Pregnancy BUMP&baby issue 17

ferro-care pregnancy ®

multivitamin Formulated to support your baby’s development through all stages of pregnancy

Pre-conception

Pregnancy

Breastfeeding

ONE-A-DAY Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Vitamins and minerals are supplementary to a balanced diet.

AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Auckland. TAPS PP1862

Your kids need your help to make their rooms as safe as possible.

Get it done with the simple steps above.

Visit eqc.govt.nz/be-prepared to prepare your home and protect your whānau.

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every issue 8 EDITOR’S LETTER

50 bump +baby

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42 RIDDLE ME THIS How body modifications could impact your pregnancy

Remember to relax

10 PARENTAL GUIDANCE

sleep saviours

health+ wellness

44 A RA SH DECISION

22 FEELING FLOORED

32 FINDING YOUR CALM

14 COVER BUMP

How to activate and strengthen your pelvic floor

Techniques to relax your body and mind

Our cover māmā Jess shares pregnancy insights

26 GETTING ON YOUR NERVES

34 BATHING BEAUT Y

Tips to relieve sciatica

Pregnancy bath essentials

28 PRESS SNOOZE

36 GOOD VIBES ONLY

News, views and products we love

19 ONLINE ANTENATAL COURSE Take our in-depth course at home

125 RESOURCES Birthing bag, checklist, and support services

Seven steps for a restful slumber COVER | Cover māmā: Jess Quinn @‌jessicaemilyquinn (Instagram/TikTok/Facebook) Photography: Anupam Singh @‌annupam Hair and Makeup: Luisa Petch @‌glamsquadnz, glamsquad.co.nz Stylist: Laura Snelling @‌ljsstudios Clothing: ASOS @‌asos, asos.com Jewellery: Stylist’s own

30 NURTURE WITH NUTRITION Essential foods for pregnancy

Colourful, nourishing recipes

PUPPP explained

46 NAVIGATING A TRISOMY DIAGNOSIS What does it mean for your baby’s future?

49 WIN A PĒPI PACK Send in a picture of your baby bump and be in to win a $700 pēpi pack thanks to Chicco and Isoki

50 GROW AND GLOW Kiwi women share how pregnancy empowered them Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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life+ relationships 56 WHAT’S YOUR POSITION

delicious & nutritious!

36

Sex during pregnancy

nursery+ labour+ equipment birth

58 CELEBRATING DIFFERENCE Parenting with adaptation and innovation

60 SHARE THE LOVE Our fave Kiwi content creators

62 A MISSING PIECE

70 NURSERY NOOK

shop from home 20 SUBSCRIBE TO BUMP&BABY And enjoy a BUMP&baby Box full of goodies

Being a mum without your own mum

123 DIRECTORY

66 KEEP THIS IN MIND

Some of our favourite businesses to support

Maintaining your pre-baby friendships and finding new ones

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72 NURSERY DOS AND DON’TS

84 L ABOUR DAY The signs and stages of labour

74 PUSHING IT

86 THE POWER OF ONE

Take our fun pram quiz!

Car seat considerations

72

Different baby birthing positions

Creating a stylish and safe space

78 FEELING SECURE

How to be a mindful parent from day one

68 WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS

Special stories for small people

82 THE UPS AND DOWNS OF BIRTH

80 LEAK AGE, RA SHES, ALLERGIES, OH MY! Common nappy problems solved

clean air, baby!

Capturing three very special birthdays

newborn+ postpartum 92 GUT FEELING Postpartum tummy issues

106 A MOTHER’S LOVE

94 MILK IT!

Insights from humanitarian photographer Helen Manson

Your ultimate guide to expressing

112 OUCHIE!

99 A SORE POINT

Ways to manage and heal your birthing wounds

The new mastitis guidelines

102 SETTLE DOWN! Expert tips for how to soothe a newborn

20 win me!

114 BATTLE SCARS Best buys to reduce your postpartum scars

116 RAY OF SUNSHINE Look after your baby’s skin this summer

118 SLIP, SLOP, SL AP Sun protection essentials

120 EYE SPY Explaining your baby’s unique eye colour

122 FILL ME IN Baby book motivation

130 CAN YOU HACK IT? 10 must-know mum hacks

Saving your baby’s cord blood could save your baby’s life.

It takes just a few minutes to collect umbilical cord blood from your newborn baby. Saving the stem cells from this blood can give your child the chance to recover from many serious illnesses and conditions – now and into adulthood.

It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Here in New Zealand, we have our own world class cord blood storage facility at CordBank. Only CordBank collects and stores your baby’s cord blood right here in New Zealand. They’re 100% New Zealand owned and operated, and they deal exclusively with cord blood – the world’s most proven source of stem cells. And because your child’s cord blood stem cells are stored here, they’re close at hand and protected by New Zealand law.

To learn more about the lifesaving value of cord blood stem cells go to cordbank.co.nz or phone 0800 CORDBANK.

cordbank.co.nz

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PREGNANCY BUMP&baby IS AVAILABLE FROM SELECTED RETAILERS OR VISIT BUMPANDBABY.CO.NZ TO SUBSCRIBE. PUBLISHERS / Tony and Aana Marinovich tony@bumpandbaby.co.nz aana@bumpandbaby.co.nz EDITOR / Charlotte Cowan editor@bumpandbaby.co.nz ART DIRECTOR / Emma Henderson design@bumpandbaby.co.nz DIGITAL EDITOR / Maraya Robinson SUBEDITOR / Katherine Granich ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tony Marinovich tony@bumpandbaby.co.nz DIGITAL ENQUIRIES digital@bumpandbaby.co.nz social@bumpandbaby.co.nz

PREGNANCY BUMP&baby PUBLISHED BY TOTS TO TEENS PO Box 70, Kumeu Auckland 0841, New Zealand or The Media Barn 91 Moontide Road, RD2 Kumeu Auckland 0892, New Zealand T: +64 9 412 5123 JOIN US ONLINE! bumpandbaby.co.nz facebook.com/bumpandbabynz pinterest.com/bumpbabynz instagram.com/bumpandbabymagazine tiktok@bumpandbabymagazine PRINTER / Webstar Pregnancy BUMP&baby ISSN 2463-283X is published bi-annually (2 issues per year) The opinions expressed and statements made in Pregnancy BUMP&baby are those of the contributors and advertisers and do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers. Pregnancy BUMP&baby, on behalf of itself and the authors, asserts copyright on all original material appearing in Pregnancy BUMP&baby and none of it shall be reproduced wholly or in part without the prior written consent of the publishers. The publishers reserve all rights in respect of all material received and accepted for publication. Pregnancy BUMP&baby reserves the right to edit or abridge all articles, letters, or other material (solicited or otherwise) accepted for publication. While every care has been taken in the research and compilation of this publication, it is not intended to replace professional or medical advice. To the best knowledge of Pregnancy BUMP&baby, all information herein is correct at the time of publication. Please contact your healthcare provider in the first instance for medical assistance and advice. Prices on products are a guide only and may differ from stockist to stockist.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOIRA MEIRING OF WILD LITTLE HEARTS.

Want to learn more about pregnancy in your own environment?

The Introduction to Antenatal Online Course, in association with Nest Pregnancy and Parenting, is available at bumpandbaby.co.nz or by scanning this QR code. Turn to pg 19 for more info.

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Pregnancy and relaxation are not typically two terms that are used in the same sentence.

You might spend a lot of the 40 weeks feeling anxious – anxious about the baby, anxious about your body changes, anxious about birth, anxious about being a first-time mama.

And it’s pretty much guaranteed that you will spend the final trimester feeling uncomfortable – struggling to sleep, struggling to walk, stand or sit without pain, struggling to put your shoes on, struggling to muster the energy to get dressed.

And if you have extra kids in tow, everything is amplified tenfold. Want to sit down for two seconds? Oh, no, you have school pickup, dance practice, and piano lessons to get to!

I experienced pretty much all of the above with both my pregnancies. For most people, it’s definitely not how it looks on TV, with the easy-breezy glowing mums in their PE gear going for a morning run at 37 weeks (there are some lucky exceptions, of course!).

I started both my pregnancies thinking I was going to buy the cutest outfits, continue to wear my heels, and be a super-stylish mum. What happened? I bought a stretchy skirt from Kmart and a giant T-shirt and waddled around in them 24/7. I know a lot of you are nodding along to this. And trust me, it’s okay.

Pregnancy is hard on your body, your mind, and your wardrobe, but there are a few simple daily ways to make it a little easier.

From getting some sleep (page 28), to relief from pregnancy pain (page 26), or some relaxation tips to fit into your daily routine (page 32). And if all else fails, there’s always a nice warm bath to hop into when it all gets too much (page 34).

Don’t forget that you are growing a whole human all by yourself – that is no easy feat! So it’s important to look after yourself.

Take a moment and pop your feet up. All those chores (and those kids) can wait for a few minutes more!

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Soft and gentle on baby’s skin

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Water Wipes PMS: 7683 @silknz @nzsilk

*According to independent testing under controlled aerobic composting conditions. Rate of degradation in landfill may vary.

Kūmara research offers hope for sleep-deprived parents A new Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland trial is exploring whether kūmara acts as a prebiotic, fostering healthy bacteria in baby’s microbiome, and supporting immune development and sleep.

According to Professor Clare Wall, principal investigator in the study, there has been a lot of research showing that breastfeeding supports the development of the baby’s microbiome, which refers to the microorganisms that grow in and on the body, with the largest concentration found in the large bowel. “When a baby’s being breastfed, they have certain types of bacteria that keep the bowel healthy and help the baby’s immune system develop,” she says. “But we don’t know what happens when you start introducing solid foods and how that impacts on further development of the microbiome, but also of immune competence and metabolic function.”

The SUN study is using kūmara, which contains prebiotics and is already a popular food for babies, to see whether it does influence the baby’s microbiome and, in turn immunity. The researchers are aiming to study 300 healthy babies, who are enrolled before they start solids.

Parental guidance...

News, views, and handy products in the pregnancy and parenting space.

YOU CAN BANK ON IT

You may have heard about banking your baby’s cord blood after birth, but why do it?

Cord blood stem cells are incredibly flexible as they’re brand new – undamaged by the ageing process and pollutants that other stem cells are exposed to over time.

When a child has access to their own cord blood stem cells, they’ve got a 100% DNA match ready to go that won’t be rejected by their immune system if used in medical treatment.

Only CordBank can store your baby’s cord blood right here in New Zealand, meaning it’s protected by New Zealand law and close at hand should it be needed for medical treatment.

To register for your collection kit, visit cordbank.co.nz or call 0800 CORDBANK.

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no more cracks Soothe, heal, and protect sore and cracked nipples with Lansinoh HPA Lanolin.

Made from 100% pure lanolin and being all natural, it is hypoallergenic and won’t clog the milk ducts. Safe to be left on when breastfeeding.

Available in a 15g and 50g at pharmacies and supermarkets nationwide. From $19.99, lansinoh.com.au

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NIGHT NURSE

Textile technology company Confitex has come to the rescue of sleep-deprived new mums with the release of glow-in-the-dark reusable nursing pads.

The Just’nCase nursing pads feature a starshaped grip pattern that glows in the dark, so they’re easy to find when you’ve got the lights low to avoid overstimulating your newborn.

These new, limited-edition pads offer the same absorbency and leak-proofing as Just’nCase beige and black Contoured Nursing Pads, and they are moulded into a gentle curve to support the breast and stop the pads from slipping out of place.

Breathable, hypoallergenic, and odour-resistant, they are also fully washable and reusable. Just pop them in your normal laundry and either line-dry or tumble dry on low heat. $19.90, justncase.co.nz

Did you know?

Less than 2% of the world’s population has red hair.

HAVE A HEART

Heart Kids NZ is the only national organisation in Aotearoa New Zealand that provides free, lifelong care and support for children, teens, adults, and whānau impacted by childhood heart conditions.

For more than 40 years they have worked tirelessly to deliver quality support, information, connection, and hope to heart families, such as the Kloppenburg family on pages 86-87, walking alongside them through diagnosis and treatment. To donate to Heart Kids NZ, head to heartkids.org.nz

POSITIVE VIBRATIONS

The maternity necklace or “Bola” has a long tradition spanning many cultures, including ancient Mayan, Mexican, and Indonesian. The necklace was gifted to expectant mothers as a good luck charm. When rolled gently, it emits a soothing and harmonious crystalline sound and was nicknamed “Angel Caller” because, according to legend, it has the power to summon a guardian angel. Inspired by this tradition, Kiwi company Ilado created its own maternity necklaces to help mamas find calm and connect with their babies, even before birth. From $115, ilado-nz.com Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN? try these!

SAY IT WITH FLOWERS

Formulated from plant and mineralbased ingredients, and enriched with New Zealand oat milk, these soaps are dermatologically tested to be safe and gentle on sensitive skin. Also available in Oat Milk Baby Soap.

Adding gorgeous flowers to a photoshoot is an easy way to highlight your chosen colour palette while creating artistic impact. Debby Quinn, Creative Director of Wildly Madly Deeply (wildlymadlydeeply.com), shares five tips for adding fabulous flowers to your maternity photos.

1.

Earthwise ULTRA Laundry Liquid, from $8.99, earthwise.co.nz

Tough on stains but gentle on you and your family, this laundry liquid is free from nasties such as phosphate, nitrate, chlorinated bleach, and ammonia that can irritate sensitive skin.

Only Good Sensitive Coconut Milk Body Wash, $11.99, onlygood.co.nz

The current trend for photoshoots is to use in-season florals, either in large bunches in a monochromatic shade, or a very minimalist Ikebana design (a traditional Japanese art form).

A monochromatic colour block is a great way to make the flowers pop, especially if they are of a contrasting colour to the rest of the styling – but it depends on whether you want the flowers to blend in or stand out.

The nutrient-rich formula in this body wash – including Syricalm to reduce inflammation, Prickly Pear to protect skin from oxidative stress and Jojoba Oil to nurture and nourish your body – leaves your sensitive skin feeling soothed and hydrated.

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2.

If you like a softer vibe, choose white and pastel shades of in-season cottage/garden flowers such as stock, delphiniums, dahlias, or cosmos – but remember these will need to be put into water in between photos and will only be available in spring and early summer.

3.

Keep in mind when planning a photoshoot during the summer months, flowers will wilt without water, so keep a vase of water nearby and wipe the stems before you use them to prevent any water dripping.

For a strong flower that will behave with less water, try proteas, gypsophila, or most roses (for a short time), but get your florist’s advice on this.

4.

Ribbon is on-trend too – try using long hanging ribbons on unique flowers, such as peonies.

5.

Popular photoshoot flowers include: • Stock – a flower with long stems in many colours, including pastel and bright options.

• Poppies – in white or bright, happy shades of orange and yellow.

• Roses – but make sure your florist removes the thorns!

• Delphiniums – the long stems on these flowers are stunning.

• Cosmos – colourful, daisy-like flowers with long, slender stems.

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

ecostore UltraSensitive Oat Milk Soap, $2.99 each, ecostore.com

Our family of stores is growing!

We’re proud to announce we’re opening new stores in Manukau, Sylvia Park and Christchurch, where you’ll find all your baby needs in one shop.

Manukau, Auckland Manukau Supa Centre, 3/55 Lambie Drive, Manukau

Sylvia Park, Auckland Sylvia Park Lifestyle Centre, 393 Mt. Wellington Highway, Mt. Wellington

Christchurch Tower Junction, 9/66 Clarence Street, Addington

Albany, Auckland Albany Lifestyle Centre, 7 Corban Avenue, Albany Find out more at babybunting.co.nz

is LIFE BEAUTIFUL

Jess Quinn shares insights into navigating pregnancy in a differently abled body.

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ocial media content creator Jess Quinn lost her leg to cancer when she was eight. An advocate for both people with disabilities and women with endometriosis, the 31-year-old former product designer turned influencer lives in Auckland with her husband, software engineer Todd, and their spoodle, Scout.

They are all super-excited to meet their baby girl – despite having some fears and concerns about what pregnancy would bring.

THE JOURNEY TO CONCEIVING

“I wasn’t sure what would happen when we started trying for a baby, but I had always had really painful periods and when I finished my cancer treatment, they had said they weren’t sure what my fertility or possibility of having children would be like,” says Jess.

“I always had in the back of my mind that it could be difficult.”

Six months into trying to conceive, Jess had exploratory surgery for endometriosis, which was discovered and removed – and four months later, the couple found out they were pregnant.

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“It was the happiest time,” says Jess.

“At that point we had been trying to conceive for almost a year, so it felt incredible to finally see a positive and to feel like the endo surgery had worked in that sense.

"Also, with the doubt I had always had around the effects of my cancer treatment, it was a relief knowing my body was capable of pregnancy.”

Sadly for Jess and Todd, that pregnancy ended in an early miscarriage.

“It was a really hard time for me,” she says.

“I was lucky to be surrounded by support both with family and friends but also the experts I was seeing. We held onto that hope but post-miscarriage my cycle went haywire and it ended up taking another nine months or so to fall pregnant again.”

But they did become pregnant again, and the couple found out they expecting another baby 12 weeks before their wedding day.

“Even though we’d been trying, it’s just wild seeing a positive test after seeing so many negative ones,” says Jess. “The following weeks I had a few scary experiences where we thought we were losing another one, so we chose to not tell our family until we did some tests, but our girl was a fighter.

“Our wedding was coming up and we hadn’t handed out our invites, so we went to our immediate family with their invites but had crossed their names out and handwritten ‘Nana and Poppa’ or ‘Aunty and Uncle’ – it was so special seeing their reaction.”

Jess says she then started sharing her story on social media, especially her experience with endometriosis. “I couldn’t believe how many others were going through it and struggling to get a diagnosis, so I started advocating for endo and those with women’s health issues,” she says. “It’s something we just don’t speak about enough and far too many women are suffering in silence.”

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“I KNOW THAT ALTHOUGH I MAY L ACK SOME ABILITIES, THE LOVE I HAVE FOR HER IS IMMENSE AND THAT’S ALL SHE TRULY NEEDS.” FEARS AND FEELING PROUD

Living with a disability, Jess says she had a lot of fears and worries going into her pregnancy. “The amputation I had is very rare and unusual (it’s called a Rotationplasty), so I had no idea how my body would cope with the changes,” she says. “I had expected to struggle to wear my prosthetic, with the swelling changes women get in pregnancy, and I had also expected to be on crutches or bed-bound by the end of pregnancy – but I am currently 34 weeks and have had the easiest pregnancy.

“I have had a body that has gone through constant change and adaptation since I was eight, so I think that experience really set me up for pregnancy because the changes within our body can be hard to come to terms with, both internally and externally, but I am well practiced in that which I think has helped a lot.

“I still can’t quite believe how my body has coped given how vastly different it is.

I just feel incredibly proud of what it has been able to handle.”

Jess says she is currently working through the same thoughts around how she will cope as a mum who has a disability.

“There are a lot of adaptations we’ll need to make and things we need to consider but anytime I feel doubt or sadness around what I can’t or won’t be able to do, I remind myself

of all of the things our daughter will get because I have a disability.

“She will grow up knowing that all humans are different and that our abilities and bodies vary, and I think that’s an incredible thing. I also know that although I may lack some abilities, the love I have for her is immense and that’s all she truly needs.”

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF PREGNANCY

“Honestly, I just love that I am pregnant,” says Jess. “It’s something I have thought a lot about throughout my life and to be living in this moment that I have always dreamt about just feels surreal and incredible.”

But during the joy, Jess says there are also moments of anxiety with all the unknowns that come with pregnancy changes.

“I live with a bit of anxiety in general, so I have really had to practice just trusting in my body during this pregnancy, which has been quite healing for me,” she says. “I just have to trust that my body knows how to grow and care for my baby right now and that there is only so much I can do to help that along.

“Any weird sensation or pain or niggle always sparks concern but (unless urgent), I just have learned to trust that it’s all part of the process.”

MAKING PRACTICAL CHANGES

Jess says she and husband Todd have spent a lot of time figuring out what will work best for them in terms of day-to-day practicalities.

“We got all of our bigger items from Baby Bunting as I really liked being able to go in store and trial what might or might not work for us,” she says. “For example, some prams have the brake on the right side which is more difficult for me with my prosthetic, so we went with a pram that has it in the centre.

“We also went with a carseat base that spins, so I will be able to put her in the car easier (especially for when she is older) and a co-sleeper bassinet so I can have Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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“I WANT TO CONTINUE TO SHARE MY DISABILIT Y IN A POSITIVE WAY TO SHOW OTHERS WHAT IS POSSIBLE.” HELPING PEOPLE FEEL LESS ALONE

While Jess says there is a lot of information about disabilities available if you look for it, she says there isn’t a lot of representation or talk around parents with a disability or a chronic health issue.

“I think it’s an important thing to speak up so that others feel less alone.

“But, at the end of the day, all parents adapt their lives in some way and for those with disabilities, we are very used to adapting, so I am hoping that will make the journey easier.”

Jess says her aim is to continue to share her experience becoming a mother in a differently abled body to show others that they can too. “I grew up in a society that made people with disabilities look incapable but from everyone I know with disabilities, they are very capable, we just have adaptations we need to make. I want to continue to share my disability in a positive way to show others what is possible.” her close to my bed which will eliminate having to put my prosthetic on multiple times in the night. There are a lot of adaptations we need to make but I feel like the same goes for many parents and we just have to do what works best for us.”

TODD’S SURPRISING HOBBY

“I have been very lucky to find out Todd is incredible at crochet and knitting,” says Jess.

“We already have two rompers for our little girl – it’s special to know one day she can look at photos and say, ‘My dad made that.’

“I also love that she will grow up with an example of a man who has interests that maybe aren’t your typical ‘blokey’ things.

I think it’s important for men to challenge this and to know that she has a dad that will

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equally love to take her snowboarding or sit and crochet with her is incredible.”

ON WHAT HER OWN PARENTS TAUGHT HER

“My parents are the reason I am where I am today, they both have the most incredible outlook on life,” says Jess. “I still remember my mum saying ‘Think positive thoughts!’ while I was battling my cancer. And my dad has an incredible way of not taking life too seriously – both of them really set me up with a resilient mindset.

“We can’t avoid adversity in our life, I am sure our daughter (like all humans) will face it in some shape or form but I hope to be able to teach her to have the resilience to pick herself back up when needed.”

HOPES FOR THEIR DAUGHTER

“I just wish for her to be happy and to see all the joy in life,” she says.

“Sure, life can be tough but life is the most beautiful, miraculous experience and I hope she sees that.

“I hope she doesn’t take herself too seriously and I hope that she can have a carefree childhood as all kids should.

“I saw how hard life can be at a really young age, and although it gave me a huge appreciation for life, it also meant forced me to grow up really quickly – I hope she gets to just be a kid for as long as she can.”

Model māmā: Jess Quinn @‌jessicaemilyquinn (Instagram/TikTok/ Facebook) Photographer and stylist: Laura Snelling @ljsstudios Clothing: COS @cosstores, cos.com Kowtow @kowtowclothing, nz.kowtowclothing.com

online course

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YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT...

d b i t e -s i z e Y O J N E HOM E! T A s o e vi d

• Choosing your LMC • Birthing options • Pregnancy discomforts • Informed consent • Pregnancy nutrition • Scans and monitoring • Premature birth • Your birth plan • Induction • Pelvic floor • Baby clothing • Perineal massage • Position of baby for birth • Signs of labour • Stages of labour • Positions in labour • Assisted delivery • Labour support

Introducing the online

Introductory Antenatal Class

Brought to you by Nest Pregnancy & Parenting and BUMP&baby magazine This is the perfect course to do with your partner when you find out you’re expecting, or a great refresher if this isn't your first baby. Watch and/or listen to our online course in your own time to better understand your pregnant body, birth options, and to feel more confident about labour and birth.

A friendly, easy-to-understand course made up of bite-sized sessions, each ranging from five to 15 minutes long, so you can binge-watch or select a different session to watch every few days. This is the perfect introductory course for yourself, or as a gift to a friend, to get a handle on pregnancy and everything to expect in the next nine months.

COURSE BONUS!

“We both loved the bite-sized workshops. They were so easy to listen to at the end of each day; we would make a cuppa and watch them together.” – Caylie

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS AND LOTS OF PRACTICAL, BONUS DOWNLOADABLES.

ALL THIS FOR JUST $28.75!

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Check out our website bumpandbaby.co.nz/ subscribe to see the current box of treasures that you'll receive when you subscribe. We promise you'll love them all!

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JESS QUINN "Life can be tough but it is the most beautiful, miraculous experience and I hope s h e s e e s t h a t ."

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>> Please don' t let me wee myself...

Feeling floored

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

Your pelvic floor can be severely impacted by pregnancy, but personal and postnatal trainer Fleur Park (corerestore.co.nz) shares ways to activate and strengthen your muscles down there!

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RELA XIN AND YOUR PELVIC FLOOR

During pregnancy, your postural alignment and centre of gravity changes as your stomach and breasts increase in size and your weight is distributed more through the front of your body. The relaxin hormone – produced by the ovaries and placenta – softens, loosens and relaxes muscles, joints and ligaments, allowing for your body to expand as the baby grows and for your pelvic floor muscles (PFM) to stretch during birth.

• Relaxin means joints, ligaments and connective tissue are at greater risk of injury as they are less stable.

• Relaxin remains in the mother’s body until three months postpartum or three months after breastfeeding.

One of the muscle groups most greatly affected by pregnancy are the PFM. This group of muscles sits at the bottom of the pelvis stretching from the pubic bone (front of pelvis) to the tail bone (back of pelvis) like

Self-compassion can not only enhance physical and psychological health, but may also influence physical activity in the postpartum period.

a hammock, performing many important functions such as: • Working with the transverse abdominis (TVA), deep back muscles (multifidus) and diaphragm to stabilise and support the spine and pelvis while controlling and maintaining optimal intra-abdominal pressure.

• Supporting the bladder, bowel, and uterus.

• Maintaining bladder and bowel control – both continence and emptying.

• Facilitating during birth.

• Playing an important role in sexual sensation and function.

The softening and loosing effect of the relaxin hormone and the increasing weight of the baby transfers down through to the PFM making them work harder to perform their important functions while losing their integrity becoming fatigued and weak. The postural changes occurring during this time also affect the neural connection with the PFM, making it harder to activate or use them.

SYMPTOMS OF PFM WEAKNESS

Symptoms of PFM weakness or dysfunction can be felt pre- and postnatally and even into other life stages, such as peri-menopause and menopause. Some of these symptoms include leaking of urine (incontinence), pelvic and lower back pain, separation of six pack muscles (diastasis) and bulging, dragging, or heaviness in the vaginal area (pelvic organ prolapse).

• There are four different degrees of prolapse.

• 50% of mothers experience prolapse.

• One in three mothers leak urine.

IT’S NOT NORMAL

Although the above symptoms are common and experienced by many mothers, they shouldn’t be considered normal. These symptoms can be eliminated or the severity of them reduced with specific and targeted exercises and stretches (with your LMC’s approval) that help prepare the body for birth, reduce pain and discomfort and decrease the recovery and repair time in the postpartum phase. I always recommend working with a qualified fitness professional trained in both pregnancy and postnatal safe exercise, like myself.

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>>

3. GLUTE BRIDGE STRENGTHENS GLUTES, HAMSTRINGS, AND DEEP CORE

How to strengthen your PFM Here are some exercises that can be performed at home, which will help you to retain connection, activate, and strengthen some muscles while releasing and relaxing others in order maintain or correct postural alignment.

1. ACTIVATORS STRENGTHENS THE PELVIC FLOOR AND DEEP CORE MUSCLES

Start by lying on your back with legs hip width apart and knees bent. From 16 weeks you may need to sit on a Swiss ball or lie on your side, depending on how you feel laying on your back.

Inhale through the nose for 2-3 seconds, then as you exhale slowly through the mouth, lift all of your pelvic floor muscles with a vaginal lift, stopping wee or a pinch at the back stopping wind. At the same time activating your deep core by imagining your hip bones drawing together.

Hold the contraction for the entire exhale of breath, and then release completely feeling your pelvic floor lengthen and relax.

The relax part of the movement is as important as the lift, so take your time to make sure you feel the muscles completely relax before you complete the next repetition.

Complete three sets of 6-10 repetitions, slowly building up reps and sets as strength increases.

2. SWISS BALL BANDED ROW STRENGTHENS ARMS AND UPPER BACK

Sit on a Swiss ball or bench/box with a good stable base and anchor a resistance band to a point directly in front of you at chest height (i.e. on a door handle). Set your shoulders back and down away from your ears. Engage your core with a subtle drop of ribs to hips or imagine your belly is hugging your baby (a good cue especially as your progress through the trimesters). With outstretched arms, cross the band over and exhale as you row, pulling elbows back towards hips squeezing the shoulder blades together. Slowly release the band with control back to the starting position as you inhale.

Complete 3-5 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

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Lie on your back with legs hip-width apart, knees bent, and heels close to your bottom. From 16 weeks you may need to elevate your torso on a bench or the couch, depending on how you feel laying on your back. Tilt your hip bones towards your ribs as you push through your heels, lifting your hips up while keeping your ribs down.

Squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement for one second and slowly lower the hips down to the starting position. A band can be added above the knee to increase tension and intensity.

Complete 3-5 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

4. SIDE-LYING BANDED CLAM STRENGTHENS GLUTE MEDIUS AND DEEP CORE

Lie on your side with a band above the knees, bending them to a 45-degree angle. Make sure heels are in line with the bottom and legs and hips bones are stacked on top of each other. Keeping your feet in contact with one another, engage your core by tilting your hip bones towards your ribs, creating a straight spine. Raise your upper knee as high as you can, without rotating at the hips or pelvis. Slowly and with control, return the knee back down to start position.

Complete 3-5 sets of 8-10 repetitions.

Stretches

CAT AND COW STRETCHES THE SPINE, NECK, HIPS, ABDOMEN, AND BACK

On all fours (wrists under shoulders and your knees directly below hips), inhale through the nose while curving your lower back and bringing your head up, tilting your pelvis up like a “cow”. Exhale through the mouth and bring your abdomen in, arching your spine and bringing your head and pelvis down like a “cat”. Repeat several times.

CHILDS POSE STRETCHES THE HIP, PELVIC FLOOR THIGHS, AND BACK

On all fours (wrists under shoulders and knees directly below hips), separate your knees as wide as is comfortable to open up your hips and sit back on your heels. Lengthen through your spine, and rest your forehead on the floor, extending your arms forward. As you progress through the trimesters and your belly increases in size, you can use a Swiss ball to rest your arms on. To increase the stretch into the lats (down the side of the back), walk your hands around to the side.

Hold for at least 30 seconds at each point.

MENTAL HEALTH MAT TERS Taking care of your mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. For many women, pregnancy is overwhelming as your body is changing and doesn’t look or feel like yours anymore. Mood, selfesteem and body confidence can be adversely affected, which is why it’s important to have a plan in place to support yourself during this time.

Encouraging feelings of empowerment and a sense of control can help to restore body autonomy.

Educating yourself of the changes that are taking place and how they impact your body is imperative to your health and wellbeing, not to mention a safe and effective exercise plan. Working with a fitness professional who is certified in pre- and postnatal exercise will ensure that you and your baby can experience the benefits of exercise during pregnancy, while future proofing your overall wellbeing into the postpartum period and beyond.

THREAD THE NEEDLE STRETCHES UPPER BODY, RELIE VING TENSION IN THE SPINE AND SHOULDER BL ADES

On all fours (wrists under shoulders and knees directly below hips), take one hand and thread it behind the opposite arm. A roller can also be used for ease and to keep the movement smooth.

Reach as far as you can imaging your shoulder blade moving away from your spine. Hold for at least 30 seconds. Repeat on other side.

KNEELING LUNGE STRETCHES HIP FLE XORS AND PELVIC FLOOR

Kneeling on the floor, step one foot forward so that both your front knee and hip are at 90-degree angles. As you exhale, keep both hip bones facing forward, tuck your tail bone then slowly lean forward, putting weight into your front leg. Hold onto the wall or chair for balance, if needed.

Hold position for at least 30 seconds. Repeat on other side.

ROLLING FEET RELIE VES TENSION IN FEET, ANKLES, PELVIC FLOOR, AND LOWER BACK

Rolling your feet over a bag of golf balls, two tennis balls taped together, or a lacrosse release ball will help to relieve tension, improve circulation and potentially reduce fluid retention. Doing this can create a release all the way from the feet to the pelvic floor and even into the lower back.

This stimulation exercise is amazing for your nervous system, can lower cortisol levels and give you a boost of feel-good endorphins.

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Doe

s my b

um look big like this?

Getting on your nerves Sciatica can be a pain in the butt, literally, but pregnancy and postnatal osteopath Sarah Boughtwood (sarahboughtwoodosteopath.co.nz) is here to help!

P

regnancy is such a beautiful time, but some expectant mums can really struggle with various types of aches and pains. Sciatica is a term often misused to describe a lot of types of pain felt in the lower back and buttocks region. True sciatica is irritation of the sciatic nerve, passing from the lower back when it originates, through the buttock region and into the back of the thigh and lower leg. The symptoms associated with sciatica include pins and needles, numbness or weakness in the back of the thigh to the lower leg and foot and sharp, shooting pain.

CAUSES OF SCIATICA IN PREGNANCY Fluid retention compressing the sciatic nerve: During the course of pregnancy – and especially in the third trimester – fluid retention is very common, but this excess fluid can cause compression of the sciatic nerve.

Expanding uterus with the growing baby: As the sciatic nerve originates in the lower back, the growing uterus with baby can compress the nerve.

Postural changes: The combination of

increased breast size and growing belly pulls your centre of gravity forward, increasing the curve of your lower back (Lordosis), thus changing the pressure on the sciatic nerve root emerging from the spine.

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Baby’s head: Depending on the position of the baby, their head may be putting increased pressure on the sciatic nerve.

WAYS TO SELF-RELIEVE SCIATICA Gentle stretching of your gluteal and piriformis muscles: Try sitting with one

knee bent and the ankle resting over the opposite leg, then lean forward. You should feel a pull in the buttocks region of the leg that is bent. Hold for 30-60 seconds and then repeat.

pelvic floor muscles, you are supporting your lower back and reducing strain on their joints and muscles. This is turn will help the sciatic nerve and help reduce any irritation of the nerve.

Take walks: Keep relatively fit in pregnancy to help avoid sciatica and other pregnancyassociated aches and pains by having good muscle support and strength from exercise.

These may include swimming, yoga, pilates, weight training, walking, and so on. Consult your health professional about which types of exercise are suitable for you.

HOW OSTEOPATHIC TREATMENT CAN HELP

Osteopathic treatment is a safe and gentle form of hands-on physical therapy that is safe at any stage of pregnancy.

Sciatica in pregnancy is a common complaint Applying a hot and is combination of Keep moving: Try to avoid sitting or standing still water bottle or osteopathic treatment, for too long. Light, gentle take-home, stretches and warm wheat movement helps flush lifestyle changes. any inflammation away, Osteopathic treatment is bag to the area always to the whole body, increases blood flow, and not just where a patient is helps muscles contracting, may help with aiding the lymphatic sore. This gets the whole discomfort! system. body working well and able to adapt to the physical Stretch your hamstrings: Sitting on the changes (posture, blood volume, weight changes etc) that come with pregnancy. ground, have your legs straight out in front Treatment will help improve joint of you and gently lean forward to touch your toes. If your bump gets in the way, split mobility and reduce muscle tension, your legs in a V position and try touching correct pelvic alignment (perfect ahead one foot at a time. You should feel a gentle of birth), improve blood flow and pull in the back of your thigh and knee. lymphatic circulation.

Tailored advice is given to patients Hold for 30-60 seconds and then repeat. depending on what their body needs, but Engage your core/abdominals and pelvic may include stretches, exercise, compression floor: By having a strong abdominal and stockings, and frequent breaks at work.

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

Your journey starts here Having a baby is one of life’s most wonderful experiences. Whether this is your first baby or your fourth, we aim to make your birth experience the best it can be.

Birthcare is a primary maternity hospital for birthing and postnatal care. We provide free support, care and education to mothers, babies and their families. You can choose to birth your baby at a Birthcare Maternity Hospital, or transfer to Birthcare from another hospital for your postnatal stay.

When you birth at Birthcare you’ll be given a private room wherever possible. If you choose to have your baby at another hospital, you can still transfer to us for your free postnatal stay.

Our birthing services are free to New Zealand residents and women eligible for free maternity care in New Zealand.

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We look forward to having you stay with us birthcare.co.nz | 09 374 0800

Visit our website for more information

snooze

Press

Jus t

one more minute.

Can’t get a good night’s sleep during pregnancy? We feel you!

Here are seven easy steps for a restful slumber.

I

t’s a truth universally acknowledged that being a mum equals sudden sleeplessness. So how come you’re getting no sleep and the baby hasn’t even arrived yet? Rolling around with a ballooning belly, aches almost everywhere, hormones out of control; we know the feeling. And it’s even harder if you’re not naturally a side-sleeper.

WHY SIDE-SLEEPING?

It’s recommended you sleep on your side (the left side if you can) after the 28th week of pregnancy as in the last three months of pregnancy, sleeping on your side reduces pressure on major blood vessels. Pressure on these vessels can reduce blood flow to your baby and reduce the baby’s oxygen supply.

While side-sleeping is good for pēpi, the extra weight in the midsection can pull on your hips and back, dragging your body out

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of place. This makes for an uncomfortable sleep, especially in the third trimester.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

they only provide a cushion for the tummy but also for the arms and legs, allowing pressure to be better distributed throughout the body which helps with aches and pains.

tip Add extra padding Get creative with a pillow strategy for sleeping. A firm pillow under your head and upper body is recommended for breathing easier. This decreases the strain on your diaphragm (that organ that baby has pushed up to make room in your tummy).

Some mamas also like to put a pillow or wedge under the tummy while sleeping on their side, therefore putting their weight on the pillow but not squashing the belly.

Or you can go one step further and try a specialty pregnancy body pillow. Yes, they may take up a bit of room in the bed, but

tip Say no to snacks Try to refrain from snacking (and consuming anything in general) about two to three hours before bed. Late-night snacking can cause heartburn and reflux.

As your baby grows, it puts pressure on your stomach and surrounding organs, which can push stomach acid up into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, which is often worse when lying down. This is a surefire (and painful) way to keep you awake in the wee hours! If you do suffer from heartburn at night, try sleeping with your head elevated, or ask your LMC or GP about reflux relievers such as Gaviscon, which may help.

Try these simple tips to make sure you catch some zzzzs before pēpi arrives.

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sleep saviours

note If you’re still having problems sleeping, speak to your LMC or GP about medication or supplements which may help.

But don’t take anything without consulting them first!

tip Don’t just lay there If you’re finding it difficult to fall asleep, don’t lie there counting sheep (or counting all the places on your body that are uncomfortable). Get out of bed and do something boring – like folding your washing or filling the dishwasher. Once you’ve begun to feel drowsy, head back to bed and see if you can get some sleep.

This Works Deep Sleep Heavenly Candle, $57, meccabeauty.co.nz This hand-poured candle is infused with an essential oil blend of calming lavender and soothing Roman chamomile.

Purflo Breathe Pregnancy Pillow in Botanical, $119.95, sleepstore.co.nz

tip Don’t be tempted to pick up your phone

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

This versatile pillow combines ergonomic shaping and breathable materials for ultimate sleep comfort during pregnancy.

Blue light from your phone (and also your alarm clock, laptop, and natural light) can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.

This can make it harder for you to fall asleep and disrupt your sleep quality. Plus, engaging with stimulating content on your phone – such as social media – can keep your mind active and make it difficult to unwind and relax. Create a comfortable sleep environment by keeping your bedroom dark and quiet.

tip Establish a bedtime routine Developing a calming bedtime routine will help signal your body and mind that it’s time to wind down. This could include gentle stretches, reading a book, or taking a warm bath. Try to be in bed with the lights out by 10pm and don’t drink too much so you don’t have to get up to pee! For more relaxation techniques and bath buddies, head to pages 32-35.

tip Take short naps Pregnancy can be exhausting and while naps can be your friend, keep them to a total length of half-an-hour; otherwise, your body will move into deep sleep. And try to avoid napping too close to bedtime, as it may interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Your best bet is to take multiple half-hour naps each day to drown out the drowsiness.

tip Get comfy One of the joys of pregnancy is the body’s rise in temperature. Overheating can cause you to feel miserable, overtired, and dehydrated. Invest in comfortable, breathable maternity sleepwear and adjust the air-conditioner, electric blanket or heater dials to your perfect temperature for optimal comfort.

Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Link Air Purifier, $899, dyson.co.nz A simple way to get the perfect temperature and remove allergens from the air.

Calm your body and mind by spritzing this on your pillow at bedtime.

Miller Road Lavender Pillow Mist, $29, millerroad.co.nz

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Nurture with nutrition Nourishing your body with the right food and drinks is vital during pregnancy. Here’s what the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation (nutritionfoundation.org.nz) recommends.

Y

ou don’t need to change your diet drastically when you are preparing for pregnancy, are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should continue to eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water, and keep active. However, there are a few extra things you need to be aware of…

TIPS!

EAT A VARIET Y OF FOODS

• Make sure that at least half of your plate every meal consists of vegetables.

• Keep them in plain sight! Having a vegetable/fruit basket in the corner of your kitchen will make you think about using it more.

• Smoothies are a great way to have a variety of vegetables and fruits in one serving.

• Turn your favourites into healthier versions of common foods: Brussel sprouts, courgette or kale chips instead of potato chips.

Eating from each of the following food groups every day helps to ensure you have all the nutrients you need to nourish yourself and your baby.

Have at least five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit during pregnancy, and at least seven servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit during breastfeeding.

Have at least eight servings of grain foods during pregnancy and at least nine servings during breastfeeding.

These foods include bread, pasta, rice and breakfast cereal – whole grain varieties are best.

Have at least two to three servings of milk and milk products, such as milk, yoghurt, and cheese – or non-dairy alternatives – during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Have at least three servings of legumes, nuts, seeds, fish and other seafood, eggs, poultry, and/or red meat with fat removed during pregnancy, and at least two servings during breastfeeding.

NOTE: These are broad recommendations based on Ministry of Health resources: Eating for Healthy Pregnant Women and Eating for Healthy Breastfeeding Women. For tailored recommendations, consult a dietitian or registered nutritionist.

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It can get difficult to keep up with the servings you eat every day, especially when the recommended servings are as large as seven to nine servings. Some ways to try and reach these serving numbers are:

Vegetables and fruits:

Grains:

• Replace white bread/rice/pasta/cereal/ muesli bars with whole grain options.

• Check the labels in the ingredient lists.

Look for whole wheat, brown rice, bulgur, buckwheat, oatmeal, whole grain cornmeal, whole oats, whole rye or wild rice • Add barley into your soups, stews, salads, and casseroles.

• Use quinoa to coat fish, chicken, or fritters instead of breadcrumbs.

MAKE IT SAFE

Keeping food safe from contaminants is extremely important while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Food poisoning can affect both yourself and your baby. If you experience diarrhoea, vomiting, or flu-like illness, it is important to contact your doctor or midwife immediately.

For complete information about food safety in pregnancy, you can read the Ministry of Primary Industry’s guidelines (which are regularly updated) at mpi.govt.nz/foodsafety-home/food-pregnancy/list-safe-foodpregnancy Here are some quick tips for handling food safely: • Always cook eggs until the yolk and white are solid. Avoid undercooked or raw eggs and other raw animal products.

• Avoid buying pre-prepared sandwiches and salads from cafés or supermarkets.

Fresh homemade sandwiches are the best option.

With pregnancy, you may become constipated. Eat foods with fibre (fruit, vegetables, and whole grains). Kiwifruit has laxative properties and is an excellent way to stay regular as it also is a nutritionally dense fruit.

Average caffeine

*AVERAGE CAFFEINE CONTENT REFERENCE: MINISTRY OF HEALTH.2020.EATING & ACTIVITY GUIDELINES FOR NEW ZEALAND ADULTS, FSANZ, NZ FOOD COMPOSITION DATABASE.

content (mg)*

• Avoid foods containing raw fish, shellfish, or seafood, such as sushi.

• Wash and dry fruit and vegetables before you eat them. Cook frozen berries before you eat them.

• Store chilled foods in a fridge below 4°C and always heat food thoroughly until it’s steaming hot (at least 70°C).

• Avoid soft cheeses (such as brie and camembert) and unpasteurised milk.

WATCH WHAT YOU’RE DRINKING

Plain water should be your first choice over other drinks. You need more water when you are pregnant as your blood volume increases; and while breastfeeding, you need fluid to produce breast milk.

Pregnant women require 2.3L of fluid (from all sources) each day (that’s nine 250ml cups), and breastfeeding women require 2.6L per day (or 10 250ml cups). Keep in mind that these are broad guidelines, and will vary depending

on the climate, your body size, and activity levels. The best way to ensure you are drinking enough is to listen to your thirst cues and aim for the colour of your urine to be pale yellow. It may help to keep a water bottle nearby to remind you to drink regularly.

CAN I HAVE CAFFEINE?

Pregnancy slows the metabolism of caffeine, so pregnant women are advised to limit caffeine to no more than two cups of coffee (<200mg caffeine) each day. It is also transferred into breast milk and advice is for breastfeeding women to limit intake also.

Caffeine is a stimulant and can contribute to interrupted sleep – for women and babies – as well as irritability and indigestion. High caffeine levels have been linked to reduced fertility in women trying to conceive and low birth weights.

Whatever you choose to drink, be aware that the caffeine content can vary.

105

Coffee (cappuccino) (260ml)

80-120

Energy drinks (250ml can)

51

Instant coffee (1 cup)

47

Black tea (1 cup)

35

Cola drinks (355ml can)

33

Chocolate bar (50g)

31

Green tea (1 cup)

19

Decaffeinated long black coffee (130ml)

5

Drinking chocolate (1 cup)

Must- know info!

Some herbal teas may be harmful in pregnancy. Check teas for a pregnancy warning label or ask your nutritionist, LMC, or GP. Fermented drinks such as kombucha can contain low levels of alcohol and are best avoided.

Sugary drinks are low in nutrients and can replace better choices, so keep to a minimum.

For examples of food group servings, plus information on essential vitamins and minerals during pregnancy, visit nutritionfoundation.org.nz Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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Finding your calm

It’s estimated that one in five pregnant and postpartum women experience some form of anxiety. Here are some simple techniques to relax your body and mind.

DEEP BREATHING

Deep breathing exercises – such as diaphragmatic or belly breathing – can induce relaxation by slowing down the heart rate and promoting a sense of calm. And as an added bonus, it can also be helpful during labour and delivery! Find a quiet place to sit or lie down; you can use cushions or pillows for support if you need to. Close your eyes and inhale slowly and deeply through your nose for four counts. Focus on filling your lungs with air and imagine your belly rising. Then exhale through your mouth, letting the air out slowly and completely.

As you exhale, imagine releasing any tension or stress you may be feeling. Repeat this process for several deep breaths.

fyi Listen to our pregnancy relaxation playlist here!

CALMING MUSIC

The goal of meditation is to focus your attention on the present moment and minimise random thoughts about the past or future.

Meditating during pregnancy can help calm the mind and help prepare you mentally and emotionally for birth. You can try guided meditations specifically designed for pregnancy (Google or your phone’s app store will bring up a bunch of options), or just sit quietly and focus on your breath and sensations in the body.

YOGA

The gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and mindfulness of yoga has promoted relaxation and body awareness for hundreds of years. Just a single session of prenatal yoga has been found to reduce anxiety around childbirth in low-risk mothers. And for pregnant women with diagnosed depression, yoga has been shown to reduce depressive symptoms and anxiety. Look for classes specifically designed for pregnant women – the forms most suited to pregnancy are Hatha yoga (which is slower paced), or Iyengar yoga (which uses props for support).

Or if there’s not a class in your area, try following a prenatal yoga video online.

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PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELA X ATION (PMR)

This technique involves sequentially tensing and then releasing different muscle groups in the body to promote physical and mental relaxation. Start from your toes and work your way up, consciously tensing and then relaxing each muscle group. Pay attention to the sensations of tension melting away as you release the muscles. The theory behind PMR is that you can’t have the feeling of relaxation in your body at the same time as anxiety symptoms.

MA SSAGE

A prenatal massage can help reduce muscle tension, promote relaxation, and help with insomnia during pregnancy. When done correctly and effectively, pregnancy massage can help to reduce stress hormones within your body, reducing feelings of anxiety.

Look for a licensed massage therapist who specialises in prenatal massage.

Other techniques such as acupressure and reflexology can also be beneficial for specific areas of discomfort.

WARM BATH

There’s nothing better than a warm bath to soak your stress away. Add in your favourite pregnancy-safe oil or soak, close your eyes and enjoy – check out pgs 34-35 for some soothing bath essentials. One thing to remember is to make sure the water isn’t too hot, as this can raise your core body temperature, which could be dangerous for your developing baby. Test the water before you hop in – it should be warm enough that you can sit down straight away and not go inch-by-inch because the temperature is too hot. And then... Enjoy!

It’s important to talk to your LMC, GP, or other healthcare provider before trying any new relaxation techniques during pregnancy, especially if you have any medical conditions or complications.

BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Listening to soft, calming music or nature sounds can create a peaceful atmosphere. Choose music that soothes you – instrumental music without lyrics, or classical music, can be particularly helpful for relaxation as the absence of lyrics allows you to focus on the music itself and helps create a tranquil atmosphere. Create a dedicated time each day to listen and unwind.

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Bathing

BEAUTY Soak up your pregnancy troubles with these relaxing bath essentials.

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L OV E

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

Mia Belle Rayah Bubble Bath Bar, $8, miabelle.co.nz • Natural Beauty Bamboo Bath Brush, $12.99, chemistwarehouse.co.nz • Mama + Me Sleepytime Bath Soak, $18.95, mamaandmestore. co.nz • Weleda Stretch Mark Massage Oil, $32.90, weleda.co.nz • Botanical Rose + Himalayan Salt Bath Bomb, $11.90, botanical.co.nz • Revolution Skincare Rose Quartz Roller, $33, farmers.co.nz • Natural Beauty Ramie Bath Sponge, $6.99, chemistwarehouse.co.nz • Pure Nature Rose Petals, $16.80, Epsom Salts $11, and Himalayan Salts, $10 (all in glass bowl), purenature.co.nz • Lush Sleepy Face Cleansing Balm, $20, lush.com/nz/en • Pure Nature Argan Oil, $14.80, and Pomegranate Oil, $16.60, purenature.co.nz • Mia Belle Rayah Sugar Body Scrub, $25, miabelle.co.nz • Botanical Natural Bubble Bath in Citrus Flower + Watermint, $42, botanical.co.nz • Glow Lab Mama Bath Soak, $14, glowlab.co.nz

SUMMER GAR DEN SCE N T!

have a blissful self-care moment!

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GOOD V I BE S ON LY

CHILLI, BA SIL & OLIVE OVERNIGHT FOCACCIA page 40

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A-LIT TLE-LUXE OVERNIGHT BIRCHER page 38

Colourful, nourishing food and flavours that will make you feel good.

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A-LITTLE-LUXE OVERNIGHT

bircher

HANDS-ON TIME 10 MINS / TOTAL TIME 10 MINS (+ OVERNIGHT SOAKING) / SERVES 2 BASIC BIRCHER

• 1 00g traditional wholegrain rolled oats • 2 tbsp chia seeds •F inely grated zest of ½ orange • 2 50ml milk (oat or almond) • 6 0ml freshly squeezed orange juice BEETROOT, RASPBERRY, RHUBARB & HAZELNUT BIRCHER • 7 5g fresh or frozen raspberries •½ small beetroot, peeled and finely grated (about 70g) • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 1 tsp vanilla extract •½ tsp ground cinnamon •¼ tsp ground star anise •Y oghurt (coconut or unsweetened natural), to serve • 5 0g roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped, to serve GINGERBREAD, FIG & PECAN BIRCHER

• 7 5g dried figs, roughly chopped • 1 tbsp golden syrup • 2 tsp vanilla extract •½ tsp ground ginger •½ tsp ground cinnamon •¼ tsp mixed spice •P inch of ground nutmeg •Y oghurt (coconut or unsweetened natural), to serve • 2 fresh figs, quartered, to serve • 5 0g roasted pecans, roughly chopped, to serve 1. Combine the basic bircher ingredients in a medium-large

bowl or container, then choose one of the following…

2. For the beetroot, raspberry, rhubarb & hazelnut bircher, stir

in the raspberries, beetroot, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon and star anise until well combined. Cover and refrigerate overnight. The following morning, stir the bircher and divide evenly between two bowls. Serve topped with yoghurt, roasted rhubarb, and hazelnuts.

3. For the gingerbread, fig & pecan bircher, stir in the dried

figs, golden syrup, vanilla, and spices until well combined.

Cover and refrigerate overnight. The following morning, stir the bircher and divide evenly between two bowls. Serve topped with yoghurt, figs, and pecans.

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BEETROOT BLUSH lasagne

HANDS-ON TIME 40 MINS / TOTAL TIME 2 HOURS / SERVES 8 BEETROOT BÉCHAMEL

• 1 kg beetroot, peeled and

chopped into 2cm chunks • 3 tbsp olive oil • 100g butter • 100g plain flour • 1 litre milk • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg • ¾ tsp sea salt •¾ tsp cracked black pepper FILLING

• 7 50g peeled pumpkin

flesh (from ½ crown pumpkin), chopped into 2cm chunks • 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 tbsp finely chopped sage • 5 tbsp olive oil • 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 2 00g spinach leaves, shredded • 200g feta, crumbled •½ tsp cracked black pepper ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS • 3 75g fresh or instant dried lasagne sheets • 2 large handfuls grated tasty cheese

This is no ordinary vegetarian lasagne. Roasted beetroot is blitzed through béchamel and layered with pockets of pumpkin, spinach, sage, and feta. It can be made in advance and heated as the occasion beckons.

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C fan-forced

(or 200°C conventional). Line two large oven trays with baking paper.

2. First roast the beetroot and pumpkin. In a bowl, toss

the beetroot with 3 tbsp olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Tip out onto one oven tray. In a clean bowl, toss the pumpkin with the ground cumin, 1 tbsp of the sage, 3 tbsp of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Tip onto the other tray. Roast the beetroot for about 50 minutes, until cooked through (a knife should easily pierce through the flesh). Roast the pumpkin for 30 minutes or until tender. Remove the roasted beetroot and pumpkin from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 160°C fan-forced (or 180°C conventional).

3. For the beetroot béchamel, melt the butter in a large,

deep saucepan over medium heat until starting to bubble and foam. Add the flour and whisk for a minute or two, until it forms a thick smooth paste. Remove from the heat and gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Return to medium heat and slowly bring to the boil. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent the sauce catching on the bottom of the pan, until nicely thickened. Remove from the heat and add the roasted beetroot, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Using a stick blender (or similar), blitz until completely smooth.

3. For the filling, heat the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil in

a frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, until starting to brown. Add the spinach and cook for a couple of minutes, until it is just starting to wilt. Transfer to a large bowl and toss together with the roast pumpkin, remaining sage, feta, and pepper.

4. To construct the lasagne, lightly grease a deep

ovenproof dish or baking tin (about 33cm x 23cm) with butter. Spread a very thin layer of beetroot béchamel over the base of the dish. Arrange a single layer of lasagne sheets over the béchamel, then spread with half the filling. Add another layer of lasagne sheets and spread with half the béchamel and a handful of grated Tasty cheese. Repeat so that you have 4 layers of lasagne sheets, with a top layer of béchamel sprinkled with Tasty cheese. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and the lasagne sheets are cooked through.

Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 5 minutes.

Serve warm, with your favourite side salad.

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CHILLI, BASIL & OLIVE OVERNIGHT focaccia HANDS-ON TIME 10 MINS / TOTAL TIME 3 HOURS (+ OVERNIGHT PROVING) / MAKES 1 LARGE RECTANGULAR LOAF

• 450g high grade flour • 1 sachet (8g) instant dried yeast • 10g sea salt • 2 tsp chilli flakes • 2 tsp dried basil • 50g pitted kalamata olives, drained and finely chopped • 100ml olive oil, plus extra for drizzling • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped • Coarse sea salt, to sprinkle 1. To make the focaccia dough, place the flour, yeast and salt in

a large bowl, ensuring the salt is not touching the yeast. Pour in 410ml cold water and using your hands, mix to form a relatively wet dough (no kneading is required). Add the chilli flakes, basil, olives, and 50ml of the olive oil, and mix through until just combined and evenly incorporated. Cover the bowl with clingfilm and refrigerate overnight (for a minimum of 12 hours and up to 24 hours).

2. Shape the focaccia. Generously oil a large rectangular baking tin

(about 33cm x 23cm) with olive oil. Remove the dough from the fridge and bring the edges into the centre to deflate the dough.

Tip the dough into the baking tin, folded side underneath, and using your hands, press out the corners of the dough, gently stretching to cover most of the base of the tin. Cover with clingfilm and leave in a warm place for about 2 ½ hours, until bubbly, wobbly and doubled in size. While the dough is proving, mix the remaining 50ml olive oil and the garlic in a small bowl. Set aside to infuse for 2 hours.

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C fan-forced (or 220°C conventional).

4. To bake the focaccia, drizzle the garlic oil (including all the garlic)

evenly over the dough. Use your fingers to press dimples all over the dough, reaching the bottom of the tin so that the oil pools in them (the dough will bounce back a little so you are left with dimples rather than holes). Sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Drizzle with extra olive oil, and carefully remove from the tin, using a spatula if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature.

t i p This no-knead focaccia could not be easier:

Mix (using instant dried yeast), put in the fridge, and the dough does the work overnight!

While the method is simple, the bread is amazing – it still manages to achieve that bubbly, fluff y structure that you want in your focaccia. You can swap chilli, basil, and olive for whatever’s on hand – parsley, oregano, and chopped sundried tomatoes, for instance.

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MATCHA & PISTACHIO AMARET TI

MATCHA & PISTACHIO

amaretti

HANDS-ON TIME 15 MINS / TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR 10 MINS / MAKES 15 SMALL COOKIES • 100g pistachio kernels • 110g ground almonds • 200g caster sugar • 1 tbsp matcha powder • pinch of sea salt • 65g egg whites (about 2) • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste • 75g icing sugar 1. Place the pistachios in a food processor and

blitz until finely ground. Transfer to a large bowl, add the ground almonds, caster sugar, matcha and salt, whisking to combine. In a separate bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.

Add the egg whites and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold together to make a soft, slightly sticky paste.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 40 minutes, so that the mixture can be rolled into balls without sticking to your hands.

2. Preheat the oven to 150°C fan-forced

(or 170°C conventional). Line two oven trays with baking paper. Sift the icing sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll the chilled dough into small balls (about 30g each). Roll the balls in the icing sugar to coat generously. Place on the oven trays spaced at least 4cm apart, as they may spread a little as they bake.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHY 2023.

3. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until cracked,

In the style of Italian amaretti, these biscuits are wonderfully chewy due to a base of egg whites and ground nuts.

Matcha and pistachio are buddies in green and a dangerously moreish combination, so if ingredients are on hand, this recipe is always worth doubling.

fragrant, and just starting to turn lightly golden brown at the edges. Leave to cool on the trays for 10 minutes, before carefully moving to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Recipes extracted from Good Vibes

by Alby Hailes, $55, HarperCollins NZ. Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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Riddle me this Tattoos, piercings, lipo, implants… Tiffany Brown answers your questions about how these may (or may not) impact your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey.

CAN I GET A TATTOO WHEN I’M PREGNANT?

Experts urge caution before doing so.

There are small but significant risks associated with tattooing, including infection of the skin, contracting blood-borne illness such as hepatitis, or complications from contaminated ink trapped under the surface of the skin.

Some research suggests certain elements of the ink – such as heavy metals which can affect your baby’s brain development – may be able to transfer to the placenta.

Your pregnancy skin is also constantly changing and growing, so the eventual tattoo may look different to the original design. If you want to go ahead with a pregnancy tattoo, make sure your tattoo artist operates within scrupulous parameters for safety, including using a sterilising autoclave, and new equipment, needles, and dyes for each new client.

WHAT ABOUT HENNA TATTOOS?

If your heart is set on some commemorative body art, a safe alternative is also a tradition that dates back millennia. In Middle Eastern, cultures the application of beautiful henna designs in the third trimester is thought to bring good luck, a safe birth, and a happy baby.

Make sure your henna artist uses a pure henna in shades of red or brown – black henna contains PPD, or paraphenylenediamine, a chemical that causes burns and blisters. The henna effect should last between one and four weeks.

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did you know?

5000

years is how long the art of henna has been practiced!

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I’VE HAD A TUMMY TUCK. IS PREGNANCY SAFE FOR ME? I ALREADY HAVE TATTOOS, WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THEM DURING PREGNANCY?

Existing tattoos are going to stretch along with the skin as your body changes.

Melasma, a temporary darkening of the skin which occurs in some women during pregnancy, may also affect how your pre-baby tattoos appear.

CAN I GET A BODY PIERCING DURING MY PREGNANCY?

Because of the risk of infection it’s better to wait till baby is born before getting a new body piercing. If you already have body piercings, you don’t need to remove them, unless you find they become uncomfortable.

Nipple, genital, or belly button piercings could also cause problems with birthing or breastfeeding. Every body is unique, however, and as long as your piercings are fully healed, you may find they don’t bother you at all.

SHOULD I REMOVE MY BELLY BUTTON PIERCING?

The stretching of the belly button as your baby grows could create discomfort.

Remove the piercing until after the birth, reinserting and turning it every few weeks to keep the hole from closing. Alternatively, maternity belly bars are made from PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), a non-toxic, allergy-free material used in medical implants. The bars allow your belly button piercing to lengthen as your tummy grows.

Watch for signs of any irritation, and remove if this occurs.

THANKS TO MAMA BLANCA. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALMA ROSELL FOTOGRAFÍA MÁLAGA.

I’VE HAD LIPOSUCTION, WILL THIS AFFECT MY PREGNANCY BODY?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery to permanently remove stubborn fat deposits. Pregnancy following a liposuction procedure won’t reverse the effects of the surgery, nor will it impact your chances of getting pregnant. Most women do gain weight during their pregnancy, but this is usually lost within a year or so after birth.

If you do experience stubborn weight gain, it’s likely to be in areas where liposuction wasn’t performed. If you want to revisit your surgeon to talk about further liposuction procedures, it’s best to wait until after your last baby.

Medically described as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure to improve the shape and appearance of the abdomen. Surgeons prefer you try to wait until after your last pregnancy to have a tummy tuck, if possible. But if you’ve had one prior, it won’t interfere with your ability to get pregnant, nor should it be a complication for birth. It may cause you some discomfort however, as the taut skin stretches in response to your growing bump.

As a result of carrying your baby, it’s likely you’ll need a subsequent tummy tuck to restore abdominal appearance to its pre-pregnancy state. C-section deliveries can also be complicated by previous tummy tuck surgery due to an increase in scar tissue. Make sure you let your medical team know as soon as possible if you’ve had abdominoplasty surgery in the past.

WILL MY BREA ST REDUCTION STOP ME FROM BREA STFEEDING?

Some mums-to-be worry that their ability to breastfeed their infant could be impacted by a previous breast reduction. But an operation to reduce breast size doesn’t impact milk ducts or breast tissue, so breastfeeding can be established just as well as it would have been pre-surgery.

I HAVE A BREA ST AUGMENTATION/ BREA ST IMPLANTS, HOW WILL THIS AFFECT BREA STFEEDING?

The answer may depend on the type of incision used. Augmentation surgery, which leaves the areola untouched, is less likely to cause problems. The nerves around the nipples are vital for breastfeeding, responding to your baby’s suckling by increasing the hormones prolactin and oxytocin, both essential for milk production and letdown.

Implants may also impact the volume of milk production, but for some women, milk supply is unaffected. It’s recommended you breastfeed often (8-10 times per day) to establish and continue supply. Complete emptying of both breasts is also important.

Try using a pump or hand-expressing if you need to; one study found that pumping both breasts simultaneously was found to increase supply, as well as to increase calories and fat in the breast milk. Certain herbs like fenugreek may also help boost supply.

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WHEN DOES PUPPP OCCUR?

PUPPP typically appears during the third trimester of pregnancy, although it can occur earlier or later. The bumps are usually red and raised, and they may be surrounded by a red, hive-like rash. The rash may be extremely itchy, and scratching can cause the bumps to become even more inflamed.

In rare cases, the rash may become infected, which can lead to complications. However, with proper treatment, the risk of complications is low.

decision A rash

PUPPP is a common, yet super-uncomfortable, skin condition in pregnancy – here’s what you need to know.

P

ruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy (aka PUPPP) is characterised by an itchy, hive-like rash that typically appears on a pregnant woman’s belly and can spread to other parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, and bottom. The good news is, while PUPPP can be irritating and annoying, it is a benign condition and generally harmless to both the mama and pēpi.

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WHAT CAUSES PUPPP?

The exact cause of PUPPP is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the stretching of the skin during pregnancy.

As the uterus grows, the skin on the abdomen stretches, which can cause irritation and inflammation. Hormonal changes during pregnancy may also play a role, and PUPPP tends to be more common in first pregnancies.

While PUPPP is a common condition, there are some risk factors that may increase the likelihood of you developing the rash during pregnancy. Women who are carrying multiples, have gestational diabetes, or have a history of allergies or skin conditions may be more likely to develop PUPPP. Women who have had PUPPP in a previous pregnancy are also at an increased risk of developing the condition in subsequent pregnancies.

Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy, staying hydrated, and avoiding tight clothing can all help to reduce the risk of developing PUPPP. It’s also important to avoid scratching the rash, as this can lead to further irritation and inflammation.

CAN IT BE TREATED?

Treatment for PUPPP typically involves managing the symptoms. Topical creams – such as corticosteroids – can be used to reduce inflammation and itching. Overthe-counter antihistamines can also be used to reduce itching. In severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed. In addition to medication, there are other things that pregnant women can do to manage PUPPP. Wearing loose-fitting clothing, taking cool baths, and using simple fragrance-free moisturisers can all help to reduce itching and inflammation.

TALK TO YOUR LMC OR GP FIRST

If you are pregnant and experiencing a rash or other skin condition, it’s important to speak with your dermatologist, LMC, GP, or other healthcare provider. They can examine the rash and determine the cause.

In some cases, a skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, your provider can recommend appropriate treatment options.

BY CHARLOTTE COWAN WITH THANKS TO DERMATOLOGIST DR JULIE SMITH FOR CONSULTING ON THIS STORY.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS?

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BUMP&baby’s am azingweek-by-week

WEEK 14 In the 1950s, Swedish photojournalist Lennart Nilsson embarked on 12-year project to use photography and technology to document life before birth.

Together with medical experts, and in collaboration with five hospitals in the Stockholm region, Lennart produced unrivalled crystalclear colour images of the 266 days between conception and birth.

The photographs were published both in his book A Child is Born and in a Life Magazine article entitled “Drama of Life Before Birth” in 1965. Such images have never been reproduced.

BUMP&baby readers have the chance to see these fascinating, thought-provoking images in our week-to-week pregnancy guide at bumpandbaby.co.nz/week-by-week.

Measuring around four centimetres, your baby’s facial muscles have learnt to squint, frown and grimace.

Their kidneys are processing urine and they can even try to suck their thumb.

WEEK 33

Now the size of a pineapple, at 33 weeks your baby is able to show the rooting reflex by turning their head and opening their mouth to respond to stimulation of the cheek. They are also practising sucking and swallowing.

WEEK 27

At 27 weeks, baby is now the size of a cauliflower head and spends 10-20% of the time taking practise breaths (of amniotic fluid), an important exercise to strengthen the lungs.

Scan to see images

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Navigating a trisomy diagnosis

The journey to welcoming a new baby can take some unexpected turns, sometimes in the form of an extra chromosome, writes Yvonne Walus.

R

eceiving a trisomy diagnosis for your unborn baby can be overwhelming and daunting – what does it mean for your baby’s future?

THE SCIENCE BEHIND IT

Typically, an egg and sperm cell holds 23 chromosomes each. During fertilisation they fuse to establish 46 chromosomes.

Occasionally, another chromosome attaches itself to the egg or sperm cell, resulting in a trisomy condition. Understanding the diagnosis can empower the parents to navigate the complex landscape of medical and social implications.

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SCREENING TESTS

In New Zealand, all pregnant women are offered non-invasive screening methods to assess the risk. The decision to undergo trisomy screening is a personal one.

The process includes a first trimester blood test together with an ultrasound scan, plus a second trimester maternal serum test. Although the blood tests are free, most providers will charge for the scan.

Screening is not definitive. The majority of women receiving an increased risk result don’t carry a baby with a chromosome condition – it simply means the probability is higher compared to other pregnancies.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

If screening shows an increased risk, you will be offered an amniocentesis (taken from the waters around the baby) or chorionic villus sampling (taken from the placenta).

In either case, a thin needle is inserted into the abdomen, which carries some hazards – for every 200 women who have diagnostic tests, one or two will miscarry. It’s important to speak to your lead maternity carer about the procedure and its dangers.

EMBRACING THE FUTURE: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR FAMILY If the tests confirm a genetic condition, it’s natural to experience a range of emotions, including shock, protectiveness, love, and anxiety. Having a different child means a different journey, and your medical team will discuss what the diagnosis might imply for your baby. Early Intervention

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+ MIAH’S STORY

Miah is a teenager, currently obsessed with the Barbie movie. She was diagnosed with Down syndrome minutes after she was born, and her parents went from cloud nine to being utterly shattered. They were in shock and – with no understanding of the condition – thought their lives were over. Which was far from the reality, 15 years later.

“We celebrate every achievement and every milestone without fixing them to age. It’s not a race.”

“Being younger and naive when we had her, we thought having a daughter with special needs meant we were destined to be full-on carers around the clock [but] it’s not the case,” says mum Nykie. “Miah is capable and funny, and looks after all her own daily chores.

She has opened my eyes so wide, I don’t know how I existed before.

“Miah’s brothers are amazing and caring young men and Miah has given them some valuable lessons in life. It’s hard to not add to the cliché that all people with DS are happy and loving, but she really is.”

s Nykie's tip

FOR PARENTING OLDER KIDS WITH DOWN SYNDROME: • Don’t look too far ahead. It’s easy to get stuck in that trap.

• Enjoy them as you would any child – there are many amazing moments.

• They’re on their own timeline and when they get to their milestones in their own time, it’s so much sweeter!

• Just like everyone else, they have a full spectrum of feelings – they can get moody, sad, and angry too.

• Patience is key. Children with Down syndrome need time to express themselves and they understand much more than you realise.

– professional assistance – is available to parents and their babies. The team may include a paediatric doctor, a speech therapist, physiotherapist, and occupational therapist who will all work alongside you to ensure that your child reaches their full potential.

Connecting with supportive communities and organisations can provide parents with valuable insights and resources. Every child is unique, and while trisomy diagnoses present unique challenges, they also teach us about the diversity of human genetics and the strength of parental love.

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Jess's tips FOR FAMILIES STARTING ON THIS JOURNEY: • A sk for help and accept it.

• Your village is important, not only for casseroles and babysitting, but also because they will be your baby’s network and support system.

• Seek out the positives – the beauty and the inspiration.

The three main trisomies explained

+ GEORGIE’S STORY

Georgie is 14 months old, and her smile is magic – it transforms her face and melts your heart. She is lovely, sweet, and she brings a lot of joy to her family. Her mother Jess found out that Georgie may have Down syndrome during the first trimester screening. “It was a shock, hard to process,” says Jess. “I was queueing with the family to see Santa, and when I received the phone call, I had to keep a smile on my face for the sake of my older two daughters. [It] felt surreal.”

Understandably, Jess spent a lot of time researching the condition.

The medical information felt both overwhelming and scary, and it was a relief to find more positive websites such as the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association, advice forums, and Facebook communities. “Being welcome into their community feels amazing,” she says.

They waited until the diagnostic tests before telling their friends.

“We didn’t want their sympathy because having a baby with Down syndrome is nothing to be sorry about,” says Jess. “And they were all great. They offered reassuring comments, including how lucky Georgie was to have such a lovely family waiting for her arrival.”

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

she didn’t gain enough weight and had to have a special formula to help her thrive.

When she was ready, she had the surgery, which fixed her heart completely.

Jess says life with Georgie is enriching and rewarding. She loves food and is learning to swallow solids. She can sit up, smile, wave, and she’s now working on her clapping. “There is a lot of focus on milestones with any baby and particularly when it comes to a baby with a trisomy,” says Jess. “With Georgie, we celebrate every achievement and every milestone without fixing them to age.

It’s not a race.”

“We celebrate every achievement and every milestone without fixing them to age. It’s not a race.”

Georgie was born with a hole in her heart, which is not uncommon for babies with Down syndrome. She had to stay in NICU at first, and all the staff were amazing, letting the parents bond with Georgie through skin-to-skin contact and helping with her care. Because Georgie’s heart and lungs had to function extra hard,

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Trisomy 13: Patau syndrome

In addition to worrying about Georgie’s future, Jess was also anxious about the impact her condition may have on the siblings. Fortunately, these fears turned out to be unfounded.

“We live in a world with a lot of diversity, a lot of acceptance, and there is no stigma attached to Down syndrome the way it used to be a few generations ago.

To explain Georgie’s condition to her sisters, we used a booklet distributed by NZDSA, as well as a book called We’ll Paint the Octopus Red.” In this way, and in many other ways, Georgie helps her family and friends learn about diversity.

Patau syndrome affects approximately 1 in 10,000 births. The medical aspects include cleft lip and palate, heart defects, and extra fingers or toes. Parents should be aware that the challenges can be substantial, and sadly, many babies don’t survive beyond their first year. Dealing with this diagnosis requires courage, resilience, and strong support systems.

Trisomy 18: Edwards syndrome Edwards syndrome occurs in about 1 in 5,000 births. Babies face a range of issues, such as low birth weight, clenched fists, heart, and kidney problems. While this condition presents unique challenges for every family, parents are often inspired by their child’s strength and determination.

Trisomy 21: Down syndrome Down syndrome affects approximately 1 in 1,200 births. Children with this diagnosis often exhibit a wide range of abilities and characteristics. With early intervention and the right support networks they can flourish, lead fulfilling lives, finish school, play sports, be employed, and move out of home. If you receive a diagnosis, please reach out to the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (nzdsa. org.nz/support). You may also find this guide helpful – adsa.org.nz/wp-content/ uploads/2022/03/A-Kids-Guide-to-DownSyndrome-Book-2022.pdf.

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SHOW US YOUR BUMP

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and be in to win!

PEPI CARE PACK AGE WORTH OVER $730

BUMP&baby is running a year-long search for beautiful pregnancy photos.

Send in yours and you’ll not only be in to win amazing prizes, we’ll also publish our 10 winning photos across two issues of BUMP&baby magazine!

See details for the chicco and isoki prizes and enter at bumpandbaby.co.nz/win

SPONSORED BY Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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GROW

GLOW

&

Karine 28 WEEKS PREGNANT

“Being pregnant is such a special time and also a very short time. I wanted to make the most of this time and really wanted to capture these beautiful moments too look back on. I never expected I would enjoy being pregnant – I thought I would get fat and feel unhappy about my body.

But the opposite happened, I felt so much love for my new body and loved seeing all the changes and knowing that my baby was growing.”

--PHOTOGR APHED AT BARK BEACH, NEW PLYMOUTH,

BY NATALIE WALKER OF PHOTOGR APHY BY NATALIE.

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Five gorgeous Kiwi women

share t heir unique and powerful pregnancy journeys.

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Jacqui

37 WEEKS PREGNANT

“I love that [when I am pregnant] I always feel so confident, beautiful ,and also really lucky to be able to carry my babies – I’ve been very lucky to have two pretty easy pregnancies. I feel like with your second there’s a lot less purposeful bonding than the first. I bought a book called There’s A House Inside My Mummy which we read to our two-year-old, Haize. I think that was really cool to be able to share that with him. When Marco was born, Haize came in a few hours later and met him, which was really special.”

--PHOTOGR APHED IN MARLBOROUGH BY SAR AH WRIGHT FROM AUGUST LUXE PHOTOGR APHY.

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Letitia

32 WEEKS PREGNANT

“When I am pregnant I feel my most beautiful. I will forever be in awe of the sacredness and blessing of carrying life.”

--PHOTOGR APHED AT PYES PA , TAUR ANGA , BY RIA R AWIRI OF PHOTOGR APHY BY RIA .

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Tayla

36 WEEKS PREGNANT

“I wanted to capture the beauty of pregnancy, celebrate my body, and create memories that both myself and baby could look back on. I loved that despite feeling anything but beautiful the entire pregnancy, I was able to get in front of the camera not only alone but naked, and feel confident.”

--PHOTOGR APHED AT PAENGAROA , BAY OF PLENT Y, BY KIMBERLY RICH OF BILLIE BLUE.

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Georgia 33 WEEKS PREGNANT

“When I found out we were having a daughter, I swore to myself that I would model body positivity to her and be proud of my body – in all its forms. I hope when she’s older and sees these photos, she can see how proud and honoured I was to carry her.”

--PHOTOGR APHED AT RUAK AK A BEACH

BY CARLEIGH MCR AE OF BOHEMIAN BLUE PHOTOGR APHY.

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There’s no way to predict how pregnancy will affect your sex life but here’s some facts and tips, whatever your position on the topic!

W

hen you’re newly pregnant, having sex might be the furthest thing from your mind – particularly if you’re suffering from morning sickness and other not-so-fun symptoms.

Plus, if you’ve been trying for a baby for some time, you and your partner may be well and truly over it. Or, if you and your partner are in the habit of regular sex when you become pregnant, you may find there’s no need to make changes to a good thing.

There is no formula for how you’ll both feel and react to the news of your pregnancy, and no one can predict how it will affect your sex life. Carry on as normal or experience great changes – either way, you’ll naturally have questions about sex during pregnancy. Take a deep breath, try to quash any squeamishness or feelings of insecurity, and ask your LMC or GP straight out.

These professionals will be more than happy and not at all embarrassed to address your concerns or queries directly.

WHAT IS NORMAL?

There is an extremely wide definition of “normal” when it comes to sex during pregnancy, just like there is a wide range of “normal” in sex outside of pregnancy.

All couples are different and will move through the pregnant time in their relationship with different rhythms.

Pregnancy is incredibly unique to every woman, and can even be quite different for each pregnancy. Male partners experience pregnancy in many different ways too, albeit on a more psychological level than a physical one.

Pregnancy is driven by hormones, and these changes affect women in different ways. Some women experience a dramatic increase in libido, others the same to a lesser extent – and still others will find the opposite to be true (Netflix and ice cream, anyone?).

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What’s your position?

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semen can trigger uterine contractions. But If you are the pregnant person in the having sex up to your due date is unlikely to relationship and you find your sex drive bring about labour in a normal pregnancy. has plummeted right to your swollen ankles, Remember, though, that the you’re in good company. Many women feel prostaglandins contained in semen can be this way. But it is important to communicate beneficial to soften the cervix and get your with and encourage sensitivity in your body ready for delivery, particularly if you’re partner, who may need help to understand overdue. Many women find themselves the change in you. turning to sex in the very last days of Tending to your emotional and pregnancy to help hurry things along. psychological needs will be more important This is one of those old wives’ tales that right now than having sex. Keeping the actually has a measure of truth to it. And it’s lines of communication open will help to perfectly safe to try once you’ve passed your keep your sense of intimacy alive. Touching, due date, unless your pregnancy is high-risk. cuddling, and massage are wonderful ways to feel connected. There wouldn’t be many SEXUAL APPETITE pregnant women who’d turn down the offer It’s possible your sexual appetite will wax of a good foot rub at the end of a long day. and wane during your pregnancy. Many If your partner still struggles to accept women experience feelings of morning this slow-down on the physical side of your sickness, vomiting, and depleted energy relationship, remind them pregnancy is in the first trimester, which can certainly a relatively short time. You may also need to leave you couch-bound and lacking interest. encourage them to seek support from your As you enter the second trimester, you professional team, or even from their peers. may experience a return of energy and Getting a bit of objective input from a lessening of queasiness. This can combine a mate during a run or over with a jump in oestrogen “Touching, a weeknight pint may help levels to give you a surge to put things in perspective. of libido. Make the most cuddling, and of it if this happens to you. massage are HIGH LIBIDO By the third trimester, Sex is arguably one of the many women start to really wonderful ways most enjoyable ways to keep feel the physical effects of to feel connected.” the extra weight they’re up your exercise quotient.

Regular, moderate exercise carrying. Pressure on your and keeping fit helps to keep your moods pelvis, swelling, back pain, and a shift in on an even keel while all those hormones your centre of gravity can have feeling offare raging around your body. And it helps kilter. Both this physical discomfort and both body and mind to be in tip-top a too-common psychological preoccupation condition to deal with the physical with one’s size can affect a woman’s sense of and psychological demands of growing sexual desire all over again. It’s also true that a brand-new human being.

– for first-time mums especially – you may just simply have too much to think about to IS IT SAFE? be concerned with much else, sex included, Yes, it is perfectly safe to be sexually while expecting a baby. active during pregnancy, with just a few exceptions. There are some medical reasons, BUT REMEMBER… such as placenta praevia, risk of pre-term Whether you have a high or low libido labour, or carrying multiples, which might during pregnancy, something to keep in exclude you. Your LMC will monitor and mind is that opportunities for intimacy, advise you on any of these conditions, but sex and privacy can be pretty hard to come double-check with them if you’re unsure. by once your baby arrives on the scene.

Despite common fears among women, Welcoming a new baby to the fold is there is no connection between sex and early a naturally stressful time in many ways. pregnancy loss or miscarriage in normal A strong partnership heading into the pregnancy. As long as you’re up for it, and journey will help to smooth the road ahead. your partner is on board, you’ve got a green And enjoying each other’s company while light. Partners can often worry that sex you anticipate the upcoming life-changing might hurt the baby, but this is not true. event will enrich the experience, whether Both orgasms and the prostaglandins in that takes place in the bedroom or not.

NO SEX DRIVE?

fun fact

50%

of first-time mums and 75% of first-time dads are nervous about having sex during pregnancy!

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Celebrating

difference

Author and mama-of-two Eliza Hull shares her story of adaption and innovation on her parenting journey.

I

have a physical disability, a neurological condition called Charcot-MarieTooth. It affects the way I walk. I fall over regularly and have muscle and sensation loss throughout my body. Lack of circulation creates freezing cold legs on hot summer days, and I am consistently fatigued and in pain.

When I first seriously considered having children, I spoke to my neurologist. I had the hugest smile on my face, at the time I was in love and elated just thinking about

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the possibility of children. I’ll never forget his stern and unforgiving look in response; he couldn’t hide his disapproval. Silently he wrote notes on his computer as I waited.

After what felt like hours, he lifted his head, adjusted his glasses, and began to flood me with questions. “Have you considered your options? As someone with Charcot-MarieTooth, you have a 50 per cent chance of passing on your condition. Have you looked into genetic counselling? We could do a panel blood test again? Do you think

you will be able to manage?”

I felt like I was crumbling. Shame overcame me. We’re taught to trust medical professionals, so his words really stung.

I’m used to discrimination; I’ve had people stop in the street and pray for me. I’ve been stared at and ridiculed. But this was far more insidious; this was someone in a position of authority, someone whom I was supposed to trust, suggesting it would be best if I didn’t have a child in case they were like me. It affected me deeply. I can still feel the

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pain in my chest from that day; of innovation. You have to adapt, it flares again in moments of self-­doubt. find solutions, learn about your baby, In June 2014, we found out I was and be constantly flexible. pregnant. A rush of adrenaline filled my All new parents know the feeling of body and I had a roller coaster of emotions: bringing your baby home and wondering, Fear, uncertainty, and excitement. The “How the hell do I do this?” Parents with neurologist’s questions haunted me: How disability have an added layer of pressure. was I going to do this? I grappled with other Often we feel judged and misunderstood, questions, too. Would the pregnancy be too like the world is watching and waiting hard on my body? Would people judge me? for us to make a mistake. Yet because we Could I manage? What if I fell over while are already masters at problem-solving in holding my baby? At times my head was daily life, we are perfectly placed to master a whirlwind of anxiety. the art of parenting.

The thing is, when Throughout my you’re disabled you parenting journey, “Most have to constantly I’ve learned ways adapt. On a daily basis to be adaptive and significantly, I have to find unique, innovative. I’m now I’m teaching them a mother of two; creative ways to get around barriers so I have a six-year-­old girl, the importance that I can navigate the Isobel, and a one-yearworld freely. Parenting old boy, Archie. At the of a diverse and demands the same kind moment I’m in a world of sleepless nights, inclusive world.” breastfeeding, pushing prams, and teaching my daughter to sound out words while she learns to read.

In the stillness of the night, I run my hand along the cot, gripping each bar to lead me to the nursing chair, as I hold my one-yearold in the other arm. I grasp the cot tightly as I nestle him in my arms. Every movement is calculated. My senses are alive as I navigate my wobbly, unsteady legs. I have five pillows stacked on the chair to sit on, so I can get myself up while holding a sleeping Archie.

As I slowly move towards the cot after feeding him, I wonder what it feels like to be held by me. I smile thinking that perhaps the way I move, the rocking back and forth as I walk, is part of what soothes him to sleep.

I have to be honest: Having a 50 per cent chance of passing on my genetic condition is not something that’s been easy to grapple with. I am proudly disabled, yet I have still worried for my children. I know what kind of world they are coming into; if they have my disability, they will face discrimination, barriers and physical pain, among other societal challenges. This knowledge is hard to navigate.

People may judge me for choosing to parent while knowing this, but who better to make this decision than someone who’s

lived with my disability for decades? I am proud of who I am and wouldn’t change a thing about me; I want to instil the same pride in my children. I want them to know that whoever they are, it’s okay.

Of course, being a disabled parent is not easy. There are times when I wish I had more energy or wasn’t in pain – when I’m pushing the pram around the block and my bones feel like glass, sharp pain like razor blades shoots around my body. But then I look inside the pram and see a smiling face, and it’s all worth it. There are moments that hurt: when my partner is running around with the kids or is able to hold them and carry them in ways I can’t and never will.

Or the pinch in my chest when I see other mothers ‘baby wearing’ with their child in a sling or carrier, when this was never a possibility for me. But I know I’m an incredible mother. My daughter and I paint and read together. I sit on the ground and roll the ball up and down with my energetic son. But most significantly, I’m teaching them the importance of a diverse and inclusive world. I don’t parent despite my disability; I parent as a proudly disabled person. Being a disabled parent is not a deficit; we create a rich, colourful life where difference is celebrated and embraced.

Parenting with a disability doesn’t look like following a textbook; it looks like love, connection, pride, innovation and adaptability. We’re rebellious, not in a brave, heroic way – more in a bad-arse way!

And for any disabled person about to dive into the unknown, exciting, terrifying and heart-exploding world of parenting, I want you to know there’s a community of people out there to support you – you’re not alone.

Eliza Hull is an Australian contemporary musician, disability advocate, podcaster, and writer.

Edited extract from We’ve Got This: Stories

By Disabled Parents by Eliza Hull, $38, Black Books Inc. Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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Share

the love

Some of our favourite Kiwi content creators reveal what motivates them to share their ups and downs online, and their advice for new mums.

CA SSIDY SKELTON

@cassidyskelton

WHY I STARTED CREATING CONTENT…

“I wanted to provide a space where lived experience met education around emotional regulation. I had been fortunate enough to do a few papers in a counselling degree and complete a lot of independent study regarding mental health, so when I began to experience a real dip in my mental health in 2021-2022, I thought it was a cool opportunity to share my journey through the ups and downs of mental health.

I love sharing how to process and manage big feelings – it’s such an important skill that so many of us didn’t have the privilege of being taught growing up.”

WHY MY FOLLOWERS ENJOY MY CONTENT…

“My community loves how I process my big feelings openly and give them a front-row seat to how I work through the challenges I face. A big talking point on my page is my spicy childhood and how that affects how I show up in the world. As childhood adversity plays a huge role in mental health, I think it’s important to connect the dots and educate people how to process their childhoods effectively.”

MY ADVICE FOR NEW MUMS…

“Everybody is guessing. There’s no reason your guess is any worse than anyone else’s!”

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DANICK A THOMA S

Other creators

@danickathomas_

I love…

WHY I STARTED CREATING CONTENT…

“Matilda Djerf and Fillipa Moulier – I love following Swedish influencers!”

“I think my curiosity is what made me start my page.

Or maybe being newly married, in a new city with no job and a lot of time on my hands, is what made me want to share my life! I wanted to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone. I felt bored most days and wanted a creative outlet and content creation was that for me.

I mostly produce daily vlogs and cooking recipe videos – I love vlogging for YouTube and creating content on there!”

MY ADVICE FOR NEW MUMS…

SHIMA WILSON

@girloffgrid @shimaselvaraj @shima.girloffgrid

WHY I STARTED CREATING CONTENT…

“About two years ago my husband and I decided to leave our city lives and start building our home together in the Far North. I felt pretty isolated with the rural lifestyle change, so I started documenting the journey on TikTok, where I found a community that made me feel not so insane!

It started with building updates and food and recipe content, and now it’s about motherhood.”

MY ADVICE FOR NEW MUMS…

“You’re not alone. It’s easy to feel like you’re doing it all wrong but just know, when you’re up at 3am rocking a crying baby back to sleep, there are so many others doing the exact same thing in that same moment.”

“I would definitely encourage new mums to look into the psychology and biology behind birth – it’s fascinating when you learn techniques that can help you during labour and birth. It’s also super encouraging to know that you are physically built to give birth and that you don’t have to fear it. I had a home birth and loved every second of it!

Also, when you’re having a rough day or night and you don’t know if you’re doing the right thing, or you feel like you fall short in some way, remind yourself that you are not bad at this but that you’re simply a beginner. You and your baby are learning and navigating this new norm together as a little team.”

Another creator I love…

“Lisa Perese-Cullen on TikTok – she shows me you don’t have to be perfect to be a good mum.”

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piece

A missing

Y

ou’ve been reading avidly about what to expect during pregnancy, you’ve discussed a birth plan with your midwife or doctor, and you’ve ticked off the checklist of baby items.

You feel very well informed, but something still feels missing – the supportive presence of your mum.

TAKING A DIFFERENT JOURNEY

Many women enjoy a close relationship with their mothers, who are keen to provide emotional and practical support during their daughter’s pregnancy and beyond.

By virtue of having gone through pregnancy and parenthood, mothers can offer advice in a different way to other trusted people in a woman’s life. However, many other women are not as fortunate – some may have lost their own mothers or are no longer in contact with them. The joy of pregnancy may therefore be tempered by feelings of loss and sadness – not only for knowing their child will not get to experience a grandmother’s love, but also for not being able to share their own journey of motherhood.

In addition, the pregnancy journey and the first few months after birth can present some unexpected challenges, and having a dependable source of support becomes especially important during this time.

Some women may experience pregnancy complications or difficult births. Then taking on a new 24/7 caretaking role and adjusting to a significant identity shift as a mother while recovering from birth can take a further physical and emotional toll, especially without a strong support system available.

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Not all mums-to-be have their own mamas around during their new journey into parenthood. And whether by choice or not, this can be challenging.

Dr Felicia Low shares how to find other support.

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WHY SUPPORT IS IMPORTANT

We know that lack of social support – whether from family, friends, or the wider community – is a major factor in women developing mental distress during and after pregnancy. However, the absence of a woman’s mother, in particular, may be felt acutely. In New Zealand, about one in seven women experience symptoms of mental distress, such as depression and anxiety, during pregnancy through to about one year after birth. In fact, it is estimated that nearly half of all women are affected to some extent during pregnancy.

Finding a good support network on this new journey is therefore crucial to help avoid mental distress and protect the woman’s psychological and emotional wellbeing.

So, what are some ways that mums-to-be, especially those who do not have their mothers available, can build up their support system?

FINDING YOUR VILLAGE

THANKS TO MAMA NGAHUIA. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RIA RAWIRI OF PHOTOGRAPHY BY RIA.

The proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” is widely used to acknowledge that in addition to parents, it takes many other people (the “village”) to support pregnant mums and help children flourish in a safe, healthy environment. Traditionally, the village would comprise people such as extended family members, neighbours, friends, and other community members.

Seek support from people close to you

If possible, seek help from family and good friends – these could be a sister, an aunt or other close relative, or another motherly figure. They likely can anticipate your needs best, whether through practical assistance or through moral support in person or from afar. The importance of having a non-judgemental listening ear to confide in cannot be overstated.

Go online

Online groups, such as on Facebook or other discussion boards, can help with connecting to other parents-to-be or new parents at any time of the day or night.

A new social platform – The Village NZ – has recently been established for Kiwi mums, dads, families and supporters with the aim of fostering connections and building communities (see page 64).

“The pregnancy journey and the first few months after birth can present some unexpected challenges, and having a dependable source of support becomes especially important during this time.”

Get into groups

Once baby has arrived, another option is to meet people with babies of similar age.

Antenatal or parenting classes, parent coffee groups, and even baby-focussed library and community centre events offer great opportunities to make new friends. Sharing experiences, asking each other questions and knowing you’re not alone in your challenges can help make the journey feel smoother.

A common tip from other new parents is to always accept any offers of help, no matter how small!

Ask for help

Finally, if you are experiencing mental distress at any stage, don’t hesitate to also reach out to your LMC, GP, or Well Child provider for advice on accessing support services. Preparing and caring for a new baby can be potentially stressful, but for those of us who don’t have mum, it is certainly possible to find support in other ways. It could well make all the difference.

Dr Felicia Low leads the Knowledge Hub for Maternal and Child Health at Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures, The University of Auckland.

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Remie’s story

I didn’t have the best relationship with my mother growing up. We would constantly argue, so I left home pretty early to be independent. Over recent years I distanced myself from her, but becoming pregnant definitely gave me a new perspective on our relationship. A child is such a gift and I didn’t want any negative energy around me, so I chose to not have her in my life during this time.

I think a big struggle for me was that my mother was wasn’t loving and I knew how I wanted to raise my son. I wanted to show him so much love, nurture him, protect him, and keep him safe.

When I told my mother, I felt some relief, but she was hurt that she wasn’t invited to my baby shower.

I wanted no stress and only invited a small group of my closest friends and my sisters.

I went to many of my midwife and scan appointments by myself. My husband works full-time and there were also COVID-19 restrictions during that time, which limited who could come with me. My older sister took on a massive role; she has always felt like a mother figure to me and would constantly check in on me.

When I met my baby boy, I did struggle with whether I should let my mother know he had arrived. This was such an amazing time of my life and maybe my baby could reconnect us? After a few days – rushing with hormones and the baby blues – I did decide to reach out and sent her a photo with the news that he had arrived. I was so proud to show him off and tell her she had another grandson. She was happy I told her, but it still took until he was two months old until I was ready for her to meet him, and contact hasn’t been regular since.

Being so independent, I knew I didn’t need my mother’s help or her approval – I’d done my own research around bringing up a baby. I have a lot of mum friends, I watched countless YouTube videos, read pregnancy books, and attended antenatal classes online and in person. I knew this would just come naturally to me, and it did.

There were also really good resources once my baby arrived. The Birthcare nurses were amazing for those first few days and I felt safe to go home with the tools I had learned. The regular midwife appointments at home also were comforting to know he was on track. I then had the Plunket nurses’ visits, and went to drop-in clinics. I went on to join a Plunket group with babies born around the same month, which was great for me in those first few months.

I do wish I had my mother fully invested as a mum and nana, but I have also come to get used to her not being around. I love being a mum and I can make my own memories and be the mother role model I always wanted.

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The Village NZ

The Village NZ is a new initiative from The Wright Family Foundation that addresses the pressing issues of social isolation and stress faced by whānau in New Zealand and aims to enhance the wellbeing of women and their families through community-focussed resources.

It offers a holistic approach to maternal and paternal wellbeing through educational and restorative spaces and is committed to diversity and responsiveness to community needs. Initially virtual, The Village NZ can extend a helping hand to parents, highlighting the need for collective efforts in building resilient communities.

For more information, visit the-village-nz.org or email Daneille Geary at daneille@wrightfamilyfoundation.org.nz.

A

Anna’s story

My mum died from cancer when I was 24. I also lost my dad when I was 27 when he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest – so when I married and became pregnant with my first child later that year, I was an orphan.

I loved being pregnant, I was very lucky to have an easy first pregnancy and while I was missing my mum every day as always, I don’t recall that feeling intensifying as a result of the pregnancy. That bit happened the moment my daughter was born.

Becoming a mother myself instantly made me feel that gap in my life more keenly – missing the one person who could truly mother me, now in turn mothering my own child saw me grieve afresh.

I grew up hearing anecdotes from my mum, as well as other family members and friends, about me being a colicky baby. I heard tales of how I was a terrible sleeper and had to be constantly carried to appease the wailing. My own child followed suit (both my daughters did, in fact) and during the newborn stage

and throughout the first year of no sleep, I wished I could talk to the one person who I could truly trust to tell me it would get better one day. I felt desperately sad and often angry that I couldn’t.

I sought advice on forums, with medical experts, and by reading – but these avenues generally led to more questions than answers.

I was very lucky and still am to have some wonderful mother figures in my life who helped in many ways – as a birth support person, as pairs of arms to cuddle a crying baby, in reassuring me I was doing a great job, by knitting beautiful cardigans and hats, and making endless cups of tea. My sister was away studying for my firstborn’s first few months but once we were reunited, she helped fill the mum void wonderfully, too.

I wasn’t great at asking for help, and I regret not doing so more in that first year.

To other mums-to-be who don’t have their own mum around, I would stress that asking for help is not something to be ashamed of. There will be lovely caring people in your world who would relish the chance to heed the call, but they need to know they are needed.

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Keep this in mind Expert tips and techniques for how to be a mindful parent from day one.

T

he best approach for parents of very young children, or infants, is simply to get out of the way of their natural mindfulness.

This means recognising their natural mindfulness and allowing and encouraging it. There are great opportunities for parents of children of any age, and especially of very young children, to learn mindfulness from them, as well as guide and teach them.

It can be valuable for us to see mindfulness as something that we can help children to retain rather than something that we help them attain.

Very young children are inherently curious and interested in everything that they see. When we are mindful, we see things as they really are – new and exciting and interesting. This is how young children, especially very young ones, naturally experience their world. It seems new because it is new.

BE A ROLE MODEL

One of the best ways parents can help their children be mindful is by being a living example of it (that is, role modelling it). Children, especially infants, watch us and what we do, and this means they can’t be fooled. If we tell our children to be mindful and we don’t live this way ourselves, we are actually helping them to lose their natural mindfulness. Infants are mindfulness experts. They haven’t developed the thoughts – theirs or those of other people, such as “I should …!” – that get in the way of mindfulness; infants are free of real-life distortions, such as thoughts like “I should be a better infant” or, thankfully,

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“My parents should be better parents!”

Infants naturally give their total attention to whatever they are doing. They don’t judge or otherwise filter reality into something other than what it actually is.

REWARDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Mindful parenting, especially of very young children, is really about rewards rather than responsibilities. The smile that your baby gives you when they see you for the first time in a week, an hour, or a minute, doesn’t depend on what you last said or did. This is the smile of pure love, of pure delight in being alive, and in being loved and being able to love. We can respond to this nonmindfully by trying to analyse it, or we can respond by smiling back, by living in love naturally, together. Mindful parenting can be its own reward.

We can miss out on parenting treasures if we aren’t really paying attention or we only focus when we think that something is going wrong, such as when our baby is crying. A great life lesson that many parents learn is that the parenting process is rapid; it can seem like suddenly our baby has grown up. The experience of parenting mindfully can help us learn great life truths, such as life isn’t a stagnant pool, it’s a flowing river. Mindfulness is not about avoiding mistakes – large and small – it is about realising great life opportunities.

Mindfulness, especially with very young children, can be as easy as going with its natural flow, or as hard as always trying to work out if what we are doing is best and wondering if we should be doing something else.

“Mindful parenting, especially of very young children, is really about rewards rather than responsibilities.”

THE KEYS TO MINDFUL PARENTING OF VERY YOUNG CHILDREN

• Listening to and recognising the needs of the child, while also noticing the opportunities to communicate with them mindfully. This is true for all children and especially for very young children, because they have no other choice than to communicate with us naturally, as they don’t yet have language! Thankfully, we don’t start off being parents of teenagers,

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ITHANKS TO PARENTS MICHELLE AND STAR AND BABY ELIO. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOIRA MEIRING OF WILD LITTLE HEARTS.

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who can challenge us with complicated reasons for doing or not doing what we want them to do!

• Communicating deeply and honestly, even, and especially with, someone who can’t talk back to us with words. Real communication happens only when we are fully present and connected in the moment.

• Attending fully to the reality of a moment. This allows us to respond to a very young person’s subtle needs, as well

as to their obvious ones, including affirmation, stimulation and relaxation.

A great thing about being the parent of anyone, and especially a parent of a very young person, is that they help us naturally transition from an attitude of “What’s in it for me?” to one of “What can I give?”

This can greatly help us to become a fully conscious human being. If an infant crying out for milk or love in the middle of the night doesn’t wake us up, what will?

Edited extract from Mindfulness at Play: Parenting Healthy, Happy Children with Old Wisdom and New Science by Dr Stephen McKenzie and Angela North, Exisle Publishing, $34.99.

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Don' t let go – I might fall apar t!

With a little help

from my friends

Navigating old friendships with a baby can be confusing – but it’s important to maintain those special relationships, and cultivate new ones, writes Casey McPike.

B

ecoming a parent is undeniably one of life’s big game-changers.

And despite all best-laid plans prebaby, stepping into the beautiful chaos of the highs and lows of your new normal often means that other parts of life take a hit. It can feel like one of the casualties is friendships – but maintaining existing friendships and growing new ones is possible (and vital!) with some readjustments.

got support and open hearts to share your questions, triumphs, and woes with can help alleviate the feeling of being alone on the path and is crucial for mental health.

Connections with old friends provide a link to the person you were before parenthood, reminding you of your interests, dreams, and the things that make you tick beyond being a parent.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

Friendships are often grounded in shared interests and experiences, so you’ll find that some friends resonate with the new you,

Navigating parenthood can feel baffling and isolating at times, so knowing you’ve

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THE FRIENDSHIP EVOLUTION

while others might take time to adjust.

Remember when leaving the house on a Saturday morning on a whim for a coffee and a chat, last-minute plans to catch up after work, or arranging a trip away was relatively uncomplicated? The ease of organising just yourself might feel like a distant memory, and your phone might start to autocomplete “I’m going to need to reschedule” for you when you open the group chat, but having a baby doesn’t mean you have to go on a complete social hiatus… It just takes a bit of understanding and flexibility.

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CHILD-FREE CONNECTIONS

FRIENDS WITH KIDS

Becoming a parent at the same time as your friends is a special kind of gift – you’re on the roller coaster ride with people who already know and love you, and you’ve got the bonus of a ready-made playgroup for your little ones. Still, a bit of care and planning can make all the difference in ensuring these friendships don’t fade into the background behind the washing piles and long nights.

• Plan playdates: Rather than vague suggestions to get together that never seem to eventuate, set a date to catch up while your kids play (or wriggle next to each other on the floor).

• Share stories: Babies set us off on a neverending learning curve. Sharing experiences, funny stories, tips, and advice can help build a treasure trove of parent hacks, as well as giving an outlet to talk about some of the tricker bits of parenting.

• Virtual hangouts: Physical distance, or constant sickness making it impossible to meet in person? Set up a video call after the bedtime routine or during nap time, and keep the messaging chats open.

These moments of connection are a sanity saver and friendship booster.

A new baby can stir things up with friends who are child-free (whether that’s by choice or not), and these friendships may take a different kind of nurturing.

• Stay in the loop: Parent life is a whirlwind – particularly in the early baby time – and sometimes just getting in a shower can feel like a momentous achievement, but snatch little moments where you can to share snippets of your days. An anecdote or photo lets them know what’s happening in your world.

• Quality time: Even if it takes a few false starts to get together in person, any time you can both spare to spend together really matters. You might need to sub in a weekend morning park walk with takeaway coffee and pram for your usual after work drink or dinner out for a while, but the quality time counts.

Be honest about the kinds of catch ups you can manage (a 4am home time is a tall ask if you’ve got to be up at 5am with a toddler), and try not to be offended if they want to have catch ups without a child along for the ride.

• Check in on them: Showing that your friendship is a two-way street is important.

A quick text to ask how their day is going, a call to ask about something you know is going on in their life, or a chat about something (not baby-related) that you’re both into keeps a meaningful connection going.

“Showing that your friendship is a

two-way street is important.”

NEW PARENT FRIENDSHIPS ON THE HORIZON

Babies and kids are wonderful unifiers – they give us an instant shared interest, and an easy topic for small talk in new situations (or when you’re feeling a bit socially awkward!).

Children’s activities have a wonderful way of opening up a world of new and special connections for their parents with people they wouldn’t have otherwise met. Stay open-minded – many an expectant parent has walked into their first antenatal class, playgroup or school visit and thought, “I have nothing in common with any of these people,” only to discover a few months down the track that they’ve made long-lasting friendships.

TIPS FOR FRIENDSHIPS, OLD AND NEW

• Communication: Honest conversations are the building blocks of any friendship – sharing your experiences (good or bad) can open an opportunity for others to do the same.

• Flexibility: The new demands on your time and autonomy means your responses might not be so speedy, and plans can easily be railroaded – be patient with yourself and others.

• Remove the show-home expectations: Don’t let a messy home stand in the way of seeing friends. True friends – and fellow parents – see through the chaos (and some friends will even help you tackle the washing pile).

• Embrace technology: Group chats, video calls, virtual meet-ups, and social media can keep the conversations going when you can’t meet in person.

• Mix it up: Where it feels right, invite new and old friends to do things together.

Picnics in the park, birthdays, movie nights, backyard BBQs – they’re all a great way to connect your pre- and post-baby friends.

• Drop the guilt: Go easy on yourself – life gets busy, and sometimes the communication will lapse. Picking up from where you left off like no time has passed is the beauty of a true friendship.

• A reset is ok: While some friendships will evolve and strengthen, some may go on a temporary pause, or even naturally fizzle out.

• Cheerlead for each other: Celebrate your friends’ milestones, and share your own. Achievements big and little are all the more special when you know your friends are genuinely happy for you.

Friends are the anchors that keep us steady, the ones we can laugh with or seek support from, and they remind us of who we are when we feel like we’re lost in a maze of feeding schedules and long nights. A little bit of communication and nurturing strengthens our connection to the friends who have known us before parenthood, and those who have joined us along the way.

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nook

Nursery

Special stories for little minds.

Little Owl, Where Are You?

by Ekaterina Trukhan, $16.99, Nosy Cow Find your baby’s gorgeous face in this new lift-the-flap board book with a mirror on every page.

Look by Gavin Bishop, $24.99, Gecko Press A super-cute and unique concertina board book that unfolds nearly two metres – perfect for keeping pēpi occupied during tummy time!

Why should we read to babies?

It may seem silly to read to a newborn who has absolutely no idea what you’re saying, but reading to babies can have a significant impact on their cognitive, emotional, and social development.

Spot’s Road Trip by Eric Hill, $21, Puffin Everyone loves Spot!

Join him and his family on a road trip to the beach in this fun campervanshaped board book.

Language development Reading aloud to babies exposes them to a diverse vocabulary, which helps them develop language skills. They learn the sounds and rhythms of language, which is crucial for speech and communication later in life.

Cognitive development Reading stimulates brain development in infants. It encourages them to focus their attention, make connections between words and images. These cognitive skills lay the foundation for future learning and problem-solving abilities.

The Bear, The Book And The Blanket by Lou Peacock, $27.99, Nosy Cow The sweet story of 10 enthusiastic and energetic bunnies trying to find the special things Baby needs to settle down to sleep.

Reading introduces babies to new ideas, places, and cultures, sparking their curiosity about the world around them. This curiosity is a driving force for learning and exploration.

Soothing sounds These Little Feet by Hayley Rawsthorne, $22.99, Albert Street Books This beautiful picture book will take you and your little one on a joyous journey of love, hope and dreams for the future.

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Reading can be a calming and soothing activity for babies. It can help reduce stress and anxiety and can also create a strong emotional bond between parents and baby.

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

Encourages curiosity

Nursery dos and don’ts A cute nursery is essential, but so are safety and comfort!

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esting and setting up the nursery for your pēpi is such an exciting time for a mama-to-be. But it’s also important to ensure the environment is safe and comfortable for your new baby. Here are some dos and don’ts to consider when furnishing and arranging the room.

DO… PRIORITISE SAFET Y

MAKE SURE IT’S PROPERLY VENTILATED

+

Ensure the room has good airflow and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Keep the nursery well-ventilated, and consider a baby-safe air purifier to promote air circulation.

nursery inspo!

Phoebe Simmonds, co-founder of online baby store The Memo (thememo.com.au), created a comfortable, timeless nursery for her son Remy.

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CHOOSE A FIRM MATTRESS

Select flat, firm and well-fitting mattresses for the bassinet and cot that meet safety standards. The space around the mattress must be no more than 2cm; and a firm, flat mattress reduces the risk of suffocation and ensures a safe sleep environment for pēpi.

CREATE A CALMING ATMOSPHERE

Use soft and soothing colours, dimmable lighting options, and blackout curtains or blinds to create a peaceful space.

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN. THANKS TO MAMA PHOEBE AND BABY REMY. PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY HOSKIN AND JAKE HOGAN OF THE HOGANS.

Ensure that the nursery meets safety standards by using child-proofing measures, securing furniture to the wall, and keeping small objects, cords, and hazardous materials out of reach.

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Growbright Airnest Mattress (Standard), $499, nz.growbright.co

le!

hab 100% was

ecostore Ultra Sensitive Multi-Purpose Cleaner, $6.49, ecostore.co.nz

DON’T…

Happy Walls Rainbow Bliss Decals in Azure, $25, happywalls.co.nz

OVERCROWD THE NURSERY

Avoid cluttering the nursery with unnecessary furniture or excessive décor.

Too many items can create a visually overwhelming and potentially unsafe environment for your baby.

Yogasleep Duet with Night Light and Wireless Speaker, $99.95, babyonthemove.co.nz

USE HARSH CHEMICALS

Avoid using harsh cleaning products, strongsmelling air fresheners, or toxic materials in the nursery. Choose non-toxic, baby-safe cleaning products, and furniture and fabrics that are free from harmful chemicals.

PLACE THE COT NEAR WINDOWS OR CORDS

Make sure you position the cot away from windows, blinds, or curtains with cords to prevent the risk of entanglement or strangulation. Ensure that all cords from blinds, curtains are securely out of reach.

Make sure I am attached securely out of reach!

Tik Tak Design Co Hanging Kōtare NZ Native Bird, $79.90, tiktakdesignco.com

USE LOOSE BEDDING

Don’t place loose blankets, pillows, teething toys, or stuffed animals in the cot as they are a suffocation hazard for your baby.

Opt for a fitted crib sheet and dress pēpi in a sleep sack for warmth.

OVERLOOK ELECTRICAL SAFET Y Beaba Air Purifier, $299.99, babycity.co.nz

INCORPORATE STIMULATING ELEMENTS

Keep the nursery organised and clutter-free to create a calm and functional space. Utilise storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to store baby essentials and keep them within easy reach.

Include age-appropriate toys, mobiles, and wall decorations that provide visual and sensory stimulation for your baby and encourage their cognitive and motor development. A sound machine equipped with lullabies and fun music is also a great option for both sleeptime and playtime!

CONSIDER ERGONOMICS

THINK ABOUT THE FUTURE

ORGANISE AND DECLUTTER

Choose furniture, such as a comfortable rocking chair or glider, that provides proper support during feeding or soothing sessions, and ensure that the nappy changing station is at a comfortable height to prevent strain on your back.

Painting the walls baby pink and adding a bunny mural might be super-cute for your new baby, but if you’re planning on staying in your home long-term, it might be a better idea to choose removable decals or murals to save the repainting hassle in the future!

Ensure that electrical outlets are covered with safety plugs or outlet covers to prevent accidental shocks or insertions by curious little hands. Keep cords for electronics safely secured and out of reach.

USE HEAV Y OR UNSTABLE FURNITURE

Choose sturdy and stable furniture pieces to avoid tipping or accidents. Anchor tall furniture, such as bookshelves or dressers, to the wall to prevent them from toppling over.

OVERLOOK PROPER LIGHTING

Try and avoid overly-bright or harsh lighting in the nursery. Use soft, adjustable lighting options and try using nightlights for night feedings or nappy changes.

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Pushing it Not sure about which style of stroller would suit your lifestyle?

We’ve got you covered.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU PLAN TO USE THE STROLLER? a) O ccasionally – I will mostly use it for short outings and trips b & c) D aily – I’m always out and about so I need a stroller for everyday use WHAT TYPE OF TERRAIN WILL YOU MOSTLY BE STROLLING ON? a) M ostly on smooth, paved surfaces – such as footpaths, shopping malls, and urban areas b) Mixed terrain – including grass, gravel, and uneven paths c) R ough terrain – I love off-road adventures and all-terrain exploration!

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HOW MUCH STORAGE SPACE DO YOU NEED IN THE STROLLER? a) M inimal – just enough for essentials like a nappy bag and snacks b) Moderate – I’d like some storage for shopping or extra items c) G enerous – I need space for all the baby gear and more!

WHEN WILL YOU START USING THE STROLLER? a) F rom birth – as long as the seat lays flat, I’m happy a) F rom birth – I need a stroller compatible with a car seat or bassinet b) After a few months – I prefer a stroller suitable for older babies

WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED STROLLER SIZE AND WEIGHT? a) L ightweight and compact – easy to carry and store b) Medium-sized – a balance of comfort and portability c) F ull-sized and sturdy – ready for any adventure

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE STROLLER’S MANOEUVRABILITY TO YOU? a) N ot a top priority – As long as it’s functional and can fit through tight spaces, I’m fine b) Moderately important – I want a stroller with decent manoeuvrability

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

DON’T PRETEND YOU DON’T LOVE AN OLD-SCHOOL QUIZ AS MUCH AS WE DO, TAKE OURS TO FIND YOUR PERFECT PRAM MATCH!

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The results are in! remember When choosing a stroller, always consider your specific needs, lifestyle, and the safety features that matter most to you and your family.

MOSTLY A: LIGHTEN UP!

If you chose mostly a, you might prefer a lightweight and compact stroller that is easy to carry and manoeuvre in urban settings.

Compact strollers can typically be folded with one hand or in a quick motion and they are relatively small and easy to transport but they still provide essential functions such as a reclining seat, sun canopy, and storage basket. They can also be budget-friendly! If you’re planning on using a compact stroller from birth, ensure the seat reclines fully to allow your newborn to lie flat.

Baby Jogger City Tour 2, $679.99, babyjogger.co.nz Wanting something light and easy to travel with? The City Tour is suitable for newborns, weighs only 6.5kg, and comes with a convenient carry bag. This stroller is great for quick trips to the shops, weekend road trips, or air travel.

COMPACT Leclerc Baby Influencer Stroller Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Edwards & Co Otto

Edwards & Co Otto, $449, edwardsandco.nz

c) E xtremely important – I need a stroller that I can navigate easily in all situations DO YOU PLAN TO ADD ACCESSORIES OR ADAPT THE STROLLER FOR SPECIFIC NEEDS? a) No – I prefer a simple and ready-touse stroller b) Yes – I might add accessories like a cup holder or rain cover c) D efinitely – I need a stroller with customisation options WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET FOR A STROLLER? a) B udget-friendly – I’m looking for a cost-effective option b) Mid-range – I’m willing to invest in a quality stroller c) P remium – I want the best features and durability, regardless of the cost

L OV E Leclerc Baby Influencer Stroller, $849, infagroup.co.nz The Leclerc Baby Influencer stroller features stunning colours, a beautifully constructed fabric and frame materials ,and a superquick folding system. With a push of a button, you can fold and unfold your pram in 1.5 seconds!

Holding up to 22kg, the seat has soft padding to keep your child comfortable, so it’s ideal for everyday use or extended trips. Plus, weighing just 6.6kg, it’s suitable for carry-on luggage (subject to airline approval).

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING BIGGER? TURN THE PAGE!

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L OV E

The Jiffle wagon, $2,899, infagroup.co.nz The Jiffle wagon from Infa Group is made for more. A 6-in-1 stroller with capsule compatibility, bassinet, seat, duo, ride-along board, it also doubles as a wagon cart. It’s the perfect on-the-go solution that grows with you and is ideal for expanding families.

Available in three stylish colours – Black, Pine, and Clay.

Edwards & Co Oscar M2, $999, edwardsandco.nz The Oscar M2 is ready for wherever the day takes you. This three-wheel pram with all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride with easy steering and manoeuvrability, even onehanded and it’s compatible with the Edwards & Co travel system.

MOSTLY B: TAKE THE MIDDLE GROUND

Mamas who chose mostly b should consider a mid-size (or standard) stroller with good manoeuvrability and storage for versatile use.

These strollers offer a balance between the lightweight strollers and the all-terrain strollers, making them suitable for various situations and ages. These strollers often come with padded seats and multi-position reclining options and many have the option of bassinets and are compatible with infant capsules. They typically have more storage capacity than compact strollers and are generally more robust and built to handle various terrains and everyday use.

MID-SIZE The Jiffle wagon Bugaboo Fox 5 Edwards & Co Oscar M2

UPPAbaby Ridge Stroller – Jake, $1,399, babybunting.co.nz

GR E AT BUDGET B U Y!

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MOSTLY C: GO BIG OR GO HOME

Did you opt for mostly c? Then look for a sturdy stroller designed for all-terrain adventures.

These strollers are a great choice for active parents who enjoy hiking, jogging, or exploring unpaved paths, while still providing a comfortable and smooth ride for their child.

All-terrain strollers are built with a robust frame and durable materials and feature larger tyres for shock absorption and a lockable front wheel for stability. Some all-terrain strollers are compatible with infant car seats but they are not recommended for jogging with infants until they have developed sufficient head and neck control (around six months of age), even if the stroller is compatible with a car seat.

Bugaboo Fox 5, $2,449, bugaboo.com The Bugaboo Fox 5 provides the best ride on any terrain, with extra-large wheels, smooth suspension, and a one-hand fold.

The bassinet offers superior comfort, while the spacious underseat basket can carry 10kg of supplies. The Bugaboo Fox 5 was sustainably built to last with bio-based material, reducing its CO2 footprint by 20%.

Thule Urban Glide 2, $1,189, foray.nz

ALL TERRAIN Childcare Moov Jogger Stroller Thule Urban Glide 2 UPPAbaby Ridge Stroller

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Childcare Moov Jogger Stroller Black, $399, babybunting.co.nz

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While it seems convenient to leave a sleeping baby in a capsule, it is safest to transfer them to a flat sleep surface once they’re out of the car.

Feeling

secure Important things to consider when choosing the right car seat for pēpi.

NEW ZEALAND SAFET Y STANDARDS

The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) requires that all child restraints (including infant capsules) conform to approved standards. Legally accepted standards in NZ are NZS 1754 (a black and yellow “S” mark safety sticker), AS/NZS 1754 (a red and white sticker with five “ticks”), or UK ECE 44.03 (orange or red sticker with an “E” and a number in a circle). If the car seat complies with the United States Standard FMVSS 213 then it must also show the New Zealand Standard “S” mark indicating it is certified for use here. If there is no sticker, don’t buy it.

AGE AND WEIGHT LIMITS

Check the age and weight limits of the car seat to ensure it is suitable for your baby.

Infant car seats (aka capsules) are typically designed for newborns and infants up to a certain weight (usually around 13kg).

Convertible car seats will accommodate your baby as they grow, offering higher weight and age limits and different configurations that can adapt to various stages of a child’s development (both rear- and front-facing and different recline options).

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did you know?

1962

was when the first car seat for kids was invented!

REAR-FACING ORIENTATION

It is recommended to use a rear-facing car seat until pēpi is at least two years of age, depending on their height and weight (check the car seat’s limits). Your baby’s head should be at least 2.5cm lower than the top of the seat shell. Rear-facing car seats offer the best protection and safety for babies as they are designed to cradle and support a baby’s head, neck, and spine in the event of a car accident.

EA SE OF INSTALLATION

Look for car seats with user-friendly installation features, such as clear instructions, adjustable base, and easy-to-use LATCH or ISOFIX connectors (if your vehicle is compatible). LATCH (Lower

Anchors and Tethers for Children) is an American system comprising of a strap attached to the car seat, or the detachable base of capsules, with a hook on each end. ISOFIX is an international standard attachment system which is typically rigid and fixed into the car seat frame. These attachments are designed to be used as an alternative to a standard system, which uses seatbelt tethers and/or a locking clip to secure the base or seat. If installing the car seat is stressing you out, you can use the NZTA website to find a child restraint technician to do the hard work for you.

Just head to nzta.govt.nz/safety/ vehiclesafety/safety-belts-and-restraints/find-achild-restraint-technician.

BY CHARLOTTE COWAN

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our baby’s car seat is one of the most important purchases you will make. Not only should they feel comfortable when spending time in the car but, more importantly, they should be safe and secure at all times. Not sure where to start? Here are some things to think about before you shop for your infant restraint…

nursery+equipment The original three-across all-in-one car seat just got better. Upgraded with 18 improvements, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ features Diono Safe+ engineering, Safe+ anti-rebound bar and advanced Safe+ side impact protection for complete protection from birth to booster (1.8-54kg). Available in NZ in December 2023.

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Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+, $679, diono.co.nz

Baby Jogger City Turn, $999, babyjogger.co.nz

L OV E

The Baby Jogger City Turn Convertible Car Seat revolutionises child safety and comfort. With its innovative 180-degree rotating mechanism, one-handed operation, and secure installation, it's the future of car seats. Grow with your child from infancy to five years, backed by advanced safety features for your peace of mind.

Travel buddies

Britax Römer DualFix Plus, $549, babyonthemove.co.nz InfaSecure Momentum More 0-4, $699, infagroup.co.nz

SAFET Y AND COMFORT FEATURES

Check for safety features like side-impact protection, energy-absorbing foam, and a five-point harness system to provide optimal protection for your baby. Plus, ensure that the car seat has sufficient padding and is comfortable for your baby. Look for a seat with adjustable head support and shoulder straps to accommodate your baby’s growth.

EA SE OF CLEANING

Babies can be messy, so it’s a good idea to choose a car seat with removable and machine-washable fabric covers for easy cleaning and maintenance. To protect your car’s seat coverings, look for a restraint with a mat underneath.

TRAVEL SYSTEM COMPATIBILIT Y

If you plan to use the car seat as part of a travel system with a stroller, check if it is compatible with the stroller you have or plan to purchase. Some car seats can only be used with certain stroller brands or models.

BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS

Set a budget for your car seat and look for options that fit within your price range.

You can also hire an infant capsule which costs around $50-$80, usually with an equivalent refundable bond at the time of booking. Hire term is usually around six months, and many parents choose this option for their newborn before purchasing a convertible car seat.

Bugaboo Turtle By Nuna Capsule + Base, $599, bugaboo.com

The InfaSecure Momentum More 0-4 is designed for travelling in comfort and style, without compromising on safety.

Featuring Head Impact Protection and Air Barrier Cushion plus Lift & Adjust, Active Bamboo fabric and ISOFix. Certified to AS/NZS1754 standard, the strictest in the world. Available at Baby Factory, selected independent retailers and online.

CHECK REVIEWS AND TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Talk to your mum friends and read reviews and seek recommendations from other parents to gain insights into the performance and reliability of the car seat you are considering. If possible, visit a shop and test the car seat in person to see how easy it is to use and adjust.

Remember that safety is the top priority when choosing an infant car seat. Take the time to research and compare different models, and if you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to consult with a certified car seat technician or visit a child restraint specialist to ensure proper installation and usage.

Chicco KeyFit 30, $449.95, chicco.co.nz

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Leakage, rashes, allergies,

oh my!

MY BABY’S NAPPIES ARE ALWAYS LEAKING

REASON: There are a number of reasons why your baby’s nappies could be leaking, but the most common are incorrect size, improper fit, not fastening them correctly, and infrequent nappy changes. solution

To keep pēpi comfortable and dry…

• Make sure you choose the right size: Ensure that you’re using the appropriate nappy for your baby’s weight and age.

Nappies that are too big or too small may not provide a secure fit, leading to leaks.

• Check the fit: Make sure the nappy is snug but not too tight. The waistband should be at the baby’s waist, and the leg cuffs should be gently but securely against the baby’s legs. Too loose or too tight and the nappy might leak.

• Pull out the leg cuffs: After putting on your baby’s nappy, run your fingers around the inside edges of the leg cuffs and pull the gathers outwards. Cuffs that are tucked inside are a common cause of leakage around the legs.

• Change nappies regularly: Frequent nappy changes are essential to prevent leaks. Newborns and younger babies need changing every two to three hours.

tip!

For boys, make sure you place their penis in a downward position before fastening the nappy – this will help prevent leaks from creeping up above the waistline!

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Simple strategies to solve common nappy issues.

THESE NAPPY RA SHES ARE OUT OF CONTROL!

REASON: The most common cause of nappy rash is the prolonged exposure of a baby’s skin to wee and poo in a wet nappy, as they can break down the protective barrier of the skin and cause irritation. Some babies may also have sensitivities or allergies to the materials in certain nappies or wipes. solution

Here are simple steps to help provide some nappy rash relief…

1. Keep their bottom clean and dry - Gently clean the nappy area with warm water and a soft cloth during nappy changes.

- Avoid using harsh or scented baby wipes, as they may contain irritants that can exacerbate the rash. If you use wipes, choose ones specifically designed for sensitive skin, or stick to plain water.

- Pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel, or let it air-dry for a few moments.

Avoid vigorous rubbing, as it can further irritate the skin.

2. Frequent nappy changes - Change your baby’s nappy as soon as it’s soiled to reduce exposure to moisture and irritants.

- When you can, give pēpi nappy-free time to allow the skin to air out and heal.

3. Use a barrier cream or ointment - Apply a layer of a nappy rash cream or ointment with a protective barrier, such

as zinc oxide, during each nappy change.

This will help create a barrier between your baby’s skin and any moisture in the nappy.

-M ake sure the cream or ointment is free of harsh fragrances and irritants.

4. Seek medical advice If the rash is severe, persists for more than a few days, is accompanied by blisters, or if your baby seems uncomfortable or unwell, it’s important to consult your GP or other healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment options.

THE NAPPIES ARE DIGGING IN TO MY BABY’S LEGS

REASON: If your baby has marks on their legs from nappies digging in, this is most often due to incorrect sizing and fit, your baby’s body shape, or the nappy style. solution

• Ensure that you’re using the correct size of nappy for your baby’s weight and age.

If the nappy is too small, it may lead to it digging into the baby’s legs – consider moving up to the next size.

•T ry a different brands: Different nappy brands may have varying designs, shapes, and fits. Experiment with different brands to find one that fits your baby comfortably without digging into their legs.

• Change the nappy style: If you are using disposables, consider trying reusable nappies, which may be more comfortable.

One cream.

Double action Heals and protects your baby’s delicate skin from nappy rash sudocrem.co.nz Always read the Label. If symptoms worsen or change unexpectedly, talk to your healthcare professional. Follow the directions for use. Teva Pharma (New Zealand) Limited, Auckland. Ph 0800 800 097. TAPs MR8787, BGA221201, Dec2022. SUDO-BB 2023

The ups and downs of birt h The team at Nest Pregnancy and Parenting (nestpregnancyandparenting.co.nz) explains the different positions your baby could be in during labour and birth.

Y

ou may have noticed on each visit to your LMC, their routine checks usually include feeling your abdomen to check your baby’s growth and position. They may even comment that your baby is in a “good” position for birth (or not, as the case may be!) But what is a good position for a baby to be in, and what does it mean if they’re not in one?

for posterior babies to manoeuvre through the pelvis, labour may take longer. Try not to worry if you do have a posterior baby on board – if they don’t turn to the anterior position prior to labour, most turn during labour; sometimes the uterus contractions help them turn, other times they turn during the pushing stage. Only 5-8% of babies don’t turn and are born in a posterior position.

THE OPTIMAL POSITION

Breech

The best position for your baby in labour and birth or, as your LMC might say “the optimal foetal position”, is head down, facing your back, with their back lying against your tummy. This position is named the occiput-anterior (or OA) position because the back of the baby’s head (the occiput) is at the front (anterior).

In this position, your baby’s head and neck are flexed and their chin is tucked into their chest, allowing them to move more easily through the pelvis. This position also means the top of their head puts rounded, even pressure on the cervix during contractions, helping it to open. Labour is likely to be quicker and easier when your baby is in an OA position!

OTHER POSITIONS BABY MIGHT BE IN… Posterior/”back-to-back”

Usually just referred to as “posterior”, the full term for this position is occiputposterior (or OP) because the back of baby’s head (the occiput) is at the back (posterior); in this position baby is head down but their back is lying along your back. This position often causes back pain during labour – some women find an all-fours position helpful to reduce backache caused by a posterior baby.

Many women give birth to posterior babies vaginally, but because it’s more awkward

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This is where your baby is positioned head up, meaning their bottom, or sometimes their feet, are the part that would be born first. At 30 weeks of pregnancy, around one in five babies are in the breech position.

Babies often move into a head-down position on their own; by the end of pregnancy only about three in 100 are breech.

If your baby hasn’t repositioned themselves by about 34-37 weeks, your LMC may recommend External Cephalic Version (ECV), where an obstetrician massages your tummy to encourage your baby to turn. It can be uncomfortable, but medicine to relax your uterus and pain relief is usually offered. The average success rate of ECV is around 65%. Another approach is moxibustion, a form of Chinese medicine, and/or acupuncture and specific daily exercises.

According to Rebecca Dekker, from the Evidence Based Birth website, evidence suggests moxibustion combined with either acupuncture or postural techniques increases the chances of turning a breech baby. If your baby remains in a breech position, discuss your options for birth with your LMC. Some breech babies may be safely born vaginally, but there is a slight increase in the chance of complications occurring during labour and birth and so Caesarean birth is often recommended.

Transverse/side-lying

This is where your baby lies across the uterus from side to side. If your baby doesn’t turn on their own accord, ECV may be offered.

Babies remaining in this position will need to be born via C-section.

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Encouraging

THE OPTIMAL POSITION

So what can I do to encourage my baby to get in, and stay in, the optimal position for birth?

Your baby’s back is the heaviest part of its body so it will naturally move towards the lowest side of your abdomen, a bit like relaxing in a hammock!

Therefore, as tempting as it might be to recline on the sofa in those last few weeks of your pregnancy, adopting upright and forward-leaning positions will hopefully encourage your baby to get into, and remain in, an OA position.

Of course, we are not suggesting you don’t relax or recline at all, but here are some suggestions of how to incorporate upright, forward-leaning positions into your daily life. It could make all the difference!

• Leaning over the kitchen counter to chat to your partner or friend, rather than slouched in a chair.

• Sitting upright with your back straight, knees lower than your hips and your torso slightly tilted forwards. It might help to put a cushion under your bum.

• When watching TV, spend some time sitting on a Swiss ball or upright on a dining chair, or kneeling on the floor, or over a beanbag or cushion.

• Keep active. Not only can swimming belly down, pregnancy yoga, and walking help encourage your baby into an optimal position, but regular exercise can help prepare your body for labour and birth too.

• Sleep on your side, not on your back.

This is also recommended for safety reasons – from 28 weeks of pregnancy, going to sleep on your side halves your risk of stillbirth compared with going to sleep on your back.

• If you have a job that involves lots of sitting, for example in front of a computer, make sure you get up regularly. Go for a short walk if you can. This will be good for your mental health too!

• Reduce the amount of time you spend: – Sitting with your bottom lower than your knees (Unfortunately, this is the position most lounge furniture and bucket-type car seats cause us to adopt); – Reclining on armchairs or sofas; – On long car trips, especially with buckettype car seats.

Once you are in labour, remaining as upright and as mobile as possible will not only help encourage and keep your baby in the best position for birth, but will usually result in a quicker, easier, and less painful birth, too (when compared to birthing lying flat on your back).

And be sure to check out our Introduc tor y to Antenatal Online Course by scanning this QR code, or visiting bumpandbaby.co.nz (more information on page 25).

Book your antenatal class or postnatal workshop now at nestpregnancyandparenting.co.nz

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Labour day

Every woman’s birthing experience is unique but there are typically three stages of labour. Whānau Āwhina Plunket (plunket.org.nz) shares what to expect and the options available to help you get through each stage. stage one:

GETTING READY! The first stage of labour is all about your body getting ready to give birth.

Am I in labour?!

It may seem like a silly question – but it’s really not. If you’re a first-time mum, it’s very normal not to know what to expect.

That’s why you have your lead maternity carer (LMC) and organisations like Plunket to support you, along with your whānau and friends.

Early labour: “Warming up”

This is your body starting the labour process, and it all begins hormonally with oxytocin – the love hormone. This stage can last several days. Try to stay relaxed. To make this stage a bit more comfortable, you might find it helpful to: • Go for a walk.

• Meditate or do relaxing breathing techniques.

• Take a shower or bath.

• Change positions.

Here are some signs that your body is starting early labour…

• A “show” – as your cervix begins to open, you might notice a thick discharge comes out of your vagina. This can be clear, bloody, or brown in colour and will feel thick and

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sticky. This was the mucous plug that sealed the entrance to your womb – helping to protect your baby from bacteria or infection.

• Your “waters break” – this could be a slow leak or a big gush of liquid out of your vagina (it will smell different to wee).

Contact your LMC when this happens, and check the colour of the water to see if it looks dirty, or greenish or brown in colour. This may be meconium, your baby’s first poo, which can be a sign that baby’s in distress.

• You’re getting cramps low down in your tummy – a bit like period pain, or pain in your lower back. These are your contractions starting.

During the first stage of labour, contractions prepare the birth canal for your baby to come out by causing the cervix to open (dilate), soften, shorten and thin. In

the second stage of labour, contractions help you to push your baby out – and in the third stage, they help to push out your placenta.

During a contraction, your tummy tightens and goes hard, and then relaxes.

At the start contractions feel a bit like period cramps, and last about 20-40 seconds.

You might also get pain in your lower back.

As labour goes on, your contractions will go for longer and get more intense/painful.

You know labour has begun when your contractions are:

• Regular (e.g. happening every five minutes); • Strong (they definitely don’t feel like period cramps anymore!); • Last for about 45-60 seconds, and; • Are five minutes apart.

When this starts happening, it’s probably

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did you know?

The word

whenua

means “placenta” and “land” in te reo Maori. time for you to go to the hospital or birthing centre, or have your midwife come to you if you’re having a home birth.

THANKS TO MAMA AROHA (@MAIMOA .CREATIVE).

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHERINE SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY.

Active labour: Increasing intensity This is when your cervix goes from 4cm to 7cm dilated, and labour gets much more intense.

Your contractions become stronger, closer together and more regular – and you might experience: • Cramping in your legs.

• Feeling sick/nauseous.

• Pressure in your back.

• Your waters breaking – if they haven’t already.

If you want an epidural, this is the best time to do it.

During this stage, you might find it helpful to: • Use mirimiri/massage to help with relaxation.

• Use a Swiss/birthing ball.

• Do karakia/prayer and waiata/song.

• Take a walk (stopping to breathe through contractions).

• Take a shower or bath.

• Change positions.

• Use a heat pack or hot water bottle.

Transition: Nearly there!

The transition phase is when you go from 8cm dilated to fully dilated (10cm) and it’s often the most challenging and intense stage of labour. Thankfully – it’s generally also the shortest. Transition tends to last between 15 to 60 minutes and at this stage your contractions will be very close together and may last 60-90 seconds. They will also be at their strongest and most painful.

You might also experience: • Sweating, feeling hot or chilled.

• Feeling sick/nauseous.

• Trembling or shaking.

• Feeling overwhelmed and like you can’t go on without pain relief.

At this stage, it’s generally too late for an epidural – but gas may help if you’re experiencing a slightly longer transition.

During this difficult (but short!) part of labour, you might find it helpful to: • Stay upright (if you haven’t had medical pain relief) – gravity helps.

• Focus on your breath – keep all your attention on inhaling and exhaling.

• Have your birth partner close by, giving you lots of encouragement.

• Make low sounds during contractions.

• Pant or blow your way through contractions.

• Change positions – keep moving to adjust your pelvis to support your baby’s descent.

Take comfort in the fact that labour is at its absolute hardest right before baby’s born.

stage two:

TIME TO PUSH! When your cervix is fully dilated (10cm),

it’s time to push your baby into the world.

This stage tends to take one to two hours – but can be shorter or longer. You might experience: • Feeling calmer and more focussed or getting a renewed burst of energy.

• A massive surge of oxytocin entering your bloodstream.

• An overwhelming urge to push – go with this instinct and work with your contractions.

Take a deep breath as the contraction starts and push down (like you’re doing a poo). Keep breathing and pushing until the contraction ends. Try not to yell like they do in the movies – keep that energy inside your body instead; it helps with pushing down. You might be instructed by your LMC to push more gently at some stages; this is to help avoid perineum damage. During this stage, you might find it helpful to: • Stick with a position that feels good and try and avoid lying down (work with gravity) – this could be in bed with your back propped up with pillows, standing, sitting, kneeling, or squatting.

• Rest after each contraction – try and breathe deeply and relax.

And then … You’ll have a baby!

Tips for a positive birthing experience It’s normal to feel a bit nervous or even scared about birth – especially if you’ve never done it before. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a wonderful, positive birthing experience.

Here are some things that could help.

Do what’s right for you: A home birth, traditional Māori birth practices, hypnobirthing, a hospital birth, an epidural – there are lots of ways to give birth, and there is no one “right way” to do it.

Have a great team by your side: It’s important that you trust the people in the birthing room with you. Choose your birthing partner carefully, and if you don’t feel comfortable with your current LMC, know that it’s perfectly okay to change LMC partway through your pregnancy.

Just try and do this as soon as possible.

Have a plan – but know things might not go to plan: Sometimes birth doesn’t go to plan, and that can be upsetting.

Try to be flexible. Having a great team by your side helps you to still feel empowered, even if plans need to change for the safety of you and your baby.

stage three:

THE FINAL STEP Once your baby’s born, the whenua/placenta will come away from the wall of your uterus.

You’ll have some more contraction to push out the placenta, but these won’t be as strong as the ones you had during labour.

You’ll also be asked what you’d like to do with the whenua/placenta. Traditionally for Māori, the whenua is buried in a significant place (ancestral land, marae, urupa) to connect the new baby to the land. Or you may prefer for your LMC to dispose of the whenua. The choice is yours.

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" A moment of love and laughter between contractions."

The

power

of one

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAELA PENNY OF HARPER AND WILLOW.

Three magical birthdays captured by Michaela Penny (harperandwillow.com) and Emily O'Dell (emilyodellphotographer.mypixieset.com).

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The birth of Oakley

"Student midwife Ashley Webb helping me bring Oakley up out of the water."

The fifth member of the Kloppenburg family siblings, Oakley was delivered at 42+5 weeks, weighing 4.7kg. Mum Monique had a completely healthy pregnancy and Oakley was born in a magical home birth, surrounded by the whole family.

However, he was found to have a heart condition three weeks later and was flown to Starship Hospital for his first open-heart surgery. He has now had a second open-heart surgery and is awaiting his third, but he is a very happy wee boy and is very much doted on by all his older siblings.

"Dad Paul is about to tie the umbilical cord with a muko pito tie. Pounamu was then used to cut the umbilical cord."

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"Sweet relief and awe as mum and dad get their first real look at baby Oxley."

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The birth of Oxley

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY O'DELL PHOTOGRAPHER.

"Oxley arriving safely into the world in the midwife's hands."

Oxley Frank Johnson was born at 41 weeks and two days and weighed 4.2kg. Mum Briar went into labour naturally at home and made it to the hospital 40 minutes before he was born. Briar used the comb method (squeezing a comb in the palm of your hand, with the teeth at the base of your fingers) throughout her labour to help her through contractions, and was supported by her partner, Nick.

"Oxley's first real breastfeed within the first hour of being born."

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"Dad Stanley cutting baby Abbey's cord."

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY O'DELL PHOTOGRAPHER.

"The midwife having a listen to make sure baby is still happy during labour."

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"The midwife having a good look at Abbey after she arrived straight into her mama's hands in the birthing pool."

The birth of Abbey

Heleen Loots welcomed her fourth baby, Abbey, at home, one day past her due date. Weighing 3.7kg, Abbey came into the world via water birth, surrounded by family – including her grandparents from South Africa, her dad, sister, and two brothers.

Mama Heleen was in early labour since 12am the night before, but Abbey decided to make a late entrance the next day at 7pm.

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Gut feeling

I

If you’re concerned about gut symptoms during or after pregnancy, seek advice from a healthcare professional, who can discuss treatment and referral options.

Having tummy issues after giving birth?

Here’s why.

t’s two weeks after the birth of your healthy bub and you notice your gut isn’t feeling quite right. Maybe you feel a bit bloated. Maybe you’re farting more than usual. What’s going on?

Pregnancy changes the structure and function of virtually every organ system, including some big changes to the gut.

These changes can explain some common tummy symptoms.

And no, you’re not imagining it.

Some gut symptoms, such as constipation and gassiness, can hang around after you’ve given birth.

WHY AM I STILL CONSTIPATED?

FEELING GA SSY?

The Finnish study also found excess farting is extremely common a few days after birth.

It affected 81% of women but this number dropped to 30% one month after birth.

Bloating is another common symptom found a few days after birth affecting 59% of women, and this decreases to 14% of women one month afterwards.

So why is this happening? We can look to your gut microbiome for clues. This is the unique universe of micro-organisms (bugs), and their genes, that live in your gut.

During and after pregnancy, there are profound changes to the gut

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“During and after pregnancy, there are profound changes to the gut microbiome.” microbiome. These may cause an increase in gas production or lead to constipation.

So the good news from the Finnish study is that normal bowel function is restored quickly after childbirth for most women, but might be a touch longer for women after a Caesarean.

I HAVE INCONTINENCE. IS THAT BECAUSE OF HOW I GAVE BIRTH?

There has been a lot of debate about whether urinary or faecal incontinence is more likely after a vaginal or a caesarean birth.

However, the strongest evidence we have suggests the mode of birth makes no difference. If you’ve had incontinence during pregnancy this is the strongest predictor of having it afterwards.

Urinary incontinence that doesn’t improve within three months of giving birth is more likely to persist. So if you’ve experienced this during pregnancy, you might like to see a pelvic floor physio.

Fortunately, faecal incontinence after pregnancy is very uncommon, affecting only around 3% of women. However if this persists, please seek medical attention.

Edited from an article written by Vincent Ho, Senior Lecturer and clinical academic gastroenterologist at Western Sydney University; and Kate Levett, Research Fellow University of Notre Dame Australia.

PUBLISHED WITH PERMISSION FROM THECONVERSATION.COM

A study from Finland on more than 400 women found constipation affected 47% of women in the first few days after a vaginal birth and 57% of women in the first few days after a Caesarean.

The researchers suggested this may be caused by too much physical inactivity and insufficient intake of fluids after birth, or the effects of anaesthetic and disturbance to the intestines during surgery.

One month after childbirth, constipation became less common. Some 9% of women were constipated after a vaginal birth and 15% after a Caesarean.

Healthy gut and digestive function to support you through pregnancy.

Made from NZ kiwifruit

Natural ingredients.

Decreases digestive discomfort.

Available at your local pharmacy or supermarket.

Always read the label. Use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Douglas Pharmaceuticals, Auckland.

Keeps you regular.

Registered nurse, Lactation Consultant, and owner of The Mama Coach, Lindsay Mullen, (lindsay-mullen.themamacoach.com) shares the ultimate guide to expressing your breast milk.

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g lin

eve a

I s t h i s to p to o r

Milk it!

?

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I

f you are planning on breastfeeding your newborn, you are likely thinking: “Do I need a breast pump?” The answer to this question is… Maybe. The truth is there are many ways to express your breast milk and this guide will take you through the why, when, and how of breast milk expression. So let’s start at the beginning of your breastfeeding journey. Did you know you can begin expressing colostrum for your baby once you have hit 37 weeks in your pregnancy?

GET A HEAD START

We start producing colostrum at about 20 weeks’ gestation and new research is currently showing many advantages for mums who perform what is known as “antenatal hand expression”. Those expressed drops of colostrum at 37 weeks can help encourage babies to latch in those first few days, can be a real game-changer in dealing with low blood sugars if the baby is hypoglycaemic, and can help stimulate your milk production. It also helps you get comfortable with your breasts and hand expression before the baby comes, giving you a head start in your breastfeeding journey.

HOW TO HAND EXPRESS

Before we delve into the process, ensure you’ve received clearance from your healthcare provider to proceed. Most pregnant women can safely practice antenatal hand expression, but exceptions apply. If you have placental praevia, a cervical suture, or are at risk of preterm labour, postpone expression until after childbirth. In most women, it is safe to start expressing after 37 weeks of gestation.

Equipment you’ll need

• 2 medicine cups • 14 x 1 mL syringes with caps • 5 x 3 mL syringes with caps • 3 x 5 mL syringes with caps • Freezer bags • Labels

Eat, drink, work, pump, repeat!

Phoebe Simmonds, co-founder of The Memo (memo.com.au), has been there and understands the new mum struggle!

The process

Hygiene first: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap.

Posture matters: Sit up straight and lean slightly forward.

Breast massage: Start with a gentle breast massage, moving from the base towards the nipple, as if using a clock’s hand.

Hand placement: With one hand, cup your breast, forming a “C” shape with your thumb on top and fingers underneath, positioning them 5cm back from your areola.

Expressing motion: Gently press your thumb and index finger towards your chest wall, then compress them towards the nipple, holding briefly before releasing.

Collect that liquid gold: Keep a medicine cup ready to collect drops of colostrum as they emerge.

Repeat: Continue this motion for 5-10 minutes per breast, twice a day (morning and evening). Remember the mantra: “Press, compress, release, repeat.”

Watch for contractions: If you experience contractions during hand expression, stop immediately and consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Syringe collection: After expression, draw up the colostrum from the medicine cup into a clean syringe. Don’t be discouraged if only a few drops are visible; the quantity does not determine breastfeeding success.

Labelling: Label the syringe with your name, date, and time. This ensures proper identification for healthcare providers after delivery.

Storage: Store the syringe in the fridge.

You can combine the day’s collection together and place it in the freezer at the end of the day. Colostrum can stay in the fridge freezer for up to three months and in a deep freezer for 6-12 months.

This tool is so useful in so many scenarios as a breastfeeding mum! Whether you are out and forgot a pump, are just feeling slightly full in the shower, or you don’t let down as well for a pump, your hands are always with you! Now let’s be honest, hand expressing is great, but it requires two hands and time, both things that we are short on as mums!

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LET’S TALK ABOUT BREAST PUMPS! While not everyone will need a breast pump, having one isn’t a bad idea.

Breast milk is a supply and demand neurohormone feedback system, and delay in breast stimulation may cause a reduction in breast milk supply. Having access to a breast pump will allow you to maintain your supply if you encounter issues such as, pain with breastfeeding, damaged nipples, latching issues, or in case you need to increase your milk supply to provide supplemental nutrition for your newborn.

There are so many pumps on the market these days it can be difficult to choose the right one for you. As a Lactation Consultant, I can tell you I do not recommend the same pump for every mum.

To find one that’s suited to you, look for something that’s designed to help you feel comfortable, and think about your overall lifestyle. There are two main types of breast pumps to consider…

The manual pump

The electric pump

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When considering an electric pump, make decisions based on your needs.

Are you looking for something portable or will you be expressing at home? Are you looking for a time-effective expressing session or to occasionally bottle-feed your baby?

Hospital-grade pumps are ideal for exclusive expressers and parents of multiples or preemies. Those wanting to combination feed (breast and bottle), return to work while continuing to provide breast milk, or those looking for a more effective expressing session may be happy with a double electric pump. A single electric pump may be perfect for the special occasion expresser.

“The truth is there are many ways to express your breast milk.”

These come in single, double, and hospitalgrade variations. They are an efficient way to empty the breast, but can be a bit of a financial investment. Most are designed to mimic an infant’s natural sucking pattern.

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HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR PUMPING SESSION

Skin-to-skin connection: Hold your baby skin-to-skin before or during expressing to boost oxytocin levels and stimulate milk let-down.

Heat: Apply warmth, such as a warm shower or heating pad, before expression to increase milk volumes.

Hygiene: Always wash your hands before pumping with soap and water to prevent bacterial contamination.

Create a pumping station: Ensure everything you need is within reach.

Don’t forget water and a snack for yourself!

Lubrication: Apply breast milk, lanolin, or a drop of coconut/olive oil to the circular edge of your breast shield for added comfort.

Proper fit: Ensure your breast shield isn’t too tight, which can cause narrowing of the ducts and reduce milk expression.

Pump settings: Familiarise yourself with the pump settings, especially those mimicking infant suckling.

Hands-on expressing: Combining hand expression with pumping can increase milk expression by up to 45%.

THANKS TO MAMA PHOEBE (THEMEMO.COM.AU).

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADDIE ROUX.

Manual breast pumps – such as a single hand pump or a silicone pump – are great for occasional expressers; those looking to express off small amounts of breast milk, or collect let-down from the other breast while they breastfeed. This allows you to build a small supply and occasionally bottle-feed your infant. These options are portable and easy to use and allow you to express anywhere without a power source.

They are also available at a much lower price point than other pumps. Manual pumps use suction by having mum use her hands to manually “express” and create that suction.

Silicone breast pumps create a steady suction and are meant to be used on the non-breastfeeding breast while breastfeeding on the other. They can be a great tool to manage engorgement in those first few weeks postpartum.

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Breastmates Silicone Breast Pump, $29.90, breastmates.co.nz

Designed to hold breast milk in a shallow layer so they cool and thaw quickly, reducing bacterial growth and preserving nutrients.

PUMP it up!

Nanobebe Breast Milk Storage Bags and Organiser, $39.90, thestorknest.co.nz

HOW TO STORE YOUR MILK

After expressing, breast milk should be frozen if it is not going to be used within two days (it may be stored in the fridge for no more than 48 hours). Be sure to freeze in approved storage bags for breast milk.

Freezing milk in 60-90ml quantities per bag will help ensure little of your hard work is wasted. Lay milk flat in the freezer to allow for more storage room. Don’t forget to label it with date and amount and make sure you use the older milk first!

The Milk Collective Colostrum Expressing Kit, $39, themilkcollective.co.nz

BelleMa Euphoria Plus, $399.95, morethanmilk.co.nz

BUT MY BABY WON’T TAKE A BOTTLE?

Is your little one putting up a fight whenever you attempt to introduce the bottle? Does their face turn away from it, lips tightly sealed? Or perhaps they take a few sips only to arch their back in discomfort or burst into tears? You’re likely facing the challenge of bottle refusal – a hurdle many parents navigate. Babies can have various reasons for resisting bottles, but worry not!

Here are my tips to help your baby embrace the bottle-feeding experience...

Use the right teat

The choice of teat matters significantly.

Aim for a teat with a gradual slope and a broader base. This design supports your baby’s oral motor skills. Avoid teats that are short and suddenly widen at the base, as they might hinder effective sucking.

Determine the right flow rate

Pay attention to the flow rate of the bottle.

If your baby struggles to extract milk or the teat collapses, a faster flow might be necessary. Conversely, if they’re spilling, gulping, or coughing during feeding, consider opting for a slower flow rate. Keep in mind that different bottle brands have varying flow rates, so a bit of trial and error may be needed to find the perfect fit.

Experiment with side-lying feeding

If you’re transitioning between breast and bottle, try a side-lying position similar to the rugby-ball hold. Ensure your baby’s upper body is slightly elevated. This position enables the baby to better control the flow of milk from the bottle, creating a positive feeding experience for your baby.

Warm these to assist with milk production and let-down.

Bare Mum Breast Warm and Cool Inserts, $37.90, thememo.com.au

Let your baby set the pace

Approach bottle feeding with patience.

Gently touch the bottle teat to your baby’s lips, allowing the collar to rest against their chin. Wait for them to open their mouth wide before inserting the teat. Avoid forcing the teat into their mouth. Let them suck a few times before slightly tilting the bottle up. Keep the bottle horizontal while your baby drinks, ensuring the teat is about half full. Allowing your baby to control the pace can make feedings more comfortable.

Observe baby’s cues

Stay attuned to your baby’s signals. Look for signs of stress or fullness, like a worried expression, turning away, arching, leakage, gulping, or distraction. If you notice any of these cues, stop the feed.

Breast before bottle

Ease the transition by offering the bottle after a short breastfeed. Just like adults, babies don’t learn well when they’re hangry.

Letting them eat from what they know first will allow them to be more willing to learn something new (the bottle).

Tiny Bloom Ivory Wearable Breast Pump (Double), $296, tinybloom.co.nz

Practice makes perfect

Remember, bottle feeding is a learned skill.

It might take time for your baby to adjust.

Continue offering the bottle two or three times a day. When it is not time for a feed, let them explore the bottle teat by sucking on it and consider adding a drop of breast milk to the tip using a syringe.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP

Sometimes, bottle refusal might stem from underlying physical issues such as oral restrictions, reflux, tension in the body, allergies, intolerances, or high lipase in expressed milk. If you’re unsure how to proceed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant. Our expertise can guide you through a comprehensive assessment and provide tailored solutions for you and your baby.

Navigating bottle refusal can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and these expert-backed strategies, you’re well-equipped to overcome this phase and establish an easy happy feeding routine for you and your baby.

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Supporting you through breastfeeding While breastfeeding has a lot of benefits for you and your baby, it can be challenging, especially in the early days. It’s common to experience some discomfort, sensitivity and sore nipples due to lactating issues, hormonal changes, and nursing frequency.

SORE, CRACKED NIPPLES

ENGORGEMENT & MASTITIS

Beyond the initial tenderness of your baby’s first feeds, the most common cause of sore or damaged nipples is poor positioning and attachment.

This can happen when the baby doesn’t always take a big mouthful of breast. If you are struggling, it is recommended to seek out the support of your midwife, child health nurse or lactation consultant.

It is normal for your breasts to become larger and feel heavier and a little tender when they begin to produce more milk. Occasionally this fullness can lead to engorgement when the breasts feel very hard and painful. Ease the symptoms with Lansinoh® Thera°Pearl 3-in1 Breast Therapy reusable packs.

In the meantime, Lansinoh® HPA® Lanolin can soothe, heal, and protect sore and cracked nipples. Made from 100% pure Lanolin, Lansinoh® HPA® Lanolin does not clog pores or milk ducts and is clinically proven to accelerate healing. Being all natural and hypoallergenic, it is safe for you and your baby, and doesn’t need to be removed before breastfeeding.

Available in 15g and 50g.

The unique design conforms to your breast like a bag of peas to provide 360° relief and can be used hot or cold. Cold therapy with Lansinoh® Thera°Pearl can help to soothe the pain and swelling associated with engorgement and provide soothing relief for the symptoms of mastitis* – inflammation of the breast. Lansinoh Thera°Pearl can be used warm on the breast before a feed and when expressing to help the milk flow. *If you believe you have Mastitis, please seek medical attention from your healthcare provider.

LEAKING MILK Leaking breastmilk can be uncomfortable and maybe a little awkward at times as your levels of oxytocin, the hormone that produces the milk ejection reflex (MER) or letdown action, are still adjusting. For this, take advantage of Lansinoh® Ultra Thin Stay Dry Nursing Pads.

They help absorb the leaking breastmilk and comes in handy while your body is adjusting to your baby’s feeding needs.

Lansinoh® disposable nursing pads feature a gentle, breathable, quilted lining with a leak-proof outer layer to ensure your clothing stays dry and stain-free. What sets Lansinoh® nursing pads apart is their impressive absorbency, thanks to the innovative Blue Lock™ technology. Additionally, each pad is individually packaged and equipped with two non-slip adhesive tapes to securely keep it in place, offering you peace of mind and comfort as you navigate this transitional phase of motherhood.

Available in a pack of 24s and 60s.

Lansinoh is available in pharmacies and supermarkets nationwide

lansinoh.com.au

Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Wilson Consumer Products, Auckland TAPS NA BG248 *source: 24 New Zealand Mums who trialled Lansinoh® HPA® Lanolin Nipple Cream, Nursing Pads & 3-in-1 Breast Therapy.

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A sore point

Mastitis is a painful, but common, breast condition that we have been treating incorrectly – Lindsay Mullen (lindsay-mullen.themamacoach.com) explains why.

N

ew research published by the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine earlier this year has turned what we thought we knew about mastitis and how to treat it on its head. If you have had the unfortunate experience of having mastitis, you may remember being told to try to “unplug it” by massaging the red sore area, taking long hot showers, hand expressing, pumping, or even to trying a dangle feed in hopes of moving the “blocked milk”. Or you may have visited a healthcare provider who, at first mention

of the word “mastitis”, prescribed you antibiotics – this is what we had always been told was needed. Well, it turns out we were treating mastitis completely wrong!

Here’s a quick review on what the new research has found.

WHAT IS MA STITIS, REALLY?

Traditionally, we believed mastitis resulted from milk stasis – where milk is left in the breast due to missed feeds or incomplete milk removal during breastfeeding. This stagnant milk was thought to foster

bacterial growth, leading to infection, and causing the classic symptoms of redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, pain, and flu-like symptoms.

However, research now reveals a different perspective. While mastitis often presents as a tender, red, bumpy area (often referred to as a “plugged duct”) in conjunction with flu-like symptoms, the leading culprit isn’t milk stasis; it’s inflammation within the breast itself. Too much milk is just a part of the puzzle, not the primary issue. This new research identifies narrowing of the milk Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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IN WITH THE NEW

If you suspect you have inflammatory mastitis (with as fever lasting less than 24 hours), try the following…

Rest: Prioritise rest to support your body’s natural healing process.

Nurse on demand: Begin nursing on the unaffected side and follow your baby’s cues.

Cool compresses: Apply ice or cooling packs between feeds to reduce inflammation.

Pain relief: Consider paracetamol and/or ibuprofen for pain and inflammation.

Gentle expression: If you are engorged and latching is challenging, gently hand express to soften the area around your areola.

Light lymphatic massage: Promote lymphatic drainage with light, sweeping skin movements.

Supplements: Explore soy or sunflower lecithin (5-10 grams daily) and probiotics to reduce inflammation and balance your body’s microbial flora.

WHEN TO SEEK FURTHER HELP

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OUT WITH THE OLD

With this new understanding of breast inflammation versus milk stasis comes new recommendations on treatment of inflammatory mastitis. Gone is the advice for extra nursing or pumping sessions, vigorous massage, offering nursing first on the inflamed side, Epsom salt soaks, dangle feeds, or antibiotics at first sign of fever.

We now know that all these treatments can potentially actually worsen the inflammation.

ABOVE ALL ELSE, SELF-CARE MATTERS

Most cases of inflammatory mastitis resolve on their own, but it’s vital to listen to your body. While the guidelines have evolved, the age-old wisdom of rest and nursing on demand remains true. Accept help from loved ones, let chores wait, and grab some extra sleep – your body will thank you.

FOR RECURRING MA STITIS: SEEK PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

If mastitis recurs, don’t hesitate to contact a lactation consultant. They can help you determine the route cause and provide useful guidance on prevention. Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and with the right support, you can overcome any challenges that come your way.

THANKS TO MAMA JENNA AND BABY NOELLE. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGIA INGRAM PHOTOGRAPHY.

“New research identifies narrowing of the milk ducts due to inflammation as the cause, restricting milk flow and leading to the observed pain and redness.”

ducts due to inflammation as the cause, restricting milk flow and leading to the observed pain and redness. The ducts aren’t blocked, they’re compressed. This is now termed “ductal narrowing” and can most often resolve with appropriate care. In some cases, however, the narrowing can cause flu-like symptoms which is then diagnosed as inflammatory mastitis.

If your symptoms haven’t improved within 24 hours or have worsened, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. Bacterial mastitis may be developing, and antibiotics may be necessary. Rest assured, bacterial mastitis is not contagious, and you can safely continue to breastfeed.

MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE CAN TAKE A LIFE IN 24 HOURS. You can help prevent it with BEXSERO.1,2,3 Meningococcal disease, often referred to as meningitis, is an uncommon but serious infection.1,2

BEXSERO

IS NOW FREE FOR ALL CHILDREN UNDER 5*5

BEXSERO is a vaccine to help protect against meningococcal group B, the most common type of meningococcal disease in NZ. # 3,4

Ask your doctor or nurse about BEXSERO vaccination today *See Pharmaceutical Schedule for full funding criteria #Other vaccines are available to help protect against meningococcal groups A,C, W and Y. There is no single vaccine which covers all the different groups.6 1. Thompson MJ, Ninis N, Perera R, et al. Clinical recognition of meningococcal disease in children and adolescents. Lancet. 2006;367:397–403 2. World Health Organization. Meningococcal meningitis.

September 28, 2021. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/meningitis. Accessed February 2022. 3. GlaxoSmithKline NZ, BEXSERO Data Sheet 2021. Available at: https://medsafe. govt.nz/profs/Datasheet/b/bexseroinj.pdf. Accessed February 2023. 4. The Institute of Environmental Science and Research. Invasive Meningococcal Disease Monthly Report. November 2022. Available at: https://surv.esr.cri.nz/PDF_surveillance/ MeningococcalDisease/2022/Meningococcal_disease_monthy_report_November2022.pdf. Accessed February 2023 5. PHARMAC. Decision to widen access to the meningococcal B vaccine and secure supply of the shingles vaccine. 2022. Available at: https://pharmac.govt.nz/news-and-resources/consultations-and-decisions/2022- 12-08-meningococcal-b-vaccinenotification/. Accessed February 2023 6. Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC). Bexsero: A vaccine to protect against Meningococcal group B disease Fact Sheet. Available at: https://assets-global.website-files. com/637315ab5c5af16c7e809c42/63fe6ceb8f87ec73faa88dcc_NonprogrammeVaccineBexseroImac20210701%20v6.pdf. Accessed: February 2023. BEXSERO (Multicomponent meningococcal group B vaccine) is for immunisation against invasive disease caused by N. meningitidis group B from 2 months of age or per official recommendations. BEXSERO is a prescription medicine and is funded as part of the National Immunisation Schedule. See Pharmaceutical Schedule for full funding criteria. BEXSERO is also available for private purchase – normal doctor’s fees apply. One 0.5 ml dose BEXSERO contains 50 mcg of each N. meningitidis group B component (Heparin Binding Antigen fusion protein, Adhesin A protein and Factor H Binding Protein fusion protein), as well as 25 mcg Outer Membrane Vesicles from N. meningitidis group B strain NZ98/254. BEXSERO has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if BEXSERO is right for you. Use strictly as directed. Very common side effects for infants and toddlers include tenderness and pain at the injection site, fever, and irritability. In adolescents and adults, the most common side effects are pain at the injection site, generally feeling unwell, and headache. If you or your child have side effects, see your doctor. For more information, including full product details, see BEXSERO Consumer Medicine Information at www.medsafe.govt.nz. Trademarks are owned by or licensed to GSK. ©2023 GSK or its licensor. GlaxoSmithKline NZ Ltd, Auckland..

Adverse events involving GlaxoSmithKline products should be reported to GSK Medical Information on 0800 808 500. Date of Approval: 03 2023 Date of Expiry: 03 2025 TAPS NP19032-PM-NZ-BEX-ADVT-230001 GSK00984

Settle down!

Baby sleep and developmental specialist Kenna Zachinskaia (babysleep.nz) shares tips and tricks for soothing your distressed pēpi.

B

ringing a newborn into the world is an exciting and positive change, but it also comes with its challenges, particularly when it comes to soothing a fussy little one.

Babies can be easily overwhelmed, and their limited means of communication often lead to crying as a way of expressing their needs. For a parent, it’s important to understand various soothing techniques to help calm your child and promote better sleep. Here are 10 effective ways to soothe a baby and the pros and cons of each method.

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1

DUMMY (aka pacif ier or soother)

Pros: Dummies can provide instant comfort to a crying baby. The sucking reflex is calming and can help babies self-soothe.

Research also shows that dummies may reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when used during naps and bedtime.

Cons: Overusing dummies can interfere with breastfeeding and cause dental issues if used for an extended period of time. Some babies may become dependent on dummies, making it challenging to wean them later.

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2

NIGHTLIGHT

Pros: A soft nightlight in the nursery can provide a gentle, comforting glow during night feedings and nappy changes, making it easier for both you and your baby to go back to sleep.

Cons: Very bright (white) nightlights can disrupt your baby’s sleep/wake cycle, so make sure you opt for a dim, warmcoloured nightlight.

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“For a parent, it’s important to understand various soothing techniques to help calm your child and promote better sleep.”

4

WHITE NOISE

Pros: White noise, like the sound of a fan, vacuum cleaner or a white noise machine, can mimic the sounds your baby heard in the womb. It can be particularly effective for babies who struggle to fall asleep in a quiet environment.

Cons: Continuous white noise should be at a safe volume and not too close to the baby’s ears (at least one metre away).

I’d recommend gradually reducing white noise as your baby gets older to prevent dependency on the sound.

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5

SWADDLING

Pros: Swaddling involves wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket or specially designed swaddle wrap. It imitates the confined feeling of the womb, helping your baby feel secure and sleep better.

Cons: Swaddling should be done correctly to avoid hip dysplasia. Additionally, some babies may not like being swaddled and may prefer more freedom for movement.

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6

THANKS TO BABY NOAH. PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MOIRA MEIRING OF WILD LITTLE HEARTS.

GENTLE ROCKING OR SWINGING

3

MUSIC

Pros: Soft, soothing music or lullabies can create a calming atmosphere for your baby.

It’s better to use music before sleep rather than during the whole duration of it, as the child’s brain processes sounds.

Cons: Loud music or favourite melodies can have the opposite effect, making it harder for your baby to settle down. Be sure to choose calm, gentle tunes which do not stimulate pēpi.

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Pros: Many babies find the rhythmic motion of rocking or swinging soothing, as it reminds of the sensation of being rocked in your arms.

Cons: Be cautious with the speed and intensity of the rocking or swinging. Avoid any sudden movements, and ensure your baby is securely strapped in if using a swing.

Rocking is also considered one of the most difficult habits to get rid of, and it also becomes hard for mamas very quickly as the baby grows and gains more weight.

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7

SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT

Pros: Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, can have numerous benefits.

It regulates your baby’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing, as well as promotes bonding and breastfeeding.

Cons: There are none!

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8

ON-DEMAND FEEDING

Pros: Breastfeeding or offering a bottle when your baby shows hunger cues can provide immediate comfort and nourishment. It can also help your baby establish a healthy feeding routine.

Cons: While feeding on demand is necessary during the first four months, it can be exhausting for parents, particularly during the night. It’s essential to start creating routines as early as possible to make life a bit easier!

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9

BABY MA SSAGE

Pros: Gentle baby massage can help relax your baby’s muscles and promote better sleep. It also provides an excellent opportunity for bonding.

Cons: Baby massage should be done gently and with care, using appropriate oils or lotions. Be sure to watch for any signs of discomfort from your baby during the massage.

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10

ENCOURAGING SELF-SOOTHING

Pros: Teaching your baby to self-soothe is an essential skill for sleep training and promoting better sleep. It helps babies learn how to comfort themselves back to sleep when they wake up at night.

Cons: Some parents may find it challenging to give up some rest while teaching the baby to self-sooth, or don’t want to miss the opportunity to have snuggly cuddles when co-sleeping.

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lm comfort and ca

VTech Myla the Monkey Portable Soother, $44.95, babyfactory.co.nz

Over The Dandelions Organic Muslin Bunny Lovey, $29.90, overthedandelions.co.nz

F i ve

so

oth ing sound like w s

hi

NUK Genius Silicone Soothers 0-2mths 2-pack, $9.86, babybunting.co.nz

te

no i s e to r e l a x

Introduce a lovey or comfort object (for children over six months old) Introduce a soft, safe item like a stuffed animal or small blanket as a comfort object. It can provide reassurance when your baby wakes at night.

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Frankie Apothecary Kawakawa Body Oil, $47, frankieapothecary.com Massage away with this 100% natural oil that is suitable for sensitive skin.

Little Belle Fairy House Carry Lantern Night Light, $149.95, little-belle.com

Ask for help!

There are plenty of specialists and courses available to guide or support parents and improve their routines.

Every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s essential to be patient and flexible when trying different soothing techniques and encouraging self-soothing.

Pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust your approach accordingly. With time and a little experimentation, you’ll find the methods that work best for soothing your precious pēpi and promoting better sleep for your family.

H a p p y vs

one!

Avoid creating bad habits Alternate soothing methods when you need to use them – don’t stick to the only one when you find it works as it may create a habit that is hard to break.

t t le

Establish a bedtime routine A consistent bedtime routine helps your baby to understand when it’s time to sleep. Make sure to provide enough quiet/ calm time, learn your child’s signs of tiredness, and create a unique bedtime ritual.

ur li

Balance your day Provide enough physical and emotional activities for your baby. Note the average awake/ sleep time for baby’s age and adjust it according to their personal needs. Keep a record for five to 10 days to monitor the sleep pattern and pēpi’s reactions and mood.

yo

TIPS FOR ENCOURAGING SELFSOOTHING…

sad music

A recent study suggests newborns find happy music soothing in particular.

Two experimenters collected and listened to hundreds of lullabies and children’s songs and a French lullaby entitled Fais Dodo (by Alexandra Montano and Ruth Cunningham) was found to be the saddest, while a German song, Das singende Känguru (by Volker Rosin), was ranked the happiest.

They played these two songs in random order – along with a silent control period – to 32 babies in a first experiment and analysed how behaviours, such as crying, yawning, sucking, sleeping, and limb movements, changed during the music pieces and the silence.

In a second experiment, they recorded the heart rates of 66 newborn infants while they were listening to these two songs and also silence.

Results show that the babies started to downshift to sleep during happy music, but not to sad music or when there was no music. They also showed a decrease in their heart rates during happy music but not during sad music or silent periods, suggesting they were getting calmer.

In response to both happy and sad music, babies also moved their eyes less frequently and there were longer pauses between their movements compared with the silent period. This indicates that both types of music had some calming effect on the babies compared with no music, but happy music was the best. So dial up those happy tunes, mamas!

Edited from an article by Emese Nagy, Reader of Psychology, University of Dundee, from theconversation.com.

PlunketLine is here to support all parents, caregivers and whānau, whenever you need.

We offer support on areas such as sleep, adjusting to parenthood, children’s health, breastfeeding via video call, and much more - so you and your family can receive the help you need.

Free from any landline or mobile and available 24/7.

0800 933 922

Kei konei mātou

love

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Uganda

"Through my lens, I’m always looking for moments of intimacy and kinship. To that end, I can barely think of anything more poignant than that first hello after a mother gives birth."

A Kiwi humanitarian photographer Helen Manson reflects on what she has learned from remarkable mamas around the world.

s a New Zealand humanitarian photographer, and storyteller, I’ve had the immense privilege of having a front-row seat to the breathtaking beauty of motherhood around the globe. The strength and resilience of the women I meet never ceases to amaze me. What powerful stories they tell of the obstacles they’ve overcome and how they fight for a better future for their children.

From stories of tremendous hope and joy to deep trauma and unfathomable loss.

Here are three things I’ve learned from the mothers I photograph…

THERE'S NO THEM AND US

Before I started doing this kind of work, I was tempted to imagine that mothers in developing countries who endured horrific things “on the news” were fundamentally different from me.

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Senegal Maybe, somehow, they just don’t feel things like I do. They’re “used to it”, numbed by the ubiquitous presence of suffering. Maybe they expect less, care less, hope for less, want less, or need less? But as I’ve got to know mums all over the world, and captured them and their children with my camera, I’ve come to see that as different as our cultures and contexts might be, the universal gifts and challenges of motherhood unite us. There’s really no difference in what we want for our children; only in what we can give them.

WHY ARE WE ALWAYS IN SUCH A HURRY?

SIMPLICIT Y WITH OUR CHILDREN IS UNDERRATED

We live in a consumeristic world that’s all about more toys, more gadgets, more activities, more designer brands, and more technology. But the mothers I’ve photographed have taught me by their example that a pot and a spatula or the trees in the sunshine outside are more than enough to entertain their baby.

One mum called Juliet told me, “I’ve heard people in the West have an entire room for one child where they sleep all by themselves and only their things are in there.”

Even though both my husband and I are Kiwis, we lived and raised our children in Uganda for seven years. I specifically remember when our daughter, Hope, was a few months old, I received a notification from an app I’d signed up to about what stage she should be at. It talked about the importance of seeing the colours black and white. I remember having a mini freak-out to my husband

“A s different as our cultures and contexts might be, the universal gifts and challenges of motherhood unite us.”

I don’t know if it’s because I move at the speed of a bat-out-of-hell, but one of the main things I’ve learned about mums in the places I photograph is that their pace of life is so much calmer than mine.

I remember one mum in Uganda called Kate who told me, “Westerners seem to really rush with everything. They have a lot to do, and they feel like they have to get it done. For them everything is now, now.

They keep time and for them it has to be exactly that time. I’ve heard that you have schedules for your children’s napping, and

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you get mad if the baby doesn’t follow it?

We do what we do in a relaxed way. They’ll sleep when they sleep.”

"The sound of mothers and their babies filled the air as I sat in a rural doctor’s office in Senegal and took in the sea of colour and life unfolding before me. These images were shot for World Vision." as we were driving the dusty back roads of the small town we lived in – there’s no place in Uganda to buy black-and-white books! I’ll never forget the moment he then abruptly pulled the car over, picked her up, and walked across the street. I followed him dumbfounded until I rounded the corner and saw what he saw – zebras. “There’s your black and white,” he told me.

If I had to sum it up, these mothers have taught me that my children lack for nothing – and probably could do with less. These photos are my standing ovation to these remarkable women.

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Tanzania "Premature baby Robert was born in a refugee camp in Tanzania. Here, he takes a moment to rest in his mother’s arms. Giving birth is an achievement, let alone doing it for the fifth time in a refugee camp, to a premature baby. Images shot for Medical Teams International."

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Solomon Islands "Stretchy families (families that are not just mum/dad/two kids) are what it’s all about in much of the Global South. It takes a village, after all. Pictured here, an aunty cuddles her sweet nephew outside their home in a remote village called Kolosulu.

His care is shared by grandma, mama and other siblings. Images shot for Tearfund."

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ALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY HELEN MANSON.

HELEN MANSON HAS TRAVELLED TO MORE THAN 47 COUNTRIES, DOCUMENTING GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN ISSUES FOR CHARITIES AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATIONS ALL OVER THE WORLD. SHE NOW WORKS FOR TEARFUND.ORG.NZ.

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Ouchie!

W

hichever way your baby chooses to make an appearance in this world can cause some damage to your body in the form of perineal tearing, an episiotomy (a cut made between your vagina and your anus) or a C-section incision. Some lucky women don’t experience any of these, but they are very common, and managing your postpartum wounds is super-important for fast healing and minimal scarring.

IF YOU HAD PERINEAL TEARING OR AN EPISIOTOMY…

For the majority of women, perineal tears and grazes are minor and will heal quickly, but it may still sting for a short time when you pass urine. Other mamas may require stitches and, if you have an episiotomy, this is a given. The stitches will usually dissolve in one to two weeks and during that time, good hygiene is important.

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Perineum tears and C-section incisions can cause a lot of discomfort post-birth. Here are some ways to manage and heal your battle wounds!

Keep the area clean and dry

First and foremost, it’s important to keep the area clean and dry. Use a peri bottle filled with warm water to cleanse the area, and pat (don't rub) dry with a clean, dry towel afterwards. Avoid soaps or any other chemicals which may irritate the incision.

Make sure you change your sanitary pads frequently to prevent infection.

Use ice packs

Applying ice packs wrapped in a clean cloth to the perineal area for the first 24-48 hours after childbirth can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief.

Apply it for no more than 10 minutes at a time (and at least four-hourly). Plus, try not to sit for extended periods, and when

you do sit, use a cushion or pillow to relieve pressure on the perineum.

Try a sitz bath

Fill a shallow basin or bathtub with warm (not hot) water and sit in it for about 15-20 minutes. Pat the area dry afterward. You may like to add some baking soda or witch hazel, which is an anti-inflammatory and helps soothe and heal tears.

Stay hydrated and eat fibre

Your first bowel movement following birth can cause feelings of anxiety. Talk to your LMC about stool softeners and make sure you drink lots of water. It’s also recommended you stick to a healthy diet with lots of fruit and vegetables.

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+ STAY

PATIENT!

Scar healing is a gradual process, and it may take several months to see significant improvement.

Be patient and consistent in your scar care routine.

Monitor for signs of infection

Keep an eye on the incision for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, smelly discharge, pus, or fever. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your LMC immediately.

Protect and support your wound

Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid activities that may put strain on the incision, such as heavy lifting or rigorous exercise, during the initial healing period.

When coughing, sneezing or laughing, hold a pillow against your abdomen to provide support to the area and minimise any discomfort.

Avoid picking, scratching, or itching

Resist the temptation to pick at scabs or scratch the healing scar, as it can delay the healing process and lead to more prominent scars. If the scar is itchy or causing discomfort, you can try using over-thecounter creams containing hydrocortisone, but consult your LMC first.

Avoid sexual activity

Refrain from having sex until you receive the go-ahead from your LMC or GP – typically after the perineum has healed.

+ LET YOURSELF

BY CHARLOTTE COWAN.

REST!

Remember that postpartum healing is a gradual process, and it’s essential to be patient and take care of yourself during this time. If you have any concerns or questions, always reach out to your LMC or other healthcare provider for support.

IF YOU HAD A C-SECTION…

When you have a C-section, your obstetrician has to cut through six separate layers of the abdominal wall and uterus to get to your baby, and the incision is about 10cm long. Doctors use different kinds of stitches which are usually dissolvable, and some may also use staples which need to be removed a few days after birth.

So with all this, it’s pretty clear that healing a C-section scar requires patience, proper care, and attention.

Keep the incision clean

Your incision will be covered with a waterproof dressing for about a week after birth but once that is removed, gently clean the incision site with mild soap and water and pat it dry with a clean towel or flannel. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh chemicals on the wound.

Use scar treatment products

Once the incision has healed and the skin has closed, you can consider using scar treatment products such as oils, cream, gels, or patches. These products may help flatten and fade the scar over time. Your dermatologist can give you recommendations, or check out page 114.

Massage the scar

Gently massaging the healed scar with your fingertips can help improve blood circulation and reduce scar tissue build-up.

Always be gentle with the pressure.

Avoid sun exposure

Protect the scar from direct sunlight to prevent hyperpigmentation and worsening of the scar’s appearance. If you must go out in the sun, use sunscreen or cover the scar with clothing.

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note

DON’T APPLY PRODUCTS TO OPEN WOUNDS AND ALWAYS CHECK WITH YOUR LMC OR GP BEFORE USING ANY POSTPARTUM SKINCARE.

Naydaya Scar Saviour, $55 for 30ml, mecca.com Anti-inflammatory and antioxidants including turmeric, marshmallow root, and vitamin E penetrate the skin to accelerate skin and scar recovery.

BATTLE SCARS

Gentle products to help reduce your postpartum scarring.

Naturo Pharm Hypercal Gel, $28.80, naturopharm.co.nz

L OV E

Well and truly tested since 1984, this natural salve provides effective support to healing scar tissue. Apply once the wound has closed to moisturise, soften, and nourish the recovering skin. Made in Golden Bay, Tui Balms uses only high-quality ingredients: New Zealand organic beeswax, olive oil, vitamin E, and propolis.

Myscar The Active Caesarean silicone strips (three-month supply), $229, myscar.co.nz Thick, durable and washable, these 100% medical-grade postC-section silicone strips can restore and strengthen connective tissue to flatten and soften your C-section scar.

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Weleda Hypercal Healing Cream, $27.90, weleda.co.nz

Bio-Oil Skincare Oil, $42.99 for 200ml, bio-oil.com

Anti-inflammatory, natural pain relief and wound healing properties supports the formation of healthy skin tissue and promotes skin repair.

Made using vitamin A, vitamin E, calendula, lavender and rosemary oils, and chamomile extract to help reduce the appearance of scars.

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN. PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MOIRA MEIRING OF WILD LITTLE HEARTS.

Tui Bee Balm, $12.50 for 40g, tuibalms.co.nz

Supports the body’s normal defences for the skin and helps promote a natural healing response.

100%

natural paraben free

IMPROVING THE

preservative free

APPEARANCE OF

phthalate free

SCARS & STRETCH MARKS

Ray of sunshine Whānau Āwhina Plunket (plunket.org.nz) explains how to protect your baby’s sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

T

he sun is strong in New Zealand, and while a few minutes of gentle sunlight is good for children, too much can be harmful.

WHAT IS UV RADIATION?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun. UV radiation can cause sunburn, eye damage, and premature aging, and it’s the main cause of skin cancer. You can’t see or feel UV radiation.

The Ultraviolet Index (UVI) is a measure of the intensity of UV radiation in our environment. The higher the index number, the greater the risk of sunburn or damage to the eyes.

• When the UVI is low (1 or 2), you don’t need sun protection.

• When the UVI is 3 or higher, it’s a good idea to protect your child’s skin and eyes from the sun.

In the New Zealand summer, the UVI can reach levels as high as 15.

UV radiation is strongest in the daylight saving months (between September and April), especially between 11am and 4pm.

But it doesn’t have to be sunny and warm for skin to burn. You and your pēpi can get sunburned on cloudy days, when it’s cool or when you’re in the shade. UV rays reflect off concrete, water, sand, and even from the inside of an umbrella.

HOW MUCH SUN IS SAFE?

Gentle sunlight is good for children in small doses because it provides vitamin D. Vitamin D is important because it helps their body absorb calcium, and promotes bone growth. Just 10-15 minutes of sunlight a day on their face, arms and hands is enough for many tamariki.

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“Gentle sunlight is good for children in small doses because it provides vitamin D.”

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PROTECTING YOUR PĒPI FROM THE SUN

It’s best if you can keep your baby out of strong sunlight, but we know this isn’t always possible. Here’s how to help your child get the vitamin D they need and avoid them getting sunburned.

In the daylight saving months (September to April), shade is a must!

QUICK SUNSCREEN TIPS

• Young babies under six months have very sensitive skin which may react to sunscreen.

Stay in the shade where possible, or drape a shade cloth over your child’s stroller or play area. You can get shade cloth from stroller companies or baby stores. It’s not a good idea to put a thick blanket or a plastic cover over a stroller for sun protection, because this stops air flow and can make the inside of the stroller too hot. Also, be aware that light coverings or light umbrellas might not be enough to protect your baby’s skin from the sun.

• Unscented sunscreens, and those made for sensitive skin, often cause less reaction. Sunscreens with the chemicals phenoxyethanol and octocrylene can lead to reactions, and the chemical octinoxate (octyl methoxycinnamate) has been linked to coral bleaching and negative effects on marine life and other animals.

Cover up

• When first using a new sunscreen, try a small amount (the size of a pea) on a small area of skin (inside their upper arm, for example) to test it.

Dress your baby in clothing that will protect them from the sun, but keep them cool too. Clothing that offers the best protection from the sun is made of a tightly woven natural fabric, a darker colour, and not too stretchy. Make sure they’re wearing a wide-brim hat or a cap with flaps that shade the ears and neck.

Lather on sunscreen

• Apply broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen to any exposed skin – thickly and evenly – before your child goes outside. It doesn’t need to be rubbed in.

• Check that any product meets the Australian and NZ Safety Standard AS/NZS 2604:2012.

• Use SPF50 sunscreen, and put it on at least 20 minutes before you go outside so it can be absorbed by the skin.

• Reapply every two hours, especially if they’ve been sweating or in the water.

• A zinc stick is good to use on a child’s nose, cheeks and lips.

Between May and August, you don’t usually need sun protection for your skin unless you’re in the mountains or in the water. But you still need vitamin D, so spending some time outside in the middle of the day is a good idea.

• Store sunscreen in a cool, dry place, and check the expiry date before you use it – generally sunscreen only lasts for three years.

• Sunscreen can’t completely protect your child’s skin, even if you reapply it regularly. It’s best to try to stay out of the midday sun, and to make sure your child wears clothing and a hat that will help protect exposed skin.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHILD GETS SUNBURNED

• A lukewarm bath may help to soothe their skin.

• Paracetamol might provide some pain relief for severe cases. Make sure to give correct dose of paracetamol for your child’s age.

• Sunburn can cause dehydration, so give your child water to replace body fluids.

• If your baby is less than one year old, take them to the doctor to be checked out.

• Keep them out of the sun entirely until the sunburn heals.

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The Natural Patch Co SunnyPatch UV-Detecting Patch, $24 (one pack), naturalpatch.co.nz

Summer sun protection essentials for pēpi!

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Babiators Euro Round Baby & Kids Sunglasses, $65, nakedbaby.co.nz Konges Slojd Mini Beach Tent Pop Up Shelter UV50+ in Elephantastic, $139, dappermrbear.com

L OV E Frankie Apothecary Natural Sun Defence SPF40, $35 for 75g, frankieapothecary.com Gentle and safe sun protection for you and your little one, made exclusively with nature-derived ingredients and marine-friendly mineral sun filters. Natural Sun Defence SPF40 offers broadspectrum protection, is free from chemical sun filters, and rubs in beautifully, making it easy to apply – even on the wriggliest of kids! Plasticfree sunscreen made in Aotearoa.

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN. THANKS TO BABY MONTE. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARINA GALIOTTO OF BABY LOVE IMAGES.

Cetaphil Sun Kids SPF50 is a unique liposomal sunscreen that spreads easily and evenly onto the skin to provide high UV protection, without leaving a greasy residue. With its convenient pump dispenser, one application gives up to eight hours sun protection and four hours water resistance.

Fragrance- and parabenfree, this formula is specially formulated to be gentle on sensitive skin for children and adults.

Babu’s Everyday Sunscreen boasts a powerful SPF30 and broad-spectrum coverage and is your family’s trusted shield against sun damage. Enriched with nourishing coconut oil, hydrating jojoba oil, and soothing evening primrose oil, it caters to even the most sensitive skin. Nurture summer the natural way, with Babu’s proudly NZ-made Everyday Sunscreen.

Nature Baby Splash Sunhat, $44.95, naturebaby.co.nz

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Babu Everyday Sunscreen, $34.50 for 200ml, babu.co.nz

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The team at Auckland Eye (aucklandeye.co.nz) explains why your newborn’s eye colour is unique – and not as easy to predict as you might think!

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hile it is possible that you may share blue eyes with your immediate family, how that colour appears in your eyes is unique to you. With the development of modern technology, many biometric systems (i.e. using biological traits for identification purposes) are now designed on the basis of a unique iris, since no two people possess the same iris patterns.

In the most simplified versions of eye-colour prediction charts, both blue and green eyes are considered to be recessive, brown eyes are considered dominant over all other colours, and green eyes are thought to be dominant over blues eyes. Although these concepts are generally accurate, the genetics of how eye colours are determined is actually far more complicated than what we previously thought. Despite what high school science classes taught us, human eye colour is dependent upon a variation of several different genes and the complex interaction between them.

You cannot simply determine what colour a baby’s eyes will be by calculating the various probabilities using a punnet square.

If you belong to a family with a long line of brown-eyed individuals over multiple generations but your baby ends up with green or blue eyes… Don’t panic! Despite the popular belief that two blue-eyed parents cannot have a brown-eyed child, this outdated concept and other similar eyecolour myths have been proven unreliable.

With more recent studies in genetics, it is now understood that one’s eye colour depends on the amount of pigment (melanin) found in the iris and how it is distributed. Genetics determines how much melanin is present in the iris of your eye.

Though there are two main genes that have the most influence, up to 16 different genes play a role in determining eye colour.

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Eye spy

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What causes different eye colours Blue

“The genetics of how eye colours are determined is actually far more complicated than what we previously thought.”

Blue eyes mean there is little or no melanin in the front layer of the iris. When light goes through the eye, it hits the back of the iris and reflects out. As the light goes through the stroma (the upper layer of the iris), the presence of proteins causes blue light to scatter, which causes the iris to appear blue.

Brown

People with brown eyes have a large amount of melanin present in the stroma of the iris which absorbs more light, reducing the amount of light being reflected.

Green

Green eyes contain a melanin concentration in between blue and brown. Green eyes mean that the front layer of the iris has only a small amount of melanin (more pigment than blue eyes but less than brown eyes) which tends to be the red or yellowish pheomelanin. Given that the melanin concentration is low, the light scattering effect creates a blue colour, which mixes with the yellowish colour of pheomelanin, making the eye appear green.

Hazel

Similar to green eyes, hazel eyes have less melanin than brown eyes, but more than blue eyes. Hazel eyes are caused by a blend of Rayleigh scattering of reflected light and a moderate amount of melanin in the iris’s anterior border layer (a layer of dense pigmented cells within the iris).

THANKS TO BABY MONTE. PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MARINA GALIOTTO OF BABY LOVE IMAGES.

Red and violet

True violet or red-coloured eyes do not occur naturally in humans. However, due to the extremely low quantities of melanin, people with severe forms of albinism’s eyes may appear red under certain lighting conditions, allowing the blood vessels to show through.

When very bright light from a camera flash reflects off the retina, this causes the pupil to appear red in the photograph which is commonly called the “red-eye effect”. Even though the deep blue of some people’s eyes appears violet at certain times under different lighting conditions, only people with albinism are the only exception for presenting “true” violet-coloured eyes.

Protecting your baby’s eyes Newborn babies are born with limited eyesight and their vision can still be blurry after eight weeks. However, their visual abilities develop quickly during their first few months of life and it’s important to protect their eyes during this time.

• Newborns are sensitive to bright light, so protecting their eyes from the harsh summer sun is important. Use hats if you’re out and about; and other accessories – such as a muslin over their pram, a window shade in the car, or a pop-up tent at the beach – to keep the sun’s glare from their eyes.

For more sun-smart tips and products, head to page 116.

• However, it is also crucial for a baby’s eyes to be exposed to natural daylight, and spending time outside is not only beneficial for their overall health, but also for their eye health.

• Keep them away from screens. Screen activities can contribute to the development of near-sightedness or short-sightedness (myopia) in children. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends no screen time for babies under two years old.

CAN EYE COLOUR CHANGE?

Most babies of European descent have lightcoloured eyes after birth, which can change in the first couple of years. As the child develops, melanocyte cells (found within the iris of the of the human eyes) continually produce pigment and therefore a baby’s eye colour can often change but their eye colour is usually established between three and six months of age. After this period, the human iris colour will most likely remain the same throughout adulthood.

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Fill me in Megan Hutchison from Forget Me Not Journals (forgetmenotjournals.com) shares tips on how to stay motivated to complete your baby book.

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s parents, we know those early days are fleeting. We try to capture as much of them as we can – first smiles, first laugh, first steps; we fill our phones with photos and scroll through them as our babies grow.

While those photos tell part of the story, there’s so much more to remember, and many of us wish to also create a baby book to fill with all the little memories.

If you’re planning on starting a baby book, or you need help being consistent with it, here are some tips to staying motivated.

As with almost everything in motherhood, there’s a juggle between time, energy and motivation to get things done, but there is nothing like putting pen to paper to document their little lives.

GET STARTED AND MAKE IT A HABIT

It can be daunting to write in your baby book for the first time – which pen to use, how neat you want your writing to be, having enough time and mental clarity to start. Don’t wait for the perfect time, just begin. Start with a few lines, a quote, a thought, a little memory of something funny that happened.

It’s much more motivating to be writing just a little in your book every now and then, than feeling pressured to fill it in one go – and will make it much easier to continue once you’ve taken that first step.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF VOICE TECHNOLOGY WHEN YOU’RE BUSY

One thing I have found extremely useful is the ability to record on the go – whether it’s making a voice recording, or dictating straight into your phone’s notes app.

I’d often take my baby on walks by myself during the day, and found it really therapeutic to engage with my thoughts by recording them – whether it had been a long night or a new development I wanted

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“There is nothing like putting pen to paper to document their little lives.” to reflect on. There’s always going to be busy periods when you struggle to write things down, but being able to listen or read back what you wrote will be very useful in filling in your baby book.

WRITE IN YOUR BABY BOOK BEFORE YOU ADD PHOTOS

When starting your baby book, it can be really tempting to try and organise your photos for putting in the book first – and you’ve already taken hundreds. However, you have nothing to lose by saving those photos to print later, and starting to write.

Our babies change so fast that most of us forget the little details, so prioritising the process of actually writing down and documenting those little things we haven’t taken photos of, makes for a baby book full of memories, as well as photos.

START A “BABY BOOK” PHOTO ALBUM IN YOUR PHONE FOR PRINTING LATER

As you scroll through your photos, rather than just “favourite” the best ones, add them to a “baby book” album/folder in your phone. Having all these photos in one place will not only make it easier to print when you are ready to, but can also be useful to flick through for a reminder as you’re writing in details of each month, and makes it easy to remember milestone dates, such as first tooth, or first trip to the beach, etc.

JOGGING YOUR MEMORY IF YOU’RE BACKDATING

If you’re backdating a few weeks (or months) back and brain fog is making it hard, try scrolling back through conversations with your partner, parents, or any mum groups or mum friends you have. Those notes you send each other in the middle of the night are a true insight into the reality of having a baby, and are the perfect things to record in your baby book, too.

CHOOSE A BABY BOOK OR JOURNAL YOU WANT TO USE

You may be given a one for your baby shower, but if you’re choosing your own, the most important thing is that it’s one you really want to use. Ideally, one that you love the look of, and will keep on display in your nursery, as a visual cue and reminder to pick it up and fill it in. As well as how it looks, you want to love the experience of using it.

DON’T STRESS!

Finally, I know how hard it can be to stay motivated to write in your baby book, so let go of any idea of “perfection”. Your child won’t be the slightest bit concerned whether you used the same pen throughout, sloppy writing, or that you missed the exact date they first rolled over, but they will truly appreciate the effort you made to record special moments and memories for them.

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124 Pregnancy BUMP & baby Bump&Baby HPV 44x248 Final.indd 1

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helpful resources

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Baby

CPR

St John (stjohn.org.nz) explains how to perform CPR the right way.

1. ASSESS DANGERS

•M ake sure that you, the baby, and bystanders are safe from any dangers.

•D o not put your own safety at risk.

2. IS THE BABY

RESPONSIVE? •C heck for a response by calling the baby’s name loudly and gently squeezing their toes.

•M oving or making a noise is regarded as a response.

• I f there is no response, the baby is unresponsive and in danger of dying because of their airway becoming blocked.

3. SEND FOR HELP

• Call 111 for an ambulance or send someone else to call.

• It is important to call an ambulance as soon as possible so that advanced resuscitation assistance is on its way.

Remember – you will be keeping the baby alive with CPR, but they need additional care to start their heart. If you are on your own, and a phone is not readily available, do CPR for about one minute then call for help. If portable, bring the phone with you to the patient.

4. OPEN AND

CLEAR THE AIRWAY When a person is unresponsive, their muscles relax. The tongue is a muscle and so relaxes.

This is dangerous because the back of the tongue can flop downwards against the back of the airway and block it. This means the baby cannot breathe.

In any unresponsive person, it is important to open the airway: • In a baby, this is done simply by moving the head into a neutral position and lifting the chin.

• If you see anything in the baby’s mouth, use two fingers to sweep it out.

Scan the QR code to see a demonstration of how to perform CPR on an infant.

note This form of CPR is for a baby which is generally regarded as being under the

age of one year. To learn CPR for a child over the age of one, head to stjohn.org.nz

5. CHECK TO SEE

WHETHER THE BABY IS BREATHING NORMALLY When the airway is open and clear, check for normal breathing: • Look and feel for movement of the lower chest and stomach area.

• Listen and feel for air coming from the nose or mouth.

• Check for any movement.

I f the baby is breathing, move them and support them on their side with their head in a neutral position, and continually monitor their breathing. Note that occasional gasps of air are inadequate to sustain life and should be ignored.

6. IF THE BABY

IS NOT BREATHING • Position the baby on any flat surface or even support them on your lap or arm.

• Place two fingers of one hand in the centre of the chest, just below an imaginary line between the nipples.

• Push down hard and fast 30 times (push down one third of chest depth). Do not worry about pushing too hard – good CPR requires you to push hard and fast.

• Once you have completed 30 compressions (pushes) on the chest, breathe into the baby’s mouth two times.

To breathe into the baby: • Keep the head in a neutral position with one hand.

• Seal your lips around the baby’s mouth and nose.

• Gently puff into the baby until you see the chest rise.

• Remove your mouth, take a fresh breath, and puff into the baby again.

• Continue with the cycle of 30 chest compressions and two breaths until the ambulance arrives.

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Birthing ba g

It’s a good idea to pack a bag in case of an emergency – or simply to have all the essentials together in one place when you give birth.

MUM

Books/magazines

HOME COMFORTS

Pyjamas or night shirt, preferably one that buttons up in front (at least two pairs)

Cash/credit cards/wallet

Take your own pillow and pillowcase to the hospital or your birthing centre. It’ll bring you comfort and might even make it easier to drift off to sleep in the minimal moments you’ll get.

Dressing gown Nursing bras x 3 Bikini/tank top (water birth option) Cotton knickers x 10 Socks Slippers Drink bottle Portable speakers, earpods (hypnobirth, music) Sandals (for the shower) Clothes to wear home (alas, still your pregnancy clothes, because even after the baby’s out, your tummy will be still be swollen) Toiletries (your usual overnight stuff)

Maternity pads (these should be supplied by the hospital, but you’ll feel better knowing you have them available) A few pairs of big granny undies (high-waisted) because if you have a C-section you don’t want the elastic to rub the stitches

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BABY Car capsule or car seat (already installed and ready for the baby) Blankets x 2 Muslin wraps x 2 Baby bodysuits x 4 Socks/booties x 2 Beanie

Make-up (to be honest, you probably won’t bother with it, but just in case)

Going home outfit

Breast pads and nipple cream

Nappies and baby wipes

Any medications or vitamins you are taking

Bottles/formula/steriliser if you plan to bottle-feed

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Copy of your birth plan

PARTNER

List of people and numbers to call after birth (store them in your phone)

A change of clothes, toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant), water bottle, some snacks and water, something to read, money for the parking meter (and for the vending machine!). Phone/camera.

Snacks and bottles of water Camera (with extra batteries or charger) Mobile phone and charger

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REFRESHMENTS If you "run hot", take a mini fan, face cloth, or face mist to keep you feeling refreshed during contractions, in labour, and in the days following.

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handy tips

Toiletries: Free up room in your bag with miniature toiletries or decant what you have into smaller containers.

Clothing: Don’t assume your little bundle will fit "newborn" baby clothing. If they’re overdue or simply on the larger size, they might already be ready for the next size up!

(See the size guide below.)

NEWBORN

0-3 MTHS

SIZE: 0000 WEIGHT up to 4kg

SIZE: 000 WEIGHT up to 6kg

ANTENATAL CLASSES College of Midwives auckland.midwife.org.nz/ for-birthing-women/antenatalclasses

introduction to

ULTRASOUND

Nest Parenting & Education nestpregnancyand parenting.co.nz ANXIETY/DEPRESSION Depression Helpline 0800 111 757 depression.org.nz Lifeline 0800 543 354 lifeline.org.nz

Support

Mental Health Foundation mentalhealth.org.nz Mothers Helpers mothershelpers.co.nz Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Aotearoa pada.nz APPS BreastfedNZ Māmā Aroha BREASTFEEDING BreastFed NZ breastfednz.co.nz BreastfeedingNZ Facebook page facebook.com/ breastfeedingnz Feeding and Work womens-health.org.nz Lactation Consultants nzlca.org.nz La Leche League lalecheleague.org.nz Plunket plunket.org.nz Women’s Health Action infantfeedingsupport.org.nz C-SECTIONS Your Caesarean Section Birth yourcsection.co.nz/home/ electivesections CAR SEAT SAFETY Car Restraint Technician nzta.govt.nz New Zealand Transport Agency nzta.govt.nz Safe 'n Snug safensnug.co.nz Sit Tight Education sittight.co.nz

se rvices CHILD’S HEALTH Kids Health kidshealth.org.nz PlunketLine 0800 933 922 plunket.org.nz DOULAS Bespoke Births bespokebirths.co.nz New Zealand Doulas nzdoulas.nz GENERAL HEALTH Healthline 0800 611 116 Health Navigator healthnavigator.org.nz Ministry of Health health.govt.nz IMMUNISATION COVID-19 health.govt.nz Immunisation Advisory immune.org.nz MIDWIFERY Find Your Midwife findyourmidwife.co.nz MISCARRIAGE Miscarriage Support NZ miscarriagesupport.org.nz Sands sands.org.nz PARENTAL LEAVE & BENEFITS New Zealand Government govt.nz/browse/work/ parental-leave

Work and Income NZ workandincome.govt.nz/ eligibility/children/having -a-baby PREGNANCY Kellymom Parenting & Breastfeeding kellymom.com

Pregnancy Counselling Services pregnancycounselling.org.nz Pregnancy Health NZ pregnancyhelp.org.nz SINGLE PARENT SUPPORT SERVICES Auckland Single Parents Trust heartsandminds.org.nz Birthright birthright.org.nz Solo Parent Support workandincome.govt.nz/ products/a-z-benefits/soleULTRASOUND SUPPORT SERVICES Ministry of Health health.govt.nz/publication/ new-zealand-obstetricultrasound-guidelines WOMEN’S HEALTH National Women's Health nationalwomenshealth.adhb. govt.nz Women’s Health Action womens-health.org.nz YOUR RIGHTS Maternity Rights NZ maternity.org.nz

As explained by midwives.co.nz, an ultrasound scan uses sound waves to create a picture of your baby in the uterus.

"Scans" are carried out by trained professionals (sonographers) and the main purpose of a pregnancy ultrasound scan is to check your baby’s anatomy, growth, and development – and to check for other things such as the placenta placement.

Each pregnancy is different, and depending on your own personal circumstances, you may have additional tests and scans; however Wellington Ultrasound list these as the most common scans for New Zealand mums-to-be: FIRST TRIMESTER SCREENING OR NUCHAL TRANSLUCENCY (NT) WHEN: 11-13 weeks WHAT: Nuchal translucency is a measurement of fluid behind a baby’s neck. It’s a non-invasive screening tool to see how likely it is that your unborn baby could have a chromosomal abnormality.

ANATOMY SCAN WHEN: 19-21 Weeks WHAT: A thorough check of your little one’s anatomy and growth/development.

Some birth defects cannot be diagnosed early in pregnancy, but most can be picked up at this scan.

Fortunately, these defects are rare.

GROWTH SCAN WHEN: Closer to your baby's due date WHY: To track your baby’s growth to ensure that the baby is born at the optimum time for their wellbeing. The placental function, placement, and the level of amniotic fluid – among other things – are checked at this time. ​

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A new

language

A super-quick lesson in pregnancy lingo. You’re welcome!

amniotic fluid – the liquid that surrounds a baby in the uterus (commonly called "waters") amniotic sac – the sac that surrounds the baby, inside your uterus anaesthetic – an administered drug that gives total or partial loss of sensation of a part or the whole of the body anaesthetist – a doctor who specialises in giving the anaesthetic to a patient antenatal – meaning "before birth" (also called "prenatal" and "antepartum") APGAR score – a test given one minute after a baby is born, then again five minutes later, that assesses a baby’s appearance, pulse, grimace (reflex), activity (muscle tone), and respiration.

A perfect APGAR score is 10; typical APGAR scores are seven, eight, or nine.

A score lower than seven means that the baby might need help breathing birth canal – the cervix and the vagina. the route that the baby travels through to be born birth plan – a written document describing a woman’s preferences for her care during labour and birth Braxton Hicks contractions – a tightening of the uterus that feels like a labour contraction. Braxton Hicks contractions are not painful and do not get stronger and closer together like true contractions

breaking of water – when a healthcare practitioner bursts the sac holding the amniotic fluid using an instrument with a pointy tip. Often used to speed up a labour that has slowed breech – when the baby is positioned inside the uterus with its bottom or feet down (instead of its head) Caesarean section – a surgical procedure where a baby is delivered through a cut in the abdomen and uterus (also called C-section) cervix – the narrow, lower end of the uterus that softens during labour to allow the baby to come out contraction – strong and often painful tightening of the uterus, indicating that the cervix is dilating as well as helping the baby make its way out crowning – a point in labour when the baby’s head has reached the external vaginal opening and can be seen from the outside dilation – the opening of the cervix, usually measured in diameter from 1 to 10 centimeters embryo – a fertilised egg from the time of conception until week eight of pregnancy epidural – an anaesthetic that can be used in labour where drugs are used to numb the lower half of the body for birth pain relief first-degree tear – a tear involving only the perineal skin (adjacent to the vaginal opening) that occurs at the time of delivery

128 Pregnancy BUMP & baby

first trimester – weeks one to 14 of pregnancy fontanelles – soft spots on a baby’s head that allow its skull to compress during birth so it can pass through the birth canal forceps – instruments shaped like a large tong that is placed around the baby’s head to encourage the baby through the birth canal during childbirth full-term – 37 to 42 weeks gestation/ pregnant gestation – the length of time that a baby is in the uterus home birth – labour and birth that takes place in someone's home, under the supervision of a midwife induced – when a professional tries to artificially "kick-start" a woman’s labour jaundice – when a baby's skin and the whites of their eyes appear yellowish, caused by an excess of a chemical called bilirubin in the blood labour – the process a woman’s body goes through when her baby is born lactation consultant – a professional trained to give advice and support about breastfeeding and breast milk meconium – a black tar-like substance; baby's first poo midwife – someone who has been specially trained to care for women physically and mentally during pregnancy, labour, birth, and the postpartum period

Nappy chat

morning sickness – nausea, vomiting, and aversions to certain foods and smells. Symptoms are not restricted to morning only multiple pregnancy – when a woman is carrying more than one baby Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) – an area in hospitals for babies who need high-level medical care post-birth obstetrician – a specialist doctor who has training in pregnancy and childbirth paediatrician – a specialist doctor who has undertaken training in treating children perineum – the area of skin between the anus and vagina placenta – an organ that connects to the wall of the uterus and nourishes the baby during pregnancy, through the umbilical cord postnatal – after the baby is born premature – when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy

You’ll be changing up to 10 nappies a day in the first month, so it pays to get down with the vocab.

scented or unscented, in travel packs or in big bulk packs you can put into refillable containers.

CLOTH NAPPY Often made of cotton or bamboo, cloth nappies are reusable fabric nappies.

BARRIER CREAM AND NAPPY RASH PRODUCTS Powders, lotions, and creams to help treat and prevent nappy rash and chafing of delicate bottoms and legs.

DISPOSABLE NAPPY A one-use nappy that is thrown out after use. Compostable options available.

NAPPY BIN This can be a simple lidded bucket, a pedal-bin with a lid, or even nappy disposal systems where you open a lid, put the dirty nappy in, and turn the top to seal the nappy into its own nappy bag.

BABY WIPES You can make your own reusable wipes from terry cloth, or purchase disposable baby wipes which are

SWIM NAPPY Nappies that can be worn in the swimming pool or at the beach, which hold in poo but allow wee to soak through (regular nappies can’t be worn in water because their absorbency would make them too heavy and bulky).

NAPPY BAG Totes and backpacks, some with special adapters to hang on the pram, with lots of convenient pockets to hold nappies and

supplies for when you’re out and about.

CHANGE MAT Disposable, wipeable, or even washable, these are great for nappy changes on the go, for travelling, and for public restrooms.

CHANGE TABLE Special waist-height furniture that makes changing your baby’s nappy more convenient and saves you bending over and straining your back.

Caution: Never leave a baby unattended on a change table.

WET BAGS Waterproof fabric bags to hold dirty clothing, swimwear, or used cloth nappies.

NAPPY WALLET A compact bag to hold one or two nappies and a travel pack of wipes. Great for your handbag or in the car.

second trimester – 14 weeks to 26 weeks of pregnancy special care nursery (SCN) – an area in hospital for babies who need special medical care stretch marks – lines or patterns that can appear on the tummy, breasts, or legs during pregnancy. This happens because the skin stretches TENS machine – Trans-Electrical Nerve Stimulation, a machine used for pain management during labour third- or fourth-degree tear – a tear of the perineum involving the skin, muscles, and anus. Classed as more severe than a first-degree tear

third trimester – From 26 weeks to 40 weeks of pregnancy trimester – a time span of certain months during pregnancy with different phases of foetal development. See "first trimester", "second trimester", and "third trimester" on the previous page/s ultrasound – a scan of the uterus (womb) and baby during pregnancy umbilical cord – a cord-like structure that connects the baby to the placenta, allowing nutrients and oxygen to be carried from the woman to the baby

uterus – a woman’s womb vacuum cap/ventouse – a suction device that can be used during the end of labour to help to pull the baby down the birth canal water birth – when a baby is born submerged in a birthing pool, either at home or at a birthing centre waters – the amniotic fluid that surrounds an unborn baby inside the uterus

newborn+postpartum

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Can you hack it?

Ten must-know mum hacks for newborns!

1

Sick baby? Syringe their medicine into a bottle teat and they’ll suck it up in no time.

10

Fiddling with onesies in the dark can be frustrating. Instead, try dressing pēpi in a baby “nightie” with elastic or a pull tie at the bottom – no zips or domes involved!

9 8 7 If your pēpi is overstimulated, try taking them outside in the fresh air, even just for a few minutes.

Time outside, especially in the afternoon or early evening, may help regulate their sleep-wake cycle.

2

There’s nothing worse than trying to pull out one baby wipe and getting a whole chunk. To stop this, slide a hair tie or rubber band over one side of the wipes packet and voilà!

3

Gone on holiday and forgotten your white noise machine?

Download a white noise app on your phone or tablet, turn it onto aeroplane mode, and pop it next to the bassinet (plug it in if you can to stop the battery running out during the night).

5 4 6 Sick of changing the bassinet sheets every time your pēpi spits up? Fold an old-school cloth nappy into a long strip and place it under their head – easy to remove and saves loads of washing!

130 Pregnancy BUMP & baby

Babies love nappy-free time, but we all know what that means – wees galore! Grab yourself a bulk supply of puppy training mats and pop your baby’s bare bum on those. Trust us, they’ll save your carpet.

When carrying a capsule, don’t just put the handle over your forearm, as this can cause strain on your body. Instead, loop the arm closest to the car seat under the handle and grab the rear of the seat with the same hand.

Poosplosion? Use the envelope neck at the top of your baby’s singlet to remove their arms and pull the singlet down their body instead of over their head. You can put a clean singlet on the same way, too!

COMPILED BY CHARLOTTE COWAN. THANKS TO MAMA EMILY AND BABY OTTO. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARINA GALIOTTO OF BABY LOVE IMAGES.

This one is a bit of an old wives’ tale, but try placing a small, wet piece of paper on your baby’s forehead to stop hiccups.

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