1) Eat balanced and healthy food

Probably you have heard the saying that pregnant women should “eat for two”. Actually, this isn’t necessary, but you need to follow a balanced and healthy diet. This means you should consume lots of fruit and vegetables which provide vitamins and minerals; bread, rice and pasta which are sources of carbohydrates; fish, meat, eggs, nuts, dairy foods which are rich in protein.

2) Avoid alcohol and caffeine

It is scientifically proven that large quantities of alcohol affect the fetus and can bring serious problems for the newborn baby. Coffee, tea and cola can also have negative effects on the fetus. Their influence on the fetus is not clear yet, but some experts believe that such drinks increase the risk of low birth weight baby. It is recommended to not consume alcohol or caffeine during the pregnancy or to reduce their consummation to minimal quantities.

3) Exercise regularly

Exercises have numerous benefits. They will make you stronger and will improve your endurance which is very important during pregnancy as you have to carry the weight you gain. In addition, they can help you manage the physical stress associated with this delicate condition. And don’t forget that if you exercise regularly while you are pregnant, it will be much easier for you to get back into shape after you give birth. Pregnant women are recommended to do gentle exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga.

Women

The findings are important for public health. Women commonly feel depressed during pregnancy. Infants born prematurely are at risk for respiratory and neurological problems in addition to chronic health problems that put them at risk for early mortality from disabilities.

“In the United States, the likelihood of experiencing premature birth is even greater for depressed pregnant women living in poverty than for depressed pregnant women from middle- to high-socioeconomic backgrounds,” explains lead study author Dr. Nancy Grote, research associate professor of social work at UW. Additionally, “Poor women in America are twice as likely to experience depression, compared to other women in this country.”

The statistical analysis was performed by Dr. Jeffrey Bridge of The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Department of Pediatrics of The Ohio State University that was a combined effort of UW, The Ohio State University, and the University of Pittsburgh. The multidisciplinary team included social work, psychiatry, statistics, obstetrics, and pediatrics. Included were United States and non-United States studies in the research, conducted rigorously to clarify inconsistencies found in past studies linking depression to preterm birth and low birth weight

Depression During Pregnancy has Lasting Effects

The research confirmed the link, but in addition to premature birth the scientist say depression during pregnancy can have lasting effects on mother and child. “Maternal depression affects the fetus, the newborn, the child and the adolescent,” Grote said. “There are pernicious effects both before and after birth.”

In addition to newborn health problems Grote says, “Maternal postpartum depression, in turn, has been found to interfere with mother-infant bonding and attachment. Insecure attachment to the mother is associated with a host of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive problems for the child. It can foster difficulties in the baby’s emotional and social development, school and learning problems as the child grows, and adolescent mental health concerns.”

The findings suggest women should be carefully screened during pregnancy for depression. From the perspective of health care reform, Grote says it is well worth the investment to maintain supportive social service staff whose positions are often eliminated by States during an economic downturn. An emphasis on screening women for depression, especially the socioeconomically disadvantaged, would offset the cost of neonatal intensive care, maternal education and the expense of ongoing medical care for infants born prematurely with chronic health problems.

Grote also discusses the role of anti-depressants during pregnancy that are often stopped, leaving women untreated. She says, “Many news reports exaggerate the perils of taking anti-depressant medication during pregnancy. They seldom mention that untreated depression during pregnancy has negative birth outcomes comparable to anti-depressant medication use…

“Depressed pregnant women and their health-care providers,” she suggested, “should weigh the risks and benefits of antidepressant use in their particular situations. They should also discuss together whether other evidence-based, effective ways to treat depression, like interpersonal psychotherapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy, might be preferable or available.”

When considering antidepressants during pregnancy, Grote says clinicians can find guidelines for prescribing from the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Signs of depression that include poor appetite or overeating, sleeping too much or too little, lack of interest in life and generally feeling down, should be reported. Grote explains, “Being depressed is a treatable, medical condition. It’s not your fault. Depression can affect your health and your baby’s health. If one person can’t help you, he or she might know someone else who can.”

The study highlights an unmet need that impacts public, personal and family health. The authors say pregnant women suffering from depression should ‘speak up when you’re down.”. The analysis shows depressed women, especially those from low socioeconomic status are at increased risk for preterm birth that can have lasting effects on maternal and child health.

source:   http://www.emaxhealth.com/1020/premature-birth-risk-higher-depressed-pregnant-women

During pregnancy, the muscles of the abdomen go through dramatic changes. A hormone called relaxin allows the connective tissue in the muscles to stretch in all directions to accommodate the growing baby. After pregnancy, it takes approximately eight weeks for these muscles to recover.

Addressing the weight gain within the first months after delivery is important. Research has shown that women who do not shed their pregnancy weight within six months are likely to still be carrying it around 10 or 15 years later. But how soon you can begin toning and strengthening exercises for these muscles depends upon a lot of factors, including the type of delivery you had and how fit the muscles were prior to pregnancy.

At your first postpartum appointment with your obstetrician, usually around six weeks after deliver, discuss your desire to exercise and get his or her recommendations. Once you are given the go-ahead, build a comprehensive workout program using the following guidelines.

First, start with a good overall cardiovascular fitness program. Weight gained during pregnancy is not centered in the abdominal area, and including aerobic exercise is the best way to burn calories for appropriate weight loss. Of course, finding time to exercise can be difficult with a newborn baby keeping you busy every minute of the day. But if the weather is nice, push baby in a stroller around your neighborhood or a local park for 30 minutes to an hour a day. Want company? Try a group program for new moms called “Stroller Strides”. There are also a variety of home videos that can be used while baby is napping.

Next, design an abdominal strengthening routine that targets all of the core muscles. Simply doing crunches will primarily work the rectus abdominus which may be still healing from pregnancy. One of the most overlooked group of abdominal muscles are the transverse muscles that lie horizontally and help to keep your organs in place. These deep muscles act like a girdle to your entire midsection and need to be strengthened and toned if you want a flatter stomach.

Lastly, but not least important, remember to also strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support the uterus, bladder, bowel and kidneys. Include Kegel exercises into your daily workout plan.

For specific workout routines, try the “Ab Rehab” from Parents.com or WomenFitnes.com’s Top 10 Post Natal Abdominal Exercises. Pilates is also a recommended core strengthening exercise program after having a baby.

No fitness program is complete without the appropriate diet. While breastfeeding women should not actively “diet”, it is still best to eat a well-balanced, reduced-fat diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

source:   http://www.emaxhealth.com/1506/how-get-your-body-back-after-having-baby.html

Avocado Butter Booty Balm

Avocado Butter Booty Balm is a fabulous soft salve that is great at protecting baby’s bottom. Massage a bit during the diaper change to a clean bottom to place a barrier between her skin and a soiled diaper.

Ingredients:
.02 ounces (about 1 teaspoon) lanolin
1/2 ounce (about 6 teaspoons) sweet almond oil
.06 ounces (about 3 teaspoons) calendula infused extra virgin olive oil
.09 ounces (about 4 level teaspoons) avocado butter
just under 1/4 ounce (about 3 teaspoons) beeswax

Blending Procedure:

1. You can use plain extra virgin olive oil for this recipe if you don’t have oil infused with calendula.) Combine all ingredients together in a Pyrex measuring cup with a pour spout. Place the cup of ingredients in a hot water bath until the wax is nearly melted.

2. Once the wax is nearly melted, remove the cup from the water bath and stir with a clean utensil (I often use pop sickle sticks) to ensure an even mixture.

3. Add essential oil last and stir well to incorporate. Pour into jars and allow to cool before capping.

4. To use, after baby’s bottom is wiped clean, place some Avocado Butter Booty Balm on your fingers and massage gently onto baby’s skin. Secure the diaper and that’s it! The balm will provide a nice barrier between baby’s skin and whatever comes out of baby next. It will help prevent diaper rash and expedite healing of the skin if it is red and irritated from wiping.

Homemade belly cream

Ingredients:
6 grams jojoba oil
36 grams extra virgin olive oil
10 grams avocado oil
4 grams cocoa butter
5 grams distilled water
1 gram (about 1 teaspoon) borax
2 grams vegetable glycerin

Blending Procedure:

1. Combine oils and cocoa butter in a heat proof cup. Place the cup inside a pan of boiling water and melt together the oils and waxes. Remove from heat and stir with a pop sickle stick to combine the ingredients.

2. Place water, borax and glycerin in a separate heat proof cup. Place the cup inside a pan of boiling water until the borax is dissolved. Remove from heat. Stir with a pop sickle stick to ensure the mix.

3. Using a hand-held electric mixer, begin mixing the oils and waxes. Add water mixture and blend on medium speed until My First Belly Cream forms, about 6-10 minutes. Pour mixture into clean cosmetic jars and cap after a few minutes. Store in refrigerator between uses and dispense with a cosmetic spatula or pop sickle stick to avoid dipping your fingers in the mixture and increasing chances of contamination. Enjoy!

Calendula Avocado Baby Cream

Ingredients:
4 tablespoons herbal tea infusion (I used calendula)
2 tablespoons beeswax
2 tablespoons anhydrous lanolin
2 tablespoon avocado oil
scant 1/4 teaspoon borax

Blending Procedure:

1. Make the tea using boiling hot water and set it aside.

2. Place the beeswax, lanolin, oil and borax in a heat proof measuring cup and place it in a pan of boiling water. When the wax is nearly melted, remove from heat. Stir the mixture to make sure the wax is completely melted.

3. Using an electric mixer, begin mixing the oil/wax mixture while it is still hot. Add the hot tea while mixing. Blend for about 1 minute, by which time the salve should be whipped and creamy.

4. Pour into a jar and allow to cool before capping. Use within a month or so. To extend shelf life, store in the refrigerator between uses or add the preservative of your choice. Enjoy!!

source:   http://www.makeyourcosmetics.com/recipes/index.asp?cat=mommy

Fallen out of love with your birth control? Maybe you’re put off by side effects. Or remembering to pop a pill isn’t your strong suit.

Problem is, going without isn’t a good choice, even as you get older: Nearly 40% of pregnancies among women in their 40s, for instance, are unplanned.

Which one is best for you? We’ve assembled some popular choices here. (However, there are other methods, such as the diaphragm, female condom, NuvaRing, and the Patch, that we didn’t include).

Combo pill
: Who can try it?

Almost all women.

Sur­prised? Truth is, a growing body of research debunks some myths surrounding this 99%–effective form of contraception—like the notion that it brings on menopause or ups the risk for some cancers.

The Pill can ease maddening peri­menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, hormonal mood swings, and irregular bleeding.

What’s more, it may help prevent ovarian and uterine cancers.

Combo pill
: Who should avoid it?

If you’re a migraine sufferer, you may want to steer clear; the Pill is thought to trigger headaches and raise the risk of stroke in some migraineurs. (Experts aren’t sure why, but the dip in estrogen during the “off week” is one suspect.)

And smokers older than 35—that includes the I-only-light-up-when-I-drink crowd—should avoid the Pill, as both estrogen and smoking cause blood to clot more easily.

Progestin-only pill
: Who can try it?

Women who are breast-feeding (this oral contraceptive will not lower milk supply), or those who can’t take estrogen-based pills due to cardiovascular disease or blood-clot risks, or because they smoke.

Like the combo type, this “mini-Pill” protects against pregnancy via a low dose of hormones, but it’s estrogen-free.

Note: The progestin-only Pill is slightly less failure-proof than the combo kind.

Progestin-only pill
: Who should avoid it?

If you’re schedule-challenged, take heed: Progestin-only pills must be taken every day at the same time to be fully effective; use a backup method if you get off-schedule.

source:   http://www.health.com/health/gallery/thumbnails/0,,20342673,00.html

One of the main symptoms of early pregnancy is swollen breast and nipples. You may feel your breasts tender and sore because during pregnancy the breasts get prepared for breastfeeding and they undergo some changes. Many women know they are pregnant just because of this symptom.

A late or missed period is the most common reason that makes women think they are pregnant. However, a missed menstruation may be caused by medical issues, and a pregnancy should be confirmed with a pelvic exam.

General fatigue and unusual tiredness may also be a sign of early pregnancy. During this period, the body undergoes many different changes, one of which is increase production of progesterone. This is the may cause of fatigue and sudden changes of moods.

Morning sickness, caused by early pregnancy, may occur with vomiting or without it. Commonly, this symptom is experienced between weeks four and eight, but many women have morning sickness about two weeks after conception. Actually, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day and it is caused by a sudden increase of estrogen levels.

Other symptoms of early pregnancy may be regular headaches, sudden mode changes, increased basal body temperature, etc. Women should know that these symptoms may be cause by other conditions and sh

Although you may

Benefits of Exercising During Pregnancy

No doubt about it, exercise is a big plus for both you and your baby (if complications don’t limit your ability to exercise throughout your pregnancy). It can help you:

• feel better. At a time when you wonder if this strange body can possibly be yours, exercise can increase your sense of control and boost your energy level. Not only does it make you feel better by releasing endorphins (naturally occurring chemicals in your brain), appropriate exercise can:
  • relieve backaches and improve your posture by strengthening and toning muscles in your back, butt, and thighs
  • reduce constipation by accelerating movement in your intestine
  • prevent wear and tear on your joints (which become loosened during pregnancy due to normal hormonal changes) by activating the lubricating fluid in your joints
  • help you sleep better by relieving the stress and anxiety that might make you restless at night
• look better. Exercise increases the blood flow to your skin, giving you a healthy glow.
• prepare you and your body for birth. Strong muscles and a fit heart can greatly ease labor and delivery. Gaining control over your breathing can help you manage pain. And in the event of a lengthy labor, increased endurance can be a real help.
• regain your pre-pregnancy body more quickly. You’ll gain less fat weight during your pregnancy if you continue to exercise (assuming you exercised before becoming pregnant). But don’t expect or try to lose weight by exercising while you’re pregnant. For most women, the goal is to maintain their fitness level throughout pregnancy.

While the jury’s still out on the additional benefits of exercise during pregnancy, some studies have shown that exercise may even lower a woman’s risk of complications, like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.

What’s a Safe Exercise Plan During Pregnancy?

It depends on when you start and whether your pregnancy is complicated. If you exercised regularly before becoming pregnant, continue your program, with modifications as you need them.

If you weren’t fit before you became pregnant, don’t give up! Begin slowly and build gradually as you become stronger. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes (that’s 2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week for healthy women who are not already highly active or doing vigorous-intensity activity. If you’re healthy, the risks of moderate-intensity activity during pregnancy are very low, and do not increase risk of low birth weight, preterm delivery, or early pregnancy loss.

Before you continue your old exercise routine or begin a new one, you should talk to your doctor about exercising while you’re pregnant. Discuss any concerns you may have.

You may need to limit your exercise if you have:

• pregnancy-induced high blood pressure
• early contractions
• vaginal bleeding
• premature rupture of your membranes, also known as your water (the fluid in the amniotic sac around the fetus) breaking early

Exercises to Try

That depends on what interests you and what your doctor advises. Many women enjoy dancing, swimming, water aerobics, yoga, Pilates, biking, or walking. Swimming is especially appealing, as it gives you welcome buoyancy (floatability or the feeling of weightlessness). Try for a combination of cardio (aerobic), strength, and flexibility exercises, and avoid bouncing.

Many experts recommend walking. It’s easy to vary the pace, add hills, and add distance. If you’re just starting, begin with a moderately brisk pace for a mile, 3 days a week. Add a couple of minutes every week, pick up the pace a bit, and eventually add hills to your route. Whether you’re a pro or a novice, go slowly for the first 5 minutes to warm up and use the last 5 minutes to cool down.

If you were a runner before you were pregnant, in many cases, you can continue running during your pregnancy, although you may have to modify your routine.

Whatever type of exercise you and your doctor decide on, the key is to listen to your body’s warnings. Many women, for example, become dizzy early in their pregnancy, and as the baby grows, their center of gravity changes. So it may be easy for you to lose your balance, especially in the last trimester.

Your energy level may also vary greatly from day to day. And as your baby grows and pushes up on your lungs, you’ll notice a decreased ability to breathe in more air (and the oxygen it contains) when you exercise. If your body says, “Stop!” — stop!

Your body is signaling that it’s had enough if you feel:

• fatigue
• dizziness
• heart palpitations (your heart pounding in your chest)
• shortness of breath
• pain in your back or pelvis

And if you can’t talk while you’re exercising, you’re doing it too strenuously.

It also isn’t good for your baby if you become overheated because temperatures greater than 102.6° Fahrenheit (39° Celsius) could cause problems with the developing fetus — especially in the first trimester — which can potentially lead to birth defects. So don’t overdo exercise on hot days.

When the weather is hot, try to avoid exercising outside during the hottest part of the day (from about 10 AM to 3 PM) or exercise in an air-conditioned place. Also remember that swimming makes it more difficult for you to notice your body heating up because the water makes you feel cooler.

Exercises to Avoid

Most doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid exercises after the first trimester that require them to lie flat on their backs.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it’s also wise to avoid any activities that include:

• bouncing
• jarring (anything that would cause a lot of up and down movement)
• leaping
• a sudden change of direction
• a risk of abdominal injury

Typical limitations include contact sports, downhill skiing, scuba diving, and horseback riding because of the risk of injury they pose.

Although some doctors say step aerobics workouts are acceptable if you can lower the height of your step as your pregnancy progresses, others caution that a changing center of gravity makes falls much more likely. If you do choose to do aerobics, just make sure to avoid becoming extremely winded or exercising to the point of exhaustion.

And check with your doctor if you experience any of these warning signs during any type of exercise:

• vaginal bleeding
• unusual pain
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• unusual shortness of breath
• racing heartbeat or chest pain
• fluid leaking from your vagina
• uterine contractions

Kegel Exercises

Although the effects of Kegel exercises can’t be seen from the outside, some women use them to reduce incontinence (the leakage of urine) caused by the weight of the baby on their bladder. Kegels help to strengthen the “pelvic floor muscles” (the muscles that aid in controlling urination).

Kegels are easy, and you can do them any time you have a few seconds — sitting in your car, at your desk, or standing in line at the store. No one will even know you’re doing them!

To find the correct muscles, pretend you’re trying to stop urinating. Squeeze those muscles for a few seconds, then relax. You’re using the correct muscles if you feel a pull. Or place a finger inside your vagina and feel it tighten when you squeeze. Your doctor can also help you identify the correct muscles.

A few things to keep in mind when you’re doing Kegel exercises:

• Don’t tighten other muscles (stomach or legs, for example) at the same time. You want to focus on the muscles you’re exercising.
• Don’t hold your breath while you do them because it’s important that your body and muscles continue to receive oxygen while you do any type of exercise.
• Don’t regularly do Kegels by stopping and starting your flow of urine while you’re actually going to the bathroom, as this can lead to incomplete emptying of your bladder, which increases the risk of urinary tract infections.

Getting Started

Always talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Once you’re ready to get going:

• Start gradually. Even 5 minutes a day is a good start if you’ve been inactive. Add 5 minutes each week until you reach 30 minutes.
• Dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothes and wear a supportive bra to protect your breasts.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid overheating and dehydration.
• Skip your exercises if you’re sick.
• Opt for a walk in an air-conditioned mall on hot, humid days.
• Above all, listen to your body.

source:   http://kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_center/staying_fit/exercising_pregnancy.html#

When will my milk come in?

During the first few days after the birth of your baby, your body will produce colostrum, a sort of pre-milk. For some women, colostrum is thick and yellowish. For others it is thin and watery. Colostrum contains many protective properties, including antibacterial and immune-system-boosting substances that are so important to your baby and aren’t found in infant formula. The flow of colostrum is very slow, which allows your baby to learn how to nurse and also how to coordinate sucking, breathing, and swallowing.

After about 3 to 4 days of nursing, your breasts will start to feel less soft and more firm as your milk changes from colostrum to milk that looks kind of like skim milk. Your milk will be transitional for the first 10 to 14 days, after which it’s considered to be mature milk.

During this time, the amount of milk your body produces will increase, responding to your baby’s nursing. Your milk supply is determined by the stimulation your body receives. In other words, the more you breastfeed, the more milk your body produces.

Mothers who deliver by Caeserean section (C-section) may find it takes longer for their milk supply to increase. Sometimes, for no apparent reason, a mother’s milk may take longer than a few days to come in. This is perfectly normal and is usually no cause for concern, but make sure to let your doctor know. While babies don’t need much more than some colostrum for the first couple days, the doctor may need to make sure the baby is getting enough to eat. It can help to breastfeed more frequently, putting the baby to the breast every 2 to 3 hours.

If your milk still hasn’t come in within 72 hours after the birth of your baby, you may want to talk to your doctor about temporarily supplementing with formula (just until your milk supply is up) so that your baby gets enough nutrients and doesn’t lose weight unnecessarily.

Don’t be alarmed if your baby drops a little weight at first. Most babies typically lose up to 7% of their body weight in the first few days.

When should I begin breastfeeding?

If possible, try to start nursing within an hour after the birth. This timing takes advantage of the wakefulness of your newborn after birth. Many babies will instinctively take to the breast, even if it’s their first time. After the initial period of being alert, a newborn will spend much of the next 24 hours sleeping. So, it may be more difficult to get your baby to latch on after the first few hours.

Even if your baby doesn’t officially latch on (or correctly attach to your breast), starting early helps you and your little one to practice and get used to the idea of breastfeeding.

It may take a few times before getting it right, but it’s important that your baby nurses with a wide-open mouth and takes as much as possible of your areola (the dark-colored area of the breast) in his or her mouth (not just the tip of the nipple). If your baby is sleeping at the breast, try to wake him or her up by tickling the feet or undressing the baby. Frequent attempts to burp and changing the diaper between breasts can also be helpful.

To help both you and your baby get used to breastfeeding, try to feed about every 3 hours, even overnight. In many hospitals, you can ask for your baby to “room in” (or stay in the hospital room with you). For moms who want — and need — the extra shut-eye during those first couple of days after the birth, you can have your baby stay in the nursery at night and ask the staff to bring your newborn to you to feed.

Are bottles or pacifiers okay?

If you’re committed to trying to exclusively breastfeed, you don’t want your baby to suck on a pacifier or a bottle. In the beginning, it’s important to allow your baby to practice breastfeeding without being confused by a bottle or a pacifier. Some experts feel that if you start giving bottles too early — before your baby is used to breastfeeding — your little one might have “nipple confusion” and may decide that the bottle is the quicker, better option than the breast. While some babies experience this confusion, others have no problem transitioning between a bottle and the breast.

If a pacifier is occasionally needed in the nursery (such as during a circumcision, when baby boys are often given pacifiers with sugar water), it won’t disrupt your nursing. If the doctor tells you the baby needs a little supplementation with formula, it can be given with a bottle or through a nursing system in which the formula goes through a small tube that attaches to your nipple.

What are the signs that my baby is hungry?

Despite what some new moms might think, crying is a late sign of hunger. You should try to nurse before your baby is so hungry that he or she gets really upset and becomes difficult to calm down.

Signs that babies are hungry include:

• moving their heads from side to side
• opening their mouths
• placing their hands and fists to their mouths
• puckering their lips as if to suck
• nuzzling again their mothers’ breasts
• stretching
• showing the rooting reflex (when a baby moves its mouth in the direction of something that’s stroking or touching its cheek)

How can I tell when I’m ready to breastfeed?

Many women can feel the milk ejection reflex (or let-down) — when the milk starts coming into their breasts for a feeding. When and how it happens is different for everyone, though.

During the first few days to weeks after delivery, you may feel strong cramps in your uterus when your milk lets down. Let-down may also begin before you start nursing (some women experience let-down from simply seeing their baby or hearing a baby cry). Or, it may happen after your baby is latched on and has sucked a few times (you may notice your baby starting to gulp).

You may also feel a sense of engorgement, like your breasts are filling up and becoming firm, or a sort of tingling sensation in your breasts. You also may feel or see some milk leaking from your nipples. Some women, however, never have a feeling of let-down, which is OK, too. Even if you don’t feel it, you should still see milk coming from your nipple and hear your baby swallowing.

How can I tell if my baby is latched on correctly?

This is often the No. 1 reason that new mothers have a hard time with breastfeeding — their babies aren’t latched on to their breasts properly, which can be frustrating for the babies and downright painful for their mothers.

Here’s how you can make sure your little one is latched on correctly every time:

1. Make sure your baby’s mouth is opened wide and his or her tongue is down when latching on.
2. Support your breast with your hand, positioning your thumb on top and your fingers at the bottom, keeping your thumb and fingers back far enough so that your baby has enough of the nipple and areola (the circle of skin around the nipple) to latch onto.
3. Gently glide your nipple from the middle of your baby’s bottom lip down to his or her chin to help prompt your baby to open his or her mouth.
4. When your baby opens his or her mouth wide and the tongue comes down, quickly bring your baby to your breast (not your breast to your baby). Your baby should take as much of your areola into his or her mouth as possible.
5. Make sure your baby’s nose is almost touching your breast (not pressed against it), his or her lips are turned out (or flanged), and you see and hear your baby swallowing. (You should be able to tell by seeing movement along your baby’s lower jaw and even in your baby’s ear and temple.)

When properly latched on, you may have 30 to 60 seconds of latch-on pain (this is caused by the nipple and areola being pulled into your baby’s mouth) then the pain should subside. It will then feel like a tug when your baby is sucking. If you continue to feel pain, stop feeding momentarily and reposition your baby on your breast. If you still feel pain during feeds even after repositioning, talk to your doctor to make sure something else isn’t going on, such as an infection.

Your baby will often give four to five sucks, followed by a 5- to 10-second pause. Your baby’s sucks will increase in number as the quantity of your milk increases. As the milk flow slows, your baby’s pattern will probably change to three or four sucks and pauses that last longer than 10 seconds.

Most babies will release the breast on their own. If your baby doesn’t release your breast but the sucks now seem limited to the front of his or her mouth, you can slip your finger in the side of your baby’s mouth (between the gums) and then turn your finger a quarter turn to break the suction. Then, try to burp your baby and switch him or her to the other breast.

How can I tell if my baby is latched on wrong?

If your baby tends to suck on the tip of your nipple, without getting much of your areola, he or she is latched on incorrectly. Babies who tend to latch on wrong will also frequently sleep at the breast and may not seem satisfied because they may not be getting enough. If either of these occurs, break the suction and reposition your baby onto your breast to include the nipple and areola.

Call your doctor or a lactation consultant if:

• you’re unable to nurse your baby without pain (you may just need help getting your baby to latch on correctly, or it could be a sign of a breast infection)
• your baby consistently sleeps at the breast
• your baby is nursing but doesn’t seem satisfied when feedings are over

I’m having a hard time. What can I do?

This is completely normal. Whereas nursing may come easily for some women, it can take some adjustment and practice time for many others. Breastfeeding your baby may be one of the most challenging but rewarding things you’ll do as a mother.

While you’re in the hospital, don’t hesitate to use the expertise of the nursing staff and your OB-GYN. They can be very helpful in answering any questions you might have, as well as walking you through the dos and don’ts of breastfeeding. The nurses can even watch and coach you as you try to breastfeed your baby. The hospital also may have a lactation consultant on staff who may be able to offer some guidance and reassurance.

Doctors usually want to weigh infants and evaluate breastfeeding within 48 to 72 hours after a mother and newborn leave the hospital. But if you have any concerns or difficulties before then, make sure to talk to your doctor.

Whatever you do, try not to become too discouraged. With a little patience and some practice, it will likely become easier for both you and your baby in the coming weeks. Like the old saying goes, practice makes perfect!

Is there more than one way to hold my baby?

Yes. You can experiment with several different nursing positions (or holds) to figure out which one is the most comfortable for both you and your baby. They include the:

• Cradle Hold: This is the traditional hold many mothers will try from the get-go, holding the baby across the chest and using the arm on the same side as the nursing breast to support the baby.
• Clutch (or Football) Hold: This position holds the baby at the side, and is good for the mom who’s had a C-section (because the baby doesn’t put pressure on the mother’s belly), as well as for mothers with large breasts or twins.
• Cross-Cradle (or Crossover) Hold: Similar to the cradle hold, this position involves using the arm on the opposite side as the nursing breast to support the baby. Some mothers find that this hold makes it easier to control how their babies latch on.
• Side-Lying Position: This position, in which mom lies on her side facing the baby, allows moms to get some rest during feedings and is also a common choice for mothers who’ve had C-sections.

How can I make breastfeeding more comfortable?

Again, it’s mostly about finding a comfortable nursing position and proper latch-on — once you’ve gotten those down, it can make for a truly rewarding bonding experience. Here are some other things you can do that might also help you to relax and enjoy the experience:

• Keep a breastfeeding goodie bag or basket near all of your regular nursing areas at home (next to the bed, on the couch, etc.). Fill it with bottled water, some healthy snacks, a few magazines, your portable home phone or cell phone (so you don’t have to get up to answer or make calls), plenty of burp cloths or cotton diapers for dribbles and spit-up, and the remote controls if you want to use a TV, DVD player, VCR, or stereo nearby.
• Find the most comfortable seating arrangement and stick to it so that your baby gets comfortable with — and looks forward to — the routine. Many mothers like to sit in a glider or in a cozy chair with armrests.
• Give your feet and back a break. Footstools and pillows can provide extra support. Pillows that some women find helpful are the donut-type nursing pillows or the “husband” back pillows with arms on each side for nursing in bed.

How long should I plan to breastfeed my baby?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) now recommends that babies should be breastfed exclusively (without offering formula, water, juice, non-breast-milk, or food) for the first 6 months and that breastfeeding should continue until 12 months (and beyond) if it’s working for both the mother and baby.

Studies on infants show that breastfeeding can lower the occurrence or severity of diarrhea, ear infections, and bacterial meningitis. Breastfeeding may also protect children against sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), diabetes, obesity, and asthma.

source:  http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/breastfeed/breastfeed_starting.html#

If you were taking prescription medications before you became pregnant, please ask your health care provider about the safety of continuing these medications as soon as you find out that you are pregnant. Your health care provider will weigh the benefit to you and the risk to your baby when making his or her recommendation about a particular medication. With some medications, the risk of not taking them may be more serious than the potential risk associated with taking them.

If you are prescribed any new medication, please inform your health care provider that you are pregnant. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of the newly prescribed medication with your health care provider before taking the medication.

Which Pregnancy Drugs Are Safe?

Prenatal vitamins, now available without a prescription, are safe to take during pregnancy. Ask your health care provider about the safety of taking other vitamins, herbal remedies and supplements during pregnancy. Most herbal preparations and supplements have not been proven to be safe during pregnancy. Generally, you should not take any over-the-counter medication unless it is necessary.

The following medications and home remedies have no known harmful effects during pregnancy when taken according to the package directions. If you want to know about the safety of any other medications not listed here, please contact your health care provider.

Are Alternative Pregnancy Medicine Therapies Safe?

Many pregnant women believe “natural” products can be safely used to relieve nausea, backache, and other annoying symptoms of pregnancy, but many of these so-called natural products have not been tested for their safety and effectiveness in non-pregnant women, much less in pregnant women. Therefore, it is very important to check with your health care provider before taking any alternative therapies. He or she will not recommend a product or therapy until it is shown to be safe and effective.

Safe Alternative Pregnancy Medicine Therapies

There are some alternative therapies that have been shown to be safe and effective for pregnant women to take to relieve some of the uncomfortable side effects of pregnancy.

• Nausea in early pregnancy: acupuncture, acupressure, ginger root (250 mg capsules 4 times a day), and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, 25 mg two or three times a day) work well.
• Backache: chiropractic manipulation holds the best track record.
• Turning a breech baby: exercise, hypnosis, and traditional Chinese treatment (burning incense-like substance on the fifth toe) have proven beneficial.
• Pain relief in labor: epidurals are most effective, but injections of sterile water near a woman’s tailbone works surprisingly well, as do immersion in a warm bath, and a high tech nerve stimulator called TENS unit. Relaxation techniques, patterned breathing, emotional support, and self-hypnosis are already widely used alternative therapies in labor.

Alternative Pregnancy Medicine Therapies to Avoid

The following substances have the potential to harm a developing baby when used in a concentrated formulation (not as a spice in cooking). Some are thought to cause birth defects, and encourage early labor.

• Avoid these oral supplements: Arbor vitae, Beth root, Black cohosh, Blue cohosh, Cascara, Chaste tree berry, Chinese angelica (Dong Quai), Cinchona, Cotton root bark, Feverfew, Ginseng, Golden seal, Juniper, Kava kava, Licorice, Meadow saffron, Pennyroyal, Poke root, Rue, Sage, St. John’s wort, Senna, Tansy, White peony, Wormwood, Yarrow, Yellow dock, vitamin A (large doses can cause birth defects).
• Avoid these aromatherapy essential oils: calamus, mugwort, pennyroyal, sage, wintergreen, basil, hyssop, myrrh, marjoram, and thyme.

If you have any doubt regarding the safety of a medication, both traditional and alternative, contact your health care provider before taking the therapy.

source:   http://women.webmd.com/pharmacist-drugs-medication-9/pregnancy-medicine?page=2

Fortunately, preparing for a second child can be as rewarding and special as the first time. Helping your older child understand what to expect can lessen anxiety for both of you, and being aware of the changes involved in having a second child is the best way to prepare for this joyous event.

What Will Change?

Bringing about a second child and handling two children can be a bit overwhelming at first . Getting organized before the baby is born is your best bet, even though that might be a bit more challenging than it was the first time around.

Because your time will be restricted, you’ll be busier – your once organized schedule may be stretched to the limit. Sleeping and meal schedules will fluctuate and will depend on the age of your older child.

You may also tire more easily, even before the baby is born, since caring for your older child while pregnant takes a lot of energy. After the birth, the first 6 to 8 weeks can be particularly demanding, because your main job will be trying to get your infant on a feeding and sleeping schedule, while anticipating your older child’s needs and changing emotions.

One positive change that a second child brings is an increased confidence in your own abilities, knowledge, and experience. That is, the things that seemed so difficult with your first child – breast-feeding, changing diapers, handling illness – will seem like second nature to you instead of a full-blown crisis.

How Will It Affect You?

Bringing home a new baby will affect you in many ways – some physically and others emotionally. Increased exhaustion and mild anxiety is a normal occurrence after having a child.

The “baby blues” can be a frightening experience, but you don’t have to endure feelings of depression by yourself. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms. It’s important to differentiate between a simple case of the “baby blues,” which usually passes within a few weeks, and postpartum depression, a serious disorder that can lead to mood and sleep problems if untreated. If you begin to feel very depressed or anxious, or have thoughts about harming yourself or your baby, seek the help of your doctor immediately.

Physically, you are likely to be sore and very tired, particularly if you had a difficult birth or cesarean delivery. This makes all-night feeding sessions especially tough for you, if you have decided to breast-feed your child.

Seeking the help of a postpartum “doula” during the day can allow you to catch up on sorely needed rest and sleep. A postpartum doula is a specially trained woman who cares for mother and baby during the first couple of weeks after delivery.

If you work outside the home, you may be unsure about the future of your career. Making a decision about whether to return to your job is an important one; enlist the support of your family and friends when weighing all of your options.

Don’t be surprised if you feel concerned about bonding with your new child. It may be difficult to understand that you will have just as much love for your new arrival as you do for your older child – but you will. As moms and dads often report, a parent’s love somehow doubles when another child is born.

You will notice that you have little or no time for yourself during the first few months following delivery. Sleepless nights and everyday tensions can be overwhelming, so be sure to make “alone time” a priority for you. Likewise, you and your partner will notice that you’re rarely spending time together, so be sure to have an occasional date once things settle down.

Helping Your First Child Adjust

Your first child may experience a range of emotions, from jealousy to excitement and even resentment. Younger toddlers are unable to verbalize their feelings, and their behaviors may regress after the new child is born. They might suck their thumb, drink from a bottle, forget their recent potty training skills, and communicate using baby talk in an effort to get your attention.

Older toddlers and children might express their feelings by testing your patience, misbehaving, throwing tantrums, or refusing to eat. These problems are usually transient, and a little preparation can go a long way in helping your older child adjust to the idea of welcoming a new sibling. A good idea is to play up the role of older sibling. There are a number of things that can help you achieve this, such as:

• Letting your older child help pick out items for the new baby’s room. If your children will be sharing a bedroom, this is particularly important.
• Finding a special gift that your older child might like to share with the baby, such as a favorite book or toy, or a photo of the sibling for the baby’s room. You might also want to pick out something for your older child too, such as a special chair just for him or her that he or she can sit in while you’re feeding the baby.
• Arranging special time just for you and your older child. This might involve a trip to the library, grocery store, or simply reading a few extra stories at bedtime. Your partner can help you by caring for the baby during these times.
• Role-playing or reading stories to your child that will help him or her understand what is happening in the family. There are several books written especially for toddlers that can help. Check a local bookstore or ask your librarian for specific titles.
• Preparing your child for what to expect when the baby comes home. This includes explaining that a new baby cries, sleeps, and needs diaper changes frequently. Assure your older child that although the new baby needs lots of attention, there will still be plenty of time and love for him or her.
• Reinforcing your older child’s role in the family. Tell your child that he or she will be the “big brother/sister” to the new baby, and let your child revel in this new role. Consider taking your child on one of your prenatal visits or letting him or her be present for an ultrasound. If you’re giving birth in a hospital setting, ask about sibling visitation after the baby is born.

The arrival of a new child represents a big shift in your older child’s life, so you might want to hold off on introducing other major changes. This is probably not the best time to start toilet teaching, to begin the transition from bottle to cup, or to enroll your child in a program where he or she will be separated from you for the first time. Consistency will go a long way in making your child’s adjustment easier.

Siblings play a very special role in your new baby’s life, so don’t leave your first child out of the decision-making. So much attention (baby showers, new furniture, clothes, toys) is lavished on the new baby, making it easy for the older child to feel overlooked. Reassure your child that he or she is as special as the new addition by letting him or her participate in the flurry of activity.

Tips to Help You Cope

There are a number of tips that can help you cope with the added responsibilities of having a second child. Some of them are things you can do before the baby is born.

• Stock the house with dry foods or quick, easy dinners. If you feel up to cooking, make double portions and freeze them, because finding energy at the end of the day will be difficult once the baby is born. Keep a few menus of take-out food restaurants readily available, including a few that deliver.
• Reorganize your laundry room, using one hamper per family member or a basket for each child so it’s easier to sort and fold clothing. Laundry is usually the biggest complaint of a new mom – it seems to quadruple when another child arrives, so now is the time to prepare.
• If possible, make use of the items you already have on hand (or that family members are willing to share with you) rather than feeling as if you have to go out and buy all new things. Hand-me-downs such as cribs, bassinets, strollers, high chairs, and clothes can help save time and money.
• Treat yourself to a few movies, and don’t watch them until the baby is born. It will help get you through those late-night feedings.
• Stock the car with a diaper bag filled with all the necessary extras so you’ll always be prepared. Many mothers keep a toy bag in the car for the older child and a diaper bag with diapers, wipes, and an extra blanket for the baby.
• Keep a book or toy bin handy in your bedroom, family room, and even the bathroom or laundry room, to keep your children busy for a few precious moments if an unexpected problem crops up.
• Ask a family member to spend time with you right after the baby’s birth, if you feel comfortable doing so. Not only will he or she enjoy it, but you may be able to get some much-needed rest.
• Use babysitting services or a housekeeper, if possible, who can come in once a week for a month or two to help you with chores that are too strenuous and exhausting.
• Look to your community or place of worship for support. There are countless programs and classes available that provide activities and social support for families with young children.
• Don’t forget to take care of your own needs. Pamper yourself, even if it’s something as simple as a haircut or a bath with candles and music, to help you relax after a trying day.

Once you and your family members get accustomed to the idea of another child, you can enjoy the many positive aspects of a larger family.

source:   http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy/birth/second_child.html#