestyle changes.
  • Check with your doctor if you can continue your current diabetic medications while trying to get pregnant. You’ll most likely be advised to switch to insulin injections.
  • Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Get a home kit for convenience.
  • Exercise regularly and control your diet.
  • Since you’re likely to have a high-risk pregnancy, speak to a It’s better to talk with someone who has experience in treating pregnant women with diabetes. This will make for an easier pregnancy journey for you and your baby

Good to know:

Exercise can do a pregnant mom a world of good! It can help to keep your diabetes in check while at the same time contributes to your overall health.

Women who exercise throughout their pregnancy may also experience:

  • Increased energy levels.
  • A more positive outlook and lower anxiety levels.
  • An easier, uncomplicated labour.
  • Faster recovery time after giving birth.
  • Ability to maintain a steady, reasonable weight gain.
  • Less chance of needing a caesarean.
  • Faster postpartum weight loss.
  • Better sleep quality.  

References:

I’m pregnant! Now, what do I do?

Lately, your breasts feel tender, you can’t seem to keep your favourite foods down. When last did you get your period? Oh…

With a few home pregnancy tests done and dusted, you guessed it, you’re pregnant! But what should you do now?

Confirm your pregnancy

Before shouting about your baby bump, confirm your pregnancy. Dr Philip Zinn, a Cape Town obstetrician and gynaecologist recommends a urine test. A positive urine test should be enough to confirm that you’re pregnant. If you’re still not convinced, talk to your doctor about a blood test.

Let the countdown begin!

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, it’s time to calculate when your little bundle will be arriving. The gestation period (the time it takes for a baby to develop) is about 38 weeks. This means you can start counting 40 weeks from the first day you missed your period. Conception usually takes place about two weeks after a woman’s last period begins. Once you have a date, add 266 days to that. This should give you your most likely due date.

Decide when to make the announcement

A good time to tell people about your pregnancy is after the first trimester (three months after you fall pregnant). Next, decide on who you’re planning to tell first. Your family first makes sense and you can tell your co-workers when you feel comfortable. Keep your maternity leave in mind. Lastly, consider how you’re going to tell everyone. This could be in person, via a phone call, in writing or digitally (online posts or a text message).

Choose a doctor

You’ll be spending a lot of time with the doctor or midwife, so pick a good match. Once you find someone who’s well-qualified and you’re comfortable with, make your first prenatal appointment. This should ideally happen when you’re eight weeks pregnant.

Make some changes

Once you’re pregnant, you’re not driving solo anymore, you have a little one along for the ride. Follow a protein-rich, high-fibre diet, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest. If you’re under-or overweight, start a healthy eating plan. Say no to alcohol and limit yourself to two cups of coffee a day. Smoking is a definite no, so if you’re considering quitting, now is the time! Ask your doctor about how much exercise you should be doing. Walking is a safe option for all stages of pregnancy. Avoid strenuous exercises and competing in sports events.

Take stock

Talk to your doctor about important health screenings, like those for German measles, hepatitis, HIV, syphilis and iron levels. These tests ensure that you’re protected from certain diseases. Don’t take any medication without first talking to your doctor. This includes over-the-counter medication. When it comes to supplements, folic acid is very important to help your baby develop. Take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day to reduce the risk of spine disorders in your baby. Ask your doctor about other important prenatal vitamins.

Schedule your scans

Scans are there to make sure your baby is developing normally. During the first trimester, you may have a scan at about six to seven weeks. There’s also a dating scan done between 10 and 14 weeks to confirm your due date. A different scan is also done at this time to check your baby for Down’s syndrome. If your baby measures between 45mm and 84mm, then a blood test may be done as well. In your second trimester, you may have a scan between 18 and 21 weeks to check your baby’s development. If your placenta is laying low, you may need a scan at week 32. A growth scan between week 28 and 40 is also recommended.

Make your booking

It’s important to know where the birth will take place. This will depend on your financial circumstances and medical aid plan. It also depends on where your doctor or midwife is located, or what government services (clinics) are available. If you plan to have your birth at a private hospital, make sure you book a bed for the birth.  If you’re planning on having it at home, make backup plans like a booking at a medical facility, in case things don’t work out. Public and government maternity services work on a risk level basis. This means you don’t book an actual room unless you have a condition which puts you at risk, like high blood pressure, diabetes or asthma. When you go into labour and you’re using a government hospital, take your ID and clinic card with you. You’ll be assigned a bed in an antenatal ward, give birth in a labour ward and then moved to a postnatal ward.

Figure out your finances

Your pregnancy will cost a pretty penny and once your baby comes, so you’ll have to budget even more. Include basics like blankets, nappies, baby clothes, baby wipes, a pram and a car seat in your budget. Stocking up early should help in the long run. Also include your medical expenses (scans, doctor visits, stay at the hospital) and long-term needs of the baby like education costs.

References:

Can you be ‘pregnant’ without having a baby?

Is this even possible? Yes, shockingly, it’s true. You can be “pregnant” without really being pregnant.

What is ‘false pregnancy’?

Also known as pseudcyesis or phantom pregnancy, this condition happens when you believe that you are carrying a baby, but there is no evidence that this is true. Your body can basically respond in the exact same way as if you were pregnant, but you have no foetus in the womb.

The symptoms are all there: swollen belly, nausea, vomiting, enlarged breasts – and the woman may even feel like there’s movement in the tummy. Your menstrual cycle may even stop for a while, and some women even report feeling contractions!

How does it work?

Doctors aren’t certain why false pregnancy happens. One theory suggests that it’s the desire for a baby that creates the sensation of pregnancy. In other words, your mind “tricks” you into thinking you’re pregnant because you really want to be pregnant.

This belief could be caused by trauma from previous miscarriages, stress, depression, infertility or getting closer to menopausal age. “As unbelievable as it may sound, the mind is actually able to take control and prompt the body to produce believable signs of conception,” explains Dr Nada Stotland from Rush Medical University in America. This means that false pregnancy can last anywhere from a few weeks to the full nine months.

If this sounds too fantastical to be true, let’s look at a very real case. A woman in Brazil experienced this false pregnancy a few years ago – to the extent that she went to the hospital for an emergency caesarean section – only for the doctors to realise she wasn’t pregnant. All reports say that she looked pregnant and was experiencing pregnancy symptoms. Thankfully, the doctors realised it was a false pregnancy before they began surgery!

In some exceptional cases the false pregnancy is brought on by real medical issues, like an ovarian tumor or a chemical imbalance in the brain.

Is there treatment?

Finding out that you’re not pregnant can be very upsetting. Doctors should break the new gently to the mother, and therapy can help the patient recover from her disappointment. The only way to come to terms with the reality of not being pregnant, is through some psychological support.

It happens to men too!

If phantom pregnancy isn’t frightening enough, experts believe that men can also suffer from this condition. Years ago, researchers at St George’s University in the UK found that husbands of pregnant wives can feel the similar symptoms of pregnancy. They feel and go through all the morning sickness, cramps, back pain and swollen tummies that their pregnant partner experiences. In their case, it’s called Couvade syndrome.

For the most part, phantom or false pregnancies can’t be explained away or easily understood. They are quite rare, but can be hard to treat. Even when presented with a clearly negative pregnancy test, they can refuse to believe the results.

As Dr Stotland explains, “Some patients can be persuaded by the lack of confirming evidence but there are others who just stop coming in for prenatal care. When it becomes clear that there’s no baby, many women will push back the claimed due date to a later time and continue to insist they’re expecting.”

References

Wait! Don’t wash your newborn yet!

After nine months, your bundle of joy has finally arrived and is now ready for your love and affection. Just before you can get to cuddle time though, the nurse is ready for a little wash and dry. But is washing your newborn really necessary? Don’t be so fast!

Bathing dos and don’ts

The waxy coating on your newborn’s skin (vernix caseosa) is the wax that develops in the womb. It contains loads of benefits for your baby when it’s left behind or even rubbed in. The coating is filled with amino acids, proteins, and antibacterial and antimicrobial compounds.

According to the World Health Organization, bathing can wait for up to 24 hours after birth. If this isn’t possible, wait at least six hours. Vernix caseosa is 80% water. It plays the role of being a waterproof barrier in the womb. Your baby swims in amniotic fluid for about 40 weeks, and this coating protects your baby’s skin from the fluid and any infection while in the womb. Without this protection, your little one’s skin would wrinkle or chap.

Thanks to this waxy coating, your baby passes through the birth canal during delivery easily, with little friction. Vernix also stabilises blood sugar and maintains your baby’s temperature, whereas bathing your newborn can cause his blood sugar to drop.

Vernix also improves breastfeeding. A baby is likely to release stress hormones when taken away from the comfort of their mother. It then becomes difficult to breastfeed a distressed baby, but with the vernix coating still all over your baby, this process becomes a little easier.

A little-known factor about vernix is its smell. Wonder why newborns have that fresh and mesmerising smell? This distinctive sweet smell is unique to each baby and only lasts a short time. When you breathe in the special scent, the hormone oxytocin is released, which helps you relax and bond with your little one. Research suggests that a mother and her baby shouldn’t be separated after birth and should stay in the same room for at least 24 hours.

There’s no harm in delaying the first bath. Remember, your little one will have routine tests after his birth and this is just one of the reasons doctors recommend delaying that first bath.

Good to know

  • Humans are the only animals whose newborns are coated in vernix.
  • Research shows that leaving the vernix may even encourage antibacterial and wound healing properties.
  • You will find the gooey substance hidden in your baby’s folds. You can also find it in the folds of the vagina for several days or even weeks. Gently wipe it away or simply leave it.
  • Although your unborn baby can start to hear your voice during the 25th week of your pregnancy, the sound may not be clear because his ears are covered with sound-shielding vernix.
  • Research published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology says that the vernix can protect against Group B strep and E. coli bacteria.

References:

8 Steps to lose weight after having a baby

The experience of having a baby is hard to describe. It’s amazing, it’s exciting, and, at times, just plain scary. While you navigate the emotional ups and downs of being a new mother, seeing pictures of other women who appear to bounce back to their pre-baby shape within hours of giving birth can make you feel more down than up! While we can’t promise you’ll have Beyoncé’s pre-baby body, there are a few things you can do to get your OWN body back.

1. Be realistic

It took 9 months (and a new person), to gain the pregnancy weight. Don’t expect to lose it overnight. It’s also unrealistic to think that you can get back into your old diet and exercise habits right away. Most experts recommend that you should only start thinking about losing excess baby weight after about 6-12 weeks. You’re sleep deprived, emotional, and if you’re breast feeding, probably hungry. Life is not quite as simple as it used to be!

2. Don’t eat junk food

It’s so tempting to simply grab something quick and easy, but besides sabotaging your weight loss efforts, you won’t be giving your baby what he or she needs if you’re breastfeeding. The nutritional content is limited in convenience foods and instead of giving you vitamins and minerals, they give you sugar and salt! Too much sugar plays havoc with your metabolism, so now is a good time to kick your habit! Good quick fix snacks (and something you only need one hand to eat), include

  • Smashed avo on toast
  • Boiled egg
  • Nuts
  • Biltong

3. Be prepared

Shop smart and get organised. You won’t be tempted to eat junk food if it isn’t in your house in the first place! Put together a weekly meal plan and prepare and freeze as much of this as you can over the weekend. Bulk up meals with loads of vegetables, these keep you going for longer as well as delivering all the nutrition you need.

4. Be consistent

Just as your baby needs routine, so does your body. Between feeding, nappy changes and crying (your baby) making time to sit down to a meal can feel like an afterthought. Don’t let it be. Without eating regularly, energy levels start to fade, emotions run high and irritability sets in, making it likely you’ll just eat more (or more of the wrong things), at your next meal. Eating at the exact same time every day helps to regulate your hormones and your appetite. If sitting down isn’t an option, consider a nutritional shake or smoothie that you can have on the move.

5. Sleep

“Yeah right” we hear you say! Sleep is hard to come by, but is also the secret to weight loss. Being sleep deprived upsets the balance of the hormones that regulate your appetite. It can sometimes be impractical to “sleep when the baby sleeps” as there is always so much else to do, but shift your priorities around. The dishes can wait, can’t they? Try to nap during the day, even 30 minutes can do the trick. At night, include your partner in the feeding schedule.

6. Step away from the kitchen at midnight

If your baby has been up 3 times before midnight, or if they have just had their feed, it’s easy to head to the kitchen for a quick snack. These little snacks all add up and since you won’t be using up any of that energy you just ate, its likely to be stored as extra fat. If the urge for a midnight snack is overwhelming, have a glass of milk or some herbal tea. Neither will send your blood sugar rocketing and both will calm you down, helping you go back to sleep (as short lived as that may be).

7. Bond with your baby while getting active

Your days of going to gym for 2 hours have had to be put on hold, but that’s no reason you can’t be active. Moving around not only helps keep your weight in check, it also helps to boost your mood, ease anxiety and help you sleep better. Going for a walk pushing a pram, or carrying your baby in a pouch can be surprisingly good exercise. You don’t even need to leave the house! There are several good home exercise programmes where all you need is your baby and the floor! For some ideas, check out http://www.parents.com/parenting/moms/healthy-mom/mommy-and-me-workout/

8. Don’t eat your feelings

When you’re sleep deprived and feel overwhelmed and stressed out, it’s common to rummage through the fridge for something to make yourself feel better. Yet if you don’t break that habit, it can prevent you from losing weight. Instead of turning to food to feel better, have a list of healthy activities you can do when you’re trying to cope with your feelings. That might include going for a walk, phoning a fellow mom, or simply sitting down on your own for 5 minutes. Parenting can be hard, so don’t go it alone. To be the best mom you can be don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!

References

http://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/2017/03/30/10-reasons-cant-lose-baby-weight.html
https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/expert-qa-losing-baby-weight#2
https://www.livescience.com/53768-how-to-lose-weight-after-pregnancy.html

What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are painless sporadic uterine contractions that start about 6 weeks into your pregnancy, although you won’t be able to feel them that early. They get their name from John Braxton Hicks, an English doctor who first described them in 1872.

Who gets them?

Braxton Hicks contractions are normal in all pregnancies, but you probably won’t start to notice them until sometime after mid-pregnancy, and some women don’t notice them at all.

As your pregnancy progresses, Braxton Hicks contractions tend to come somewhat more often, but until you get to your last few weeks, they’ll probably remain infrequent, irregular, and essentially painless.

When should I call the doctor?

In some cases Braxton Hicks contractions are hard to distinguish from early signs of pre-term labour. Don’t try to make the diagnosis yourself. If you haven’t hit 37 weeks yet and you’re having more than four contractions in an hour, or you have any other signs of preterm labour, play it safe and call your doctor immediately.

The difference between Braxton Hicks and true labour contractions

In the days or weeks before labour, Braxton Hicks contractions may become rhythmic, relatively close together, and even painful, possibly fooling you into thinking you’re in labour. But unlike true labour, during this so-called false labour the contractions don’t grow consistently longer, stronger, and closer together.

Pre-labour contractions

By the time you’re within a couple of weeks of your due date, your cervix has likely begun to gradually soften up in preparation for labour. Your contractions may intensify and come more frequently, and they may cause some discomfort. Unlike the earlier painless and sporadic Braxton Hicks contractions, which caused no obvious cervical changes, these contractions may help your cervix thin out and maybe even dilate a little. This period is sometimes referred to as pre-labour.

When Braxton Hicks contractions become uncomfortable

If you’re still within a few weeks of your due date, try these measures:

  • Take a warm bath, it will help your body relax
  • Drink a glass or two of water, sometime these contractions can be brought on by dehydration.
  • Change your position or activity. Sometimes resting eases contractions, at other times walking can help to provide relief. True labour contractions, on the other hand, will persist and progress regardless of what you do.
  • Use this opportunity to practice relaxation exercises or slow, deep breathing. This won’t stop the Braxton Hicks contractions, but it may help you cope with the discomfort.

Signs to watch out for

Call your doctor right away if you haven’t reached 37 weeks and your contractions are becoming more frequent, rhythmic, or painful, or if you have any of these possible signs of preterm labour:

  • Abdominal pain, menstrual-like cramping, or more than four contractions in one hour (even if they don’t hurt)
  • Any vaginal bleeding or spotting, or an increase in vaginal discharge or a change in the type of discharge — if it becomes watery, with mucus, pink or blood-tinged
  • More pressure in the pelvic area -a feeling that your baby’s pushing down
  • Low back pain, especially dull or rhythmic pain, especially if you didn’t previously have back pain

If you’re past 37 weeks, there’s no need to call your doctor or midwife just for contractions until they last about 60 seconds each and are five minutes apart and continue like this for an hour.

Sources:

Locally Healthy,

Baby Centre