Maternity & Infant December_January 2016

maternity & infant

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 €3.75/£3.30 DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016 ISSUE 54

126 TOP BUYS INSIDE: THE ESSENTIAL PRODUCT DIRECTORY FOR 2016

MEET OUR AWARD WINNERS

HOW TO WEATHER THE STORM

COSY UP

WINTER FASHION FOR BABY AND BUMP

HAPPY FAMILIES INTRODUCING

www.maternityandinfant.ie

Winter Wonderland

YOUR CHILD TO A NEW BABY

9 772009 193014

ALCOHOL & PREGNANCY IS IT EVER OKAY?

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WE’VE GOT THE WHOLE FAMILY COVERED!

PARENTING HEROES

PARENTS UNDER PRESSURE

PLUS ANNABEL KARMEL * ASK THE EXPERT * TOP TOYS

MI Dec_Jan 2015_Cover.indd 1

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1 DECEMBER 2015 – JANUARY 2016

Contents

14

Win!

PAMPER PACKAGE FOR A MUM TO BE!

On the Cover 16

PAGE 74

BURNING ISSUE: ALCOHOL &

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PREGNANCY Is the odd glass of wine harmless? Or should you cut it out completely? We look at the truth behind alcohol in pregnancy and reveal the results of our reader survey.

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HAPPY FAMILIES A new baby is a joyous event – except perhaps for a jealous sibling! Here’s how

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Features

45

30

ABOUT YOUR UNBORN BABY From hair in the womb to

to introduce your child to

missing bones, we look

a new baby, without the

at 10 things you mightn’t

tears.

know about your unborn

COPING CLASSES

baby.

Becoming a parent can

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ABOUT… HAIR LICE

take a look at the common

Have you had one of those

coping strategies parents

dreaded notes home yet

better way of weathering

26

from school or crèche?

Here’s how to deal with

the storm.

those pesky hair lice.

PEOPLE AWARDS The Boots maternity & infant Awards Special tells the inspirational stories of

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ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

be a stressful event. We

use and ask if there is a

45

10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW

Style 22

MATERNITY

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WINTER SKINCARE

our People Award winners.

From cosy knits to stealing

Keep the tissues handy…

How to look after your

Cat Deeley’s pregnancy

PRODUCT DIRECTORY

skin in winter. Plus, the

style, we have your

Your cut-out-and-keep

products you need for a

maternity fashion covered.

guide to the very best

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BABY & CHILD

great party look.

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YOU

products and services

Cosy jammies, partywear

in the pregnancy and

Inspired by the sell-out

and winter essentials – your

parenting industry – as

Balmain x HM collection,

guide to dressing your little

voted for by parents!

we get the look on a

ones in style!

budget.

2 DECEMBER 2015 – JANUARY 2016

Contents

Experts 67

ASK THE FERTILITY EXPERT

68

ASK THE OBSTETRICIAN

69

ASK THE DIETITIAN

70

ASK THE PHYSIO

71

ASK THE SLEEPING EXPERT

72

ASK THE GP

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DIRECTORY OF USEFUL

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CONTACTS

Regulars 4

M&I ONLINE

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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT We have BIG plans for

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maternity & infant in 2016 – read all about it here!

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NEWS All the latest news, reviews and products

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ANNABEL KARMEL Food for all the family this winter.

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Opinion

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STORE DIRECTORY

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WIN A PAMPER PACKAGE FOR A MUM TO BE! Knockranny House Hotel & Spa in Westport, Co Mayo,

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MUMMY MY WAY

is the destination for this

One reader tells us how

issue’s winner!

becoming a mum led her 40

MUMS ON THE NET The Internet can be a great

DAD’S DIARY

source of community as

Nick Wilkinson’s little girl

well as information for new

has no problem getting

mums. We meet some

teacher’s attention in

mums who found a whole

school…

new social group through 43

to a whole new career.

20

33

THE BREAST ADVICE

the ‘Net.

NUK Ireland breastfeeding

FAMILY MATTERS

advisor Cliodna Gilroy on

Two pieces of legislation

the importance of support

will have a great impact on

from other breastfeeding

modern families, especially

mums.

unmarried parents. Beatrice

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BLOG WE LOG

Cronin from Treoir explains

What made us laugh or cry

what the new laws mean.

in blogland this month

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3 EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome I’m writing this letter a full three weeks after our Boots maternity & infant Awards 2015, but I’m still feeling all manner of emotions when I think back to the ceremony on October 30th.

Proud to be part of such a great event that recognises and celebrates those people who have made a difference in our lives as parents. But emotional too when I think back to the heroic stories we read from the contenders for the awards – their stories really put our little everyday niggles as parents firmly into context.

Turn to p46 for the inspiring stories of our winners.

I’m also incredibly proud to be involved in what I consider to be the best parenting product awards in Ireland – simply because our finalists undergo rigorous testing by parents, so you know they are the very best on the market. This issue we’ve included all the winners in a special supplement at the back of the magazine – essential reading for any prospective or new parent.

But that’s not all – we have lots of other features to keep you informed

THE TEAM

and entertained. Our Burning Issue is on the controversial subject of alcohol and pregnancy – is the odd glass really that bad for you and baby? Plus we take a look at the best ways to introduce a child to his/her new sibling – with minimal tears. And of course we have great fashion to see you through the party season and the cold winter months – both you and your little ones.

This is our last issue of the year, and we’re delighted to tell you that we have some BIG plans for 2016. Turn to p5 now for all the details. In the meantime, have a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year, and we’ll see you on the other side!

Enjoy the issue!

Editor: Penny Gray Editorial Assistant: Rachel Murray Intern: Jane Quinn Editorial Manager: Mary Connaughton Creative Director: Jane Matthews Design: Jennifer Reid Photography & Illustrations: Getty Images, Thinkstock Production Manager: Mary Connaughton Sales Director: Paul Clemenson Email editorialdesk@ashville.com or write to maternity & infant, Ashville Media, Old Stone Building, Blackhall Green, Dublin 7; Tel: (01) 432 2200; Web: www.maternityandinfant.ie All rights reserved. Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate. The publishers cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. © Ashville Media Group 2014. All discounts, promotions and competitions contained in this magazine are run independently of maternity & infant. The promoter/advertiser is responsible for honouring the prize.

ISSN 2009 1931

Penny Gray Editor Find us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter

MY PICKS THIS ISSUE 12

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SLEEPY TIME My little lad, Danny, started school in September, and sometimes he finds it difficult to switch off after the excitement of the day. This book, based on mindfulness techniques, really helps!

Zenji & the Muzzy Bug, by Aislí Madden, €10

BEST FRIEND

SNUGGLE TIME

Ellie’s just turned three, so officially she’s still a bit young for this toy, but she adores it. We listen to her chatting away to “Pony” in the morning – so cute!

FurReal Star Lily Magical Unicorn, €160, Hasbro

I know two little monkeys who will be thrilled to have these slippers warm their toes this winter. Maybe they have them in my size too?

Monkey slippers, €8, Heatons

4 ONLINE

maternityandinfant.ie ‘ULTIMATE NAPPY CHALLENGE’ Read how editor Penny Gray’s daughter Ellie got on when she tested Pampers’ brand-new Baby Dry Pants in the Ultimate Nappy Challenge. maternityandinfant.ie/two-year-old-ellie-takes-pampersultimate-nappy-challenge

WHAT’S TRENDING? #BOOTSMIAWARDS2015

Watch out

Olivia @JugglingJblog Great day at the @ maternityinfant #bootsmiawards2015 testing day, which was shown on @ RTEToday @pinataspinatas Louth, Ireland My amazing cousin #proud.“@ maternityinfant: The 2015 Mum of the Year goes to Jacqui O Shaughnessy #bootsmiawards2015

We have competitions galore on www. maternityandinfant.ie/competitions, with new ones launching every single week. Look out for your chance to win a family pass to Freezin’, this year’s panto at the Olympia Theatre, Dublin, starring comedian Al Porter, Fair City’s Ryan Andrews and return of the one and only Dustin!

@Rosemary_Murphy Thank you so much to everyone at @ maternityinfant for a fab day at the 2015 awards today.

Well done on a fantastic job #bootsmiawards2015

CATCH UP If you missed us on RTÉ’s Today Show with Maura & Dáithí, catch up on www. maternityandinfant.ie. See exactly how parents got on at our Academy Testing Day, watch a showcase of all the winning products and see our Child Hero Emily Hyland and her mum, Gill, sharing their amazing story of determination and recovery. #worthawatch

#BOOKWORMWEDNESDAY Love reading Gobblefunked’s book reviews in maternity & infant magazine? Go to maternityandinfant.ie every Wednesday and get your weekly update of children’s book reviews and opportunities to win too!

CONNECT CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF US? WRITE OR EMAIL MATERNITY & INFANT, OLD STONE BUILDING, BLACKHALL GREEN, DUBLIN 7.

EDITORIALDESKASHVILLE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/MATERNITYANDINFANT TWITTER.COM/MATERNITYINFANT

MUM QUERIES If you have a query and you would like the opinions of other mums and dads, go to www.maternityandinfant.ie/ask-m-i.

All questions are posted anonymously and we always get a great response and helpful suggestions from all of our lovely Facebook followers.

@oneyummymummy1 South Dublin, Ireland At home in my pj’s with a glass of red celebrating winning best parenting blog @maternityinfant #bootsmiawards2015 @KantarMediaIE A massive congrats to @ AshvilleTeam @brianormond79 & @MauraDerrane on a very emotional & enjoyable #bootsmiawards2015 @RTEToday Today we’ll be meeting Emily Hyland @ 4.10 who won CHILD HERO OF THE YEAR from @ maternityinfant awards. This girl deserves praise! #rtetoday #bootsmiawards2015

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, r e t h g i r B ! , 6 r 1 e 0 g 2 g Bi Better

ANNOUNCEMENT

WE HAVE BIG PLANS FOR

IN 2016! READ ON‌ maternity & infant has long had a great reputation for giving good, repu-

table advice from the very best experts in the pregnancy and parenting industry. Along with our Awards every autumn; our sister publication, maternity; and our popular website, www.maternityandinfant.ie, we aim to be the only resource you need in your journey as a parent. But now we are changing:

You can pick up each issue of maternity & infant through your GP FREE OF CHARGE!

We aim to be a valuable resource in addition to your healthcare professionals, in providing expert advice on seasonal health niggles.

NEW GP COLUMN! We are also delighted to announce the addition of Dr Sinead Beirne to our list of columnists. Sinead is a GP in Irishtown in Dublin and the resident doctor on TV3’s Ireland AM and Newstalk Breakfast. She is also currently recording a new series of Doctor in the House for TV3, which is scheduled to air early in 2016.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 â‚Ź3.75/ÂŁ3.30

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015 â‚Ź3.75/ÂŁ3.30

Zʽ ņ Z(ņ7+@ Caring for your baby’s teeth

SEX & THE BUMP KEEPING THE PASSION ALIVE DURING THE NINE MONTHS

BUMP STORIES Navigating your way through pregnancy 10

NEW SEASONAL HEALTH ADVICE SECTION!

30

SņUQ + 9 Choosing a family car & the best car seats

MATERNITY FASHION FINDS

?E S@ # ?+9+ U Can children

k( ZĹUņ+@ ņ@ ? Ī Overcoming

thrive in same-sex relationships?

potential pitfalls

( ˋņEk Ĺ @ UQ + 9 Scares without

the ‘mares

PLUS EXPERT ADVICE * BUYING A BUGGY * BABY & TODDLER FASHION

90 NEW SEASON BUYS

SCHOOL DAYS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO START SCHOOL IN STYLE

08

Each issue will act as your seasonal parenting guide, with topical features, expert advice, great fashion and all the usual glossy content.

SʞņSņ ( @$ Blogging your way

9 772009 193014

NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR GP!

9 772009 193014

NEW QUARTERLY PUBLISHING DATES

to a new job

PLUS ASK THE EXPERT * ANNABEL KARMEL * BEAUTY SECRETS

“I’m delighted to be writing a regular column for maternity & infant in 2016. It’s a great read for expectant mums and parents of young children, and has a superb reputation for providing parents with quality, expert advice on all aspects of parenting. As a GP, I feel it’s a great addition to a surgery too, as not only is it an entertaining and attractive publication to have in the waiting room, but its regular seasonal advice gives our patients valuable information for those everyday health niggles that aect us all at some stage, from treating cuts and bruises to dealing with common colds and tummy bugs.â€?

Dr Sinead Beirne SO LOOK OUT FOR maternity & infant .... from March next year in your doctor’s surgery.

Can’t ďŹ nd it? Ask your doctor for it – we are happy to supply more copies to GPs if they run out.

Still having problems getting a copy? Get in touch through WWW.MATERNITYANDINFANT.IE!

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M&I

ESSENTIALS: 9 THINGS

WAYS TO ENTERTAIN KIDS THIS WINTER

1

AFTERNOON MATINEE Look for bargain tickets for The Good Dinosaur and The Peanuts Movie (out December).)

YOUNG SCIENCE Inspire the young scientists in your

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brood at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, 6-9 January.

3

INDOOR GYM Challenge your little ones with squats, push-ups, simple yoga positions and burpees.

YOUNG DESIGNERS

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The Design It exhibition at The Ark (until 16 January) explores design in a child’s world. www.theark.ie.

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PUPPET THEATRE Create a simple stage with cardboard and let the teddies become the stars of the show!

SPOONFUL OF SUGAR Relive your own childhood at Mary

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Poppins at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre until 9 January.

CARTOON TIME

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Sometimes only a cartoon will do, and this is where Netflix is amazing.

We love All Hail King Julien in the

GET OUT! Make the most of crisp winter days and visit some of Ireland’s gorgeous forests and activity trails. See www. coillte.ie.

AWAY WITH THE FAIRIES

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Check out one of the many fairy trails in Ireland. We love Templemore Park in Co Tipperary. templemoreparkfairytrail.com

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Matthew Mcconaughey and Camila Alves are seen out in Tribeca with Levi Alves McConaughey and Vida Alves McConaughey

M&I family homes.

8 ESSENTIALS: PREGNANCY & NEW MUM

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STRATEGIES FOR DEALING WITH MORNING SICKNESS

HOW TO RELIEVE HEARTBURN

From mild nausea to morning, noon and night vomiting, morning sickness affects as many as eight out of ten pregnant women. It may be a good sign but it’s still bloody miserable.

Here’s how to deal with it.

You’re just over the morning sickness, and now the heartburn begins! Heartburn is caused by hormonal changes, but also by the fact that your growing baby is pushing into your stomach.

Here are some tips from Rennies on how to help the dreaded heartburn

1

Watch your diet

Standard advice is to look at what, when and how you are eating. An empty stomach is likely to cause more nausea (hence why most women suffer in the morning), so eating little and often can help. Keep to simple, bland food like toast and crackers, and make sure to keep hydrated by sipping water throughout the day.

Some women find it beneficial to eat something little before getting out of bed in the morning. Avoid caffeine, spicy food and fatty foods.

2

Go ginger

Some women find that ginger can help their symptoms, but try not to rely on ginger biscuits (although in an emergency, these can help).

Instead, try making a tea from grated root ginger, by steeping two teaspoons in boiled water, leaving it to cool and sipping it during the day. Don’t take more than three teaspoons of raw

ginger a day. Alternatively, try ginger teabags or ginger capsules.

3

Peppermint remedy

According to Chinese medicine, ginger is suitable if you crave warmth, but if you feel constantly hot and irritable and crave coolness, peppermint might better for you. Peppermint tea is great for relieving nausea, and having sugar-free peppermint sweets and chewing gum in your bag is essential for those early weeks. Be careful, as peppermint that is too strong might make the nausea worse.

4

Under pressure

Some women report relief from wristbands (often marketed for travel sickness) that apply pressure on an acupuncture point (pericardium point six). To locate the right spot, measure three finger widths down from the wrist joint. Lift your third finger off gently and feel for a slight dip. This

spot is tender and you’ll think you’re bruising yourself by pressing on it. The button on the wristbands should be pressing on this spot. Press about 20-30 times about one second apart if you feel nausea.

5

Vitamin B

Some studies have indicated that taking extra vitamin B6 may help nausea. The good news is that this is easily achieved through your diet; good sources include bananas, nuts, green beans, carrots, cauliflower, potatoes, lean meats and fish. Your prenatal multivitamin will contain B6 too. If you feel you don’t get enough B6, talk to your doctor or midwife, who may suggest you take a supplement.

6

Get help

If your morning sickness is taking over your life and you can’t function, or if you feel you’re getting dehydrated, talk to your GP, obstetrician or midwife. You may need rehydrating or safe prescribed medication. As always, though, if you are worried, get medical advice.

< Eat several small meals a day instead of three large ones. < Eat slowly and chew food well. < Avoid known heartburn triggers such as fried, spicy, acidic or rich foods. < Drink less while eating.

Drinking large amounts while eating may increase the risk of acid reflux and heartburn. < Do not lie down directly after eating. < Keep the head of your bed higher than the foot of your bed to help prevent stomach contents from rising into your chest. < Wear loose-fitting clothes.

Tight-fitting clothes can increase the pressure on your stomach and abdomen.

9 ESSENTIALS: HEALTH

HOW I MOTIVATE MYSELF TO EXERCISE It’s winter and it’s cold outside. But we all know that exercise is important and so we’ve scheduled time for the gym/a run/ an exercise class – so why are we so tempted to cancel? Here’s how our readers motivate themselves in all weathers. < I’m realistic – I don’t like the cold and the rain so I’m never going to take up an outdoor sport or run outside in the winter.

Instead I head to a nice warm (but air conditioned) gym with spa facilities so I can spoil myself afterwards.” Ger, mum of one

deadline motivates me to make the effort even when it’s freezing.”

Ciara, mum of two < “I actually have to embrace the bad weather as I train with a football team and we play no matter what the weather is doing.

Yes it’s hard sometimes to get changed and get started, but we’re a team, and to let down the other girls is unthinkable.” Fionnuala, mum of one

< “I take a lesson from the kids – just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to stay in.

With four kids in the house we’d all go mental! So we put on the wellies, wrap up nice and warm and head out for a big long walk.

Some of the nicest walks you can have are on those clear crisp winter days.” Mary, mum of four < “My big problem is finding the time to exercise. There’s always something else I have to do.

So every winter I sign up for a course of classes, and pay in advance. Then I know that every Wednesday I have my exercise class and it’s in my diary. The fact that I’ve paid for it too is a great motivator!” Stephanie, mum of two

< “I ask for new sports gear at Christmas, or a new sports gadget like a FitBit – I find that being kitted out in some nice gear does more for my motivation that anything else. Especially if you go to a big gym.” Jane, mum of three < “Once a week I have a “date” with my best friend. We go for coffee or a drink – but there’s one condition: we have to go for a long walk first. The walk gives us time to catch up on all the news, and our drink afterwards feels justified!” Jennifer, mum of one

< “It’s so easy in the winter to hide under the layers of woollies and sit by the fire – but you don’t feel good and you’ll definitely regret it come the spring. So what I do is sign myself up for some sort of a challenge – a run, triathlon, anything really. Just having that

< “I just step on the scales… JOKE. Usually when I’m procrastinating about going to the gym I stop and tell myself to cop on, go for a few minutes, and if I’m still not feeling it after 10 minutes, I can go home guilt-free. I usually end up staying the full session.” Maria, mum of one

‘APPY EXERCISE

Need more motivation? Try these apps on for size – all available on both iPhone and Android

1

MapMyFitness If you’re a fan of the outdoors, then MapMyFitness is for you. The built-in GPS records your workout details, including duration, distance, pace, speed, elevation, calories burned, and route traveled on an interactive map.

2

Fitocracy This app acts as your very own personal trainer, setting goals, providing workouts, tracking progress and even giving nutritional advice.

There’s a free version, or you can upgrade to a more personalised version.

3

PACT Want real motivation?

This app tracks when you’ve been to the gym and when you’ve chickened out – and if you don’t go when scheduled, it’ll take money from you and reward those people who have gone to the gym as promised.

10 ESSENTIALS: KIDS

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WAYS TO HELP YOUR TODDLER’S LANGUAGE SKILLS

TOP CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Sometimes it feels like your child will never master full sentences. But lots do in their own good time. That said, there are plenty of things you can do to encourage their speech, according to new literacy programme Chatterboxes – here are just six.

Wish @ Fota Island Resort Featuring a cute train that winds through the woods, some hardworking elves and of course the man in red himself, Wish is wonderful Christmas event not to be missed in the beautiful surroundings of Fota Island Resort. Tickets available on www.fotawish.ie

Night at the Panto

1

Interact through play

Include your child’s interest and copy what they are doing in play. This makes playtime more fun for everyone.

Talk about what is happening in books or during events rather than asking lots of questions or expecting your child to name the items. Sing simple songs and recite nursery rhymes to show the rhythm and pattern of speech.

2

Be your child’s role model

Model appropriate speech that is clear and simple for your child to model. Try to avoid asking your children to say things “the right way”;instead model it for your children. Doing this tends not to work and may knock their confidence. Simply repeat the word back to them in a natural way. (for example: Child: “Mummy it’s a nowman.”

Parent: “Yes it’s a big snowman”).

3

Repeat and add

Repeat what your child says indicating that you understand. Try to build and expand on what was said, by adding a word (for example: child: “there’s a dog” parent: “yes there’s the big dog”).

4

Listen and reply

Build your child’s confidence by spending time listening and talking together during play or looking at picture books. Be positive about your child and show interest in what they talk about instead of how they say each word.

If over-corrected, a child loses confidence and may talk less or become embarrassed about the way they talk. The more confident and talkative a child is, the more they will be practising and improving their talking skills.

5

Offer a choice

Ask questions that require a choice. “Do you want an apple or an orange?” “Do you want

to wear your red or blue shirt?”

Enourage your child to reply in full sentences, eg “I want an apple please”. (the ‘please’ might be a bit optimistic though! - Ed)

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Explain as you talk

Expand vocabulary by naming items and identify what you do with them. “This is my nose. I can smell flowers, brownies, popcorn, and soap.” It’s never too early to start explaining things to a child in simple language, but as they get older, try turning it into a game: Simon Says is great for working on listening skills.

Top Tips from Karen O’Driscoll, speech and language therapist with Chatterboxes, a fun and interactive programme for children aged 2-7 years to help foster language, play and support early literacy skills.

Chatterboxes runs both in the community and within creches.

Log on to www.chatter-boxes.ie for more.

it wouldn’t Christmas without a trip to the panto. This year Freezin takes place at the Olympia; Little Red Riding Hood (pictured) will be at the Gaiety, Dublin; Beauty and the Beast at the Cork Opera House; and Jack and the Beanstalk at the Townhall Theatre, Galway.

Glow, Cork Running from 29th November to 23rd December, experience the wonder of Tir na Nollag, a mystical ‘faery’ village for kids in Bishop Lucey Park. Stock up on luxury local produce or pick up exclusive gifts at the Artisan Food Markets or delight in the twinkling lights of Cork city from a 30 metre Ferris Wheel.

11 ESSENTIALS: FAMILY

HOW TO SHOP WITH TODDLER IN TOW

ADD TO THE LIST

Remember those halcyon days when your tiny baby napped while you strolled around the shops? Well, accept it, they’re gone. Now the supermarket shop is a battle of wills, with the odd meltdown (you as well) thrown in. We asked Irene Queally from Pip and Pear Chilled Foods for her top tips on navigating the supermarket with a sulky tot.

Pip & Pear Chilled Baby Food Created by Waterford mum and restauranteur Irene Queally, these chilled nutritious baby foods contain up to two of your baby’s five-a-day fruit and veg portions. The range uses top-class ingredients and because it’s fresh, doesn’t contain any nasty artificial ingredients. Available at Super Valu stores nationwide; log on to www. pipandpear.ie

Claudi & Fin Frozen Yoghurt Lollies

The archetypal meltdown is the tantrum in the supermarket. But with some planning and consistency this can be avoided. Remember what the goal is – do the shopping with minimum fuss. With that in mind you need to keep your child amused during a very boring job and you need to keep them distracted from all of the tempting treats on the shelves. You can do both these jobs by getting into a good supermarket routine from day one. < FIRST THINGS FIRST: Head straight to the fruit section and get a pot of handy fruit like blueberries. Now you are killing two birds with one stone, your child is eating a healthy snack and you are doing your shopping in peace.

< CHOOSE WISELY: Be sure to choose the right fruit for your little one; strawberries are very juicy and have a stalk to remove, oranges need peeling and are very juicy, apples are good but you have a core to deal with at the end. PS don’t forget to pay! < INVOLVE YOUR CHILDREN: Older children can help to make the shopping list with words or pictures and will enjoy helping you in the task and crossing it off once found. < YOUR LITTLE HAPPY HELPER: It can be easier to allow your kids to help put things in the basket,

and take them out at the cash register giving them a responsibility and praising them as to how much they are helping Mam and Dad. < TOP TIP: When your children wants to put things that you don’t need into the shopping basket (which is all of the time!) sometimes it works to let them at it and then just leave them with the clerk at the cash register. This can avoid a lot of fuss and they will usually get over it quicker than saying no and dealing with an upset child while also searching for the tinned peas, himself’s favourite biscuits and why oh why didn’t I finish off this shopping list aarrrgh!

These mouth-watering lollies are made with real fruit, whole milk and Greek-style yoghurt. They also provide 30 per cent of your child’s recommended daily intake of Vitamin D, less sugar than 75 per cent of lollies on the market and around the same amount of calories as an apple. Now available as a pack of four in Strawberry or Mango from Dunnes Stores.

NAIF Baby Skincare Created by two Dutch dads, NAIF uses only pure natural ingredients in its range of skincare essentials for babies and toddlers. All items are specially developed to nurture and protect a toddler or baby’s delicate and sensitive skin. NAIF is available in pharmacies nationwide; prices start at €9.95 for the cleanser and shampoo.

12 ESSENTIALS: BOOKS

TELLING TALES Reviewed by Anne Whelton and Linda Crosbie PICK OF THE PILE

For more children’s book reviews, competitions, recommendations for Christmas reads and interviews with some of your favourite authors and illustrators, visit gobblefunked.com.

Zenji & the Muzzy Bug

By Aislí Madden (Sleepwell by Buddabugzz), €10 The benefits of mindfulness are pretty well known now, but did you know that it’s a valuable tool in helping children relax and get sleepy at bedtime? The idea behind this fun book (which was produced thanks to a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter.com) is to help children feel better physically and mentally by being mindful and focusing on their thoughts. Zenji the Buddabug is feeling unwell and is bored in bed – until his friend Karma takes him on a magical journey inside Zenji’s own body, teaching him to heal from within and to relax with every breath. This is a beautifully illustrated and fun book with a simple but effective message – a message that us adults could do with learning too! We like… guaranteed sleepy kids at the end!

They’ll love… Getting to go Zenji’s fun adventures with him.

NEW FAVOURITES

+ 6Gulliver years

+ 3The years Snow Beast

+ 3Yikes, yearsSanta-CLAWS!

+ 3Imaginary years Fred

Written by Jonathan Swift; retold

by Mary Webb; illustrated by Lauren O’Neill (The O’Brien Press), €14.99 This latest iteration of Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift is reimagined and retold by Mary Webb and Lauren O’Neill. As in the original story, Gulliver gets lost at sea and finds himself a prisoner in a land with tiny people.

He manages to escape but it isn’t long before he washes up in a land filled with menacing giants.

Dublin-based illustrator Lauren O’Neill does such a beautiful job at bringing this story to life. We like … The illustrations – both traditional and current. They’ll love … Laughing at the little people’s attempts to keep Gulliver a prisoner.

By Chris Judge (Andersen Press), €15.99 The whole village has been robbed, which means the villagers can’t put on their legendary Winter Festival, so it’s up to Beast to find out who the culprit is and what’s happened to all of the villagers tools. Fans of the ‘Beast’ series will know that our favourite gentle giant is always getting up to some kind of mischief and this time is no different. Despite the scene change – from tropical island to winter wonderland – Judge’s illustrations are as vivid and entertaining as ever. We like … that The Snow Beast doesn’t fall into Dr Seuss’ ‘Grinch’ territory.

They’ll love … following the giant footprints in the snow …

By Pamela Butchart and Sam Lloyd (Bloomsbury), €10.50 It’s Christmas Eve in the Dino house and the dino-tots are tucked up in bed dreaming of all the lovely gifts they’re going to receive and fun they’re going to have on Christmas morning. But wait, a noise wakes the dinotots and when they look out the window and see Santa-CLAWS stomping around in the snow and causing chaos, they know he has to be stopped. A fun, lighthearted story with Sam Lloyd’s vivid illustrations, this should get everyone in the mood for the real Santa Claus! We like … the light-hearted story, perfect for Christmas Eve. They’ll love … giggling at Santa-CLAWS and his mad capers.

By Eoin Colfer and Oliver Jeffers (Harper Collins), €13.99 Fred isn’t just any old imaginary friend, he’s the best any little boy could hope for. But no matter what Fred does, his friendships always end one way – with him disappearing because his friend doesn’t need him anymore.

This makes Fred sad and lonely.

Multi-layered with messages for both children and adults alike, Imaginary Fred is a funny, poignant and uplifting story about loneliness, the importance of friendship and living in the moment as, just like Fred, you never know how long you’ll get.

We like … A really beautiful story from two of our favourite authors.

They’ll love … Jeffers’ illustrations – as charming as ever.

early learning centre

HALF PRICE toys *selected toys

for full range see www.mothercare.ie

14 ESSENTIALS: TOYS

FOR BABY & TODDLER

FOR PRE-SCHOOLERS Carousel Activity Play Centre, €44.49

LEGO Duplo My First Farm, €18

ABOVE: Fisher-PriceToddler Gym, €80 BELOW: Elmo Talking Plush, €29.99

VTech Little Love Learn To Walk, €88.49

ABOVE: VTech Toot Toot Friend’s Hospital, €44.49 BELOW: FisherPrice Thomas & Friends TrackMaster Shipwreck Rails, €65

Paw Patrol Look Out Playset, €55

Mega Bloks First Builders Big Building Bag, €20

My Friend Freddie Bear, €52, Hamleys

TOYS FOR CHRISTMAS It’s Christmas – and let’s not forget the kiddies with their birthdays in December and January too – which means it’s bumper toy-buying season! We pick out our favourites for each age group, and get reviews from our mums…

MARVEL SUPER HERO MASHERS HULKBUSTER VS HULK MASH PACK (below) FISHERPRICE DANCE & MOVE SMART STAGES SCOOTER (left)

Fisher-Price Dance & Move Smart Stages Scooter, €55

“It can be tricky to buy for a baby who is moving around and past the very obvious ‘baby’ toys, but not big enough for the proper toddler toys. This scooter is a great idea as it helps with both mobility and motor skills. By pressing the working horn, your baby is rewarded with songs and sound effects, while pushing the three buttons on the dashboard teaches numbers, shapes, opposites, colours and more. There’s also three levels of play so this toy will last!” Grainne, mum to 18-month-old Sophia

“These Mash Packs are not for under-threes as they can have small parts, but if your child is big enough and loves super heroes, then they will have hours of fun with these mix ‘n’ match superhero figures. My little lad had hours of fun acting out adventures between these two characters.”

Sinead, mum to Toby, 3

Baby Annabel Doll, €62, Littlewoods Ireland

Marvel Super Hero Mashers Hulkbuster vs Hulk Mash Pack, €44.99

15 ESSENTIALS: TOYS

FOR THE JUNIOR INFANTS

FOR THE BIGGER SIBLINGS

Loopin’ Louie, €32.99

Playmobil Ark, €51.49, Argos Fur Real Star Lily My Magical Unicorn, €169.99

ABOVE: Puzzle Club Skittles, €13.90, Debenhams BELOW: Monopoly 80th Anniversary Edition, €24.99

FUR REAL STAR LILY MY MAGICAL UNICORN, “It’s not the cheapest, but this toy is actually really clever and can grow with your child. She responds to sound and touch, and you can ramp up the entertainment with a special app that allows the child to enter her world and go on all sorts of adventures. At three, Ellie is a bit young for the app (which is why I’d recommend it for the big schoolers), but already sees Star Lily as her best friend. Warning – turn her off if your child insists on taking her to bed – an accidental cuddle will wake Star Lily (and the rest of the house) up!”

Penny, mum to Ellie, 3

LOOPIN’ LOUIE “I have great memories of playing board games as a child with the rest of my family and I’ve been dying to start playing games with my little ones. My seven year old is well able for games, but I have a four year old too, who isn’t really, but wants to play. This is where fun skill games like Loopin’ Louie come in – it’s skilful enough for the older kids, but easy for the littlies to understand.”

Karen, mum to Joseph, 7, and Mikey, 4

Elevation 34” Classical Guitar, €34.99, Argos

Barbie in Rock ‘n’ Royals Doll, €35 Lego Friends Pop Star Tour Bus, €73.99, Argos Hot Wheels Track Builder Volcano Blast, €55

LeapFrog LeapPad3 Learning Tablet, €100, Littlewoods Ireland

Paw Patrol Pup Racers, €19.99

Nerf Rebelle Arrow Revolution Bow, €56.99

Play-Doh Cupcake Celebration, €29.99

Doh Vinci Spotlight Spin Studio, €35.99

Transformers Mega Optimus Prime, €49.99

Star Wars The Force Awakens Micro Machines Millennium Falcon Playset, €42.99

16 THE BURNING ISSUE

Q Q

OUR SURVEY We surveyed 100 maternity & infant readers to get their opinions on breastfeeding support.

17

% Q of women drank during Q pregnancy.

Were you advised not to drink any alcohol during pregnancy?

67

% YES

Did any medical professional tell you that the odd drink was okay?

79

Did you drink when you were trying to conceive?

If you did have a drink did anyone comment on you drinking when pregnant?

% NO

60 % 97

% YES

NO

17 THE BURNING ISSUE

HOW SAFE IS

ALCOHOL

DURING PREGNANCY? There is so much conflicting advice regarding drinking alcohol during pregnancy that it’s no wonder confusion is quite common. SIMONE KENNY GLENNON takes a look at the latest advice and research to discover how much alcohol, if any, is safe during pregnancy.

M

48

% YES

Were not advised on the effect of alcohol on breastfeeding.

ost of us like an occasional tipple. Unfortunately, as a nation, we like it more than most and consume it at a much higher volume and more frequent rate than many other countries. In fact, according to Alcohol Action Ireland, a higher proportion of Irish women drink when compared with other European countries, with four out of ten women drinkers having a harmful pattern of drinking. Alcohol is a large part of our culture and is present during almost every celebration and commiseration. Interestingly, it’s described on one Health Service Executive (HSE) website as a “pleasurable, socially acceptable drug”, which is slightly jarring, as most of us probably don’t view it as a ‘drug’.

So what actually happens when you consume alcohol (or its technical terms, ethyl alcohol or ethanol)? How we metabolise alcohol depends on several factors, like how much we drink; how quickly we drink; our size; our gender and whether we’ve eaten before drinking. However, everyone goes through the same main process. Alcohol reaches the bloodstream through the stomach (about 20 per cent of the alcohol is absorbed here) and small intestine (where the remaining 80 per cent is absorbed). The kidneys and lungs remove about 10 per cent of the alcohol in the urine and the breath, while the liver breaks down the rest of into acetic acid.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant so it affects the brain, the spinal cord and the nerves originating from the spinal cord.

We start to feel drunk, or intoxicated, when alcohol acts on the central nervous system.

This affects emotional and sensory function, judgment, memory and learning ability. A healthy person eliminates about 14 grams of alcohol per hour.

What does this mean for your baby? There is a lot that we don’t know about the effects alcohol can have on a developing baby, simply because there has been very little scientific research carried out on foetuses that have been exposed to alcohol. However, here’s what we do know: when you drink, the alcohol crosses from your bloodstream through the placenta directly into your baby’s blood.

Drinking alcohol can impair baby’s brain development and lead to foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), which can cause a range of irreversible problems including behavioural, social and learning and attention difficulties.

“Damage to the unborn child from alcohol takes a number of forms and, as well as physical problems, can show up as behavioural, social, learning and attention difficulties in childhood, adolescence and throughout adulthood,” says Suzanne Costello, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland, the national charity for alcohol-related issues. “As such, there can be lifelong consequences for the physical and mental health of an unborn child exposed to alcohol in the womb.”

Foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most recognisable condition on the spectrum, as well as the most rare. This happens when high volumes of alcohol is consumed during pregnancy and can cause facial defects as well as problems with baby’s growth and learning and behavioural difficulties. FASD

18 THE BURNING ISSUE

COMMENTS We surveyed 100 maternity & infant readers to get their opinions on breastfeeding support. Here are some of their comments: “I think it’s really selfish to drink while pregnant so I’m totally against it.”

“It’s only nine months of your life that you can’t drink/ smoke. The health of your baby is so much more important. I wish people would cop on and not do it when they’re pregnant. It’s pure selfish so it is…”

“I actually only had four drinks for the whole of my pregnancy. I don’t believe in drinking to excess or even normal levels during this time.”

“I know of people and doctors who say one drink is ok. But if one drink makes a woman tipsy, I can only imagine the effect on a tiny baby.”

“I think having the odd glass of wine during pregnancy with dinner etc is totally fine. Also remember the days when it was recommended pregnant women drink a glass of Guinness for iron?”

“I didn’t drink during pregnancy but would have been a pub goer at weekends. Now I’m pregnant, my boyfriend and I still go, and I drive, and in our social circle some mothers were saying ‘gosh would you not drink at all ?’ As if it was a shock to them to not have one or two! To which I obviously responded no! The men never made any judgement to drinking or not!”

“I had the odd drink during pregnancy and still do now, I have a 12 week old and breastfeed. I’m very conscious about my health and the health of my baby.”

“I think there are very mixed opinions in Ireland as to whether drinking during pregnancy is safe or not, I think all medical professionals need to be reading from the same page and advising all women not to drink during pregnancy.”

“I remember being asked if and how much I drink but don’t think I was told not to have any. I’m 34 weeks on baby no 4.”

was highlighted by the Department of Health’s Chief Medical Officer recently when it issued a warning advising pregnant women to abstain from alcohol altogether: “Given the harmful drinking patterns in Ireland and the propensity to binge drink, there is a substantial risk of neurological damage to the foetus resulting in foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).

Therefore, it is in the child’s best interest for a pregnant woman not to drink alcohol during pregnancy.”

Unfortunately, Ireland doesn’t appear to have a good track record when it comes to drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Several studies point towards this, most recently the Screening for Pregnancy Endpoints study (published in the British Medical Journal) which showed Ireland as having the highest rates of not only drinking during pregnancy (82 per cent) but also binge drinking (45 per cent). Although shocking, according to Dr Peter Boylan, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at the National Maternity Hospital, it is unsurprising, given Ireland’s wellknown dysfunctional relationship with alcohol: “it’s no surprise the same thing extends into pregnancy”.

This is in addition to a previous study by the Coombe Women & Infants University Hospital carried out between 1999 and 2005, which discovered that just under two-thirds of women drank during pregnancy. Although, overall, heavy drinking is not common in Ireland, researchers did express concern at the “widespread consumption of even low levels of alcohol during pregnancy” as the effects of these levels are less well understood.

So while binge drinking is clearly shown to have an adverse effect on babies, is it safe to have an occasional drink or to consume alcohol in moderation? There has been much conflicting advice but most experts are now erring on the side of caution and recommending that alcohol be completely avoided during pregnancy. According to the HSE: “There is no known

safe level of alcohol use in pregnancy – so stopping completely is best.”

“Pregnant women can often receive mixed messages, from various sources, including healthcare providers, about drinking alcohol during pregnancy,” says Suzanne. “This conflicting advice arises, in some part, due to uncertainty regarding the amount of alcohol required to impair the foetus and the timing of alcohol exposure. However, no quantity of alcohol has ever been proven to be safe to consume during pregnancy and no period of pregnancy has been shown to be immune to the effects of alcohol on the unborn child. What is very clear is that there are no benefits for the unborn child from exposure to alcohol, just risks, and these risks increase in line with how much alcohol an expectant mother drinks.”

In another behavioural study, research undertaken by Dr Jenny Little and Prof Peter Hepper of Queen’s University Belfast, examined the relationship between the behaviour of the foetus and infant, and the alcohol consumption of their mothers during pregnancy.

This showed that just one glass of wine (or two-and-a-half units of alcohol a week), can influence the behaviour of foetuses in the womb.

It found that foetuses of mothers who drank were: less active; exhibited different mouthing and breathing patterns; displayed a delayed startle response; and, differed in their rate of habituation, compared to foetuses of mothers who did not drink. According to the research, the behavioural effects observed suggest that maternal alcohol consumption has influenced the functioning of the brain of the foetus and infant and this could be a long-term effect.

Essentially, it is a woman’s own choice whether she chooses to drink alcohol or not during her pregnancy. Being aware of all the possible effects and making choices based on what we do know from scientific research is vital, rather than conforming to any cultural or societal norms.

WHAT IS A STANDARD DRINK? According to the HSE, a standard drink has about 10 grams of pure alcohol in it (in the UK a standard drink has about 8 grams of pure alcohol).

Examples of a standard drink include:

A pub measure of spirits (35.5ml)

Small glass of wine 100ml (12.5% vol)

A half pint of normal beer

An alcopop (275ml bottle)

A bottle of wine (12.5% alcohol) contains about 7.5 standard drinks.

19 MUMMY MY WAY

“IT BECAME

APPARENT TO ME

EARLY ON THAT MY CHILDREN

WERE TEACHING ME AS MUCH ABOUT LIFE AS I WAS TEACHING

THEM.” Helena Fitzpatrick is mum to CJ, Lucy and Leona, and tells us here how her children inspired her to change her career completely

I

always wanted to write, so I set up my parenting blog, www. restoreharmony.com, a few years ago as a hobby and dedicated it to my beautiful children, CJ aged 6, Lucy aged 5 and Leona aged 2½. Along with my husband they are the most amazing things that have ever happened to me and I am honoured to be their mother.

I find that us mums have good days and bad days and parenting is truly a journey. My children have amazing imaginations and they truly believe there is magic around every corner.

It became apparent to me early on that my children were teaching me as much about life as I was teaching them. As my blog developed so did I, and it became a diary of my self-development journey. Us mums can be so devoted to our children that we can let our own dreams fade. My dream was to become a reflexologist as whenever I would get a treatment I was always amazed at how my body would fade into total oblivion and my head felt like it was resting on a cloud! I was completely in awe of the therapist and the therapy itself but I never had the time or the courage to go for it.

However, when I was pregnant with my third child my gut feeling was urging me to make changes in my life and follow my ambition. So after my beautiful little girl was born, I took drastic action: not dropping a clothes size or anything sensible like that but by taking redundancy from my permanent job and retraining as a reflexologist. I decided that if

I was going to teach my children to live to their full potential and follow their dreams in life then I had to lead from the front. If the whole Law of Attraction thing works for others then it could work for me too! I just had to believe for it to come true and convince my husband. And I did, I got my redundancy, paid off some bills and commenced my training. A few hurdles came my way, such as a new job, which meant I had little time to study. But instead of making excuses, I got up an hour earlier some days and studied whenever I could around work and children. I kept the vision and I completed my Diploma in Reflexology and Anatomy and Physiology. I then went on to do some advanced training in reflexology and other energy therapies.

Alternative therapies are amazing for babies, children and adults as it allows people’s bodies to heal itself while enabling them to reach their true potential in life. I eventually opened my treatment room in Cavan called Restore Harmony. I have had amazing feedback from my clients helping them heal themselves, whether it is a pregnancy-related disorder, stress, back pain, constipation, IBS, vertigo etc. I am as amazed as they are at what I discover by working on their feet. I truly love my new career helping people and I know I have a long road to travel but I am determined to succeed.

I could never have imagined when setting up my parenting blog that it would have had such a positive impact on me and my family. My message to mums is: just for today take one small step towards achieving your dream! Become that inspiration to your kids.

20 DAD’S DIARY

HANDS

UP!

NICK WILKINSON’s little daughter always has her hand in the air in school – but isn’t that what every teacher wants?

O

ne of the greatest gifts we can give our children is selfconfidence. I was a shy mumbling child, an awkward teenager and now only slightly more socially graceful adult. I often wonder what I might have achieved if I hadn’t been so timid. Astronaut? Uachtarán na hÉireann? Kids these days would be doing themselves down if they didn’t aspire to fly to the moon and rule a small, but proud nation.

My son has inherited some of my traits. I feel for him, because I know that like most of the boys in our family, he’s a little more reserved than the girls. We need to encourage him extra hard to let him know that he can do or be whatever he wants. It seems to be getting through. With a little coaxing, he admitted that he’d like to create the world’s most popular video game. His sister has no trouble revealing her plans for world domination. She is going to be a princess.

Not just any princess – when she’s a bit older and becomes a queen, she’s going to be sovereign of the whole universe.

My daughter is kind of insistent when it comes to getting attention. She isn’t rude, she’s just well… enthusiastic. It can be a little frustrating if you are on the phone, or having a conversation with anyone other than her. As a responsible parent with an eye on the welfare of her future subjects, I realised that I had to gently explain why she can’t have it all, all of the time. I suggested that when she wanted my attention, she should do what she does in class. She looked at me. I raised my hand.

“Like with teacher?” she asked.

“Exactly,” I said.

“What if you can’t see me?”

“I’m pretty sure I will,” I reassured her.

“When teacher asks us a question, I put up my hand, but then she pretends she can’t see me.”

“Oh.” I know that my kid can be eager, but isn’t that good? How could my daughter’s teacher ignore her when she’s trying to

answer a question? I start thinking about the uber-clever kid who hops up and down in their seat with her hand in the air while a bored youth just out of college looks around the class for anyone to speak except for this annoying little twerp.

Isn’t that what all kids are supposed to be nowadays? Not annoying little twerps, but eager little learners urged on by a teacher devoted to teaching them. My daughter loves school.

So much so that during the holidays she says how much she misses it. Her cousin came over to stay recently and they spent their weekend playing school. I didn’t want her put off. This teacher and I were going to have words.

I waited with the other parents as the junior infants came tumbling out of their classroom. They seemed pleased enough to get out of the place. I wondered if that was a bad sign. The teacher did look a little tired. I suppose that spending the day with two dozen five and six year olds will do that to you.

I waited until most of the other parents had drifted away with their kids. Remembering my manners, I raised my hand, then realised I looked like a prat and managed to pass it off as a sort of exaggerated wave.

Making sure that my daughter was out of earshot, I broke the ice with some chit chat about a missing coat that left our house on the first day of term and has never returned. I received a mild admonishment for not using name tags. By this time, my daughter was calling me. I waved her away and gently steered the conversation around to the hand raising. The teacher nodded towards the school yard. My daughter was standing there with her hand in the air, hopping up and down.

“I think she’s trying to get our attention,” said her teacher.

I had to agree.

“She’s very bright, but if I let her speak every time she puts her hand up, nobody else would get a look in.”

I had to agree with that too. Future people of the world be warned – this girl won’t take no for an answer.

“I start thinking about the uber-clever kid who hops up and down in their seat with her hand in the air while a bored youth just out of college looks around the class for anyone to speak except for this annoying little twerp.”

21 TREND

MATERNITY

Style

image:: Next

Winter is in full throttle and although we value style, being warm and keeping colds and flus at bay, especially in pregnancy, is so much more important. See how to wrap up both you and bump on page 23. We were over the moon for Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty when they announced they were expecting their first child together. Cat, who is 38, looks positively blooming and the couple have said they feel very blessed and are looking forward to the huge lifestyle change a baby will bring. Cat is our Steal Her Style star this issue, with a very glam look that’s perfect for party season. And finally, if parties are on your mind, turn the page and see how lace is the perfect choice.

22 TREND

Trimester Trends Lace is the perfect choice for many women when dressing up, it’s simple, pretty and flattering. You don’t need to add much to a lace dress, but if you are adding accessories, keep it simple as seen in these three looks

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CASUAL

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SMART

WINTER WARM

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1 Navy wool wrap coat, €295, Topshop 2 Pink leather gloves, €27, Marks & Spencer 3 Navy lace maternity dress, €59.95, Mamalicious 4 Magenta dipped scarf, €79, Jigsaw @ Arnotts 5 Uschia sequin clutch, €73, TK Maxx 6 Max Factor Colour Elixir gloss in fuschia, €12.49 7 Black caged shoes, €165, Dune

1 Nude faux fur wrap, €110, Coast 2 Red lace maternity cocktail dress, €179, Seraphine 3 Feather earrings, €179, Chupi 4 Lancôme La Palette 29, €55 5 Nude oversized clutch, €50, Wallis 6 Nude court shoes, €125, Kurt Geiger @ Brown Thomas

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1 Holly bag, €570, Orla Kiely @ Arnotts 2 Camel double breasted coat, €140, Miss Selfridge 3 Gold tone spike front and back earrings, €8, River Island 4 Black lace dress, €68, Next 5 Armani Lip Maestro in shade 507, €31, Brown Thomas 6 Black suede asymmetric court heels, €75, River Island 7 Rose gold love bridge bracelet, €239, Thomas Sabo

23 TREND

Wrapped

up

Keep you and baby well wrapped up this winter in these stylish picks from the high street.

Edge away from black and introduce burgundy and neutral tones into your winter wardrobe.

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MAIN PIC: Black fur trim maternity duffel coat, €235, Seraphine 1 Burgundy faux fur trim cape, €107, Littlewoods 2 Border navaho buckle cape, €24, Penneys 3 Neutral faux fur scarf, €84, Jigsaw 4 Black sheepskin mittens, €26, Topshop 5 Black boots, €205, Carvela at Arnotts 6 Red gloves, €17.99, New Look 7 Beige knitted pom pom beanie hat, €17, River Island 8 Indigo over-the bump skinny jeans, €64, Next 9 White geo fringed scarf, €17, River Island 10 Faux fur ribbed beanie, €4, Penneys 11 Cowl neck poncho, €29, Topshop 12 Off white cable knit scarf, €40, Dune

24 TREND

Black oversized drape front coat, €80, River Island

STEAL HER

STYLE Cat Deeley certainly has the wow factor in this Monique Lhuillier gown – it’s clear she’s sticking to her vow to never look “mumsy” on the red carpet.

This dress mightn’t work in the latter stages of pregnancy but when you’re positively blooming in your first and second trimester like Cat Deeley is here, at the 2015 Emmy awards, a beautiful body-hugging dress like this shows off your new pregnancy figure perfectly.

Cat and Irish comic Patrick Kielty married in 2012 and announced they are expecting their first child together in early springtime 2016.

Black embellished maxi dress, €243, Stylist Pick

Statement rhinestone encrusted drop earrings, €15, Evans online

GETTY IMAGES

Match and dazzle silver plated bangle, €220, Folli Follie

Black spray gem hardcase clutch, €14, Penneys Estée Lauder Envy Velvet matte lipstick in desirous, €31, stockists nationwide

Silver caged sandals, €120, Steve Madden @ Dune

25 TREND 1

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Festive PARTY POPPERS

4

The festive season is well and truly upon us, and family gatherings, Christmas outings and general festive frivolity means partywear! Dress your little ones in reds and greens and shiny sparkles this season to embrace the festive cheer.

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Main image: Red sequin flower dress (3-10yrs), €18, Heatons 1 Faux fur gilet (2-13yrs), €15, Penneys 2 Velour dress and tights outfit (0-24mths), €24, Marks & Spencer 3 Red check kilt and tights set (3mths-6yrs), from €24, Next 4 Red cable cardi (3mths-3yrs), €14.95, Mothercare 5 Sparkly green velvet dress (9mths-3yrs), €21.95, Zara 6 Coated leather crossbar shoes (4s-11s), from €19, Marks & Spencer 7 Bow tie, €8.95, name it 8 Gant cotton v-neck (0-24mths), €42, House of Fraser 9 Grey loafers (2-7yrs), €12, Penneys 10 Christmas tartan mock waistcoat allin-one (0-12months), €31, Mamas & Papas 11 Jacquard burgundy polo (3-8yrs), €10, Heatons 12 Waistcoat in a wool blend (18mths-10yrs), €19.99, H&M 13 Green trousers (6mths-3yrs), €14.95, Zara

26 TREND

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13

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WINTER BRIGHTS Winter clothes don’t have to be all dark and dreary – set the season alight with these cheerful and bright pieces.

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Main image: Cardigan karel, €169, pants herman, €59.90, shirt tyler, €44.90, all Oilily 1 Earmuffs, €11, Marks & Spencer 2 Printed dress (3mths-3yrs), €19,95, Zara 3 Red rib rollneck (3mths-6yrs), from €11.50, Next 4 bluezoo tunic and leggings set (1-6yrs), from €16, Debenhams 5 Pure cotton chunky knit cardigan (1-7yrs), from €16, Marks & Spencer 6 Star pattern boots (2-7yrs), €15, Penneys 7 Red wool hat (2-3yrs), €69.90, Oilily 8 Long sleeve tee (18mths-10yrs), €9.99, H&M 9 Orange truck tee (3mths-3yrs), €3.95, Mothercare 10 Knitted collar boot (7-13yrs), €19, Penneys 11 Party wear jumper, shirt and trouser set (0-3 years), €49, Mamas & Papas 12 Nitobert knit cardigan (1-4yrs), €22.95, name it 13 Graffiti organic cotton sweatshirt (3mths-3yrs), €9.95, Zara

27 TREND

Pyjama PARTY

Get your little ones comfy and cosy in these oh so cute pyjamas on cold winter nights this season. Pyjama party anyone?!

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Girls: 1 bluezoo grey textured animal print robe (1-6yrs), from €17.60, Debenhams 2 Nitwisti wool nightsuit (2-9mths ), €32.95, name it 3 Hello Kitty pyjamas (3-14yrs), €16.95, Zara 4 Fairisle fleece pjs (2-13yrs), €7, Penneys 5 Cuddle fleece pyjamas (3-10yrs), from €8, Heatons 6 The Little White Company fairisle slipper boots (1-11yrs), €35, Brown Thomas Boys: 1 Blue star snuggle fit three pack (9mths-8yrs), from €31, Next 2 Check ribbon tied pjs (18mths-8yrs), €17.95, Mothercare 3 Minion pjs (2-13yrs), €10, Penneys 4 Polarn O Pyret kids reindeer pyjamas (1-8yrs), €34.90, Arnotts 5 Monster print pyjamas (1-8yrs), €9.50, Marks & Spencer 6 Monkey slippers (3-10), €8, Heatons

What is whooping cough (pertussis)?

Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is a highly contagious illness that can be life threatening.

The disease is most serious in babies less than 6 months of age – many babies are hospitalised with complications such as pneumonia and brain damage. Babies less than 6 months of age are too young to be fully vaccinated.

Whooping Cough Vaccine for Pregnant Women What are the symptoms of whooping cough?

Whooping cough causes long bouts of coughing and choking making it hard to breathe. The ‘whoop’ sound is caused by gasping for air between coughing spells. A child with whooping cough may turn blue from lack of air, or vomit after a coughing spell. Not all children get the ‘whoop’ and often older children and adults just have a cough. The disease can last up to three months. Infection with whooping cough does not give long lasting protection so re-infections can happen.

How does whooping cough spread?

Whooping cough is spread from person to person by coughing,

sneezing or close contact. Someone with whooping cough can spread the disease for up to three weeks after the start of the cough. Many babies who get whooping cough have been in contact with family members who have had a cough for longer than 2 weeks.

How can whooping cough be prevented?

The best way to prevent whooping cough is by vaccination. Whooping cough vaccine is offered to all children • as part of the 6 in 1 vaccine at 2, • 4 and 6 months of age • at 4-5 years of age (4 in 1 vaccine) • in 1st year of second level school (Tdap vaccine)

All children should get these vaccines on time to protect them and babies too young to be vaccinated.

How does the whooping cough vaccine protect you and your baby?

The vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce high levels of antibodies to the whooping cough bacteria. These antibodies will also pass to your baby in the womb and protect them during the first few months of life. If you or your baby are in contact with whooping cough the antibodies will attack these bacteria and will protect you and your baby from whooping cough. The antibodies you pass to your baby in the womb decline rapidly in the first six months of

life so it is important your baby gets the routine childhood vaccines (which include whooping cough vaccine) on time at 2, 4 and 6 months.

You should not get a tetanus or diphtheria containing vaccine more often than every 10 years if you have a severe local reaction.

How often should pregnant women get the vaccine?

When should vaccination be postponed?

The antibodies you develop after vaccination decline over time so you need to get the vaccine again in your next pregnancy.

You should get whooping cough vaccine during every pregnancy so that high levels of these antibodies are passed to each of your babies in the womb.

There are very few reasons why vaccination should be postponed.

Vaccination should be rescheduled if you have an acute illness with a temperature greater than 38°C.

What vaccine should pregnant women get?

You should get a Tdap vaccine. This is a low dose tetanus (T), diphtheria (d) and acellular pertussis (ap) booster vaccine which protests against tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough (pertussis).

When should I get the whooping cough vaccine?

The best time to get the whooping cough vaccine is between 27-36 weeks of your pregnancy. Giving the vaccine at this time will give your baby the best protection.

Is there anyone who cannot get the vaccine?

The vaccine should not be given to • those with a history of a severe allergic (anaphylaxis) reaction to a previous dose of whooping cough vaccine or any part of the vaccine.

It is not recommended: • if there is a history of a severe local reaction to a previous dose.

What can I expect following vaccination?

You may get soreness or redness around the injection site.You may experience a mild generalised reaction of fever and fatigue for up to 48 hours after receiving the vaccine.

What if I don’t feel well after vaccination?

If you have a temperature after the vaccine, take paracetamol, as it is safe in pregnancy, and it’s important for you and your baby to avoid fever.

Do not take ibuprofen or aspirin (unless advised by your obstetrician). Remember if you are unwell after getting a vaccine, it could be for some other reasons – don’t assume it’s the vaccine and seek medical advice if needed.

Is it safe for pregnant women to be vaccinated?

Yes. The vaccine is safe for pregnant women. Whooping cough vaccine is recommended for pregnant women in the UK, US, New Zealand and Australia. This whooping cough vaccine has been studied in pregnant women in the US and no risk has been found. Reactions are

generally mild and serious side effects are very rare.

Can the vaccine give me whooping cough?

No. The vaccine cannot give you whooping cough because it does not contain any live viruses.

My baby was premature so what can I do?

Babies born before 32 weeks will not be protected as they will not get enough antibodies from you while in the womb.

The best way to protect them is • to make sure other children in the house are fully vaccinated.

• to make sure all adults in the house get a whooping cough vaccine if they haven’t had one in the last 10 years. Ideally they should get the vaccine 2 weeks before contact with the baby.

• to keep your baby away from anyone with a cough until they have had two of their routine vaccinations (at 4 months of age).

How do I get vaccinated?

Contact your GP or maternity hospital to arrange for vaccination. The vaccine is free but you will be charged for the administration (even if you have a medical or doctor only card).

You should also talk to your doctor about getting the flu vaccine.

For more information please see www.immunisation.ie

30 FAMILY LIFE

10

THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT YOUR

UNBORN BABY Pregnancy is nothing short of a miracle, when you consider everything that’s going on inside of you in only nine short months (although it may feel like a lot longer!). Here are 10 fascinating facts about your growing baby that you may not know already…

I

n 40 short weeks, your baby grows from a cluster of cells into a fully functioning human being, albeit a tiny baby who very much relies on you for everything. If you really think about it, pregnancy and childbirth is nothing short of a miracle – and considering what your body is producing, it suddenly feels a bit ridiculous to be moaning about aching limbs and a lingering case of piles. (But feel free to moan all you like, we’ve all been there and feel your pain!) Want to know a bit more about what’s going on with your growing baby? Read on for 10 fascinating facts that you may not already know.

1

BOY OR GIRL?

All eggs carry a single X (female) chromosome, while sperm carries either an X or a Y (male) chromosome. If an X sperm fertilises your egg, it’s a girl; if a Y makes it in, you’re having a boy.

Male sperm are thought to swim faster and reach the egg first, so some believe that if you have sex on the day of ovulation, you’re more likely to have a boy. Or conversely, female sperm are thought to be stronger and last longer, so you’re more likely to have a girl if you have sex a few days before ovulation. Bad news though: there’s no medical evidence to back these theories up.

2

DREAMER

3

CRY BABY

From about four weeks after conception your baby will start to sleep, but by 30 weeks, the REM sleep waves associated with the eye movements of dreams have been identified, making it entirely possible that your baby could be dreaming in the womb. At this stage of development, the sleep pattern of your unborn baby closely resembles that of a newborn: he/she spends a lot of the time in REM sleep, but also in a quiet, deep sleep where there is no eye movement. Researchers have also observed babies in utero in a state of quiet alertness, which suggests they may be concentrating on something, perhaps the sound of your voice.

Think babies only find their lungs when they are born? Think again, because from about week 26, babies begin to cry – although, of course, you won’t be aware of what is happening.

It doesn’t mean your baby is upset; crying is a natural communication for babies and they’re just making sure their lungs are polished for their big arrival into the world.

That holds true for newborn babies too – crying is your baby’s way of communicating with you, not necessarily that they’re upset.

4

LEARNING THE LINGO

5

BABY SMELLS

Babies’ hearing develops very early in the uterus; in fact, from about 23 weeks an unborn baby can be startled by sudden noises, such as sneezing and the hoover; a recent study found mobile phones ringing can even startle or annoy your baby! But did you know that your baby is already learning your language? Babies pick up the rhythms and intonations of their mother’s language in the womb. Experts claim you can spot the difference between the developing languages of babies from their gurgles. Even more precious – research shows that your little one will remember stories if she hears them over and over again (so it’s really never too early to start reading to them!).

Smell is one of the first senses your unborn baby develops. Research has shown from about 28 weeks, your baby can smell the same things as you, as smell crosses the amniotic fluid. Their sense of smell is so strong at this stage, they can be seen cringing and agitating when they are exposed to unpleasant smells, a major one being cigarette smoke. But most importantly, your baby can smell you, and it’s thought that smell is how newborns recognise their mother in the very early days of life outside the womb.

31 FAMILY LIFE

6

SWEET TOOTH

Taste buds develop around the seventh or eighth week and, by week 14, there is some evidence to suggest your baby can taste bitter, sweet, or sour flavours in the amniotic fluid. And from about 15 weeks, your baby may display a preference for sweet flavours. But you can start the fight against sugar at this early stage: studies indicate that the flavours of the foods you eat during pregnancy may affect your baby’s taste preferences long after birth. Studies have also found that breastfed babies are more willing than formula-fed babies to try a new food when they get older.

7

HAIRY BABY

Every baby develops hair all over the body called lanugo. The lanugo creates a temperature-regulating layer however, unless your baby is born prematurely, it will shed the hair before birth and eat it, pooing it out after birth! As for the common old wives’ tale that heartburn means a hairy baby (and by hairy, we mean hair on the head), a study has proved that this could be true! A possible explanation is that high levels of oestrogen and other hormones tend to relax the sphincter at the bottom of the oesophagus, causing heartburn; the same hormones influence hair growth in your unborn baby.

8

THEM BONES

By the time baby is born, he or she will have developed 300 bones in its tiny body! But one bone your baby won’t have is a kneecap – these develop after birth, usually around six months. Your baby’s skull (cranium) is made up of three unfused plates to allow for passage of the head through the birth canal. Over time, these plates fuse into one piece. The back fontanel will close first, usually when your baby is between two and four months old, but the front fontanel stays open until after your baby’s first birthday, closing usually by 19 months old.

9

QUICK WORK

It usually takes just four weeks for your baby’s heart to develop after conception. It starts as a tiny cluster of cells that can only be detected by an ultrasound. By 10 weeks, all of your baby’s major organs have developed; heart, lungs, kidneys, brain and intestines. So it’s no wonder that tiredness is one of the most overriding symptoms during the first trimester!

“It usually takes just four weeks for your baby’s heart to develop after conception. By 10 weeks all your baby’s major organs have developed.”

10

WAITING GAME

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but only five per cent of babies are born on their due date. The advice usually given is that your baby is likely to come any time between 37 weeks and 42 weeks; this period is referred to as “term”, when the baby has reached full maturity. So sit tight and enjoy the ride. Your baby will come out when he/she is good and ready.

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†Folic acid contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Pregnacare has always contained 400mcg folic acid, the level recommended for all women from the start of trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy. For more information on this research, please visit www.pregnacare.com/mostrecommended 1 Agrawal, R. et al. Prospective randomised trial of multiple micronutrients in women undergoing ovulation induction, Reproductive BioMedicine Online December 2011., 2. L Brough et al. Effect of multiple-micronutrient supplementation on maternal nutrient status, infant birth weight and gestational age at birth in a low-income, multi-ethnic population. British Journal of Nutrition (2010), 104, 437-445. *A beneficial effect can be obtained from a daily intake of 200mg DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250mg DHA / EPA for adults - Annex 1 of Commission Regulations (EU) No. 440/2011. ** Professor Beckett is not cited in the capacity of a health professional, but as a product inventor and former Chairman of Vitabiotics.

33 THE BREAST ADVICE

WE

NEED TO TALK Whether it’s your first or your sixth baby, the secret to successful breastfeeding is talking about it.

NUK Ireland breastfeeding advisor CLIODNA GILROY talks about the importance of support from other breastfeeding mums.

I

have three (plus) years of breastfeeding under my belt at this stage, but thankfully my boobs are not under my belt at this stage either!

That is all thanks to good support, and breastfeeding is all about good support (albeit of a different kind). I was never more aware of this than last week when a gang of the girls from my boob group arrived for a surprise baby shower last Friday.

It was a really touching gesture and a big surprise that on my third baby I would be getting my first baby shower! But what made me so happy was that each one of these women made it possible for me to succeed at breastfeeding and I think they would say the same about our little group. When I did have doubts and struggles, I would keep going until Wednesday, which was the day we met in a little hall in our town and then go for coffee and cake in the local hotel. These were the women who gave me the confidence to believe that I would be a successful breastfeeding mother and that I could feed in public with confidence too. I met these girls at the local boob group, and they are truly my lifelong friends now, pregnant or not.

So where do you go and what do you do if you are planning on breastfeeding and looking for support?

The internet is a wonderful tool and a great place to source breastfeeding mothers in your area. People who have recently been through the challenges that starting breastfeeding can serve up can give you a level of compassion and understanding that can give you great hope. Be brave and ask for the help, you never know who you’ll end up having coffee with. I joined my local Breastfeeding Support Network expecting a very aggressive attitude to breastfeeding and a bunch of

judgmental hippies. This was not the case, there were mothers there, like me, who were using nipple shields, mothers who did combination feeding and also mothers who were exclusively breastfeeding. I now recommend that expectant mothers go to their group before they have delivered their baby so you know what to expect and be prepared for the realities of breastfeeding. It also gives you a chance to get a feel for the group and see if it suits you or not. There are groups run by the HSE and usually managed by the public health nurse, ask your PHN if there is a group in your area. There may also be a group run by La Leche or Cuidui. Meeting a lactation consultant before you have your baby can also help you to be very prepared for your breastfeeding journey.

It was this group that helped me get through the first challenging few weeks of feeding. I often feel that getting started on breastfeeding is like breaking in a pair of shoes. Your breasts are doing something every two to four hours that they have never done before so some people find they get discomfort with the latch (or as a friend of mine called it, Tourette Tits, where you want to shout obscenities with every latch). This group also helped me wean my little man off the nipple shields and gave me the confidence to decide that I would continue to breastfeed after returning to work.

Talking to others is the best support you can get to ensure breastfeeding success. As for the support for your breasts, it’s worth investing in some good bras and remember to wean slowly. Breastfeeding has been given the blame for ‘saggy boobs’ for too long. Weaning slowly and a good quality nursing bra will keep your girls where they should be, honest!

“I now recommend that expectant mothers go to their group before they have delivered their baby so you know what to expect and be prepared for the realities of breastfeeding.”

34 FAMILY LIFE

STEP BY STEP:

HELLO

BABY

Being pregnant, having a baby – it’s tough enough without having to manage a toddler’s emotions around the new arrival to boot.

PHOEBE DOYLE looks at how parents can get sibling savvy…

W

ith a new baby come countless changes to family life.

Parents invest great amounts of time and energy on getting prepared, and after the baby arrives, much of the family’s attention inevitably involves caring for this new bundle.

Exciting as it is, all this change can be tough on older siblings and, as a result, behaviour can spiral downward fast. Sibling rivalry is age-old, and a degree of it is probably unavoidable. Whilst some experts will even argue this inescapable tension is no bad thing, parents, by and large, want to at least minimise the possibility of any negative impact a new arrival will have on their older child.

Parenting expert Sue Atkins (www. sueatkinsparentingcoach.com) explains the scenario: “Having a new baby should be an enormously happy time, but your older child may worry about what all the changes might mean. Remember, for all of their lives, it’s they alone who’ve been the centre of your universe.”

So, here’s the problem – you may have always known you’d be trying for babe number two, but as far as your child is concerned concerned, they are an only child and cannot truly foresee a world

35 FAMILY LIFE

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Be sure to involve them in all the preparations, including buying baby items, decorating the nursery or cot; whatever arrangements you are making should include your child or children.â&#x20AC;?

36 FAMILY LIFE

DOS AND DON’TS There are plenty of ways you can prepare your older children for the arrival of a new baby. Read on for our list of dos and don’ts...

Do… 4 READ your child stories about babies and siblings 4 REMIND friends and relatives to make a fuss of your older child – bringing small gifts for them is a sure winner 4 SPEND some quality time with them one-to-one when possible 4 TOGETHER look at your child’s baby pictures to remind them they are also your baby 4 TAKE THEM to medical appointments if/when you can so they can hear the baby’s heartbeat 4 MAINTAIN ROUTINES like story times and heaps of affection

Don’t….

4 LOSE YOUR TEMPER. You will be tired, but try to remain cheerful in front of your child 4 DISMISS any questions your child has about pregnancy and birth 4 STRESS if they seem a little upset at first, in time they’ll learn to love their new role 4 LEAVE ANY ROOM CHANGES until after the birth, do this during pregnancy so that they get used to them 4 CUDDLE THE BABY when they arrive to meet them for the first time. Have them in the cot for you to look at together

which doesn’t revolve around them. Sue says: “With all this in mind, it’s essential to prepare them for this new arrival, and massive change.”

Attention seekers Much of sibling rivalry stems from the innate drive to want the parent’s attention. All of it – or the lion’s share at the very least. Problem is, when it comes to a newborn baby, they pretty much demand and require ALL of your attention.

Galway-based Gillian remembers the dilemma all too well: “When I was pregnant with Connor we desperately wanted to ensure Katie (Connor’s sister, then two) felt just as special and valued as ever.”

But, like many parents, Gillian found this harder done than anticipated: “After a traumatic labour and Connor needing some extra time in hospital after birth, we soon realised these things don’t always go to plan.”

Gillian says that Katie found it very tricky to make the adjustment from only child to older sibling. “At first she adored him, fussing over him obsessively. But when relatives and visitors inevitably did the same, Katie soon seemed to harbour resentment.”

In time, Gillian and her partner learnt that giving Katie some focused time wherever possible, and chatting to friends and relatives about making sure she was fussed by them too, helped to balance the attention out in the early stages, and to pave the way to a better sibling relationship.

Preparing for siblinghood Of course, the less displaced your older child feels by the imminent new baby, the less jealousy they’ll suffer. One way for them to feel secure in their role in the family is to let them join you on the ‘welcoming team’. Hopefully then, instead of them focussing on the coveted position as the only child of two parents, they will become a part of the existing family unit that’s excited about the change.

Dublin-based psychologist David Carey (www.davidjcarey.com) says a happy transition is more likely with some considered

forward-thinking right from the beginning: “During pregnancy let them know they are soon to have a baby brother or sister.”

David also says to communicate the message with positivity and try to resist any negative aspects, for example if you’re tired or sick.

Throughout the pregnancy there will be ample opportunities to get them on-board and enthusiastic, and David says to utilise these whenever you can: “Be sure to involve them in all the preparations, including buying baby items, decorating the nursery or cot; whatever arrangements you are making should include your child or children. One really nice thing you can do is to let them think about what little gift they would like to give the new arrival or if they want to share with the new baby one of their own special toys.”

Other suggestions from a quick poll of parents include, having the child do a picture for the baby’s room and allowing them in on discussions about names.

Parent’s little helper As your child has, so far, been the baby of the family, and therefore the centre of attention, you need to help them find a new role that is special. Sue says one approach to tackle the upset that can come due to this change in family dynamics, is to give your older child responsibility in the form of small ‘helpful’ chores, she suggests: “Get your older child involved in tasks to help eg ‘Bring me a nappy and the wipes, please,’ or ‘Let’s dress and bathe Freddie together’. Then thank your older child by saying, ‘Thank you for being such a good big sister (or brother).’ Feeling needed helps many children learn to relish the older sibling role.”

In addition, remember that all children need one-on-one time with a parent now and then. David says: “It can be difficult for parents of two or more children but keeping it simple will help. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate, just going for a walk and having a chat is a good way to be together.”

AGE ACTION How you approach the new arrival will depend on the age of your child: UNDER TWOS: Chat to your child about the new addition to your family. Look at picture books about babies and families - let them feel your tummy and the growing baby. CHILDREN AGES TWO TO FOUR: Children at this age might feel uncomfortable sharing your attention with a newborn. Encourage your older child’s involvement by taking him or her shopping for toys and supplies such as nappies. Perhaps give them a doll so that he or she can be a ‘parent’ too. SCHOOLAGE CHILDREN: Older children might feel jealous of how much attention a new baby gets. Talk to them about a baby’s needs and how they differ from theirs. Don’t forget to point out the advantages of being older, such as having lots of friends, playing soccer etc.

37 HEALTH

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT…

HEAD LICE If your child is in Montessori or school, chances are you’ve had at least one note home since September about head lice. Here’s all you should know about dealing with the little blighters.

Q

What are head lice? Head lice are tiny

wingless insects that are grey-brown in colour. They are the size of a pinhead when they hatch and 3mm long when fully grown. A female head louse lays tiny eggs by cementing them to hairs, often close to the root. When the baby lice hatch 7 to 10 days later, the empty eggshells (known as nits) remain glued in place. Nits glisten white and become more noticeable as the growth of the hair carries them away from the scalp. Head lice feed by biting the scalp and sucking blood through it. They take 6-10 days to become fully grown. Once mature, a head louse can transfer from head to head.

Q

How are head lice treated? If you discover head

lice in your child’s hair, check the rest of your family, and tell close friends and your child’s school. Lice can be treated by the wet-combing method, repeating it on day five, nine and 13 in order to clear the young lice as they hatch, before they have time to reach maturity. Your pharmacist can alternatively recommend an over-thecounter lotion or spray to treat lice. Treat everyone in the family who has been affected by head lice. Follow the instructions carefully and repeat after seven days if advised. If the lice appear to be unaffected by the product or if the problem persists, seek advice from your school nurse, health visitor, pharmacist or GP.

Q

Can head lice be prevented? A head lice infestation can’t be easily prevented. Some people believe that adding a few drops of tea tree oil to shampoo or a water spritzer and using it regularly can repel hair lice. However, it’s recommended that regular detection combing, on a weekly basis, for example, is the best way to find new lice quickly. Medicated lotions and sprays should only be used if a live louse has been found.

Q

5 3

How are head lice detected? Often live head lice are

4

not detected, but the more visible “nits” are. Sometimes, lice can cause the scalp to itch, but this is due to an allergy to the lice rather than the lice biting the scalp. In addition, unhatched eggs or nits alone are not enough to diagnose an active head lice infestation, as nits also often remain glued to hairs after successful treatment. Instead, detection combing using a special comb with tooth spacing of less than 0.3mm should be carried out on wet or dry hair regularly. For wet detection combing, first wash the hair using ordinary shampoo and apply ample conditioner. Use a wide-toothed comb to straighten and untangle the hair. Then use the detection comb starting at the scalp and moving through the hair. Remove lice by wiping or rinsing the comb.

Rinse out the conditioner and repeat the combing procedure in the wet hair.

For dry detection, use the same comb but on untangled, dry hair. If you see a louse, trap it between your finger and the comb.

Q

How are they spread?

Head lice cannot fly, jump or swim. They are spread by head-to-head contact and climb from the hair of an infected person to the hair of someone else.

Anyone with hair can get head lice, but they’re most common in children as they tend to have more head-to-head contact while playing or at school.

Children between 4 and 11 years old are most commonly affected for that reason.

38 FAMILY LIFE

COPING WITH

LIFE AFTER BABY After nine months of waiting to meet your baby, the emotions you feel can sometimes be overwhelming. As our bodies re-adjust and our emotions go into overdrive, it’s important to take a step back, relax and take one step at a time, writes RACHEL MURRAY.

Giving birth is an amazing and life-changing achievement and although it is one of the happiest times in your life, it is also a huge change forboth your physical and emotional wellbeing. Physically, you may feel bruised, exhausted, and sore; and if you’ve had a Caesarean your body will be in pain because it has just been through major abdominal surgery.

Emotionally, you may feel happy, content, ecstatic even, but you may also feel teary, overwhelmed, or worried. Every woman recovers from childbirth differently and all of these emotions and physical changes are normal to experience after giving birth.

A woman’s body spends months nurturing and growing a baby and all of a sudden the changes that helped to bring a baby into the world are abruptly reversed. New mums are often told their body will be back to ‘normal’ within six weeks of giving birth, but a recent study has found it takes much longer.

Dr Julie Wray, of Salford University, England, interviewed women two to three weeks, three months, and six to seven months after they had given birth to gain a unique insight

into postnatal recovery and she concluded that it takes a year to recover from childbirth. Her study found that hospital wards can have a negative impact on women’s ability to recover.

Now women can go home as soon as six hours after childbirth and many feel they are ‘left to get on with it.’ Speaking to the Daily Mail Dr Wray commented: “The research shows that more realistic and woman-friendly postnatal services are needed. Women feel that it takes much longer than six weeks to recover and they should be supported beyond the current six to eight weeks after birth. The physical recovery is, of course, just one side of the story. Women also need to make the psychological transition to being a mother – which is even tougher for those who were working before giving birth.”

Less energy Dr Owen Connolly, consultant psychologist and marriage and family therapist, and co-author of Parenting for the Millennium, has similar views. “Women are having babies a lot later in life [average age of first-time mums in Ireland is 32, according to the latest figures from the

CSO], it is becoming increasingly difficult for them, because they spend most of their time in the workplace, they’re independent, they have a great social life and a lot has happened in their life before they have a baby; then, all of sudden, they’ve got this tiny creature calling the shots.

“Mums who have babies later in life have a lot less energy and this can be a problem. This is very upsetting for new mothers and sometimes they feel they are not able to cope but I can assure you, they are very well equipped to cope. Yes, they haven’t as much energy as they would have if they were in their twenties. But that’s a feature of their age not of their ability to nurture, love and care for their child. Mums need to be reminded of this, because they’re often a little bit short tempered or sometimes even get it into their head that this little one is out to get them.”

Becoming parents can also take a huge toll on your relationship. Mums often say they become obsessed with the question: ‘How is my partner so annoying?’ New parents become confused, ‘here is the person I love, who

39 FAMILY LIFE

HOW CAN I COPE BETTER WITH STRESS?

I have just created a beautiful new life with and all I want to do is kill him!’

Disorganisation also comes into play as you both adjust to life with a baby and before you know it, your house is total mess and your relationship is starting to look a bit of a mess too! Maintaining a relationship post-baby takes a lot of time and energy, exactly what parents have the least of after having a baby.

It’s important to communicate with your partner or someone close to you if you feel that you are not coping with parenthood, as Dr Connolly explains: “Talk to your partner, friends, or family members and take some time out. Remember, your body is having to readjust, and any readjustment in the psychical body, can trigger off sadness and unusual feelings, but this is where couples need to have understanding, right from the beginning.

The more your partner understands how you are feeling, the more well-equipped he is to cope with mood swings.

“In a lot of cases, they shouldn’t see it as being an unusual or wrong, but when it goes a little bit more extreme, a person may then need

professional help. I think that most of us in our profession would understand that having a baby is already a traumatic event, and if other traumas had been part of their earlier life, they are likely to suffer postnatal depression.”

Signs of postnatal depression Signs of PND are more persistent and visible. You may not want to hold or be around your baby. You could have constant negative thoughts or be extremely worried about your baby’s health even though he is perfectly fine or be fearful that you might harm your baby.

“Giving birth is a beautiful experience but for some it can be a difficult experience, it can trigger off old stuff that you’re not even aware of. It’s like a land mine goes off inside of you.

And, when that happens – you need to talk to somebody for that purpose, because it can happen very quickly,” explains Dr Connolly.

Remember, having a baby is a life-changing experience, it will take time to adjust to your new baby and get into a routine but you’ll get there just like the millions of other women before you!

4 Go for a walk: When caring for a new baby, days can feel very long and lonely. One way to break up the day is by getting out for a walk even if it’s only a short one, fresh air will do you and baby good.

4 Eat well: life with a new baby can be so chaotic you may even forget to eat! Don’t be tempted by snacks and fast foods. Eat foods that release energy slowly, such as wholegrains and fruit and veg. And lots of protein in the form of meat, fish, beans, eggs, cheese, nuts or seeds.

4 Don’t try to do too much: be realistic about what’s achievable.

Your baby’s not going to notice the washing piling up, or the state of the floors. Your baby needs you, everything else can wait.

4 Make friends: being new to the mum club means you need to find new mum friends; this doesn’t mean forgetting your old life, it just means adding to it. Trust us, you will always find solace in other mums. You’ll quickly realise that feeling frustrated or being permanently covered in poo is quite the norm for mums.

4 Make the most of help: if a family member is offering help take it, even if it’s just getting some shopping for you, feeding the baby, or doing the washing. This doesn’t be mean you are not able it’s just what family and friends are for, helping each other when our loads are full.

4 Get a break: Have a rest and do something just for you. Catch up on your favourite TV, paint your nails, call a friend, or just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

4 Try not to worry too much: “Children express frequent changes of feelings, moods and anxiety, fears in their facial expressions, gestures, voices, words. Behaviour is observed, it should be noticed before you get yourself upset, but I would say women have been beautifully designed to be mothers, so trust your instincts,” says Dr Connolly.

40 PARENTING

41 PARENTING

YOUR

VIRTUAL FRIENDS The Internet is fast becoming a great resource for new mums, not just in terms of advice but also in finding new friends with babies of a similar age. But is there a downside? ANDREA MARA finds out.

“The Internet is supposed to make us all feel more connected, but of course very often it does exactly the opposite – it disconnects us.” These cautionary words came from a psychologist who was contributing to a recent Sunday morning radio programme. And of course, it’s not a new idea – there are countless articles and experts warning us about social media, explaining that it can lead to loneliness and isolation. But for new mothers, can it also do the opposite? Rather than cutting us off from real-life people, can social media fill a void when there are no real-life people around?

The internet is full of parenting forums and Facebook groups, and while they have their downsides, for many, they are an invaluable resource. Take the mum who is feeding her baby at 3am and feeling like she’s the only person in the world still up. One click will bring her to groups and forums where she can chat to other mums who are also doing night feeds. You can’t phone a friend at 3am, but online, there’s always someone to talk to.

Or the mum who can’t get out of the house with her small baby – maybe she’s too tired to get dressed or maybe it’s raining or maybe there’s just nowhere to go – maternity leave can be lonely. On those tough days, when there’s nobody else to talk to, she can reach for her smartphone – her window to the rest of the world.

42 PARENTING

Forum friends

Into real life

Parenting forums are a very popular way to seek advice or just chat about the everyday ups and downs of life with a small baby.

Many women join “birth clubs” before their babies are born – connecting with mums who are at a similar stage in pregnancy. Accountant Muuka Gwaba found this hugely supportive when she was expecting her daughter four years ago. “My first forum was eumom. ie while pregnant. I joined a birth club, which progressed to a smaller group on the forum,” she says. “It was fantastic – so full of support.”

Teacher Aideen Ní Chéilleachair also found forums helpful. “I liked the anonymity of it,” says mum-of-four Aideen. “I could ask anything, and not worry that people would know me if it was a stupid or embarrassing question!”

But while Muuka and Aideen appreciated the support offered by forums, both of them moved on to joining Facebook groups, enjoying the closer connectivity that less anonymous online interaction brings.

Muuka, who blogs at anotherdropofink. com, is now in a number of Facebook groups.

“A lot of them were for parenting advice to begin with, and now I use them for support.

It’s nice to know other people who parent in a similar manner, and to be able to see how others may deal with situations from a different perspective. I also find them safe places to vent about the difficulties and frustrations of parenting a very feisty, spirited child.”

Aideen took it a step further, setting up dozens of Facebook groups herself, many of which now have thousands of members around Ireland. She got the idea after seeing another mum speaking on TV about tandemfeeding her two sons.

“I thought that it was a pity there wasn’t a Facebook group to support everyone feeding older children. Breastfeeding an older child can feel very isolating as you outgrow the real-life support, which tends to be aimed at those feeding smaller babies. So in January 2012, I started a Facebook group to support those feeding that bit longer – I added 12 friends before I went to bed and it had 50 members by morning. It grew exponentially from there,” says Aideen. “The group now has over 7,000 members – many are new moms coming for advice and the expertise of more experienced members as they start out on their breastfeeding journey.”

Facebook groups are often “closed”, meaning only members can post and read. So new mums can ask questions without worrying that they’ll be seen publicly. On the flip side, because the groups exist within Facebook, members are there under their own (Facebook) names, so there’s a sense of connecting with “real” people. Indeed, members often do meet up in real life too.

“I’ve met a fair few people from the groups, one of whom I’ve now become really good friends with,” says Muuka. “You feel you really know the people even before you meet them, and they’re nearly exactly as they come across online. Which is nice.”

Aideen, too, has met up with many Facebook group members in real life, particularly through the Cloth Nappy Library Ireland, of which she is one of four founding members. “I was much shyer before, but I have a lot more confidence now that I know a lot of these people already on Facebook,” she explains.

As well as providing information, peer advice and good company, forums and groups can be hugely enjoyable for people who feel shy in real-life social settings.

Where it can be difficult to speak up in a busy group conversation in a coffee shop or health centre, the internet allows everyone to join in. The possibility of being drowned out or afraid to speak up is lessened.

Aideen agrees. “If someone was nervous about the social aspect of meeting people I’d suggest starting with Facebook. It’s great for getting to know people and gives you the courage to go to a real-life meet up.

As a new mum I found my friends were in a different place in their lives, while I was focused on babies, and I needed new friends who were free for a coffee during the day.”

“I find them safe places to vent about the difficulties and frustrations of parenting a very feisty, spirited child.”

TRY: WWW.MATERNITYANDINFANT.ie has lots of great parenting information, and our Facebook page is a hive of activity. Or if you want to join a parenting forum try EUMOM.IE OR ROLLERCOASTER.IE

GETTING THE BEST OUT OF THE INTERNET Parent coach Aoife Lee (parentsupport.ie) has some tips: 4 It can be a great comfort knowing there is help and support out there on every topic, but if you feel overwhelmed by the volume of advice, do also ask family, friends, or peers in your local parent/toddler or breastfeeding group for advice too.

4 If you go online during night feeds, make sure you’re not over-stimulated ,or going back to sleep could be difficult!

4 Remember that while the wisdom and experience of other parents is gold, they are (mostly) not medical professionals. Weigh up all advice that you’re given online and see if it instinctively makes sense to you. If your question is medical, it’s better to check with a real-life professional.

Downsides Clearly, people get huge enjoyment from parenting forums and groups, but are there any downsides? Muuka has noticed that people tend to rely heavily on forums and groups for information, even when there may be better sources. “Sometimes people stop researching things themselves – even simple things that you can find on Google. Instead of going to the doctor or using common sense, they ask online.”

Aideen also finds that Facebook groups eat time. “I come out of a Facebook trance after a few hours and find my house in a mess and jobs not done. But I would just as easily come out of a TV trance and find the same. Facebook is at least useful and it fulfils much of my need for social interaction. It makes me happy in a way that relaxing watching TV doesn’t.”

The expert warnings about the Internet are not without merit, but often, they overlook the upsides; the benefits and support that parents get from online connections. It’s not a case of excluding real-life friends, but rather finding company when it’s not available anywhere else, and at the times when you need it most.

43 FAMILY LAW

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR

Two important pieces of legislation will have a huge impact on modern families.

BEATRICE CRONIN from Treoir looks at what this legislation means for unmarried parents and their children.

F

amilies now come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s taken some time for the law to catch up. But now, two key pieces of legislation, once in force, will have a big impact on unmarried pregnant women, unmarried parents and their families. The Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 (the 2015 Act) will give legal recognition to all types of modern families,

creating new rights for parents, both biological and non-biological, and for children.

In addition, certain provisions of the Civil Registration (Amendment) Act 2014 (the 2014 Act) will make compulsory the registration of the father’s details on a child’s birth certificate protecting the child’s right to identity. Here are six key points in the new legislation.

Registering the birth At present, when registering a birth, it is not compulsory to register the name of the father if the parents are not married to each other.

However, once the 2014 Act is commenced, an unmarried mother who attends on her own to register her child’s birth will be required to identify and provide particulars of the father of the child to the Registrar of Births. The Reg-

44 FAMILY LAW

istrar will then make all reasonable efforts to notify the father in writing requiring him to attend the Registrar’s Office within 28 days to verify the information and complete the registration. If no contact with the father can be made or, in exceptional cases, compelling reasons are provided, the father’s name will be omitted. These exceptions are: 4 the mother does not know who the father is; 4 she does not know the whereabouts of the father and/or 4 she believes that providing the information is not in the best interests of the safety of the child. The mother will have to provide evidence to that effect.

It is important to note that having the father’s name on the birth certificate does not give the father any legal rights in respect of his child.

Legal guardians Guardianship means having a say in the major decisions of a child’s life, such as consent to medical treatment, choice of school and religion and whether the child can be taken out of the country. Many unmarried parents, including those living together, mistakenly believe that if the father’s name is on the child’s birth certificate, this gives him guardianship rights to his child. However, where a child’s parents have not married each other, the mother is automatically the sole guardian of her child. A father can obtain guardianship of his child by signing a statutory form (S.I. No 5 of 1998) with the mother in the presence of a Peace Commissioner or Commissioner for Oaths. If the mother does not consent to allowing the father to become a legal guardian then the father can apply to the local District Court to be appointed a guardian of his child.

Once the 2015 Act is in force, a non-marital father will automatically be a guardian of his child if he has been living in a family unit with the child’s mother continuously for a year, including not less than three months after the child’s birth. The cohabitation requirement is not retrospective, but following commencement of the 2015 Act it can be fulfilled any time before the child turns 18. In addition, it will be possible for Registrars of Births to witness the signing of statutory declarations by unmarried parents appointing the child’s

father as a guardian. Non-marital parents will be informed of this possibility when registering the birth of the child. They will have the option of making the declaration, witnessed by a registrar, within two weeks of registering the child’s birth.

Can someone other than a parent be a legal guardian?

An increasing number of children are growing up in blended families, living with step parents, with a parent’s cohabiting partner, or with a grandparent or other family member.

Currently, in these cases, the legal standing of the child’s carers can be uncertain.

Once commenced, the 2015 Act will allow a step-parent, a civil partner or a person who has cohabited with the child’s parent for at least three years to apply to the court to become a legal guardian where he or she has coparented the child for at least two years.

In addition, a person who has provided for the child’s day-to-day care for more than 12 months, such as a grandparent, may apply to the court to become a legal guardian where there is no parent or guardian willing to exercise the rights and responsibilities of guardianship in respect of the child. In this case, the Child and Family Agency will be put on notice of the application and will have the possibility of giving views.

Non-parental guardians will generally have restricted powers limited to decisions on dayto-day matters unless the court decides that it is in the child’s best interests for a non-parental guardian to have full guardianship powers. The 2015 Act, once in force, will also allow the same category of persons, as well as relatives, to apply through the courts for custody or the day to day care and control of that child. The Court will be empowered to appoint such persons jointly with a child’s parent and make orders with the specific residential arrangements.

Who else can have access to a child?

The 2015 Act will make it easier for grandparents and other relatives, as well as any person with whom the child resides or has formerly resided, to apply through the courts for access or contact to the child. It will simplify the current two-tier court procedure, as it will no longer be necessary to apply for leave or “permission” to apply for access. In addition, the

TREOIR How to reach us: Treoir operates the National Specialist Information Service for Unmarried Parents and those working with them.

Treoir’s confidential phone service provides a unique opportunity for parents to talk through their individual situation on a one-to-one basis with highly experienced and empathetic information officers. For further information call 1890 252 084 or 01 6700 120.

views of the child will have to be considered in this type of application.

Overall, the 2015 Act will set out the specific factors that the court will have to consider when determining a child’s best interests in decisions on guardianship, custody and access. These factors include the benefit to the child of having a meaningful relationship with each parent and with other relatives or other persons involved in the child’s upbringing, the child’s physical, psychological and emotional needs, the views of the child concerned that are ascertainable and any history of household violence.

What if a legal guardian is temporarily unable to care for the child?

Once in effect, the 2015 Act will enable a qualifying guardian nominate a person to act as a guardian in the event of the qualifying guardian becoming incapable of exercising the rights and responsibilities of guardianship through illness or injury.

A qualifying guardian means a person who is a guardian of that child and who: 4 is a parent of the child and has custody of him or her or 4 not being the parent of the child has custody of him or her to the exclusion of any living parent of the child.

The nominated person can apply to the court to act as a guardian if the qualifying guardian is subsequently incapacitated. The appointment will be subject to the court’s approval.

Other issues to consider The 2015 Act, once in force, will introduce significant changes including: 4 new enforcement procedures in relation to custody and access to ensure that both parents can have a meaningful relationship with their child even if the relationship breaks down. These measures include allowing a court to require a parent who is persistently not complying with a court order for access or custody to attend a parenting programme or to give the other parent extra time with the child to compensate.

4 allowing the Court in certain circumstances to order payment of maintenance by the cohabitant of a child’s parent for the support of the child.

This potential liability can arise only when the cohabiting partner is a guardian of the child.

4 enabling civil partners and cohabiting partners (three years) to be eligible to apply adopt children jointly.

Beatrice Cronin is a qualified barrister and an information officer with Treoir.

WHERE: THE DOUBLE TREE HILTON, BALLSBRIDGE

WHEN:

FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER 2015

46 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

The Boots maternity & infant 2015 Awards took place at the end of October in Dublin, and once again celebrated the very best heroes in the parenting Sandra Breedin, Louise, 10, Pauline Harman, Maxi Cosi and Claire, 12, Breedin

world – both people and products. We presented 16 People Awards, which celebrated those people who went the extra mile in helping parents and children on their journey together; 44 Product Awards, which are tested by and voted for by parents; and three Creche Awards, which were voted for by parents and inspected by independent judges. Our Product Awards are subject to rigorous parent testing so you know that our worthy winners are truly the leaders in their field (turn to the back of this magazine to

Elaine Clarke, Niamh Dunne and John Calvert, British Telecom

find your 13-page guide to our winners). A big focus of the ceremony was our People Awards, and our winners’ stories this year ranged from the sad to the inspiring to the truly heroic. There were more than a few tears shed at some of the stories, but all attendees were in agreement that the Awards were testament of the good people there are in Ireland, those willing to help out people in need and be there for the ones they love. Read on for some of their inspiring stories…

Alex Traynor and Ciara O’Connor, Pharned

Numbers ON THE NIGHT

85,000 VOTES

279

ENTRIES

208

PRODUCT TESTERS

170

PRODUCTS TESTED

79

PEOPLE NOMINATIONS

95

CRECHE NOMINATIONS

47 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

Maura Derrane and Brian Ormond

OUR JUDGES OUR HOSTS Our hosts for this year’s Awards were Maura Derrane and Brian Ormond. This was the first maternity & infant Awards for both our hosts, but as parents themselves, it was clear that the Awards were close to their hearts. Maura and her husband, Fine Gael TD John Deasy, welcomed their son, Cal, last year, while Brian and his wife Pippa O’Connor welcomed son Ollie two years ago. Brian also has a daughter, Chloe. Plus, the couple announced just after the Awards that they were expecting their second child together - congrats Brian and Pippa!

Maura is also involved in the Awards beyond the ceremony itself, as she coverered the entire process on popular afternoon programme, the Today show on RTÉ.

“The Awards are a great celebration of parenting and also the people who take great care of our precious little bundles, like great creches and regular folk who go the extra mile to help parents in difficult circumstances,” Maura told us. “I was also excited to see which baby products came out on top because the Awards are voted for by the public who are the best judges.”

House Party

Our products are put through a rigorous testing by parents – we sign up readers to be product testers through our website, www. maternityandinfant.ie, throughout the year, and when it comes to the Awards, we enlist a number of these testers to try out the products over a period of time. The bigger items are tried out by a judging panel on our Academy Testing day, which was held in the Crowne Plaza in Santry a few month before the Awards. The testing results are combined with the public vote, through www. maternityandinfant. ie, to find out winners.

We open nominations for our People Awards several months before the Awards ceremony, and our judges are then given the difficult task of working our way through the stories, which are both sad and uplifting, to find our worthy winners. Much tea and many tissues are needed!

I would like to thank everyone who entered the awards and congratulations to all of the finalists and winners. A product that wins a maternity & infant Award are the products that are recommended by parents.

As a parent myself I know that I used the products that other parents recommended to me and that they preferred having used them day to day. We tested over 150 products in the home over a 5 week period which means each product was put through their paces by busy parents. Over 85,0000 votes were cast across 250 products and awarded bronze, silver and winner in each category.

Our people awards reward the unsung heroes who support parents in raising their families. Each year the judges are humbled by the unique nominations we receive.

We worked with some brilliant sponsors this year, a big thanks to our headline partner Boots Ireland and our TV partner RTE Today show. We are already planning the 2016 awards so keep an eye on our website for updates in the new year.

Tracey Carney Event Director Ashville Media Group

48 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

At just 19 months old Antoinette O’Kane has exhibited an inner strength that few could imitate and everyone should admire.

SUDOCREM MIRACLE BABY OF THE YEAR WINNER: Antoinette O’Kane NOMINATED BY: Mother, Mary O’Kane SPONSORED BY

On March 25th, at exactly 24 weeks’ gestation, Mary O’Kane gave birth to two beautiful babies, Mel and Antoinette. Regretfully, Antoinette’s twin brother Mel didn’t make it. After ten days of life and a brave fight with necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis he passed on. Then, at 28 days old, Antoinette’s health began to fail. “The next day they informed us that she had necrotizing enterocolitis and more than likely also had a perforation in her bowel and septicimia,” explained Mary. But Antoinette fought, and on her expected due date of July 15th 2014, she was finally able to return home with her mother. A short time later, her family recieved news that she would have to undergo surgery in order to remove a massive ovarian cyst. Like every hurdle that came before, Antoinette triumphed. At 14 months old she began to walk and now at 19 months she’s surpassed the early expectations of doctors. “She has proved that life is precious and that babies born at extreme prematurity can have a fighting chance,” says Mary.

OUR TV COVERAGE Over the last few months there has been extensive coverage of the Awards on the Today Show on RTÉ, hosted by Maura Derrane and Dáithí Ó Sé.

MUM OF THE YEAR WINNER: Jacqui O’Shaughnessy NOMINATED BY: Friend, Lucy Campbell As mum of seven children, Jacqui O’Shaughnessy is always busy but takes each day in her stride with ease and patience. “You’d have to be in her house one day, as her seven children are running around her legs and you’re in awe of her,” says Jacqui’s friend, Lucy Campbell. “She’s just standing there so calm and good fun and good hearted.” Each of Jacqui’s babies has been premature, but Jacqui has managed to cope with both kids at home and in special care. Her strength was to be tested on her seventh baby, Alex, however. Only a few short days after Jacqui returned home with her baby son Alex, a torrential storm hit the village where the family live. When Jacqui turned to her newborn son Alex, he had stopped breathing and begun to turn blue. It turned out that Alex had a condition known as RSV; the mucus in his lungs had caused them to stick together and he was unable to breathe. Jacqui had to perform CPR for an hour until the paramedics were able to get through, and all with six other children in the house. It was her calm reaction to the crisis that saved Alex’s life.

Selflessness, kindness and patience are simply second nature to our Mum of the Year, Jacqui O’Shaughnessy.

49 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

Emily Hyland suffers with the very rare Sturge-Weber syndrome, but she has defied the odds to become the happy and thriving three-year-old girl she is today.

TWEETS? LOOK WHO WAS TALKING

Jun 26 Gill&Macmillan Books @GillandMac So proud of @ nevenmaguire nominated as The Best Family Cookbook in @ maternityinfant #bootsmiawards (PLEASE VOTE!) http://ow.ly/OFxO6

DAD OF THE YEAR WINNER: Damien Horgan NOMINATED BY: Wife, Janette McGuinness BT CHILD HERO OF THE YEAR WINNER: Emily Hyland NOMINATED BY: Mother, Gillian Hyland Born nine weeks early, Emily Hyland has been a battler since birth. At four and a half months old Emily was diagnosed with the very rare Sturge-Weber syndrome, a congenital condition of unknown incidence and cause.

Emily developed epilepsy with the condition and began to become unresponsive to her medication, suffering with strokes and other problems. By the time Emily was a year and a half no medication was working or could control her condition. This led to Emily’s parents and doctors making the difficult decision to remove half of her brain to save her life. The surgery was major and Emily’s doctor told her parents she could lose some of her eye sight and the function in parts of her body. Defying the odds, Emily went on to learn to walk and talk, and now the chatty and bubbly little girl attends pre-school three days a week.

SPONSORED BY

Life has been far from straightforward for Damien Horgan and his wife Janette McGuinness. Janette has suffered with bad health over the years, and six years ago, she lost her leg. Throughout it all, Damian has shown unwavering compassion, putting his wife and their three kids before everything else and doing whatever it takes to make them happy. There have been times when Janette was so ill doctors told husband Damian to prepare their children for the worst, but Janette says that Damien’s positive attitude got them through. Unfortunately, in the last few weeks Damien has been told his health is not good, but his wife Janette says he has soldiered on like the true trooper that he is and gets on with life with a loving smile and a positive attitude.

This year’s Dad of the Year supported his wife through unimaginable health difficulties while keeping his young daughters’ lives as normal as possible.

Nov 7 Toyota Ireland @toyotaireland The Best Family Car Award goes to @ toyotaireland for the RAV4 #AllThingsto wallpeople #bootsmiawards2015

Oct 30 Kantar Media Ireland @KantarMediaIE A massive congrats to @AshvilleTeam @ brianormond79 &@ MauraDerrane on a very emotional &enjoyable #bootsmiawards2015

Oct 30 iCandy World @iCandyWorld Our Peach 3 Blossom WINS Best Pushchair at Maternity & Infants Awards 2015! #bootsmiawards2015 @Sweetlilbabies

50 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

“I just want to thank you and the team there for everything you did to make Aoibheann and Padraic feel so special at the awards. They had an absolute ball and the award sits pride of place on my desk at school! They got a heroes welcome back to school on Monday before the phone rang off the hook to congratulate them.”

This year’s Boots Outstanding Achievement Award goes to Helene Murchan, who for over 25 years has been going above and beyond for her patients and their families at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin.

CANAVAN BYRNE YOUNG ACHIEVERS OF THE YEAR

ISEULT MANGAN Nominated Aoibheann Mangan & Padraic Godwin (Canavan Byrne Young Achievers of the Year) “Just wanted to say thank you so much for the lovely day. The event was amazing and we really enjoyed it! Thanks for allowing me to thank Frances in a special and unique way. I hope this award opens further opportunities for her with her work and encourages other mothers to seek similar help.”

ERIN SCOTT  Nominated Frances Burke (Mothercare Midwife of the Year) “From the bottom of my heart, thank you so so much for choosing my nomination to win.

You have no idea how much it meant to me to see Maeve win. I am delighted for her and I promise that you 100% picked the right person.”

ROSEMARY MURPHY - Nominated Maeve Eogan (Obstetrician of the Year)

WINNER: Aoibheann Mangan and Padraic Godwin NOMINATED BY: Teacher & mother, Iseult Mangan BOOTS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER: Helene Murchan, Secretary Officer to the Paediatric Nurses at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital NOMINATED BY: Friend, Joelene McNamara The McNamara family first arrived at Our Lady’s Hospital a mere matter of hours after they welcomed their little prince, Rían McNamara, into the world, on June 15th, 2012. Rían was born with Pulmonary Atresia, which means the valve from his heart to his lungs had never developed properly and his body wasn’t getting enough oxygen to survive. Helene was appointed the family’s liaison nurse, but she quickly became a treasured friend too. Rían had his first open heart surgery at just five weeks old and again at 10 months.

After four weeks, their little fighter Rían was home again. But sadly, worse news was to come. “Last July, at a routine appointment we were told Rían needed emergency surgery,” his mum Joelene says.

“The operation was a success but his heart was very damaged. Sadly, a week later following a cardiac arrest Rían passed away peacefully and surrounded by love in our arms. After he passed away, there wasn’t a week that went by that Helene didn’t give a quick phone call to tell me she was thinking of our little prince. There is a corner of my heart that holds the most special place for Helene, not only for caring for Rían while he was alive, but for loving him as we did and for remembering him like we do.”

SPONSORED BY

At the ages of eight and nine, Aoibheann Mangan and Padraic Godwin have captivated the attention of Ireland in an attempt to make their home a safer place. While carrying out a project for farm safety week at school, Aoibheann and Padraic realised there was no information online directed towards children, and went on to create their own farm safety website, exclusively for children. Within a month they had the website completed and went on to win a Eircom Junior Spiders award. Both children used evey opportunity to disperse their message about farm safety. This included when they charmed Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney and politely pointed out what they could be doing to help the cause. Today, their website is just a few hits short of three million views, and is proof that even the tiniest of voices can make a deafening roar.

This year’s winners have channelled their energy into saving lives and making life safer for their peers and friends.

SPONSORED BY

51 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

TWEETS? LOOK WHO WAS TALKING

This year’s Irish Daily Mail Grandparent of the Year goes to a lady who has shown no bounds when it comes to supporting her family.

Oct 30 Munchkin Ireland @MunchkinIreland Delighted to have won Best Safety Product with the White Hot Safety Bath Duck #bootsmiawards2015

EUMOM BUSINESS PARENT OF THE YEAR

Oct 16 bumpPR Family! @bumpPR Today’s your last chance to vote @ Frugi as Best Trendy Tots Brand AND Best Maternity Wear in the #bootsmiawards2015!

WINNER: Tracy Desmond NOMINATED BY: Sister, Carol Desmond IRISH DAILY MAIL GRANDPARENT OF THE YEAR WINNER: Kathleen O’Sullivan NOMINATED BY: Daughter-in-law, Eileen Dunne When Kathleen’s daughter-in-law Eileen was told she was expecting triplets at her nine week scan, her first reaction was utter shock, which quickly turned to worry. Eileen was 30 weeks’ gestation when her three boys Aodán, Ruraidh, and Tadhg arrived into the world safely. When they arrived home five weeks later, Kathleen swung into action. “Kathleen drove for 45 minutes three nights a week for two years to help us out,” says Eileen. “She would spend the night awake with the boys, literally sitting at the end of the their cots. Kathleen would feed, change and put each boy down again during the night. The next morning, I would get up after a full night’s sleep, and Kathleen would head off to spend the morning doing home help and take all my washing with her, arriving back that night after maybe getting two to three hours sleep in the afternoon, with all my washing and ironing done.”

SPONSORED BY

After learning her family were under severe financial pressure and separating from her husband, Tracy Desmond was left with debt, a mortgage, no job and three children to look after by herself. But she wasn’t about to let it beat her. With her talents Tracy began to build what is now a successful baking business from scratch. “She’s not somebody that does things by halves, she goes wholeheartedly into it,” says her sister Carol. “She’s doing wedding cakes, birthday cakes and supplying some Supervalu supermarkets locally in Cork as well as being on the Food Academy programme with Bord Bia, the local enterprise board, teaching sugar craft and also decorating local businesses through window art. A few weeks ago she won an award with Glas na h’Eireann for her chocolate biscuit cake. It’s a whirlwind for her and it’s fantastic.”

This year’s eumom Business Parent of the Year remoulded her life during a difficult time and created a successful baking business through sheer determination, passion and hard work.

SPONSORED BY

Aug 7 Creeper Crawlers @creepercrawlers Huge News!! Our secret project is a finalist in the @ maternityinfant Awards!! #bootsmiawards2015 All revealed soon!!

Jul 16 Westport House @WestportHouse We are thrilled to be shortlisted in the “Best Family Day Out” category of the #bootsmiawards2015.

Jun 30 Last Minute Minders @LMminders @LMminders Hi everyone, please follow the link and give us a vote! Every single one counts!! #bootsmiawards2015

52 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

When our Super Sibling of the Year winner found herself in a stressful position, she handled it with a maturity and composure that is vastly beyond her years.

SUPER SIBLING OF THE YEAR WINNER: Danielle Walsh NOMINATED BY: Mother, Tara Brady

On January 15th, Tara Brady awoke to discover, at 30 weeks’ pregnant, she was bleeding heavily. She rang her husband in a state of panic but slowly began to lose consciousness. It was at this point that her seven-year-old daughter Danielle stepped in and took control. Danielle told her father what was going on, and her dad called The Coombe Hospital in Dublin. When the hospital rang Tara’s phone, this brave seven-year-old girl relayed all critical information to medical professionals. Then under instructions, hung up and called an ambulance. She then stayed on the line with paramedics until they could reach her mother’s side.

“She was so good on the phone, she was able to speak, tell them where we were and give them our address. They were asking her a lot of questions such as if I was awake, and so she came and checked on me.” Today, Danielle has taken her role as Lexie’s big sister with great seriousness. “Ah she loves her, she sits and plays with her and if she needs anything, Danielle will go and get it.”

WHO BENEFITS "THE BOOTS MATERNITY & INFANT AWARDS WAS AN INCREDIBLE DAY THAT THE RAPUNZEL FOUNDATION WERE SO THANKFUL TO BE A PART OF. I AM DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE RAISED €1220 AT THE EVENT!! WOW, WE ARE ABSOLUTELY THRILLED AND IT WILL HELP SO MUCH TOWARDS A FREEDOM WIG FOR SOMEONE. ANNA FURLONG FOUNDER OF RAPUNZEL FOUNDATION

BOOTS SPECIAL MERIT AWARD WINNER: Féileacáin, Neonatal and Stillbith Death Association of Ireland NOMINATED BY: Patient, Sarah Barton Féileacáin was nominated by Sarah Barton for the special impact and role the organisation played in the most heartbreaking event in her life. At 23 weeks’ gestation, Sarah and her partner sadly lost their baby. “As we cried together and I held our special little boy in my arms, our amazing midwife Tara asked if we had ever heard of Féileacáin,” says Sarah. Féileacáin is an organisation that supplies special memory boxes in maternity hospitals for parents who have stillborn babies. The grieving couple were given a beautiful box to fill with special memories of their baby boy, Adam. “Due to being 23 weeks’ pregnant, I did not have any clothes or teddies or anything with me for my baby. As a mother, that hurt, you want to protect your child and give them everything. Having that box from Féileacáin meant I could put a little hat on his head, wrap him in a beautiful hand knitted blanket, put a teddy by his side and take photos of our precious baby to keep with us forever. I treasured that box and I still do. It was like a beacon of light at a very dark time.”

This year’s Boots Special Merit Award goes to Féileacáin, a not-for-profit organisation that provides support to anyone affected by the death of a baby during or after pregnancy.

SPONSORED BY

53 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

Our Obstetrician of the Year winner’s care, kindness and patience is what led her nominator to feel totally at ease throughout her pregnancies.

PHOTO BOOTH

Sarah Twohig and Mary Fenton Tutty, Crawford Childcare, Cork

MOTHERCARE MIDWIFE OF THE YEAR WINNER: Frances Burke NOMINATED BY: Patient, Erin Scott OBSTETRICIAN OF THE YEAR WINNER: Maeve Eogan of the Rotunda Hospital NOMINATED BY: Patient, Rosemary Murphy Maeve Eogan was the friendly face and provider of expert advice that mum-of-eight Rosemary Murphy and her partner wanted throughout each of her last four pregnancies. During a very difficult time, when Rosemary and her partner tragically suffered a miscarriage, Maeve showed utmost professionalism but also utmost care, attention and kindness in how she helped them through it. “My body didn’t recognise that I had lost the baby so I opted to have an ERPC procedure which Maeve did for me and she followed up with phoning me a number of times at home afterwards. Maeve met me in reception before going to the ward and she took care of me the whole time I was there.” Rosemary then went on to have a little girl, Lara, who was delivered by Maeve.

Just five days after the birth of her son, new mum Erin Scott was feeling overwhelmed and having difficulty feeding her new baby. It hadn’t been an easy time for Erin, whose partner had passed away while she was pregnant with their son, Oisín. She was given the number for midwife Frances Burke, who she rang in tears. Erin can’t fully describe the effect that Frances had on her life within those initial weeks of Oisín’s birth. “She got me through the first couple of weeks adjusting to being a new mum at home with my baby, honestly, she’s a shining star that came at the right time. A wonderful personality, the patience of a saint and bursting with kindness. I don’t think she realises herself, the positive impact she had on me.”

Valerie O’Connor, Food Journalist

Niamh Kuzbari and Breena Cooper, Drury Porter Novelli

Midwife Frances Burke goes beyond the call of duty to offer advice and support to new mothers.

SPONSORED BY

Gemma Dardis, Jennifer Bohan and Deirdre Mulry, Imaginosity

54 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

SPONSOR COMMENTS

We were delighted this year to announce Boots Ireland as our 2015 headline sponsor for the maternity & infant Awards. Boots strives to provide support for parents through their newly launched Parenting Club and their incredibly helpful local pharmacists. It was evident that their aspirations matched our own. Gillian Hennessy, head of marketing at Boots Ireland, says: “This journey to becoming a parent is an exciting, yet daunting time and uniquely different for every mum and dad.

With this in mind, we at Boots Ireland are delighted to be involved as partner at this year’s maternity & infant Awards.” By partnering with Boots Ireland, we can help champion every parent’s desire to give their child the best start in life.”

Gillian Hennessy Head of Marketing, Boots Ireland

This year’s Nurse of the Year is not only an amazing nurse at Temple Street Children’s Hospital but a also a fantastic friend.

PHARMACIST OF THE YEAR WINNER: Sheena Mitchell NOMINATED BY: Patient, Michelle Casserly

NURSE OF THE YEAR WINNER: Joni Owen, Temple Street Children’s Hospital NOMINATED BY: Friend, Daniel Peeters Joni Owen commutes from her home in Cavan to her job as a nurse in Temple Street Children’s Hospital each day. A mum of three herself, she works extremely hard for her patients and their parents, to make them feel as comfortable as possible while they are in her care. Her nursing skills were soon needed in her spare time too, when her neighbour Daniel Peeters was diagnosed with lung Hodgkin’s lymphoma in December 2014. “Joni helped us immensely to keep our children’s routine normal during this time. She picked the children up from school whenever she could and took care of them while my wife attended hospital with me. She has the kindest caring manner and a very special way with young children. Like the character Joy in Disney’s movie Inside Out, nurse Joni is all about the hugs.”

Sheena Mitchell is the proud owner of Milltown pharmacy, totalhealth, and the head of a health information blog called Wonderbaba. Through Wonderbaba, she provides support and advice all year around, all day long, to help mothers and their children. Sheena is praised for relaying advice on a variety of topics that tie in with the time of year and seasonal illnesses. Her professional expertise as a pharmacist allows her followers to feel confident with the advice she posts online. She’s also known for providing advice and reassurance at all hours of the day and night. Her nominator said: “She helped me out when my little boy was poorly, even though it was in the wee hours of the morning. After that I thought she really must wear a super cape!”

This year’s Pharmacist of the Year has approached her profession with a warmth and skill that is unparalled.

55 BOOTS M&I PEOPLE AWARDS 2015

This year’s Paediatrician of the Year has showed passion, patience and professionalism when dealing with his young patient Charlie, going the extra mile in helping him develop an understanding of scoliosis on his road to recovery.

What an inspiring bunch of People Award winners!! It was emotional to say the least. Thank you for a really great day.

ELAINE CLARKE Sales Support – BT It was a great day so well done on all of your hard work in pulling it together.

SARAH DOUGLAS Assistant Marketing Manager - Luxury & Loyalty – Boots

PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE OF THE YEAR WINNER: Sinead Corbett of Wexford Community Care Services NOMINATED BY: Patient, Sinead Holden PAEDIATRICIAN OF THE YEAR WINNER: Dr Jacques Noel of Crumlin Children’s Hospital NOMINATED BY: Marita O’Brien, on behalf of her son, Charlie When Marita O’Brien’s son Charlie was diagnosed with scoliosis at the tender age of three, Marita and her partner Dermot didn’t know what or where the next step was, but thanks to the guidance, care and total dedication of Dr Jacques Noel, the worried parents’ minds were put at some ease. Little Charlie had a real fear of the hospital, but Mr Noel put him at ease. Charlie is very grateful to Dr. Noel for his kindness, care and patience, and calls him his hero.

“Mr Noel held my hand, looked me in the eyes and told me I would be ok and he would be there every step of the way. With the help of Mr Noel I’m no longer afraid, I’m no longer having sleepless nights worrying over hospital visits because I know Mr Noel, my hero, will always be there, he’s simply amazing.

I know there are millions of doctors that help their patients but Mr Noel has always gone that step further with helping me.”

When her baby son fell ill, Sinead Corbett’s kindness made a difficult time for Sinead Holden that little bit easier, by showing true professionalism and great care for both her patient and his mother. “My son got severe bronchiolitis and it affected his weight so we were seeing Sinead a lot,” Sinead explained. “She went above and beyond for me and my little boy, on the phone making sure I was alright, constantly following up. I was getting upset about it and she was there for me just to listen as well.” Plus, Sinead was clearly not the only patient for whom Sinead Corbett went above and beyond the call of duty.

“There’s a lot of pressure on our health service at the moment but there are people like Sinead who make a huge difference in people’s lives and you don’t even realise it.”

This year’s Public Health Nurse of the Year Award winner shows great care and consideration for her patients beyond the call of duty.

Thank you so much for organising the great day we had, we are absolutely delighted with the win and loved hosting the O’Kane family and of course Baby Antoinette – winner of the Miracle Baby of the Year award! Many congratulations on hosting such a wonderful event!

HELEN MURPHY Brand Manager – Consumer Healthcare – Actavis Thank you so much for such a lovely day at the Boots maternity & infant Awards, everyone at eumom had a ball!

SINEAD MOORE Brand & Product Manager – eumom

The must-have family Cooking app Filled with delicious recipes for the whole family to enjoy and a fun interactive cookery course for children, Annabelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s app is the ultimate kitchen staple.

Download from the app store www.annabelkarmel.com

57 ANNABEL KARMEL RECIPES

FOODIE

FUN

Roll up your sleeves, dig out your aprons and cook up a plate of foodie fun with your little ones. Try turning courgettes into spaghetti, soups into smiley faces and salmon cakes into fish to help liven up your midweek menu. By getting your tots into the kitchen young, you’ll help to instil a love of good food…

CRUNCHY SALMON FISH CAKES

58 ANNABEL KARMEL RECIPES

BUTTERNUT SQUASH, CARROT AND SWEETCORN

Suitable from six months

Crunchy Salmon Fish Cakes Preparation: 30 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Makes: 4 portions < 3 spring onions, finely sliced < 200g potato < 170g salmon fillet, skinned and chopped into small pieces < 15g Parmesan cheese, finely grated < 1 ½ tbsp mayonnaise < 2 tsp sweet chilli sauce < 2 tsp ketchup < 2 tsp lemon juice < 2 tsp dill, chopped < 15g fresh white breadcrumbs CRUMB MIXTURE < 75g Bite Size Shredded Wheat < 30g Parmesan cheese, finely grated < Sunflower oil, for frying < 2 eggs beaten DECORATION < 1 sliced hard-boiled egg < Sugar snap peas < A sliced radish < Parsley, to sprinkle

Peel the potatoes and boil for 20-25 minutes until soft. Drain and mash.

Mix together the ingredients for the fishcakes. Season well. Divide the mixture into four balls, chill if possible for 3-4 hours or overnight. Put the Shredded Wheat into a processor and whiz to fine crumbs. Add the Parmesan and pulse to combine.

Dip the fish cakes in the beaten egg then coat in the crumb mixture. Dip in egg once again and coat in the crumb mixture. Put the balls onto a chopping board or tray and make into a fish shape. Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a frying pan. Fry the fish cakes for 2-3 minutes on both sides until golden brown and the salmon is cooked through. Place the fish cakes on a plate. If you like you can decorate with a slice of boiled egg and pea for the eye, halved sugar snap peas for the mouth, parsley for the fins and sliced radish for the air bubbles. Serve on a sea of peas.

Kitchen Tech Note: This recipe requires a spiralizer

Courgette Spaghetti with Carrot, Sun-Blushed Tomato and Pesto Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Makes: 4 portions

< < < < < < <

2 large courgettes 1 large carrot, peeled 2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 3 tbsp fresh pesto 8 sun-blushed tomatoes, sliced < 50g Parmesan, grated

Put the courgettes and carrot through a spiralizer to make long curls. Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Add the onion and garlic and fry until soft. Add the vegetables and quickly toss over a high heat for a few minutes until just wilted. Drain away some liquid from the pan, then add the tomatoes, pesto and cheese. Season and toss together. Serve at once.

59 ANNABEL KARMEL RECIPES

Hidden Vegetable Tomato Soup Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Makes: 4 portions < < < < < < < < < <

2 tbsp olive oil 1 leek roughly chopped 1 carrot, peeled and diced 1 stick celery, diced 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes 2 tbsp tomato puree 300ml chicken or vegetable stock A dash of sugar 2 or 3 tbsp double cream

Heat the oil in a saucepan. Add the leek, carrot, celery and garlic and fry for 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, dash of sugar and stick. Season. Bring up to the boil, cover and simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Stir in the cream. Blend until smooth using an electric hand blender until smooth.

Cranberry and White Chocolate Krispie Slices Preparation: 5 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes Makes: 12 portions < < < < <

75g butter 100g golden syrup 50g dried cranberries 100g Rice Krispies 40g white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate

Line an 8” square or round tin with cling film. Measure the butter, syrup and cranberries into a saucepan.

Melt together until smooth, then leave to cool. Add the Rice Krispies and chocolate chips and mix well.

Spoon into the tin and press down firmly. Chill for one hour before slicing into squares or bars. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Keep little ones busy with Annabel’s new Family Cooking App. As well as lots of simple, tasty recipes, it includes a special Kids Rule the Kitchen cooking course designed to feed young imaginations whilst teaching essential cooking skills.

Available via the App Store or visit www. annabelkarmel.com for more information.

61 LIFE AFTER BABY

Smell the Coffee Good news everybody: it turns out that coffee is actually GOOD for you! A new study involving over 208,000 men and women over a 30-year period has concluded that drinking a couple of cups of coffee each day (less than five) could reduce a person’s risk of death from a number of illnesses, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and neurological disease. The really good news if you’re pregnant or not a caffeine fiend is that the results stand true irrespective of whether your coffee contains caffeine or not, as the benefits come from bioactive compounds in coffee that reduce insulin resistance and systematic inflammation. This will come as music to your ears if like us you tend to spend the winter months mainlining coffee – but we do have to advise care if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or sensitive to caffeine. Remember that you should stay below 200mg of caffeine a day in pregnancy, so perhaps switch to decaff after your first coffee of the day.

62 BEAUTY & STYLE

W

e all know winter can play havoc with our skin. Between whippingly windy days and strikingly cold and dry air, our skin can suffer as a result, becoming dry, flaky and irritated – especially if you’re prone to sensitive skin already. But we’re here to tell you that winter need not be all doom and gloom for your skin. There are lots of ways to combat the effects the harsh hand of winter can have on your skin and hair, and we’re here to show you them.

SKIN PREP Prepping your skin before braving it out into the cold is the first step to ensure your skin stays protected.

Treat the skin to a scrub once or twice a week to rid of dull, flaky surface cells.

Clarins Gentle Refiner Exfoliating Cream with Microbeads, €30, is a soft exfoliating cream that

is smooth on the skin with soothing mimosa extract, and will make a clean sweep of builtup underlying dirt. Opt for a cream cleanser instead of a gel or foam, which can be drying.

Milky cream cleansers like Lancôme Galatée Confort Cleansing Milk, €27, are great for dry and sensitive skin. With its honey and almond extracts, this cleanser will condition the skin and lock in moisture, protecting from further dehydration while being careful not to strip away the skin’s natural moisture. It’s also a fabulous make-up remover, gliding away the day’s grime in a swish.

BEAT THE ...

winter BLUES

It’s winter time and the livin’ ain’t so easy – especially for your skin.

Beat the blues that come with dry, chapped and sensitive skin during harsh winter weather with these nourishing skin saviours that will leave your skin feeling refreshed, hydrated and protected, no matter what the elements bring. JANE QUINN reports.

MOISTURE BASE Moisturisers are the most important way of keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day. Choose something rich that aims to target intense moisturisation, as during windy weather the skin’s natural oil can get dried away by the elements. La Roche Posay Hydraphase UV Intense Rich, €22, contains hyaluronic acid fragments that work to lock in water, and contains SPF 20 and a filtering system to shield the skin from UVA and UVB, which are present in the sun’s rays at all times during the year. Another hero is the Kinvara Active Rosehip Day Cream, €25.95. This cream contains essential plant oils, regenerating vitamins, lemon and lavender and is like a vitamin cocktail for the skin.

63 BEAUTY & STYLE

EYE CARE

HEALTHY HAIR Our eyes can become tired and dull during harsh weather. Clinique All About Eyes Rich Moisturising Cream, €34, strengthens skin

around the eye and creates a moisture barrier against common irritants, keeping your eyes hydrated and refreshed while targeting wrinkles and fine lines at the same time. We love some double duty!

None of us will disagree on how dreaded the wind is for our hair. Nothing is as irking as frizzy hair out to here and dry, brittle ends to beat the band! Hair becomes dry and brittle in winter, so opt for a moisture rich shampoo and conditioner that aim to restore your hair’s natural oil and deeply condition and moisturise it at the same, like L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil Shampoo, €5.84 and L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil

SERUMS & OILS

Conditioner, €5.84.

Face oils and serums are really having their moment in the beauty world at the moment, and are considered beauty gods when it comes to restoring the skin’s radiance and moisture. Clarins

HAPPY HANDS

Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate, €69.50, with 20 pure plant

extracts, is extra hydrating, and visibly reduces wrinkles, promising firmer skin and a more even skin tone. Kinvara Skincare 24hr Rosehip Face Serum, €29.95, aims to provide intensive

care, even to demanding skin.

It’s concentrated formula is packed with plant extracts, vitamins, antioxidants and calming ingredients. Crème de la Mer’s The Renewal Oil, €180, contains seasourced actives to increase the skin’s resilience and natural barrier as it is applied. This magic oil is aromatic, soothing and will enrich dry skin, and is a real treat to put on. Just massage a few drops into the skin, hair, cuticles and dry areas of the body and you’ll be thanking us!

COVER UP If you’re looking for some coverage, go for a moisturising foundation like Bobbi Brown’s Moisture Rich Foundation, €40, which will lock in the natural moisture present in your skin and prevent it from being dried away by the elements. For something lighter, try Olay Regenerist CC Cream, €27.69, a sheer foundation and moisturiser with glycerine, SPF 15 and vitamin E, a powerful combination which hydrates the skin and protects against the effects of skindamaging free radicals.

Don’t forget to give your hands some TLC! Our hands can become dry very easily from daily work, and the colder weather can worsen this and make them sore, dry and sometimes cracked. Use La Roche Posay Cicaplast Mains, €7.50, which repairs the skin’s barrier; soothing, protecting and restoring dry and overworked hands.

TIP 1 To prevent drying your skin out even more this winter make sure that when you shower the temperature is not too hot, as a very hot temperature can cause broken capillaries in the skin, and dry it out even more.

TIP 2 Add a drop of aloe vera, almond oil or vitamin E to your night cream to restore the skin’s own oil naturally and let it work its magic while you sleep.

PARTY FEVER It’s official, party season is upon us! Whether you’re going to your work Christmas do, having a night out on the tiles with the girls or at a festive family gathering, copy stunning mums Naomi Watts and Julianne Moore’s pale pink palette for a barely there make-up look.

1 2

Get the celebs’ secret to flawless foundation with

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation, €40.

Contour the face to get cheekbones to die for with

Rimmel’s Natural Bronzer, €7.49. Achieve dark, thick, long lashes with L’Oreal’s Volume Million Lashes Feline, €16.99, and dazzle in pink hues with Topshop’s Glow Dome in Galactic, €12.

3

Create a dark, glamorous eye with Rimmel Glam’Eyes Liquid Liner, €6.99, and frame your face with the perfect set of brows by using Rimmel’s Brow This Way Kit, €4.99.

Perfect your pout with

4

L’Oréal Paris Collection Exclusive Lipstick in Rose, €12.49, and finish off your look with Next Big Apple Nail Polish, €5.60. Time to shine!

64

Cobalt knitted roll-neck jumper, €250, MSGM @ Harvey Nichols

Green metallic plunge bodycon dress, €65, River Island

TREND Gold choker chain, €79.99, Balmain X @ H&M

LOOK 1

Black satin sarong trousers, €59.95, Zara

Fine chain earrings, €19, People Tree Black leather belt, €99, Balmain X @ H&M

LOOK 2

Green velvet belt, €79, Balmain X @ H&M

Black peep toe ankle boots, €160, Dune

Embellished clutch, €50, Miss Selfridge

M&I

MUM

Chain skinny velvet sandals, €90, Topshop

STYLE

Ribbed turtleneck dress, €65, Michelle Keegan @ Next

The world was hit by Balmaination when the brand’s first collection hit H&M stores in October. Most items sold out in minutes and some pieces are way out of our price range, so we’ve taken some of the more affordable pieces and mixed with other high-street pieces to create Balmain’s most wanted looks.

LOOK 4 Navy and gold long sleeve top, €129, Balmain X @ H&M

LOOK 3

Gold drop earrings, €9.99, H&M

Black earrings, €9.99, H&M

Gold metallic strap platform heel, €40, River Island

Black and gold clutch, €95, Dune

Velvet harem trousers, €35, Next

Cage sandals, €22, Penneys

Bauble clutch, €24.99, New Look

Navy military style jacket, €95, H! by Henry Holland @ Debenhams

65 STORE DIRECTORY

Oilily

STORE DIRECTORY

A

Accessorize Stores nationwide; www.accessorize.com Arnotts Henry Street, Dublin 1; www.arnotts. ie ASOS www.asos.com Argos www. argos.ie

F H

Folli Follie Stockists nationwide; www.follifollie.com

mamasandpapas.com Marks & Spencer Stores nationwide; www. marksandspencer.ie Miss Selfridge Stores nationwide; www. missselfridge.com Monsoon Stores nationwide; www.monsoon.co.uk Mothercare Stores nationwide; www. mothercare.ie

Boots Stores nationwide; www. boots.ie Brown Thomas www. brownthomas.com

Harvey Nichols 16 Sandyford Road, Dublin 16; www.harveynichols.com H&M Stores nationwide; www.hm.com House of Fraser Dundrum Town Centre, www. houseoffraser.co.u

C D

Debenhams Stores nationwide; www.debenhams.ie Dune London Stores nationwide; www.dunelondon.com

K L

N

LEGO Stockists nationwide; www. lego.com Littlewoods Ireland www.littlewoods.ie L’Oréal Stockists nationwide; www.loreal.com

P

E

M

R

B

Coast Stores nationwide; www. coast-stores.com

Easons Stores nationwide; www.easons.com Evans Stores nationwide; www.evans.co.uk

Kilkenny Shop Stores nationwide; www.kilkennyshop.com

Mamalicious www.mama-licious.com Mamas & Papas Stores nationwide; www.

Name it Stores nationwide; www. nameit.com New Look Stores nationwide; www.newlook.com Next Stores nationwide; www.nextdirectory.ie Penneys Stores nationwide; www. primark co.uk People Tree www. peopletree.co.uk River Island Stores nationwide; www.riverisland.com

S

Seraphine www.seraphine.com Smyths Stoes nationwide; www. toys.ie Stylist Pick www.stylistpick.com

T

Topshop Stores nationwide; www.topshop.com Thomas Sabo Stockists nationwide; www.thomassabo. com Tiffany Rose www.tiffanyrose. com TK Maxx Stores nationwide; www. tkmaxx.ie

Z

Zara Stores nationwide; www.zara.com/ie

66 ASK THE EXPERTS

MEET THE

EXPERTS We have a wide range of experts on hand to answer your questions on everything from pregnancy and birth to sleeping, feeding, fitness and general wellbeing.

If you have a question that needs answered, get in touch!

GP

Dr Julius Parker

Embryologist

Dr Declan Keane

Physiotherapist

Dr Parker is a general practitioner with HSF Health Plan’s free 24-hour GP advice line and answers healthrelated questions for young families.

For more information on HSF Health Plan, visit www.hsf.ie or Lo Call 1890 473 473.

Dr Keane is a senior clinical embryologist with 20 years’ experience. He is director of ReproMed fertility clinics in Kilkenny and Dublin, with a third clinic opening in Limerick this year.

For more information, call Declan on (01) 685 6755 or visit www.repromed.ie.

Jenny is a chartered physiotherapist and partner at Total Physio in Sandyford, Co Dublin, and sees many women during and after pregnancy., treating issues like pelvic girdle pain.

She is also mum to Jamie and Holly.

For more information visit www.totalphysio.ie.

Sleep Consultant

Obstetrician

Jenny Branigan

Dietitian

Lucy Wolfe

Dr Sam Coulter-Smith

Ruth Charles

Lucy is a paediatric sleep consultant and mum of four. She runs a private sleep consulting practice where she provides knowledge, expertise and valuable support to families across the country.

Visit www.sleepmatters.ie.

Dr Coulter-Smith is a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology, master of the Rotunda Hospital and a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at the Royal College of Surgeons. Visit www.rotunda.ie

Ruth is a dietitian with the Early Feeding Clinic, which offers advice on becoming pregnant, nutrition during pregnancy and feeding your growing baby.

For more information, visit www.earlyfeedingclinic.ie.

Ask the experts... If you have a question regarding any aspect of your pregnancy, new baby or toddler, please get in touch.

Email us at editorialdesk@ashville.com or write to us at maternity & infant, Ashville Media Group, Old Stone Building, Blackhall Green, Dublin 7.

67 ASK THE FERTILITY EXPERT

Q

Q

Sperm count My husband is very reluctant to have his sperm count tested because he thinks it will be embarrassing. What actually happens during a semen analysis appointment?

It is entirely normal that he would feel a bit embarrassed about such an sensitive issue, but a semen analysis appointment is actually rather clinical and not in the slightest bit embarrassing or awkward. Semen analyses are probably the tests that are carried out most frequently in my clinic. We do countless numbers of these tests every week. At our clinic you would have two options. You can chose to produce the sample on site in one of the private rooms, or if you would feel more comfortable you can produce the sample at home and arrange to bring it to us. The production rooms are in a separate part of the building to reception and the waiting room, so once the sample has been produced it can be left at a designated hatch for the lab and you can leave straightaway. You get your result within one working day. Our staff, and indeed staff in all fertility clinics, are used to the sensitive nature of fertility treatments and tests, and will make both male and female patients feel at ease in a professional and clinical environment.

Q

IVF Abroad I know that I need to have IVF but I am considering having it carried out abroad because I have heard it is more affordable. Are there any pitfalls of which I should be aware?

There are undeniably some great clinics abroad – I have worked in some myself in the past and continue to work with several clinics in Europe to provide treatments to patients that are not available here in Ireland. I would give you three pieces of advice when approaching this. Firstly, get a recommendation from a friend who has been there before, or from a clinician who can refer you to the clinic and knows that they have a good reputation. Secondly, do your research in relation to costs. Often the basic price for IVF looks considerably more affordable than in Ireland but take into account the extras for which you will need to pay in Ireland and at the clinic: scans, blood tests, additional treatment options or laboratory techniques; flights, accommodation; living expenses; time off work. It can really add up, and you may find that if cost is the only reason you are going abroad it may be more cost-effective to choose an Irish clinic. Finally, talk to the staff at the clinic. If they are treating Englishspeaking patients then they will have an English-speaking coordinator. Ask the same questions of that clinic as you would an Irish clinic. Even if you have received a recommendation from someone make sure that you are entirely comfortable with them before you commit to anything.

Looking for help I have been trying to conceive for six months and I’m starting to worry.

When should I look for help?

There is no golden rule about when you should seek help for fertility issues, but it never hurts to talk to a fertility specialist even in the early stages of trying to conceive to get information and reassurance. It is unlikely that any fertility clinic will suggest that you have invasive treatments unless tests have been carried out that reveal a medical indication for it, or if you are not ready yourselves to move on to treatment. In your case a fertility clinician may look at your health, diet and lifestyle to see if there are any ways that you can optimise your fertility naturally.

It may be recommended that you have some basic tests – perhaps a scan and hormone blood tests for you, and a basic semen analysis for your partner. Sometimes though all you will need from you clinician is good information and advice and you will find that you are able to get pregnant yourselves with very few changes and very little intervention. If after an agreed period of time you still have not achieved a pregnancy, you have already established a relationship with a clinic who you trust and who know your history and can advise you what “next steps” are appropriate for you.

QUICK GUIDE

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What is…

AN SIS? An SIS, or Saline Infusion Sonography, is a type of ultrasound test in which a small amount of saline is passed into the uterus to look at the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes. It’s a basic, quick and relatively pain-free way of examining important information like the direction of the neck of the uterus, if there are any polyps or fibroids or if the fallopian tubes are blocked.

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All about…

ALCOHOL & FERTILITY Alcohol in moderation is fine, but binge-drinking or drinking to excess can affect your fertility, according to studies. Drinking too much or too often can lead to irregular cycles, making it more difficult to track ovulation. Stick to a glass or two of wine a week when trying to conceive and make sure you’re eating healthily too.

3 Ooo

Question ...

DOES FEMALE ORGASM HELP YOU GET PREGNANT? An orgasm during sex contracts the uterus, which could help the sperm travel towards the fallopian tubes more quickly. But while it might help, it’s definitely not necessary. What’s more important is having regular sex around the time of ovulation.

68 ASK THE DIETITIAN

Q

Q

Breastfeeding and colic

Iron supplement I’m five months’ pregnant and my doctor has told me that I need to take an iron supplement. I tried this on my last pregnancy but the iron made me very constipated. Is there any other way to get the iron I need?

I am breastfeeding my seven-week-old baby and she has a very fussy period in the evening, about two to four hours. My GP says it’s just colic but is there anything that I am eating that might be affecting my baby?

Iron supplements do have a reputation for causing bowel upsets but they have moved on in recent years. If you found you were having big problems with the last one you tried, try some others. Don’t skip them though, as your baby needs iron to make new blood cells and for brain development. You also need it to help keep your own energy levels up during your pregnancy. Most of us don’t eat nearly enough iron so there should be some dietary changes you can make. The first one is to eat red meat at least three times a week. We hear a lot about the dangers of red meat but as long as it is not processed (eg bacon) or burnt, then red meat is fine. Try Spaghetti Bolognese, stews, casseroles and homemade burgers.

You will also find lots of iron in lentils and beans like chickpeas. Other great sources are oil-rich fish, green vegetables like spinach and kale and fortified cereals. What’s important is that you need to have iron-rich foods at two meals a day. Try hazelnut butter on crackers or a snack or try a handful of raisins and nuts if you have the nibbles after dinner.

The reality is that we don’t really understand why some babies have periods of prolonged crying and screaming. Usually, if it is just for a few hours at a particular time of the day, it is nothing to worry about. Occasionally if a baby is lactose intolerant this can cause a lot of crying. Bottle-fed babies may be reacting to the proteins in the milk but this tends to come along with eczema as well as pain and intense crying. If your baby is having prolonged crying for more than two to four hours then do see your GP and a qualified paediatric dietitan for help. There are a few foods worth checking out. Reduce caffeine. Some of the caffeine you drink passes into the breast milk and into baby, which can affect their sleep. Try to keep tea and coffee to two cups per day or less and especially cut it out in the evening. Alcohol can also make a breastfed baby more irritable and disturb sleep. If you have had alcohol, don’t breastfeed your baby for 2-3 hours. If you know you are going to drink, do try to express some milk before hand so you have some available later. Some mums do try cutting out dairy to help their babies, and in rare cases this can help. However, if you do want to try cutting dairy, it is important to see your dietitian to make sure you are getting enough calcium for yourself and your baby as it can be very difficult to get all you need from other foods.

Q

Midnight snacking I am eight months’ pregnant and I am starving! I know I am not supposed to be eating junk food but I am waking up at night and it just takes too long to make a healthy sandwich when there is a packet of biscuits there.

Help!

As your baby gets bigger, your need for calories goes up but the space for your stomach goes down, so you can find it hard to eat enough at a meal to keep you going. It is quite normal to be up in the middle of the night hunting for food. I remember eating two yoghurts at four in the morning while I was standing by the toaster for the toast that was taking too long!

Although a few biscuits won’t do you any harm, you can plan ahead a little and have some healthier snacks available. Stock the fridge with yoghurts: whether they are low fat or full fat, they will still have calcium, which your baby needs at this time. Nuts and dried fruit are another quick snack and very nutritious, with iron, fibre and vitamin E. Breakfast cereals are another great option and, if constipation is a problem at this point, midnight is a good time for a bowl of highfibre cereal. Remember to drink something as well to keep hydrated. Milk is a great option as it is rich in calcium and is less likely to cause the dreaded heartburn.

QUICK GUIDE

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What are…

GOOD FOODS FOR MALE FERTILITY? Less alcohol is a must – at least three alcohol-free days a week, and only a maximum of three pints of beer at a time. Eat lots of fish, especially oilrich fish like salmon, mackerel and trout. Get plenty of vegetables at lunch and dinner, so lots of soups, salads and vegetables.

Finally, get plenty of exercise and avoid stress.

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How to…

AVOID GAINING TOO MUCH WEIGHT Base what you eat around high-fibre foods. These take longer to digest so you don’t get hungry too soon. These tend to be low glycaemic foods too, which have been shown to help limit the amount of weight you gain during pregnancy.

Fill up on fruit and vegetables, and go for wholegrain bread, pasta and rice. Beans and lentils are also good choices.

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Tip… WHY ZINC IS IMPORTANT Zinc is a vital mineral for fertility in both men and women. However, many of our foods are stripped of zinc thanks to processing and refining. Foods high in zinc include mangoes, pumpkin seeds and fish, especially oysters.

Look for organic, fresh food if possible.

69 ASK THE OBSTETRICIAN

Q

Q

Painful leg cramps

Post-birth tenderness

I am in my final trimester and have been getting really painful leg cramps during the night. Why is this and how can I prevent them? I’m wrecked from the interrupted sleep!

I gave birth four weeks ago and it was a normal vaginal delivery; however I’m still quite tender down below. How long should that last and when is it okay to start having sex again?

This is a very common complaint and unfortunately I have no magic cure.

Many women wake at night with severe cramp in their calf, and it is frequently necessary for their partner to help massage and loosen out the muscle, thus both of you losing sleep. After a severe cramp, the leg can feel quite sore and bruised. The precise cause of these cramps is unknown. It may be due to dehydration, or some theories suggest calcium or magnesium levels may be the cause. My advice is to go to bed hydrated and stretch your calves gently before retiring. You can do this by standing with your toes on the step of the stairs and letting your heel fall below the height of your toes, taking great care to steady yourself securely by holding the handrail. In doing so, you will feel your calves stretching.

After a vaginal delivery, the birth canal is seriously stretched and distended.

If it is your first birth, a tear or an episiotomy may occur. This will cause tenderness. You may also suffer with haemorrhoids (piles) and these add to the condition. Your discomfort will ease considerably within two weeks of delivery, after which you may not require pain relief. The extent of post-delivery pain will depend on a number of factors, including your pain threshold, the type of delivery you had, the size of your baby, and the amount of birth canal trauma. For the vast majority of women, most discomfort will have settled by four or six weeks. If you have ongoing discomfort or if you are worried, you should go back to the hospital or contact your GP or midwife for advice. Re sex, most women will be tired following delivery and in the first month or two after delivery will not feel like having intercourse. When you do resume sexual activity, it may be tender at first, especially if you had a tear or episiotomy. However, this should ease quite quickly. If you have issues with ongoing pain or discomfort during intercourse, be sure to seek medical advice.

Q

Itching in pregnancy I’m pregnant on my second baby but I’ve recently experienced intense itching, especially around my calves, feet and ankles.

It’s driving me crazy – help!

It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to complain of a generalised itch, especially over their tummy, arms and legs. It’s usually of no major concern as it may be caused by a simple heat rash, a common pregnancy-associated itch. Alternatively it may be caused by insect bites or an allergy. It is very common to experience fluid retention too, and swelling in your leg below the knee that sometimes feel itchy. I would advise caution with all swelling and itching, however, so seek your GP’s advice to determine the true cause of any rash or itching.

QUICK GUIDE

1

What is…

ROUND LIGAMENT PAIN? At 16 to 22 weeks in pregnancy, it’s very common to get round ligament pain. This is caused by the uterus pulling on the ligaments on each side of the womb. It is often more painful after exercise but eases with rest. It usually settles after about 22 weeks when the womb fills the pelvis and it is not as mobile.

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3

It is possible to opt for a Caesarian section depending on your circumstances, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. A C section is major abdominal surgery and carries with it all the risks of major surgery. There is also a longer recovery time associated with sections. Be sure to have a full discussion with your doctor so you are fully informed before you make a final decision.

Preeclampsia is a condition that more commonly affects firsttime mothers and their babies. It’s associated with a rise in blood pressure, protein in the urine and swelling caused by fluid retention. In its most severe form, preeclampsia can affect other organs like kidneys and the liver, and seizures can occur if it develops into full eclampsia. It can affect the baby’s placenta. Early delivery may be required if preeclampsia develops or worsens.

Question CAN I ASK FOR A C SECTION?

All about…

PREECLAMPSIA

70 ASK THE PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Q

Q

Thumb pain

Postural pain

I am a first-time mum and everything had been going great until the past two weeks. I started feeling pain in my wrist and thumb, especially whenever I lift my baby who is now six weeks old. By the end of the day I can barely lift her with the pain. Help!

I had my first baby two weeks ago. During the pregnancy I could feel my neck and upper spine getting stiff and sore, but I put it down to my ever-growing breasts (two cup sizes bigger) and my bump, of course. Now my baby son is here and I still have these pains. Will physio help?

Known as de Quervain’s syndrome or “Mommy thumb”, this tendon condition is caused by the everyday act of repeatedly picking up your baby. New mothers are particularly susceptible to wrist tendinitis, because fluid gain experienced during pregnancy causes the tendons to swell and rub against their surrounding encasement. The ligaments and joints also become lax toward the end of pregnancy to give you extra flexibility for the birth. In this compromised state, the tendons and muscles are then suddenly required to pick up and put down a growing baby many times a day, and can quickly become irritated. Try these tips to help: < Apply ice 4-5 times daily < Rest baby on pillows when feeding < Wear a splint daily, especially when you are lifting the baby < Ask your partner to take over the lifting of baby as much as possible and take help from friends and family < Avoid thumbs cocked up into an “L” shape; this happens commonly when holding baby in one hand, facing away from you < Avoid lifting with your fingers under baby’s arms and thumb cocked up in front – keep your thumb against the side of your hand as you lift < Avoid using your smart phone

Congratulations on your little boy’s arrival! It is very common to suffer from these aches and pains during pregnancy as your posture changes. During this postnatal stage getting used to motherhood, regular feeding and just getting to know your little boy can keep you very busy. One or two sessions of physiotherapy at this stage will certainly be of benefit as we can show you how to improve your positioning for feeding and changing nappies.

We can mobilise the stiff joints in your neck and spine and show you easy movements to reduce your pain and stiffness and improve your posture. It is also important in the early postnatal weeks, especially when you are breastfeeding, to get your bra size checked every two to three weeks, to make sure the bra you have is giving you enough support. Inadequate bra support alone can be enough to aggravate these postural aches.

Q

Back pain I have a history of back pain and am hoping to become pregnant in the next year. However I am worried that pregnancy may flare the pain. Is there anything I can do to prevent this?

It is important that you see your Chartered Physiotherapist at this stage, so you can plan together a good flexibility and strengthening programme.

Pregnant women offer suffer from aching pains in the lumbar spine (lower back) due to the postural changes from the growing bump, as well as the loosening of the ligaments in the third trimester, which can predispose to some pelvic and lumbar instability. Contrary to popular belief, you are not more prone to sciatica if you are pregnant. Pilates and swimming are two great forms of gentle strengthening that work very well to build up the core and the spine strength, and can be safely continued into pregnancy. Lifestyle modification such as reducing the amount of time spent sitting and driving, and increasing the amount of activity in your life, will keep you fit and active now, which will have positive benefits for when you become pregnant.

THESE ANSWERS ARE NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR A PROPER ASSESSMENT

BY YOUR CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST. IT IS VITAL TO DEAL PROMPTLY WITH ANY ACHES AND PAINS AND THEY WILL ONLY GET WORSE AS YOUR BABY GETS BIGGER AND HEAVIER.

QUICK GUIDE

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Tip… What is…

EASING AN ACHING DSP? BUMP

All about…

FLATHEAD SYN DROME

It’s common to have some aching in your bump as it gets bigger, due to the stretching of the round ligaments. Try these ways to ease the ache: < Move slowly and smoothly from a sitting or lying position < Tilt your pelvis backwards before you stand up < Use a hot water bottle to warm the area that hurts < Lie on the opposite side to the side that hurts. < Relax in a warm bath.

Plagiocephaly, or flathead syndrome, occurs when a baby’s head develops a flat spot due to pressure on that area. It’s a common side effect of lying your baby on his back to sleep. It is usually easily put right by changing your baby’s position regularly. In severe cases, cranial orthotic therapy, usually a helmet, to change to shape of the head, may be required. Talk to your doctor if you notice any flat spots on your baby’s head.

Diastasis symphysis pubis, or DSP, is similar to SPD as another type of pelvic girdle pain. DSP occurs when the gap in the symphysis pubis joint widens too far. This is a relatively rare condition and can only be diagnosed through an x-ray, MRI or ultrasound scan. Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing pain.

71 ASK THE GP

Q

Q Getting pregnant

Morning sickness

We’re thinking of having a baby. How long does it usually take to get pregnant?

I’m 8 weeks pregnant and feel tired and nauseous all the time. Is there anything I can take to help?

It’s different for each couple. Everything else being equal, about 60% of women will conceive in six months, 85% in a year and just over 90% after two years. There are lots of factors that can affect your chance of getting pregnant, and taking steps to increase your chances will also improve your overall health. If either of you smoke, now is the time to try and stop. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is over 29 or under 19, or your partner has a BMI of over 29, you should think about your usual eating habits and how they can be improved. If you have other illnesses, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, you should aim to have this as well under control as you can. It’s also sensible to see your GP for a review if you are on any regular medication, to make sure you’re on the right drug at the right dose. Another key factor is how often you have sex. If you have a fairly regular menstrual cycle there are ways of predicting the approach of ovulation. However, planning your sex life around a few days each month can make trying for a baby quite stressful.

Most experts do not recommend this approach unless you’ve been trying for a year, and after you’ve seen your GP for some advice. Aim to have sex every 2 or 3 days and remember it’s not just about trying for a baby.

About half of all pregnant women have some nausea and vomiting in their first three months. Symptoms may be worse in your first pregnancy, a twin pregnancy, or if your own mum had these symptoms.

Firstly you should try and get plenty of sleep as these symptoms will feel worse when you’re tired. Make time to rest during the day, and cut down on your social life for now. Drink plenty, but in small, frequent amounts. Sucking on ice cubes or lollies may help. You may also find small snacks better than trying to eat a meal; biscuits, crackers or crispbread are good options.

You may notice some foods or smells trigger your symptoms and be able to avoid these. If you want to try antihistamines, which can help with nausea, have a chat with your GP first. Other treatments that have been tried, although there is limited evidence, include ginger supplements or acupressure bands. If you start to get persistent vomiting you should see your GP. Occasionally this can be a sign of infection, such as cystitis, or you may need special treatment to prevent dehydration.

QUICK GUIDE

Q Chances of miscarriage I’ve had two miscarriages in a row and although I know they are common, I am afraid to try for another baby even though my doctor says my fertility levels are okay. What are the chances of it happening three times in a row?

It’s reassuring that your doctor says your fertility is normal; I’m assuming this is based on hormonal blood tests you’ve had done. If you do have an underlying health condition, for example, diabetes or thyroid disease, it is important to make sure this is as well controlled as possible before trying for another baby. There are almost certainly steps you can take to improve your chances of a successful pregnancy. If you smoke, you should stop. I know that’s easier said than done but it’s a really important step for you and your baby, and there is a lot of advice and support available. Many women cut out alcohol completely when they’re pregnant, although there’s no evidence one or two units a week can do any harm. Check up on dietary advice during pregnancy and take a folic acid preparation once you’ve decided to try again. One thing you can’t affect is your age and here you will have to be realistic. Evidence suggests around half of all pregnancies in women over the age of 42 ends in a miscarriage, which does mean half are successful.

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Tip… MODEL OF HEALTH

Question…

WHEN WILL MY BABY CRAWL?

We all want our toddlers to adopt healthy habits but it can be difficult. But rather than looking for a medical solution, doctors say to look at your own habits. If they see you eating foods, they’ll want to try them. If they see you reading a book, they’ll want a story. And if they see you out exercising, they’ll want to go outside too. You are your child’s strongest health role model.

The average age for crawling is eight months, but many babies wait until later to crawl, or may skip this stage entirely, preferring to creep or bottom shuffle. There is no need to worry if your baby has developed well to this point. To encourage crawling, try putting toys slightly out of reach so he has to move to get them.

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All about…

RUNNY EYES Toddlers often get runny eyes when they have a cold or suffering from allergies. If the discharge is clear, it’s completely normal, but it becomes gooey or turns yellow or green, she may have an infection and needs to see the GP. Avoid the infection spreading by bathing the eyes with disposable cotton wool (one ball per eye) and washing your hands afterwards.

72 ASK THE SLEEP CONSULTANT

Q

Q

Naps at three months I cannot get my three-month-old baby to nap by day unless in my arms or sling. She’s hysterical by 5pm and then up multiple times during the night, often having to be held in my arms for long periods of time. I have a four year old too, so quite hard to persevere with naps without feeling like I’m neglecting him. What can I do?

At three months I would consider this still quite appropriate behaviour on your baby’s part. She won’t necessarily have the ability to sleep without lots of parental intervention and will constantly crave closeness and potentially motion in order to achieve and maintain her sleep. I suggest that you put to one side your concerns about having her sleep in a conventional sleeping place and just invest your energy in helping her get plenty of sleep with your help. Over time, the reliance on your assistance can begin to be part of a longer-term sleep issue, but right now your baby is too young to actively work on her sleep. Work on helping to have good structure to the day on this basis and then when she is closer to six months, you can work more on weakening the parental input.

Q

Longer sleeping time I can’t seem to get my baby to sleep more than 30 minutes at a time.

What can I do to improve this?

Sleeping for around 30 minutes for each nap can be indicative of a number of elements that need to be addressed. Firstly, it may be due to the nap being attempted when your child is already overtired. This may make sense to you if you are preparing for the nap when your child already seems tired: making noise, whingey, fussy, agitated, intense eye rubs or yawning. If this is the case then you should ideally prepare for the nap sooner, before you see these symptoms. Another contributory factor may be down to the way that you actually get the nap to happen; so if your child needs to help them achieve their sleep with input such as rocking, feeding or holding, your child may be more vulnerable to a shorter nap. Provided your child is over six months old, you may need to start limiting your amount of intervention.

Another reason could be that bedtime is too late and this can have a dis-regulating impact on the daytime sleep dynamic. If bedtime is later than 7pm, then it may be worth adjusting bedtime closer to 7pm. It can be a difficult situation to resolve, but can make a huge difference to your child’s overall sleep if each nap is at least 45 minutes or more.

Sleep walking Do you have any advice on sleep walking?

Between the ages of six and 16 sleep walking may occur up to 12 times per year in around 5 per cent of children. An additional 5-10 per cent of children may sleep walk one to two times per year. It has been suggested that boys are more likely to experience this sleep concern and that there is a genetic factor also. Typically, sleep walking, a partial arousal parasomnia disorder, will occur within the first one to three hours of going to sleep when the brain is entering a slow wave type sleep. Each episode may last for up to 20 minutes and mostly parents will be ineffective here until the situation has passed.

Parents should be encouraged not to intervene, as waking your child may potentially upset your child unnecessarily. Gently guide your child back to bed and remain with them until they have settled back to sleep.

Precautions for sleep walkers: < Keep the floor clear of toys or furniture that your child could stumble over < Ensure that windows and doors are locked and secure < Use a stair gate at the top of the landing < Don’t allow your child to sleep in the top bunk < Use an alert system like a bell hanging over their door to signal for the parents the child is on the move

QUICK GUIDE

1

How to…

TEACH YOUR BABY DAY VS NIGHT It’s common for babies to confuse day and night. There are a couple of ways to fix this, including being strict with naptimes.

Other strategies include taking the baby outside into the fresh air for at least an hour a day as sunlight is important to set babies’ body clocks. Then, make the night-time routine as unstimulating as possible. Finally, be patient: your baby will get it eventually!

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All about…

SLEEP WITH A NEWBORN Every parent finds life with a newborn exhausting. But there are ways to help: < Sleep when the baby sleeps. < Forget the housework – concentrate on your baby and sleeping < Take turns with your partner to get up at night with the baby. < Try to get an hour away from the baby by drafting in a close family member to mind him. < Keep everything you need for night-time feeds handy.

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Question WHEN SHOULD I STOP SWADDLING? You should stop swaddling your baby at around three months old. At this time, most babies born at full time have acclimatised to life outside the womb and no longer benefit from the constriction of swaddling. A baby at this age moves around a lot in the crib; this is important movement as it helps baby develop his gross motor development.

73 PROFESSIONAL HELP

Support & Advice Need some expert help and advice? Our directory of useful contacts will make sure you locate the right resource.

CHILDBIRTH, BREASTFEEDING & NEW MUM SUPPORT

Early Childhood Ireland,

One Family, Cherish House,

Hainault House, Belgard Square,

2 Lower Pembroke Street,

Tallaght, Dublin 24.

Dublin 2. Tel: 01 662 9212

Tel: (01) 405 7100

LoCall Info Line: 1890 662 212

HSE, Oak House, Millennium Park,

Email: info@earlychildhood.ie

Email: info@onefamily.ie

Naas, Co. Kildare. Tel: (045) 880400

Web: www.earlychildhood.ie

Web: www.onefamily.ie

Miscarriage Association of Ireland, Carmichael Centre, North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7.

Tel: (01) 873 5702 Email: info@miscarriage.ie Web: www.miscarriage.ie

LoCall: 1850 24 1850

DEPRESSION AND MENTAL HEALTH

OPEN – One Parent Exchange and Network, National Centre,

Cuidiú – Irish Childbirth Trust,

Aware 72 Lower Leeson Street,

Tel: (01) 814 8860

Irish Multiple Births Association,

Carmichael House, North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7.

Dublin 2. Tel: (01) 661 7211

Email: enquiries@oneparent.ie

LoCall Helpline: 1890 303 302

Web: www.oneparent.ie

Carmichael Centre, North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7.

Tel: (01) 872 4501

Email: info@aware.ie

Web: www.cuidiu-ict.ie

Web: www.aware.ie

Treoir 14 Gandon House,

Aware conducts support group meetings across the country.

Manned by trained volunteers, their Depression Helpline is a listening service that operates Monday to Friday, 10am to 10pm. Aware also provide an email support service.

Please visit their website for more information.

Custom House Square, International Financial Services Centre, IFSC, Dublin 1.

Information and advice resource for unmarried parents

Barnardos, Christchurch Square, Dublin 8. Callsave: 1850 222 300

lalecheleagueireland.com

Post Natal Depression Ireland,

Tel: (01) 453 0355

Web: www.lalecheleagueireland.com

Administration Building, Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Co. Cork.

MISCARRIAGE AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORT

Email: infoline1@hse.ie Web: www.hse.ie

Home Birth Association of Ireland, Tel: 087 164 0847, (0906) 405267 Email: enquiries@ homebirth.ie Web: www.homebirth.ie La Leche League of Ireland, Please refer to your local telephone directory. Email: leader@

CHILDCARE SERVICES The Childcare Directory Ltd, 98 Foxrock Avenue, Foxrock, Dublin 18.

Tel: (01) 201 6000

Tel: (01) 874 9056

Tel: (01) 670 0120 LoCall Info Line: 1890 252 084 Email: info@treoir.ie Web: www.treoir.ie

A Little Lifetime Foundation, 18 Orion Business Campus,

Email: support@pnd.ie

Rosemount Business Park,

Web: www.pnd.ie

Ballycoolin, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

Tel: (01) 882 9030 Email: info@alittlelifetime.ie

First Light- Irish Sudden Death Syndrome Association, Carmichael House, North Brunswick Street,

Tel: (01) 287 8466 Email: info@childminding.ie Web: www.childminding.ie

9 Bullford Business Campus, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow.

Web: www.imba.ie

SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AND PARENTS UNDER STRESS

Email: info@barnardos.ie

Childline, 24-hour Freephone Helpline: 1800 666 666 Text: ‘TALK’ to 50101 (2pm-10pm daily) Web: www.childline.ie

Web: www.alittlelifetime.ie

LONE PARENTS Doras Buí – A Parents Alone Resource Centre B unratty Drive, Coolock, Dublin 17 Tel: (01) 848 4811

Childminding Ireland,

Email: info@imba.ie

Web: www.barnardos.ie

(Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10am to 2pm)

Email: info@childcare.ie Web: www.childcare.ie

7 Red Cow Lane, Smithfield, Dublin 7.

Support Line: (021) 492 2083

Monthly support meetings are held on the last Tuesday of every month at Cork Maternity Hospital, Wilton, Cork.

MULTIPLE BIRTHS

Parentline, Carmichael House, North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7.

Dublin 7. Tel: (01) 873 2711

Tel: (01) 873 3500

LoCall Helpline: 1850 391 391

LoCall: 1890 927 277

Email: info@dorasbui.ie

Email: support@firstlight.ie

Email: info@parentline.ie

Web: www.dorasbui.ie

Web: www.firstlight.ie

Web: www.parentline.ie

74 COMPETITION

WIN! A PAMPER PACKAGE FOR MUMS-TO-BE AT

Congratulations to Kelly Mulcahy from Dublin, the winner of last issue’s competition!

KNOCKRANNY HOUSE HOTEL & SPA IN WESTPORT!

N

ew years and new arrivals are well worth celebrating!

Together with Knockranny House Hotel & Spa, we are delighted to give one mum-to-be the chance to win a luxurious two-night break for two people in the stunning Knockranny House Hotel & Spa in Westport. Enjoy two nights’ accommodation with breakfast each morning, a scrumptious afternoon tea and an indulgent Mama Mio treatment.

Rest and relaxation is paramount at Knockranny House Hotel & Spa. After a busy festive season, mums-to-be need to take time to relax, unwind and indulge in some much need TLC! Especially designed for expectant mothers, the lucky winner will be treated to a 30-minute Mamo Mio Lighten Up foot and lower leg treatment; using warm fragrant mineral salt, the rich Mama Mio foot soak energises the feet, reduces swelling and stimulates circulation – perfect for tired feet on the go all Christmas!

Acclaimed as one of Ireland’s finest destination facilities, Spa Salveo also offers a vitality spa pool, expansive thermal suite including a brine inhalation room, herbal sauna, scented steam room, monsoon shower and hydrotherapy body massage stations.

After your treatment and all that pampering, put your feet up and while away the afternoon in the cosy surroundings of Knockranny House Hotel & Spa over afternoon tea. With an unbeatable combination of great food, a fantastic location, the luxurious spa and some extraordinary comfortable bedrooms, they certainly don’t make it easy to leave Knockranny House Hotel & Spa! If you aren’t lucky enough to win on this occasion visit www.knockrannyhousehotel.ie for more information on the Mamo Mio treatments and overnight packages at Knockranny House Hotel.

HOW TO WIN To be in the draw for this amazing prize simply answer the following question correctly:

What is the name of the luxurious spa at Knockranny House Hotel & Spa? Email your answer and contact details to competitions@maternityandinfant.ie, with KNOCKRANNY in the subject line.

Or send a postcard with your answer and contact details, marked KNOCKRANNY, to maternity & infant, Ashville Media Group, Old Stone Building, Blackhall Green, Dublin 7.

Terms and Conditions: Prize includes 2 nights bed and breakfast with afternoon tea & a treatment for 2 people, plus access to the thermal suite, non-transferable, subject to availability. Closing date for all entries is 14 February 2016. Prize is non-transferable. Competition is not open to employees of Ashville Media Group or Knockranny House Hotel & Spa. No cash or gift card will be awarded in lieu of stated prize. If any of the items offered are unavailable or out of stock, a suitable alternative will be provided. Winner will be selected at random from a draw and will be contacted by phone. Competition entrants must be resident in the island of Ireland. One entry per person. Competition is also subject to all usual terms and conditions.

Knockranny House Hotel & Spa, Westport, Co. Mayo t: 098 28600 e:info@khh.ie Web: www.knockrannyhousehotel.ie

75 PRODUCT DIRECTORY

PRODUCT DIRECTORY THE BEST PRODUCTS AND SERVICES IN IRELAND AS VOTED, TESTED AND APPROVED BY PARENTS, FOR PARENTS.

76 CONTENTS

WELCOME 82

Best Potty Training Product Best Baby Swimming Product Best Organic Product Best Baby Thermometer

83

Best Baby/Kids Supplement Best Family Day Out sponsored by Select Hotels

Best Family Friendly Restaurant Best Family Supermarket

84

W

elcome to your ultimate guide to the best products and services for pregnancy and parenting. All the products contained in this supplement are proud finalists and winners in the Boots maternity & infant Awards 2015, and have been tested rigorously by parents, for parents. We began our search for the best products by asking the public to vote for their favourite products. The products that gained the most votes were shortlisted and then the testing began! Smaller products like baby wipes, and nappies were sent to the homes of over 170 parents. Each household was assigned a category, for example Best Baby Wipes, and were sent all five shortlisted products to test and compare over five weeks. The parents then filled out a feedback form and rated their favourites. To test bigger items like travel system and cots, we invited over 50 parents to get together and test and rate the products. The parents fully inspected each product and filled out a feedback form, rating their favourites.

Throughout the testing period, the public vote continued online for all the shortlisted products and services. The winning products received the highest overall parent’s score and votes. As you can see, a lot of work went into finding our winners, so you can be sure that the products included in this guide are truly the best of the best!

77

Best Baby Store Best Car Seat

sponsored by Johnson’s

Best Baby Bag Best Buggy

78

Best Parent & Baby Activity Best Travel Gadget Best Travel System Best Baby Monitor

79

Best Safety Product Best Cot Best Baby/Toddler Toy Best Nursery Product

80

Best Baby Wipes Best Bathtime Product Best Pain Relief for Kids Best Nappy

81

Best for Baby Colic Best Baby Skincare Best Trendy Tots Brand Best Sleep Product

Innovative Product of the Year Best Family Brand Best Family Car Best Family/Kids App

85 Best Family Hotel/Holiday Destination Best Family Cookbook Best Parenting Blog

86

Best Maternity Wear Best Maternity Product Best Maternity Skincare Best Pregnancy Supplement

87

Best Feeding Product Best Breastfeeding Product Best Steriliser Best Baby Food

77 OUT & ABOUT

Best Baby Store

Best Car Seat

Best Baby Bag

Best Buggy

sponsored by Johnson’s

Pink Lining Yummy Mummy Bag Price: €94.95

iCandy Peach 3 Blossom Price: €1,026

“I couldn’t fault the bag, it was a clear winner for me. It’s stylish and practical and has loads of space without it looking like I’m carrying around luggage. The changing mat you get with it is so soft and super handy. A definite buy for me!”

“The Peach 3 Blossom is so well designed and stylish!

The quality is outstanding and it’s quite user friendly.

There is a generous amount of space for my baby to lie in without me feeling like she will move around much. The fasteners are secure.”

Mothercare Nationwide

Maxi-Cosi CabrioFix & EasyFix Base Price: €290

“Voting for Mothercare was a no-brainer for me. It’s the first store I visited when I became pregnant and I still shop there three babies later. The staff are just so helpful and there’s never any problems with finding what I need.”

“Maxi Cosi is known for its safety features so when I became pregnant, it wasn’t a surprise when I got many recommendations to buy the CabrioFix with the EasyFix Base. I can safely say, I wasn’t at all misled! It gives peace of mind as well as looking stylish.”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Bella Baby Cork, Dublin, Galway & Kildare

Baby Elegance Group 0,1,2 Car Seat Price: €100

Ruby and GINGER Mini Changing Bag Price: €29.99

Out n’ About Single Little Nipper Price: €415

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Baby Elegance Dundrum, Blanchardstown & Arnotts

Kiddy Evo-lunafix Price: €459

Pacapod Idaho Baby Bag Price: €105

Quinny Zapp Xtra² Price: €325

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Cherish Me Earthwise Trading

Maxi-Cosi Axiss The BeSafe iZi Go Infant Carrier

iCandy Emilia Bag

Mothercare Nanu Mountain Buggy Urban Jungle: The Luxury Collection

78 OUT & ABOUT/NURSERY ACCESSORIES

Best Parent & Baby Activity

Best Travel Gadget

Best Travel System

Best Baby Monitor

Giddy Pottery Painting Studio Dundrum Town Centre

Baby Elegance Pram Hook Price: €5

Baby Elegance Beep Twist Price: €459

BT Digital Baby Monitor 350 Lightshow Price: €89.99

“This was my first time bringing my son to paint and we all had a great time!

For being able to work on a piece and bring it home, it’s great value and they have loads of types of activities to try. I have already been telling my friends about the experience.”

“You wouldn’t think something so small would become so useful. The space underneath a buggy is sufficient but sometimes you just need that extra space to carry your bags and the pram hook is perfect for that. I love the price too!”

“10 out of 10 for quality, style and safety. I feel like I’m really getting value for money here.

For any new mums, I would recommend this straightaway as it covers everything you need in one go.”

“I found this to be incredible value for what you get. I was comforted knowing I could hear everything quite clearly.

The little added features like the projected stars are a really nice touch. Created a peaceful enviroment that put my mind at ease – something I deeply need!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Harmony Yoga Baby Yoga Classes South Dublin

SnoozeShade Plus Deluxe Edition Price: €39.99

iCandy Peach 3 Blossom Price: €1,026

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Video & Sensor Mat Monitor Price: €269.95

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Water Babies Baby Swimming Classes Nationwide

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Travel Bottle and Food Warmer Price: €15.95

Mothercare Roam Price: €310

Motorola MBP853 Connect Price: €239.99

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Funky Monkeys Soft Play Cafe Dundrum Turtle Tots Baby Swimming Class

Oasis Disposable Steriliser Bags Ruby and GINGER Cosy Car Seat Cover

Greentom Upp iCandy Raspberry

BT Video Baby Monitor 7500 Lightshow Philips Avent Sensitive Eco Dect Baby Monitor

79 NURSERY ACCESSORIES

Best Safety Product Munchkin White Hot Duck Inflatable Bath Price: €17.99

Best Cot Stokke Home Price: From €229

Best Baby/ Toddler Toy

Best Nursery Product

Mothercare ELC Lights & Sounds Walker Price: €55.99

Mothercare Premium Spring Interior Cot Bed Mattress Price: €139

“This is an excellent walker! Very bright & visually appealing. I liked how the wheels on this walker had good resistance and stopped it running away from her as she learnt to walk. None of the pieces could go in her mouth, which is a bonus for us as she puts EVERYTHING into her mouth!”

“There is an abundance of choices when it comes to buying a mattress for your cot and I put a lot of research into what I wanted for my baby. The Mothercare Spring Interior mattress provided a soft, safe and easy-breathing space for my little one.”

“This is by far my favourite product for my little one.

I can stick it in the bath or bring it with me and my baby never slips and slides around when I need to wash him. It’s a visually appealing product and brings a bit of fun to bath time as well. An added bonus!”

“Gorgeous and practical!

I like how we can get creative with the cot and add our own personal touches to make it more homely. It’s sturdy and a great size. You’ll get a long time out of this!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Maxi-Cosi AxissFix Price: €399.99

Chicco Next2Me Price: €210

Bigjigs Toys Red Bus Sorter Price: €28.95

Prince Lionheart Slumber Bear Premium Price: €49.99

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Digital Thermometer Price: €44.95

Baby Elegance Laba Cot Price: €199

Bábógbaby BB Bear Price: €39.99

BT Digital Baby Monitor 350 Lightshow Price: €89.99

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Boots Baby Walking Reins & Harness Dentinox Medicine Dispenser Dummy

Bigjigs Toys Click Blocks Intermediate Le Toy Van Woody Woodland Book

Bigjigs Toys Red Bus Sorter Motorola MBP853 Connect

80 BABY CARE

Best Baby Wipes

Best Bathtime Product

Best Pain Relief for Kids

Best Nappy Range

Pampers Sensitive Wipes Price: €3.49

Elave Sensitive Baby Bath Price: €9.99

Calpol Infant Sugar Free Price: €3.50

Lidl Toujours Midi Nappies Price: €5.79

“Lovely cloth feel, one wipe out at a time, lovely moisture per wipe and you’re not fearing the wipe tearing mid newborn nappy change. My hyper sensitive skin clan at home had no problems or reactions.

Very impressive and highly recommended from my stand point.”

“Used it on both myself during pregnancy and on my two younger children.

This was the only product that didn’t irritate my skin in pregnancy and help keep the kids’ skin soft and smooth. Comparing to other similar products, it’s definitely worth the price.”

“My baby has just started teething and Calpol works wonders, soothing any pain as well as taking down any temperatures. There’s no struggle getting him to take it due to the sweet flavour.

It’s the only paracetamolbased medicine that I’ll use. “

“Quick to put on and fits snugly to the baby’s bum, it is also a very attractive nappy to the user. Overall it’s a very good nappy both for day and nighttime use, stood up well on my toddler who is constantly on the move! No hesitation to recommend to anyone, stands up to other brands on all accounts.”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Aldi Mamia Sensitive Baby Wipes Price: €0.95

Johnson’s Baby Top-To-Toe Bath Price: €4.29

Snuffle Babe Vapour Rub Price: €5.20

Aldi Mamia Newborn Nappies Price: €2.29

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Johnson’s Baby Extra Sensitive Wipes Price: €2.99

Dentinox Cradle Cap Shampoo Price: €5.94

Infacol Price: €5.79

Pampers Active Fit Nappies Price: From €8.19

FINALISTS Boots Baby Sensitive Wipes Huggies Pure Wipes

FINALISTS Boots Baby Sensitive Moisturising Head to Toe Wash Philips Avent Bath & Room Thermometer

FINALISTS Baby-Vac Nasal Aspirator

FINALISTS Boots Baby Active Stretch Carry Pack Nappies Wonderoos V3 Reusable Nappy

81 BABY CARE

Best for Baby Colic

Best Baby Skincare

Best Trendy Tots Brand

Best Sleep Product

Infacol Price: €5.79

Sudocrem Price: €5.50

H&M Childrenswear Nationwide

Johnson’s Baby Bedtime Bath Price: €3.75

“After six long weeks of trying and testing products for colic, I switched to Infacol and finally saw a difference.

She began to sleep well and was less stressed and irritable. We now have a settled and happy baby!”

“Sudocrem is a good quality, thick cream and worked well to heal nappy rash. With a great value, this product is must for every household. Great to have in the press for all the family. But what I loved most about Sudocrem was its overall quality. It was sensitive to my baby’s skin while still doing its job.”

“I find H&M children’s clothes true to size, they wash very well, stay in shape and don’t fade. I find myself going in and buying her whole holiday warbrobe in one go without having to break the bank.”

“Johnson’s Baby is part of my sleep routine with my baby. I just adore its lavender smell and I find the smell is perfect for helping my baby sooth into sleep. It also leaves my baby’s skin so soft and I find myself using it myself!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Colief Infant Drops Price: €12.25

Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment Price: €5.19

Jools Oliver Little Bird Collection Exclusively in Mothercare

Prince Lionheart Slumber Bear Premium Price: €49.99

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Philips Avent Classic+ Anti Colic Bottle Price: €14.99

Johnson’s Baby Top-To-Toe Bath Price: €4.29

Frugi Scrumptious Organic Clothes Arnotts Dublin

Mothercare Premium Spring Interior Cot Bed Mattress Price: €139

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Bio-Kult Infantis Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Advanced Colic Bottles

Bia Beauty Baby Cream Dentinox Cradle Cap Shampoo

Splash About’s Holiday Shop

SnoozeShade Plus Deluxe Edition

82 BABY CARE

Best Swimming Product

Best Organic Product

Best Baby Thermometer

Splash About Happy Nappy Wetsuit Price: €32.45

Heavenly Tasty Organics Coconut Squishies Range Price: €1.09

Boots Pharmaceuticals Non Contact Thermometer Price: €49.99

“Very child-friendly packaging and design.

My son loved the large characters on the pull-up and was excited to wear them. It’s easy to pull up and no catching. It’s a brilliant idea that the design on the pull-ups disappears when it’s wet.”

“What I I liked most about the Happy Nappy Wetsuit is the quality. The material felt so soft and was well made.

The fitting is excellent and seems to fit all shapes. We used it in the pool, the sea on holidays and in the paddling pool and it never lost its quality. It’s an outstanding product that I would highly recommend.”

“Heavenly Tasty Organics Coconut Squishies make life easy for parents. It’s the perfect size for popping into your bag. I was very pleased with the quality of wholesome, pure and healthy ingredients. The children absolutely loved them and couldn’t wait to have more.”

“This product is a downright must-have. I can take quick, accurate readings of my baby without disturbing her sleep or making her uncomfortable. I love how it stores her last 50 readings so I can keep account of her temperatue. Great value!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SuperValu Fragranced Flushable Toddler Toilet Wipes Price: €1.05

Turtle Tots Re-usable Swim Nappy Price: €13.95

Aldi Junior’s Mini Rice Cakes Price: €0.89

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Digital Thermometer Price: €44.95

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Pampers Easy Up Price: €8.99

Huggies Little Swimmers Price: €8.79

SuperValu Kiddies Organics Fruit Pots Range Price: €2

Philips Avent Bath & Room Thermometer Price: €22.99

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Lidl’s Toujours Quick Pants Junior Big

The Splash About Happy Nappy

Quinola Mothergrain Baby SuperValu Kiddies Organics Baby Raisins

Visio Focus Thermometer

Best Potty Training Product Huggies Pull-Ups Price: €7.49

83 BABY CARE/FOR THE FAMILY

Best Baby/Kids Supplement

Best Family Day Out

Best Family Friendly Restaurant

Best Family Supermarket

Boots Pharmaceuticals Baby & Toddler Multivitamin Syrup 6 months+ Price: €4.99

sponsored by Select Hotels

“I started introducing multivitamins when my daughter was 12 months old. She’s been taking them for a year now. I love that it’s high in nutrients and she also loves the taste!”

“This is a treasure in Meath! We spent the whole day there, getting in as many activities as we could and had a blast! The staff were exceptional and more than helpful. Both adults and children can take part and we loved the interactive learning along the way.”

“I went for a meal with my family and I will most certainly be returning.

They catered so well for my two children, I couldn’t fault a thing and was very impressed. The food was yummy and service was friendly. A gem in Waterford!”

“The main reason why I voted for Aldi is because of its great value for money. I try and shop as inexpensively as possible but this is hard to do with a large family. Aldi provide me with great quality products at a price I’m happy to pay.”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Natures Aid Mini Drops Price: €8.70

Dublin Zoo Price: From €12

Milano Nationwide

Supervalu Nationwide

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BetterYou DLux Infant Daily Vitamin D Oral Spray Price: €8.60

Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park Price: From €16.50

Luigi Malones Dublin & Cork

Lidl Nationwide

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Optibac Probiotics For Babies and Children Vivioptal Junior

Imaginosity Dublin Children’s Museum Powerscourt Gardens & Waterfall

Relish Café TGI Friday’s

Tayto Park Price: From €12

No.9 Barronstrand St. Co. Waterford

Aldi Nationwide

84 FOR THE FAMILY

Innovative Product of the Year Maxi-Cosi AxissFix Price: €399 “Having a two-door car can be a bit awkward and annoying with a car seat.

We bought the AxissFix because the rotation means I can position my little one from the front and swivel him rear facing. It’s really easy to use and he nods off easily with the recline function.”

Best Family Brand

Best Family Car

Best Family/ Kids App

SuperValu Nationwide

Toyota RAV4 Price: €29,350

BabyDoc Price: Free

“Although people may be wary about store-own brands, with SuperValu, I know I’m getting quality and a great price. I pick up everything from baby wipes to baby food and never once has the quality been below standard. It’s a brand I can rely on time and time again to deliver.”

“The Toyota RAV4 has gone up considerably in my estimation. It provides my family with ample space but it’s not too big for tight carparks. I also found it cheap to run for an SUV! It’s definitly a car that my family can grow into.”

“This is a genius app that has saved me money! It saved me having to shop around for the best deals and it kept me up-to-date with the latest store offers.

It’s easy to use and I’ve made it a point to check it whenever I go shopping.

Highly recommended!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Perfect Prep Price: €169.95

Aldi Nationwide

Renault Scenic Price: €23,290

Cúlacaint3 Price: Free

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Pip & Pear Chilled Baby Food Price: From €1.89

Johnson and Johnson Supermarkets and Pharmacies Nationwide

Volvo XC90 Price: €70,950

Last Minute Minders Price: Free

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Baby-Vac Nasal Aspirator CogniKids GRIP

iCandy World Limited Tommee Tippee

Ford Focus Nissan X-Trail

ChildDiary SuperHands

85 FOR THE FAMILY

THANKS YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Best Family Hotel/Holiday Destination Westport House & Pirate Adventure Park Co. Mayo “The first thing that struck me was the atmosphere!

Families of all ages were mixing together and there was a great amount of activites to choose from.

The bell tent was cosy, comfortable and a real treat!

Our overall experience was outstanding!”

Best Family Cookbook

Best Parenting Blog

Neven Maguire’s Complete Baby & Toddler Cookbook Price: €18.99

One Yummy Mummy www.oneyummymummy. com

“This book offered a great selection of easy to make recipes from breakfast to family events. I especially like the introduction to each recipe as it gave you ideas on what to do with leftovers or where the recipe came from. The book also offers wonderful family values.”

“I just love Jolene’s blog!

It’s informative without being too heavy and Jolene’s personality jumps off the screen. She has a wholesome approach to her food and budget that’s a great comfort to me.”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Dingle Skellig Hotel Co. Kerry

Food for Friends

by Edward Hayden Price: €22.99

My Little Babog www.mylittlebabog.com

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Slieve Russell Hotel, Golf & Country Club Co. Cavan

Bread on the Table : Baking Traditions for Today

by Valerie O’Connor Price: €19.99

Office Mum www.officemum.ie

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Cork International Hotel Diamond Coast Hotel

No Bake Baking by Sharon HearneSmith

FINALISTS Chirps from a Little Red Hen; Dairy Free Kids; Dr. How’s Science Wows; Glitter Mama Wishes; Hey Ali; Lady Nicci; Learner Mama; Stuff and Nothing; The Clothes Line; The Mamma Fairy; Where Wishes Come From

86 FOR MUM

Best Maternity Wear

Best Maternity Product

Best Maternity Skincare

Mothercare Blooming Marvellous Nationwide

Bio-Oil Price: €19.99

L’Oréal Paris Laser Renew Day & Night Moisturiser Price: €29.99

“I was disappointed with the lack of styles and options for pregnant women when I was first pregnant. This, however, wasn’t the case with the Blooming Marvellous range.

It offered beautiful pieces that felt stylish but above all, comfortable. I was able to buy key pieces that lasted me in every trimester.”

“I’ve been using Bio Oil for years. It’s very good and it doesn’t feel oily on the skin for too long.

My skin felt very soft and hydrated after using it.

Would highly recommend to anyone. Especially any mums with section scars.”

“Would highly recommend to my friends and family.

My skin felt smooth, moisturised and this feeling lasted throughout the day and night. My skin was glowing. The smell from it is gorgeous. It’s everything I’m looking for in a cream.”

Best Pregnancy Supplement Pregnacare Plus Price: €18.99 “What I love about Pregnacare Plus is that it’s gentle on the tummy and is rich in vitamins.

I took one a day right up until labour and felt it had a great impact on my energy. It’s certainly something I’d recommend!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

Tiffany Rose www.tiffanyrose.com

Bumps ’n’ Babies Chloe Nursing Top Price: €32.99

Palmers Skin Therapy Oil Spray Price: €10.99

Boots Pharmaceuticals Pregnancy Support Plus Price: €16.99

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Seraphine www.seraphine.com/ie

BetterYou DLuxPregnancy Daily Vitamin D Oral Spray Price: €11.80

Bia Beauty Skincare Price: €12.95

Optibac Probiotics Price: €29.45

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Frugi

Bio Oil Lidl Cien Bodylotion

FINALISTS BetterYou DLuxPregnancy Daily Vitamin D Oral Spray Elmtree Organics Morning Bright Organic Tea

87 FEEDING

Best Feeding Product Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Feeding Bottles Price: €31.49

Best Breastfeeding Product Boots Ultra Slim Breast Pads Price: From €3.99

Best Sterliser Philips Avent Microwave Steam Steriliser Price: €37

Best Baby Food Pip & Pear Chilled Baby Food Price: From €1.89

“These are the handiest things to pick up when you’re breastfeeding.

They’re discreet and prevent any little leakages!

I put mine into the fridge to have that extra soothing effect, which is a godsend when you breastfeed!”

“Steam is the way to go with sterilisers. It’s easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space in my kitchen and is practical to store away. It sterilises quickly, which I love as I’m constantly on the go!”

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

SILVER

MAM Anti-Colic Bottles Price: €26.99

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Electric Breast Pump Price: €139.99

Boots Baby 2-in-1 Combination Steriliser Price: €24.99

Aldi Mamia Pouches Price: €0.79

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

BRONZE

Mummycooks Babypotz Mixed Starter Set of 50 Pots and Lids Price: €21.99

MAM Breastfeeding Set Price: €107

Tommee Tippee Electric Steam Steriliser Price: €59.99

SuperValu Fruit Pouch Range Price: €0.79

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

CogniKids GRIP

Dentinox Nipple Cream Philips Avent Natural Electric Breast Pump

Oasis Disposable Steriliser Bags

Heavenly Tasty Organics’ Coconut Squishies Range Quinola Mothergrain Baby

“The teats are as close as you’d get to a breast so when I moved from breastfeeding to bottle feeding, it was a smooth transition. They’re a great size as well to be able to pop into my bag and easy to hold.”

“Great value for a quick convenient baby meal, I didn’t feel like I was cheating giving my little ones these instead of homemade because it’s as good as homemade. Great selection of flavours and the little ones devoured everything!”

88 BLOG WE LOG

RED IS THE COLOUR OF

TRUE LOVE I’m JOLENE, and my blog One Yummy Mummy, which covers family food recipes and parenting adventures, won the Best Parenting Blog Award at this year’s maternity & infant Awards.

Here I talk about my daughter’s beautiful red hair…

O

n the 4th of the 10th 2013, something pretty unexpected happened: I gave birth – to a “RED HEAD”.

Proud Daddy was preparing the announcement text (it’s the daddy’s job isn’t it?), which stated the weight of our bundle, how mother and baby were doing, and how baby had a “big head of red hair”. He read it out to me. Feeling a bit woozy, I asked “can we put ‘red hair’? What is politically correct?” We were wrecked after a long day and announced that our baby had “BLONDE hair”. Big pang of guilt at this memory.

When we got home, the visitors began arriving to get a snuggle and a sniff of the bambino. What was the hot topic of conversation? HAIR. “So where does she get the strawberry blonde hair from?” (note: I hate ‘strawberry blonde’ it’s so wishy washy…) I’m not sure, I’d reply…

Without going into the history of the Celts, I’d say maybe it’s a great grandparent, maybe it’s her dad’s red beard…?

A throwback gene they’d say...

Ah but she is beautiful. At least she can carry it off, they would say.

Fast forward four months and a “friend” says: “Don’t worry, it’s turning blonde”. At this point I didn’t want anything to change in my life, let alone my baby’s red hair. Then there was the bullying question. “Would you not be afraid of bullying?”

I thought long and hard about that one. Why would a child be bullied? The reason a child may be bullied is because they might stand out from the rest. But is that not an outdated view? An old Ireland of the Eighties? A red head may be a bit different, but the Ireland of today embraces difference.

We live in a society full of colour! As a nation we voted yes to equality, so that includes all the colours of the rainbow.

I think my little flame will be just fine...

At one year old, someone said “she’s very fiery, that must be the hair!” I answered “she’s one; they’re all fiery at that age!”

At 18 months, a new craze made sure we all “let it go”. Thanks to Frozen, every girl wanted to be Elsa or Anna – and Anna has red hair, which means kids are wearing red-haired wigs to copy her…

Talk about perfect timing!!

I notice amazing fellowship between red heads. They have an unwritten connection that us boring haired people don’t get. The joke’s on us, you know. Standing out is something to be proud of, and every red head knows it, including my one and a half year old...

My daughter is now two and her hair is still a gorgeous red. Fact is, every child has something special about them. I’ve chatted to other mums and some have honestly told me that they have been genuinely upset by a child’s hair having a ginger tone – but what some people see as a negative could not be more positive. We were out having a stroll with friend’s daughter who is six years old. Two ladies were walking towards us, and the six year old said to me before they approached “they’re going to say she has beautiful hair, I know it!” Guess what, they did.

The little six year old then turned to me and said “I’d just love to have red hair...”

In the famous words of Charlie Brown: “love is that little girl with red hair”.

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FLU VACCINE INFORMATION FOR PREGNANT WOMEN

BE SURE. BE SAFE. VACCINATE. Now that you are pregnant it is important that you protect yourself and your baby from influenza (flu). Vaccination is the only way to protect you and your baby from flu and its complications.

Why do pregnant women need to get seasonal flu vaccine?

Seasonal flu is a highly infectious viral illness of the respiratory tract that can be life threatening for those in at risk groups including pregnant women. Pregnant women need to get seasonal flu vaccine as they are at higher risk of serious complications from flu. Flu vaccine protects pregnant women during pregnancy and provides ongoing protection to their newborn baby during the first few months of life.

THE VACCINE CAN BE GIVEN AT ANY STAGE OF PREGNANCY. What is the seasonal (annual) flu vaccine?

Each year the seasonal (annual) flu vaccine contains three common flu virus strains. The flu virus changes each year this is why a new flu vaccine has to be given each year.

How does seasonal flu vaccine work?

Seasonal flu vaccine helps your immune system to produce antibodies to the flu virus. When someone who has been vaccinated comes into contact with the virus these antibodies attack the virus.

Is it safe for pregnant women to be vaccinated?

Yes. The vaccine is safe for pregnant women. Seasonal flu vaccines have been given for more than 60 years. Reactions are generally mild and serious side effects are very rare. Seasonal flu vaccine has been recommended for several years for all pregnant women in the USA. Will my baby be protected if I am vaccinated?

Yes. Vaccination during pregnancy will protect your baby and also helps prevent you getting flu and passing it on to your baby.

Who should NOT get seasonal flu vaccine?

The vaccine should not be given to • those with a history of severe allergic (anaphylaxis) reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or any of its constituents.

What about pregnant women with egg allergy?

Pregnant women with egg allergy can get seasonal flu vaccine.

This may be given by your GP or you may need referral to a hospital specialist.

When should vaccination be postponed?

There are very few reasons why vaccination should be postponed. Vaccination should be re-scheduled if you have an acute illness with a temperature greater than 38°C.

FLU IS ONE THING YOU DON’T WANT TO SHARE WITH YOUR BABY. Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?

No. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu because it does not contain any live viruses.

How long does it take the vaccine to work?

The vaccine starts to work within two weeks.

What can I expect after vaccination?

The most common side effects will be mild and may include soreness, redness or swelling where the injection was given.

Headache, fever, aches and tiredness may occur. Some people may have mild sweating and shivering as their immune system responds to the vaccine, but this is not flu and will pass after a day or so.

What if I don’t feel well after vaccination?

If you have a temperature after the vaccine, take paracetamol, as it is safe in pregnancy, and it’s important for you and your baby to avoid fever. Do not take ibuprofen or aspirin (unless advised by your obstetrician). Remember if you are unwell after getting a vaccine, it could be for some other reasons - don’t assume it’s the flu vaccine and seek medical advice if needed.

When should I get the flu vaccine?

You should get the flu vaccine as early as possible in your pregnancy. The flu season usually occurs between September and April so if you become pregnant during this time you should get the vaccine.

How do I get vaccinated?

Flu vaccination is available from your GP or Pharmacist. If you have a ‘Medical Card’ or ‘Doctor Only Card’ the vaccine and consultation are free.

If you do not have a ‘Medical Card’ or ‘Doctor Only Card’ you will be charged a consultation fee for seasonal flu vaccine.

PLEASE MAKE AN APPOINTMENT NOW. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.IMMUNISATION.IE

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Generations of soothing, healing & protecting.

For the science bit go to

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Always read the label carefully.

FADGP-129-01. Date of preparation: July 2015.

2015

NATIONAL

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