Accident!!!

ARRRGGGHHH!!! I never read properly! Accidentally deleted two photos from my Picasa album without realising that they are related to my blog!

Readers who do not know how to do 2 of the pregnancy exercises that has no photos there, do contact me and I will send you the photos asap:) Of course, in the new photos, I will not be pregnant then..heee....hee....

Very Personal Thoughts & Feelings

Dear All,

I have decided to add one more section into my blog.

I have decided to put my thoughts out there for others to read.

Hope that those of you out there who share the same thoughts and feelings will know that you are not alone.

P.S: Be ready for some Heavy Sharing. Btw, you can also share your own thoughts and feelings on my blog:)

Happy Reading & Sharing...
Cheers

Q: What is Postnatal Care?

If you have a virginal delivery, you will probably stay about 2 to 3 days in the hospital. With a Caesarian section, you may have to stay about 5 to 8 days. Husbands are encouraged to be with their wives during the delivery and post-partum period.

Q: Are Fathers allowed in the delivery room?

Fathers are encouraged to be in the delivery room for normal vaginal deliveries. Fathers who are present at the birth of their children claim a stronger bond with them.

At the delivery, be supportive without getting in the way of doctors and nurses. Hold your wife's hand, giving emotional support. You can also encourage mother to push during the delivery by counting along with the midwife, using the exercises learnt during Antenatal classes.

Some obstetricians allow fathers to cut the umbilical cord. Many fathers like to take photographs or videotape the delivery process.

If you feel faint at the sight of blood, leave the room and sit down.

After delivery, carry and cuddle your newborn. Do not be alarmed by the baby's appearance. The body will be red, wrinkled and covered with a white substance called vernix that protects the baby in the womb. This is normal, dont worry.

Q: What are abnormal deliveries?

A normal delivery is one where the baby is born head first through the vagina without the assistance of any instruments.

Other than this type of delivery, all other types of delivery are considered abnormal deliveries.

1) Breech

This is where the baby's buttocks emerge first during birth. Most babies are in the breech position until about 32 weeks of pregnancy when they will turn upside down and the head will be down instead of the buttocks. However, 4 out of every 100 babies remain in breech position in late pregnancy.

Some doctors may choose to turn the baby after 32 weeks. The doctor places her hands on the abdomen and turns the baby around by pushing the head in one direction and the bottom in the opposite direction. This is known as external cephalic version.

Although this is a painless procedure, the baby might still turn back into the breech position.

Do discuss with your doctor whether vaginal birth or caesarian section is best although in most instances, baby can be delivered vaginally.

2) Vacuum

A rubber cup is placed on the baby's head and a vacuum applied, so that suction is used to deliver the baby.

3) Forceps

This procedure is used to guide the baby's head through the pelvis. Indications include:-

• Foetal distress
• Prolonged labour
• Pre-term delivery
• Hypertension
• Maternal exhaustion
• Maternal heart disease

Forceps will not cause any harm to the baby and the mother.

4) Caesarian Section

This operation can be done under general anaesthesia or epidural analgesia.

Recovery stage may take longer. This operation is required in these circumstances:-

• Big breech babies
• The cervix not dilating
• Small pelvis in relation to the baby's size
• Low-lying placenta which is situated close to the opening of the birth canal blocking the baby's descent.
• Prolapse of the umbilical cord through the cervix where the umbilical cord, which has come out prematurely, becomes compressed as the baby is being pushed out, cutting off the baby's blood supply.
• Foetal distress
• Separation of the placenta from the uterine wall resulting in bleeding in the space created.

Q: Who are the High-Risk Mothers?

A high-risk mother includes a woman who:-

1. is below 20 years old and above 35 years old.
2. has a medical condition e.g. heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
3. has complications e.g. a low-lying placenta.
4. has multiples e.g. twins,triplets etc.
5. has a history of abortions, stillbirths, premature labour and abnormal babies.

Q: How many stages are there in labour?

There are 3 stages of labour:-

Stage 1

1. In this stage, there is a contraction of the uterus with dilation of the cervix.
2. You may experience slight labour pains.
3. For 1st time mother, this stage lasts about 10 to 15 hours. It is shorter in future pregnancies.

Stage 2

1. The stage where the cervix is fully dilated.
2. There are strong uterine contractions and baby emerges from birth canal.
3. It lasts about 1 to 2 hours in the first pregnancy.

Stage 3

1. After the delivery of the baby until the delivery of the placenta constitutes the 3rd and last stage.

Q: How do I know when my labour is here?

Labour is the contraction of the uterine muscles during childbirth that will result in the expulsion of the baby and the placenta.

Signs of Labour:-

1. You feel the regular contractions of the womb.
2. A small amount of blood is discharged from the vagina.
3. Water bag protecting the baby breaks and there is a sudden discharge of fluid.

First, remember, DO NOT PANIC! You still have time to go to the hospital and consult your doctor. Remember to take the bag that you had packed earlier on and go to the hospital.

Q: What type of tests are done to determine the foetus' health?

These are called Antenatal Tests. However, it is BEST NOT TO undertake these tests without proper consultation from your doctor.

1) Triple Test

This blood test is done after 12 weeks of pregnancy.

3 blood chemicals are tested and if the levels are abnormal, they indicate the chances of getting a baby with Down's syndrome. If the risk is high, amniocentesis is recommended.

2) Amniocentesis

This test will detect Down's syndrome or spina bifida.

Your doctor will recommend this test to be done if :-

• you are above 35 where risk of chromosomal abnormalities is greatly increased.
• already have an abnormal child.
• there is family history of certain birth defects.
• during ultrasound scanning, the baby is noted to have certain birth defects.

This procedure is performed around 16 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. The doctor will take a sample of the fluid surrounding the baby in the uterus. This fluid contains cells from the baby and can be analysed for the number and structure of the chromosome.

NB: There is a slight risk of a miscarriage with this test so it should not be taken unnecessarily.

3) Chorionic villus sampling

This test will detect certain chromosome abnormalities and some other forms of genetic disorder.

The same group of mothers who qualify for amniocentesis can go for this test instead.

This procedure is performed around 8 to 10 weeks of the pregnancy. It involves taking a small sample of placental tissue. This can be done either through the abdomen or the vagina.

NB: The risk of miscarriage in chorionic villus sampling is a LITTLE HIGHER THAN in amniocentesis.

4) Ultrasound scanning

This is a test using reflected sound waves to visualise the foetus.

This will help to determine the growth, age, position, presentation and any abnormalities if any, of the baby. It can also help to locate the placenta, which is useful during amniocentesis.

Ultrasound is very safe for both mother and baby.

Q: How & What to prepare for baby's arrival?

1) Prepare a space for the baby

This can be in your room or a separate room. You need to consider the distance between your bed and the cot. Also between the cot and the diaper changing area and the place where the clothes are stored.

If the bedroom is air-conditioned, set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature e.g. 25 Degrees Celcius. Also ensure that your baby is kept warm. Open the windows at least once a day and put up bright pictures to provide stimulation to your baby.

2) Clothes for the baby

Do not buy too many clothes as baby will outgrow them. It is convenient during the newborn period to have a singlet opening in front for easy changing.

Those with snap-open buttons at the bottom are easy for changing diapers. Choose quick-drying, machine washable fabrics such as cotton.

3) Nappies / Diapers

Buy either cloth diapers or small disposable diapers. If your are getting cloth diapers, buy 24 of them would be sufficient.

Disposable diapers are more convenient and being absorbent, they reduce incidence of nappy rash.

4) Bibs

These are pieces of cloth or plastic which are used to protect clothes from saliva or food regurgitated by baby. These are optional as a small towel will do just as well for newborn babies.

5) Mittens and socks

Mittens are fingerless gloves that can help prevent baby's fingernails from scratching her face. Socks which keep the feet warm are optional unless baby sleeps in an air-conditioned room.

6) Feeding Bottles / Tongs / Steraliser

Do get two to three feeding bottles. The smaller bottles are useful for water and fruit juices. You can get a steraliser to steralise the bottles. There are many types available on the market. Check out which suits your needs best.

Get a bottle brush to clean the bottles and a pair of tongs to pick up the hot steralised bottles and teats.

7) Breast Pump

Choose from electric, syringe or manual pump breast pumps. Electric pumps are more effective but cost more.

8) Bag for Baby's things

Choose a bag that can be easily cleaned and can withstand wear and tear. A detachable changing mat is good for changing diapers. You might want to get a backpack for the times when your hands might be occupied.

9) Slings

There are many types of slings available on the market. Some are for breastfeeding purposes and others are just for carrying baby. It is best to choose darker colours so in case there are stains, it is not easily visible.

10) Strollers or prams

Some points to consider before buying are:-

• Is it light enough to carry while alighting from public transport?
• Is it easy to fold, preferably with one hand?
• Do the wheels lock tightly?
• Is the handle high enough for you to push the stroller without slouching?

11) Car seats

New born babies should be placed in a basket when travelling in a car as they do not have adequate neck and back support.

From about 6 to 7 months, a baby can seat upright in a car seat with restraints on. Use a booster seat when the child is above 3 years old.

12) Toys

Many toys for the baby will come as gifts. If you choose to, just get a musical toy with bright colours.

Q: How do I prepare my other children for the new baby?

Children are naturally curious. When they see your abdomen swelling, they will ask questions:)

1) Give an honest answer.

Example: "There is a baby inside mummy." Let the child feel the baby kicking inside you.

2) Assure your older child that you love her.

Sometimes, they may feel insecure. Look through her baby photos with her and explain that she was once a baby too. Share some recollections with her.

3) Talk to her about what the coming of a new baby entail.

Such as baby crying, feeding, nappy changing and the joy of having a baby. This will help her understand her position as an older sibling and discourage her from attention-seeking behaviour.

4) Involve the child in preparing for the baby's arrival.

Let the child choose some of the baby's new clothes. Avoid passing down a favourite comfort toy of your child to your baby.

5) Explain to your child when your delivery date approaches who will be taking care of her and for how long.

Assure her that she can visit you and the baby in a few days in hospital.

6) Give her lots of attention when your child visits you in the hospital.

Make an effort to give her a hug. Show her her new baby sister and encourage her to pat the baby.

7) Wrap up a present for the older child.

Tell her that this present is from her baby sister or brother.

8) Do not expect your child to adjust to her new role immediately.

Give her time to adjust. Meanwhile, keep reinforcing gentle and loving behaviour towards your child. Spend time alone with her and do not overlook her physical and emotional needs.

Q: Sex during pregnancy?

Currently, there is no information suggesting that sex harms the baby in a normal pregnancy. Sex usually does not infect the baby as she is safely protected in a bag of fluid that surrounds her. Having intercourse will not crush the baby either.

However, it is advisable in the later months of your pregnancy to adopt a side-by-side position during intercourse.

Do consult your doctor if your have these conditions:-

1. A previous miscarriage. Your doctor may advise you to abstain from sex during the 1st 3 months of pregnancy while the pregnancy establishes itself.
2. Bleeding. Consult your doctor immediately.
3. Water bag breaks and there is a discharge of fluid. There is a risk on infection. Go straight to the hospital.

Exercise 7:-

7) Pelvic Tightening

This exercise will strengthen the pelvic and vaginal muscles which you will need to use during delivery.

1. Lie on your back on the floor, use a pillow to support your head.


2. Put 1 hand under the hollow of your back.


3. Put the other hand straightened at your side.


4. Press your back down on your hand. Pull in your stomach muscles completely, tightening them as if you are trying to prevent yourself from urinating.


5. Hold this position for 2 to 3 seconds, then relax.

Note: Do this exercise Slowly. This exercise can also be done in 2 other ways

• when sitting with your hips right to the back of a chair with a hard back rest or


• standing with your back flat against a wall

Exercise 6:-

6) Knee Press

This exercise will strengthen your thigh muscles for delivery.

1. Lie on your back on a hard surface.


2. Use a pillow to support your head. Press your knees down towards the floor, hold for 2 to 3 seconds, then relax.

Exercise 5:-

5) Head and Toe Raise

This exercise will strengthen the stomach muscles for delivery.

1. Lie on your back on the floor, using a pillow to support your head.
2. Raise your head and at the same time, curl your toes towards you. Hold for about 2 to 3 seconds and then relax.

Exercise 4:-

4) Feet up, down, round and round

This exercise will help you to improve blood circulation in your legs so as to avoid cramps.

1. Lie on your back on the floor with a pillow supporting your head.


2. Lift up one leg and flex your foot up and down.


3. Then make a circle with your foot, 1st clockwise, then anti-clockwise.


4. Put down your leg and repeat with the other foot.

Exercise 3:-

3) Hip Rock

This exercise will strengthen your back muscles so that you will walk and stand elegantly during your pregnancy.

1. Stand with your feet slightly apart to stabilise yourself.


2. Put one hand on the lower part of your abdomen and the other hand on your lower back.


3. As you breathe in, lift your abdomen and at the same time push your buttocks towards the floor and then back to the normal position.

Note: You are doing this exercise correctly when your hip bones rock forwards and backwards.

Exercise 2:-

2) Cross-Legged Rock

This exercise will relax your lower back muscles and help your pelvic floor muscles to become more supple.

1. Sit cross-legged on the floor with your back slightly rounded.
2. Put your hands on your knees and press towards the floor, spread your thighs and relax.

Note: You are doing this exercise correctly when your body moves forward slightly when you press and return to your body's original position when you relax.

Q: PHOTOS & STEPS on how to do Antenatal Exercises?

Exercise 1:-

1) Breast Tightening

This exercise will strengthen the muscles that support your growing breasts.

1. Raise both your arms to shoulder level.


2. Use each hand to grip the other arm above the wrist. Keep both arms parallel to the floor.


3. Push your elbows toward each other and tighten your breasts muscles at the same time.


4. Hold this position for about 2 to 3 seconds, then relax.

Note: If you cannot feel your breast muscles tighten, raise your arms higher.

Q: What are the things that I need to do during my pregnancy?

1) Take time to rest and do not push yourself when you feel tired. Avoid late nights.
2) Eat well as you are feeding your baby with what you are eating. Avoid alcohol, coffee and smoking.
3) Attend antenatal classes with your hubby. It is good to prepare yourself early so that you will know what to expect when you deliver.
4) Use larger bras as your breasts might be sore and tender during this period. Choose cotton bras with broader straps.
5) Use toothbrushes with softer bristles as your gums might become sensitive and swollen during this period.
6) When baby gets bigger, wear flat or low-heeled shoes so that there will be less strain on your back.
7) Wear maternity clothes during the 3rd month onwards as your girth will usually start growing much bigger during this period.