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toilet training Toilet training can be a difficult time for parents. Some toddlers learn within a week; for others it can take months. Don’t be hard on yourself or your toddler if it takes some time. Be prepared for some accidents and don’t worry about the dirty clothes or the floors. If you have carpet, encourage your toddler to play outside or on non-carpeted areas.

Flushable Po tty Protectors 10 -Pack $4.96 #73773

When should I start toilet training? The general age that most toddlers are ready to start toilet training is between two to three years. This can vary greatly between children and night-time training can take longer. Start with anytime toilet training and work your way up to night-time toilet training.

Some other signs include:

Special Events

•

A dry nappy during the day.

•

Your toddler may be able to control their bladder.

•

Your toddler may be able to tell you when they want to go to the toilet or that they have already.

•

Your toddler complains about a wet or soiled nappy.

Waterproof Mattress Liner 2-Pack $19.96

Place liner under your fitted sheet in cot or toddler bed for extra waterproof protection. #125636

My Size Potty $59.99

Realistic design looks, feels & sounds like an adult toilet. #154428

3-in-1 Potty System $54.99 each Start off using the stand-alone potty, detachable potty training seat can later be removed and placed on the family toilet. Close the lid on the system and the sturdy base converts to a handy step stool. #132503 #160625

Toilet Trainer

2-Height Step Stool Aqua $14.99 each #153837

$22.99 World first boys toilet trainer, makes standing up a breeze for little boys. #164488

Sturdy Potty Seat

$24.99 Sits comfortably on an adult toilet seat.

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for when it happens

$29.96 Features height adjustable feet and steps for a greater fit. Rubber stoppers prevent the step stool ladder from slipping. #131434

by accident...

Drynites $12.99 each

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for more helpful tips follow us on:

DryNites Bed Mats

$10.99 each DryNites Bed Mats combine the security of a bed protector with the convenience of a single-use disposable cover. Quick and simple for big kids and adults to use, DryNites Bed Mats allow for the quick and painless. #82864

.com.au

EDITOR’S HELLO

our body is doing something amazing right now – growing a baby! Right from the start of my pregnancy, my body let me know that there were changes taking place as I was exhausted and nauseous 99.9% of the time. It’s a special chapter in your life and from the excitement of seeing the positive pregnancy test to the feeling of the first little kicks, embrace all these incredible milestones. This issue is all about celebrating and enjoying the rollercoaster ride of pregnancy. From planning the fun stuff – such as your baby shower (see page 26), babymoon (page 38) and choosing your little one’s name (page 36) – to the practical side of things, including sorting your finances (page 30) and learning how to care for bub in those first weeks (page 76), we’ve got you covered. We also caught up with Sam Wood and Snezana Markoski who are set to welcome Australia’s first Bachelor-baby and they shared with us their best and safest exercises for pregnancy (page 60).

Enjoy the issue, Editor-in-Chief

Bauer Media, Level 12, 54-58 Park St, Sydney NSW 2000 t: 02 9282 8000 e: m&b@bauer-media.com.au w: www.motherandbaby.com.au

Brought to you by Mother & Baby magazine. Send all letters and submissions to: Mother & Baby, PO Box 422, Eastern Suburbs MC, NSW 2004 or email m&b@bauer-media.com.au. Editorial enquiries: 02 9282 8000

EDITORIAL

Editor-in-Chief Fiona Wright Editor Erin Mayo Associate Editor Danielle Sen Creative Director Karen Lai Contributing Fashion & Market Editor Samantha Docherty Contributors Nicola Conville, Sophie Hunter, Tiffany Lim, Gabrielle Mills, Viki Ng, Reshma Prasad, Anna Tidswell

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6 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

BAUER MEDIA

Chief Executive Officer Paul Dykzeul Publisher, Specialist Division Cornelia Schulze Publisher Jo Runciman Director of Sales Fiorella Di Santo Director of Media Solutions Warwick Taylor General Manager, Marketing Natalie Bettini Research Director Miriam Condon Commercial Manager Lucille Charles

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Australia-wide 13 61 16 NZ callers 0800 624 746 Online www.magshop.com.au Parenting Apps 13 61 16 Published by Bauer Media Action Sports Pty Limited ACN 079 430 023 under licence from Bauer Consumer Media Limited. All rights reserved. © 2017. Printed at PMP Limited, 31-37 Heathcote Rd, Moorebank, NSW 2170. National distribution by Gordon and Gotch Australia Pty Ltd. ISSN 2205-0248

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Scan & Watch

Contents ISSUE 16 2017

Photography Tina Smigielski Styling Samantha Docherty Hair & makeup Julia Green Snezana wears L’urv ‘Fever Pitch’ mesh BRA, $79; Koral at The Iconic ‘Scoop’ TOP, $115; Seed Heritage Denim ‘Harem’ PANTS, $89.95.

On the cover

LOVE YOUR BUMP 48 MATERNITY WEAR FOR REAL BODIES 60 10 EXERCISES FOR MUMS-TO-BE

36 BABY NAMES

The on-trend picks to call your bub

54 “A BABY IS EVERYTHING

WE WANTED”

Snezana Markoski and Sam Wood chat pregnancy and parenthood

68 BE BIRTH READY

The best positions for labour

70 BREAST & BOTTLE FEEDING

Advice and products to keep baby well fed

94 LOVE NEST

Nursery looks you’ll love

106 THE PERFECT PRAM

The latest and greatest pram picks

106

Love your bump 10 BABY TALK

26 THROW AN A-LIST

18 A-LIST LOOKS TO STEAL

Steal ideas from these celeb celebrations

20 SHOULD I WORRY ABOUT

Two real mums show off their parties

All the latest parenting news and gossip Inspo from a celeb mum-to-be

MONEY, CUT DOWN ON CARBS, PRACTISE BREATHING FOR LABOUR?

Expert advice for pregnancy, birth and beyond

22 THE HIDDEN LIFE OF YOUR UNBORN BABY

How your little one develops in utero from conception to birth

8 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

BABY SHOWER

28 BABY SHOWER #INSPO

30 CAN WE AFFORD A BABY?

Smart and savvy tips for budgeting for bub

34 ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR CLOSE-UP?

What you need to know about all your antenatal tests

38 BABYMOON WITH YOUR BESTIES

Getaway with the girls

Birth & beyond

64 THE PHASE THAT MEANS YOUR BABY’S NEARLY HERE

Be informed on the most intense period of labour

76 TAKING BABY HOME

Adapting to life with a newborn can be exciting and overwhelming

80 YOUR HAPPY BEDTIME PLAN

Five key tactics for a restful slumber

82 SWEET DREAMS

Sleeping bags, soothers, wraps and more

84 BABY JABS

All about immunising your baby

Health & beauty

88 TREAT YOURSELF... SAFELY The cosmetic treatments that are ok during pregnancy

90 BABY SKINCARE SAVIOURS A range of products that are gentle on bub’s delicate skin

Shopping & nesting 104 NEWBORN GIFTS

YOU’LL GO GA-GA FOR

A wish-list of gorgeous products for the little ones

112 YOUR ESSENTIAL BABY PLANNER

A checklist covering the first six months

114 I’LL HAVE WHAT SHE’S HAVING

104

Our fave celebs share their most-loved baby buys

PRIVACY NOTICE This issue of Pregnancy Life + Style magazine is published by Bauer Media Action Sports Pty Limited (Bauer). Bauer may use and disclose your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Bauer publications, products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is located at www.bauer-media.com.au/ privacy/. It also sets out how you can access or correct your personal information and lodge a complaint. Bauer may disclose your personal information offshore to its owners, joint venture partners, service providers and agents located throughout the world, including in New Zealand, USA, the Philippines and the European Union. In addition, this issue may contain Reader Offers, being offers, competitions or surveys. Reader Offers may require you to provide personal information to enter or to take part. Personal information collected for Reader Offers may be disclosed by us to service providers assisting Bauer in the conduct of the Reader Offer and to other organisations providing special prizes or offers that are part of the Reader Offer. An opt-out choice is provided with a Reader Offer. Unless you exercise that opt-out choice, personal information collected for Reader Offers may also be disclosed by us to other organisations for use by them to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use this information for this purpose. If you require further information, please contact Bauer’s Privacy Officer either by email at privacyofficer@bauer-media.com.au or mail at Privacy Officer Bauer Media Pty Ltd, 54 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 9

Baby talk

The latest news and gossip from the world of mums-to-be

Bump

WATCH When it comes to maternity style, these celebs know how to work their bumps whether they’re on the red carpet or simply out and about.

MINDY KALING

NICKY HILTON

Due Nov 2017

Due Nov 2017 JESSICA ALBA

Due Dec 2017

Due Nov 2017

Goo-goo, ga-ga There’s a reason why we use ‘baby talk’ when we talk to our offspring, according to researchers from Western Sydney University – it’s so we appear less intimidating to them. Researcher Dr Marina Kalashnikova says when mothers speak to their babies, they unconsciously speak in a high pitched tone of voice. “These results show that mothers make this unconscious adjustment when speaking to their babies, and this in turn allows them not only to comfort their baby, but also help them learn the sounds of their language,” says Marina.

10 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

JULIA STILES

WHO, WHAT, WHY?

foot rub

Ask your partner for a with no guilt. Have a rest when you can. And, have as many as you can afford: don’t think of it as a luxury, your body desperately and care.

every night, massages needs release ZOË FOSTER-BLAKE, MUM TO RUDY HAZEL, TWO MONTHS, AND SONNY, THREE

Must-haveAPP

Tea for two

Pukka Herbs have launched two new caffeine-free teas, made from 100 per cent organic ingredients, for expectant mums. Motherkind Pregnancy’s blend of raspberry leaf and shatavari helps support a strong, healthy uterine environment, while nettle and mint work together to help ease morning sickness. Motherkind Baby supports mum and bub through the breastfeeding stage. Both teas, $7.95, are available from selected stores and at www.pukkaherbs.com.au.

MAMA MUST-HAVE! Not So Mumsy blogger Marcia Leone is mum to five-year-old Archie and her newborn daughter, Poppy. What’s her top baby buy? “My pram! It’s very important; it needs to be light, comfortable and practical. I’ve only used Bugaboo prams for both my kids – I trust the quality, longevity and engineering and, most importantly, they look great and are easy to use! I’m also loving the custom colour options for the Bee5.”

On the go? Read PL+S anywhere on a smartphone or tablet. Download the free Magshop app (www.magshop.com.au) to enjoy expert advice and chic inspiration for a stylish nine months and beyond.

34.5% The percentage of babies born to unmarried parents in 2012. Six decades earlier, in 1952, less than four per cent of children were born out of wedlock.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 11

#DRESS YOUR BUMP

Stick with what you like Many women feel

that because they’re pregnant they need to transform their wardrobe. Stay true to whatever style you usually wear – you need to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable Invest in a good maternity bra Finding the right bra is really important. Choose soft and Pregnancy is a great time to invest in a new breathable fabrics that support and flatter wardrobe! Stylist Georgina Kar reveals her your shape. Alleviating any discomfort will top tips for dressing your bump. Keep it simple Steer clear of bright colours, boost your mood and confidence. There is no reason you can’t look and feel sexy. bold prints and unforgiving fabrics, such as satin. Instead look for neutral or dark, solid Work with maxi dresses Maxi dresses are colours for tops and long dresses/pants. great option for a stylish pregnancy wardrobe, Dressing the baby bump in dark colours looks no matter what your body shape. They are stylish and is easy to mix and match with soft comfortable, there are many options and they fabrics and longer lines, helping you feel great. can be worn with flats, sneakers or heels.

HAIR TODAY… ONE OF THE PERKS OF PREGNANCY IS THICKER LOCKS. BUT ONCE BABY ARRIVES, HORMONAL CHANGES MAY MEAN HAIR LOSS. HAIR STYLIST LAUREN MACKELLIN FROM VISION BLONDE SHARES HER BEST TIPS TO COMBAT THE FALL-OUT.

A baby’s

BEST FRIEND

TV PRESENTER SAM SQUIERS SHARED HER JOY AT BEING ABLE TO BRING HER BABY, IMMI, HOME AFTER THE LITTLE GIRL WAS BORN FIVE WEEKS PREMATURE. LUCKILY HER DOG, BROBY, WAS ON HAND TO KEEP WATCH OVER THE NEW ARRIVAL! @SAMSQUIERS 12 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

1 2 3 4 5

Use a protein-based shampoo and conditioner such as Evo Ritual Salvation, $32.95 each. Use a treatment such as Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3 Home Treatment, $49.95, at least once a week. Do not use bleach – the less chemicals you use on your hair at this time, the better! Opt for a temporary look such as balayage. Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes vegies and iron-rich foods. Take vitamins and supplements to support your diet. Try Blackmores Nails, Hair & Skin, $38.99 (pack of 120). Hair breakage around the hairline and underneath are from hormonal changes, so use less heat on these areas to keep hair as strong as possible. Use soft hair ties to avoid breakage. Try Lady Jayne Smoothies, $7.99 (pack of eight). Invest in a wide-tooth comb as an alternative to a hair brush.

6 7 8

WHO, WHAT, WHY?

BIG BUB, big child? There may be a link between birth size and obesity later on in life, according to a new study from the University of Virginia School of Medicine. Researchers looked at more than 10,000 children and found that those who weighed more than 10 pounds (4.5kg) at birth were 69 per cent more likely than average-weight babies to be obese by kindergarten. While the study could not prove that being a big baby was a cause for obesity, researcher Sarah Miller says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Infants born with higher birth weight appeared to be at risk from a young age. These children may benefit from early attention.â&#x20AC;? The researchers suggest that this could come in the form of counselling from paediatricians on lifestyle habits that can prevent obesity, including avoiding sugary drinks, limiting screen time and encouraging physical activity.

Baby brain is real. I should not be permitted to operate heavy equipment, including iPhones.

OLIVIA WILDE, MUM TO OTIS, 3, & DAISY, 10 MONTHS

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 13

WHO, WHAT, WHY?

SMART &

stylish

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF FIONA WRIGHT TEST RUNS THE NEW PROJECT NURSERY PARENT + BABY SMARTBAND

SHOP LUXE FOR LESS

Whether you’re shopping for bub’s impending arrival or you just love a bargain, a trip to Sydney’s recently revamped outlet mall Birkenhead Point is now more tempting with the presence of luxury fashion retailers Harrolds, Peters of Kensington and Bally. These stores are in good company with retailers Seed Heritage, Country Road and Witchery. Visit www.birkenheadpoint.com.au.

I’m coming to the end of my pregnancy and so far I’ve loved using my SmartBand, $249.99, to keep track of my fitness. As my bub’s movements increase, I’ve begun using it to track foetal movements, and I’m finding the mode for setting reminders for doctor’s appointments very handy. Once my little one arrives, I’m looking forward to using the SmartBand for feeding, nap schedules and tracking bub’s weight. Available in-store and online at www.harveynorman.com.au.

Playtime has never been more fun with these divine new play mats from Living Textiles. The ‘In the Woods’ play mat is perfect for your little adventurer. Other options include the ‘Ice-Cream’, ‘Flamingo’ and ‘My City’. The ‘In the Woods’ play mat is available now, while the other designs will be available in late September. The mats retail at $59.95. For more information, visit www.livingtextiles.com.au.

[For soon-to-be-fathers] stop saying, ‘We’re pregnant’. Do you have to squeeze a person out of your lady-hole?

You’re not pregnant! watermelon-sized No. MILA KUNIS, MUM TO WYATT, 22 MONTHS, AND DIMITRI, 9 MONTHS

14 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

WORDS NICOLA CONVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES & INSTAGRAM

Crushing on…

A pregnant woman’s heart works up to 50% harder. It’s one of the many reasons you’ll need to keep more hydrated. aquamamma® has been specifically developed by an Australian obstetrician for your amazing pregnant, birthing and breastfeeding body. With added folic acid, low sugar and low calories, it’s healthy hydration that also happens to taste great. Get hydrated at aquamamma.com.au and leading pharmacies.

® AQUAMAMMA is a registered trade mark. CH-0147 06/16

Available at

and other leading pharmacies.

WHO, WHAT, WHY?

homebirth plan really fast. scary awesome.

A was not my , but that’s what happened … because the baby came out Luckily, she just kind of glided into her father’s arms. It was , but it was kind of MAYA RUDOLPH, MUM TO PEARL, 11, LUCILLE, 7, JACK, 6, AND MINNIE, 4

Baby is coming… Game of Thrones season 7 is well underway, and the series has entered the zeitgeist, with GOT-themed baby showers. ‘Baby is coming’ invites and banners are a hit with pregnant fans, as are dragon-egg cakes, and you can even buy ‘House of…’ onesies. Ex-Backstreet Boy Nick Carter and his wife, Lauren Kitt, hosted a Game of Thrones-themed shower last year for their new arrival, complete with a medievalstyle feast of platters and fur throws. To host a GOT-themed shower, try @firstjoyboutique and @fandommaternity on Etsy for customised onesies, or order character cupcakes from Mister Nice Guy’s BakeShop, www.misterniceguy.com.au.

you’r e

! t n a n g e r p SMILE… Your teeth and gums need special attention during pregnancy, so it is recommended that you book in to see your oral health professional between the fourth and sixth months of your pregnancy. Hormones produced by your body during pregnancy can actually increase the occurrence and severity of gum disease, so it’s important to visit your oral health professional to keep on top of any developing issues.

Dental health risk factors during pregnancy The hormonal changes in your body during

16 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

pregnancy can increase the likelihood of gum disease, leading to swelling and bleeding of the gums, particularly noticeable during brushing and flossing. Nausea, reflux and vomiting during pregnancy may also damage tooth enamel, increasing the risk of erosion and tooth sensitivity, due to the strong stomach acids washing over the teeth. It is recommended that you avoid brushing immediately after vomiting, as this can increase wear on already compromised tooth enamel. It is more beneficial to rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain tap water and then use a fluoridated mouthwash. Wait at least 30 minutes after vomiting

before brushing your teeth.

Look after your teeth and gums

Maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits is critical during pregnancy. Regular brushing and flossing, eating a diet low in sugary and acidic foods and drinks as well as regular visits to your oral health professional reduces many pregnancy-related dental problems. Visit www.ohap.com.au.

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A-LIST LOOKS

Celebrity

ST YLE TR ACKER When it comes to fashion inspo, look to the stars

JESSICA ALBA

Pr et ty in pink

Tanya Taylor ‘Amylia’ dress, $637*

Levi’s ‘Classic Western’ shirt, $89.95

Next maternity batwing dress, $57

Atmos&Here at The Iconic ‘Lavinia’ block heels, $119.95 The Daily Edited pale pink bucket bag, $249.95

Mini matchup!

Bardot Jnr baby bow stretch headband, $12.99 Bardot Jnr ‘Heart Lock’ cross-body bag, $34.99

H&M jersey dress, $14.99

18 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

Walnut ‘Ryder’ sandals, $59.95

Baby Gap at David Jones ‘1969 Supersoft’ denim western shirt, $44.95

COMPILED BY SAMANTHA DOCHERTY PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES *PRICE APPROXIMATE AND MAY CHANGE DUE TO EXCHANGE RATE

Mavi ‘Daphne’ vintage denim jacket, $189.95

Petite Grand ‘Big Circle and Chain’ drop earrings, from $143

100% natural liquid iron supplement

To support you and your baby

100% natural liquid iron supplement Less likely to constipate Contains no additives or preservatives

Spatone is suitable for all stages of pregnancy and is scientifically tested 1 and shown to help maintain healthy iron levels during pregnancy. It only contains naturally occurring iron-rich mineral water that is easily absorbed, gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause constipation.

LEARN MORE www.martinandpleasance.com Available from selected health food stores and pharmacies. Always read the label and use only as directed. McKenna, et al. Clinical and Laboratory Haematology, 2003, 25(2), 99-103. Trefriw Wells Spa Ltd was a financial sponsor of this research.

CHC72327-0317

YOUR NURSERY

Should I….

WORRY ABOUT MONEY, CUT DOWN ON CARBS, PRACTISE BREATHING FOR LABOUR? Whether you’re pregnant or have a newborn and toddler, motherhood throws lots of curve balls. Our experts answer your questions and offer practical info on labour, birth and health issues

20 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

GOOD ADVICE

THE BIG ISSUE

Number crunch Q

MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE JUST FOUND OUT WE ARE EXPECTING A BABY – IT’S A BIT OF A SURPRISE AS WE WERE HOPING TO SAVE FOR A FEW MORE YEARS BEFORE STARTING A FAMILY. HOW WILL WE COPE FINANCIALLY? Money magazine senior writer Susan Hely says: Money worries are common among mums-to-be, and for good reason – many women focus on falling pregnant and only later figure out how they’re going to afford a baby on a single income. Pregnancy is the time to knuckle down and save, even though there is a temptation to think of it as the last chance to take that holiday without a baby or to buy lots of lovely baby equipment. Sit down and go through your finances, which includes listing all your baby-related costs, and what government tax benefits you can claim. The most painless way to save is to have an automatic deduction made from your pay into a high-investment account, preferably a bonus-saver style of account. Shop around because there are good introductory rates on offer.

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

Just over it Q

I CAN’T COPE WITH MY PREGNANT BODY ANY MORE. I’M 20 WEEKS PREGNANT AND IT’S ALREADY TOO BIG AND AWKWARD. Midwife Megan Baker says: When you reach the halfway point in pregnancy, the finish line can seem one too many bathroom trips away. The nausea is likely to have passed but the heartburn may be starting. Your skin feels as though it couldn’t stretch another centimetre and your expanding bump is already leaving you breathless. How are

you going to make it through another 20 weeks? The latter part of pregnancy, when the weight of the growing baby may cause back pain, breathlessness, varicose veins, swollen legs, heartburn and haemorrhoids, can be uncomfortable. However, there are ways to help you through each of these discomforts. Swimming, massage and yoga can relieve backache, while sleeping in a more upright position can help with breathlessness and heartburn. Drinking plenty of water and eating a high-fibre diet can help reduce the discomfort of haemorrhoids – and hopefully you won’t experience all of these issues at once!

Curb the carbs? Q

I AM CRAVING CARBOHYDRATES. AT FIRST IT WAS TO EASE NAUSEA, BUT NOW IT’S ALL I FEEL LIKE EATING. WHICH CARBS ARE BETTER FOR ME, AND SHOULD I TRY TO CUT DOWN? Dietitian Dr Joanna McMillan says: No, you don’t need to cut down your intake of carbohydrates. Your body is craving carbs for a reason – you need them right now to grow that baby. But you are absolutely right that you need to give consideration to which carb-rich foods you eat. We now have good evidence that a low-GI diet during pregnancy gives better outcomes for both baby and mum. You also need fibre to keep your gut healthy – constipation is common in pregnancy, as your digestion gets sluggish and you exercise less. The best high-fibre, low-GI choices include legumes, barley, oats, quinoa, buckwheat (in pancakes or noodles used in soups and stir-fries), wholegrain bread and wholemeal pasta. I like brown rice, but as it is not always low-GI, enjoy it sparingly.

Breathing lessons Q

HOW HELPFUL ARE BREATHING EXERCISES FOR CONTRACTION PAINS? I WANT TO AVOID PAIN-RELIEF DRUGS IF POSSIBLE. Birth educator and doula Gabrielle Targett says: I can’t stress enough the importance of learning how to rhythmically breathe during a contraction. This not only stops you from holding your breath and tensing up, but it also enables you to focus on something other than the contraction.

A low-GI

diet during pregnancy gives better outcomes for

mum & bub.

Here’s one great way to work your way through a contraction: breathe in through your nose for the count of four, and out through your mouth for the count of six. Do it four times over. This needs to be practised prior to labour, so get yourself comfy in a chair and practise for 10 to 15 minutes a day until you really feel calm and comfortable breathing in this way.

Stretch out Q

I’M SHOWING AT 14 WEEKS AND WORRIED THAT I’LL GET STRETCH MARKS. CAN I PREVENT THEM, OR IS IT ALL DOWN TO GENETICS? GP Dr Linda Calabresi says: Stretch marks occur when skin is stretched beyond its capacity during rapid weight gain, and the underlying tissue tears. While it’s true that you have a high chance of getting them if your mother did, there are ways to help prevent them. Try not to gain excess weight and keep your skin healthy by staying well hydrated and eating a sensible, nutritious diet. The value of creams and oils to prevent stretch marks is controversial, however there is some evidence they promote skin elasticity. Recommended products include vitamin E cream, cocoa butter and Bio-Oil.

Lopsided leak Q A

I’VE BEEN LEAKING BREASTMILK FROM ONE SIDE BUT I HAVEN’T GIVEN BIRTH YET. IS THIS NORMAL? Lactation consultant Barb Glare says: It is normal to leak colostrum (the first milk) from about 26 weeks. Even a very small quantity can leave a sizeable mark on your clothes. It doesn’t matter that you are leaking only from one side. During pregnancy, some women leak a lot; others don’t leak at all, but this has no bearing on their ability to produce breastmilk.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 21

THE HIDDEN LIFE OF YOUR

unborn baby 1st

AT 8 WEEKS

THE BEGINNINGS OF YOUR BABY’S FACE

TRIMESTER

CONGRATULATIONS – YOU’RE PREGNANT! RIGHT FROM THE MAGICAL MOMENT OF CONCEPTION HERE’S HOW YOUR LITTLE ONE IS DEVELOPING AND GROWING.

THE SPINAL CORD

YOUR BABY’S HEART

6–8 WEEKS YOUR BABY

CONCEPTION

0–5 WEEKS

YOUR BODY

YOUR BABY

YOUR BODY

You may not feel any different, but huge changes are taking place in your body. Chemical signals are sent to stop your periods and the placenta produces the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Around 12 days after fertilisation, hCG levels will be high enough to give a positive pregnancy test.

After fertilisation, the egg and sperm fuse to create one cell called the zygote. This divides to form a cluster of cells that travels down the fallopian tube to the uterus. Three days later the cell cluster, or blastocyst, implants itself in the uterus wall and becomes the embryo and part of the placenta.

Rapidly dividing cells are grouped according to their future purpose, for example, to form baby’s organs or his skeleton. By week five, the brain is developing and the neural tube fuses. Taking folic acid supplements before conception as well as now will help reduce the risk of defects.

The surge of pregnancy hormones may start to kick in, which could result in your breasts feeling tender or your sense of smell becoming more acute. You may also start to experience waves of nausea, along with sudden tears, and even tantrums, as you become more emotional.

22 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

At this stage, he’s about the size and shape of a kidney bean, with his head bigger than his body. Tiny ‘buds’ have formed and these will later become eyes, ears and limbs. Facial features are forming and he’s developing bones.

YOUR BODY Morning (possibly even noon and night) sickness may have started, and a host of hormones will be slowing down your digestive system. By week eight, your uterus will have grown to about the size of an orange.

YOUR BABY YOUR BABY’S FACE IS DEVELOPING

AT 10 WEEKS

2nd

17–20 WEEKS

TRIMESTER

HIS BODY IS STRAIGHTENING

FINGERS AND TOES ARE FORMING

IT’S TIME TO TELL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS THE EXCITING NEWS. THIS IS ALSO WHEN YOU’LL (HOPEFULLY) GET THAT GORGEOUS PREGNANCY GLOW.

YOUR BODY

9–10 WEEKS YOUR BABY His heartbeat can be detected by week 10 and, in growth terms, his body is catching up with his head. He has also straightened out, losing his comma-like shape.

YOUR BODY By now, you’ll probably have already seen a noticeable growth in your breasts. Also, the areolae (the circles of brown skin surrounding the nipples) may begin to darken.

11–12 WEEKS YOUR BABY

WORDS XXXXXXXXXXXXXX PHOTOGRAPHY XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

His skeleton is complete and all his body parts are present and growing. He’ll be sucking, swallowing and yawning. Amniotic fluid will be filling and emptying from his lungs as his body prepares for breathing independently after birth.

YOUR BABY

His arms and legs are now in proportion and he’ll be laying down an insulating layer of fat. Vernix – a waxy substance that protects your baby from amniotic fluid – will start to cover his body. Fingernails and toenails are also developing.

13–16 WEEKS YOUR BABY

Although he’s no bigger than your fist, your baby is growing quicker than at any other time in pregnancy. He’ll be bending, stretching, kicking and even sucking his thumb. It is also thought that by now he can smile and grimace.

YOUR BODY The exhaustion and nausea should ease and, with any luck, you’ll be buoyed by hormones and feeling great. Pregnancy hormones can also affect your hair and skin, but whether you are glowing or greasy is down to chance.

A baby bump should start to become noticeable as your uterus moves up above the navel. Some women get pigmentation spots, known as chloasma, on their face. Don’t worry, these usually disappear within 12 weeks of giving birth.

AT 22 WEEKS

THERE’S A COVERING OF WAXY VERNIX

YOUR BABY’S EYELIDS ARE WELL DEVELOPED

HIS EARS HAVE FORMED

21–24 WEEKS

YOUR BODY

YOUR BABY

You may notice that a line of pigmentation – the linea nigra – has appeared on your abdomen. You’ll feel hot due to extra blood circulating in your body and, as your womb pushes against your bladder, you may need to answer the call of nature more often.

His hair starts growing and his eyebrows and eyelashes are forming. His wrinkly, thin skin means his bones and blood vessels are now visible, which in turn makes his skin appear red. His eyes remain closed but rapid eye movement, associated with dreaming, begins. He’ll be playing with the umbilical cord and you’ll feel it if he gets hiccups!

YOUR BODY

YOUR BABY HAS TINY FINGERNAILS HIS CHEST MAKES BREATHING MOVEMENTS

AT 18 WEEKS

YOUR BABY’S EYELIDS START TO FORM BUT CAN’T OPEN YET

The hormone relaxin is released to help relax your muscles and tendons. This helps your body bear the extra weight of your growing baby. A healthy weight gain during pregnancy is about 400g a week, so don’t load your plate too much. This extra weight may also make pregnancy ailments, such as backache and puffy ankles, more severe.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 23

YOUR BABY

25–28 WEEKS YOUR BABY

He’s as big as an eggplant now. Muscles, organs and limbs grow and are exercised. He’ll open his eyes. The link between the cerebral cortex (the thinking part of his brain) and the part responsible for emotion and pain is set up.

YOUR BODY The extra weight you’re carrying may be giving you aches and pains. From about 27 weeks, you may start to experience practice contractions known as Braxton Hicks. These prepare your body for labour.

3rd

TRIMESTER NEARLY THERE! YOUR BABY’S ORGANS ARE COMPLETE AND HE’S CONCENTRATING ON GETTING BIG ENOUGH TO BE ABLE TO SURVIVE IN THE OUTSIDE WORLD.

29–32 WEEKS YOUR BABY

Feel him kicking? He’s likely to be more energetic than earlier, although he may make fewer movements due to the limited space. As more fat is laid down, your baby slowly loses his red and wrinkly appearance. Your baby will nearly double in weight during this time, from around 900g to 1.8kg.

YOUR BODY To prepare for breastfeeding, your breasts may start leaking colostrum (pre-milk). Swelling in your lower legs and ankles is common, but YOUR BABY’S if your hands EYELIDS ARE or face swell, OPEN AND contact your HE CAN SEE AND FOCUS GP or midwife immediately – it could be a sign of preFAT IS eclampsia, which BUILDING UP is a dangerous UNDER HIS condition that SKIN requires attention.

24 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

33–36 WEEKS

37–39 WEEKS

His lungs are secreting surfactant, a substance that keeps them expanded after he is born and allows him to breathe. All babies have blue eyes at this stage of development, and his head is growing more quickly than the rest of his body to house his rapidly expanding brain. He measures around 31cm from crown to rump by the end of week 35, and weighs around 2.3kg. He’ll put on about 200g a week from now until he’s born.

At this point, he can hear, taste, smell and feel. His lungs are ready to breathe air, but his eyesight will continue to develop outside the womb. His brain is growing rapidly, he’ll be awake more and is fully developing his sucking and swallowing reflexes.

YOUR BABY

YOUR BODY

YOUR BABY

YOUR BODY Your cervix ‘ripens’ (softens and thins) and the mucus plug that has been sealing it may come away. Known as a ‘show’, this can mean that labour is imminent. Your baby will be moving around more than ever now as he tries to get comfortable.

As your uterus gets bigger it affects your centre of gravity and may interfere with your posture, causing that distinctive pregnant waddle when you walk. Don’t be surprised if you start to become breathless easily – this is a result of your baby pushing upwards on your lungs. After about week 36, you may find you have a sudden burst of energy as your nesting instinct kicks in and you set about cleaning and decorating your home. YOUR BABY In preparation for birth, your YOUR BABY’S baby may start to move his HANDS head into the ischial spine in ARE FULLY your pelvis. When the widest FORMED AND FINGERNAILS part of his head has passed ARE GROWING through the narrowest part of LONGER your pelvis, his head is said to be ‘engaged’. Some babies may engage a few weeks before their delivery date, however others – especially second or AT 30 WEEKS subsequent babies – may only do so once you’re in labour.

GETTING READY

for birth

YOUR BODY

A full-term baby can be born at any time between 37 and 42 weeks. If your baby’s head is engaged, you’ll feel as though there is more room underneath your ribs and it will be easier for you to breathe. You may also feel a heaviness and sharp twinges in your vagina. As your body starts to gear up for the birthing process, you may also notice an increase in the frequency and strength of Braxton Hicks contractions.

THROW AN

A-list baby shower

KATHERINE

Heigl

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

’Tis the season to be jolly! Katherine Heigl channelled a cosy, warm, winter holiday theme for her baby celebration. Her mum was behind the actress’ simply stunning baby shower, which featured a touch of Christmas magic.

Celebrate your bump with an event to remember and be inspired by these beautiful celebrity baby showers

Get the look:

• The Christmas season is filled with fuzzy feelings, family and festivity. Why wouldn’t you want to base your event on such a happy time? Your colour scheme doesn’t have to be red and green; try rose gold, gold or bronze to convey feelings of warmth. • Displaying knitted blankets, booties and accessories will help your guests to envisage your winter baby. Not only do they make great decorations, you can use them once bub arrives. • Take photos in front of a festive backdrop. Katherine had a wall with large, white roses flanked by Christmas trees. You can achieve this look by getting creative with tissue paper – go online to find tutorials.

26 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

PARTY PLANNER

Emu Australia metallic baby bootie, $54.95

NICKY

Sheridan ‘Tillford’ baby pram blanket, $99.95

Hilton PASTEL PARTY

Kmart 16-Piece rose-gold-look cutlery set, $19

Fashion designer Nicky Hilton Rothschild enjoyed an afternoon with family and friends at the Hotel Bel-Air in Beverly Hills. The pink-themed party was complete with a floral cake and personalised snacks.

ZOE

Hendrix LEMON LUXE

Married At First Sight star Zoe Hendrix held a gold-themed, unisex shower to celebrate her new arrival. She held a joint party alongside husband, Alex Garner, making sure every detail was colour-coordinated.

WORDS DANIELLE SEN PHOTOGRAPHY BRETT STEVENS / BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU, THOSEHEAVENLYDAYS.COM, INSTAGRAM, SNAPCHAT

Get the look:

• Choosing a venue that offers in-house catering ensures your guests will be fed and happy – and you’ll be free to enjoy the party. • Pick a focal point in the room and style it up! Nicky piled a long white table with gifts, balloons and blooms. • Create printable labels to decorate favours. Nicky used a cute shot of herself as a tot, stuck on little jars filled with trifle to gift to guests. Kelly Beans mini round glass jars (40ml), $1.40 each

The Party Parlour DIY tissue paper garland, $22.95

House of Party jumbo confetti balloon, from $17

Ruby Rabbit ‘Oh Baby’ balloons, $29.95

Queen Bee beautiful lace evening dress, $174.95 Glistening Occasions custom baby surname cake topper, $50

Get the look:

• Foiled lettering and confetti-filled balloons give your space a statement look and feel, but if your budget doesn’t stretch, look online for ready-made balloon packages. • Add the finishing touch to dessert with a customised cake topper. Try www.glisteningoccasions.com.au. • Scour maternity fashion labels for an on-trend outfit that will match the colourways of the day yet still make you feel glamorous.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 27

BABY R E W O H S O P S N I # g arrivals n i d n e p im ated their r b le e c s m w two mu o h t a k o Take a lo

Sarah Ahern, 28, NSW

iven the sex of our baby was a surprise, we had a bumblebee-themed party. The colour palette was black, yellow, white and gold. I chose the theme and colours as they were neutral and fitted with the mystery of our babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gender. On the day, we played Baby Price is Right, a Jellybaby in a Jar guessing game and late-night nappy messages. I created DIY bumblebeethemed invitations, using stationery from Officeworks.

To pull it all together, I gathered yellow and white flowers, ordered custom bee-themed cupcakes, a honeycomb naked cake, beehive, bumblebee and honeycomb cookies, and decorative honeycomb balls.

Our favours were mini honey pots from Custom Favours in line with our bumblebee theme.

28 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

CELEBRATING MUM & BUB

We didn’t have a huge budget – around $1000 – so we basically did everything ourselves. My sister hired the bamboo arch and went to Dandenong Market for the flowers and foliage. It was her first time doing a flower arch, but she pulled it off!

Megan Lucas, 25, VIC

COMPILED BY DANIELLE SEN

We held a champagne brunch at 10am in my home with a very small group of girlfriends.

y sister, Gemma, threw the baby shower for me, and did such a fantastic job! My design brief to her was ‘Minimal, but stunning with greenery and white’. I didn’t want a fussy theme, as I prefer clean lines, and wanted the space to feel airy and light.

My sister organised a stripper from Magic Men to arrive just as I was opening my gifts! It was hilarious. As this is my second child, it’s an ongoing joke with friends and family that I’m still waiting for a proposal and that I won’t ever get a hen's. So it was a baby shower turned wild! PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 29

Can we AFFORD A BABY? If the nursery is organised but your budget is a shambles, you may need to turn your attention to that bottom line

Savvy ways to save

30 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

YOUR FINANCES

or most of us, the last thing on our minds as we spread the pregnancy news is how much having a baby is going to cost. According to various studies*, Aussie parents fork out between $3000 and $13,000 in the first year for their first child. And by the time that child leaves home, parents will have spent around half a million dollars.

It’s the loss

of that second income that becomes the biggest problem

WORDS CHRISTINA LARMER PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES * THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF FAMILY STUDIES & AMP AND THE NATIONAL CENTRE FOR SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC MODELLING

No time like the present

If those figures sound terrifying, don’t be disheartened. Fiona Lippey, founder of online forum www.simplesavings.com.au and self-confessed ‘miser extraordinaire’, says, “If you think you can’t afford a baby, just remember so many people with children have less money than you do.” Fiona is a case in point. When she and her husband had their first child 13 years ago, their household income was just $12,000, yet it didn’t stop them having three more children. “If you can dodge thinking that you must have a magnificent nursery, the perfect change table, beautiful wallpaper and so on, and realise that all your baby really needs is cuddles, nappies and food, then you’ll be fine,” says Fiona. You may have just committed to a mortgage, or you may not ‘feel’ financially ready, but think twice about waiting until you’re perfectly set up money-wise. “Noone’s ever truly prepared for having a baby, so waiting until all your ducks are in a row is not the best idea,” says Fiona. No matter what your financial situation, you can afford a baby but, as Fiona says, “You’re going to have to make some changes.” Here are some key points to consider.

Identify your priorities

The first question to ask is how long do I want to stay at home with my child? “There is your motivation: do I want to pay a small fortune for a stroller or stay home an extra month?” says Fiona. “That’s where stretching the money has its real pay-offs. The best thing for your baby is to make the smartest, most researched choice – and not an emotional one.”

Track your income and expenses

Long before bub arrives, you need to look at your finances. If you’ve never done a budget, try the TrackMySpend app from www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-andresources/calculators-and-apps/mobileapps/trackmyspend. Or simply jot down

for most

parents-to-be.

all your expenses over the next two weeks in a diary or a spreadsheet. List fixed expenses (utilities, insurance, rent/mortgage), variable expenses (phone, groceries, transport) and luxuries (gym, dining out, beauty treatments). Next, compare that total to your income and calculate how much, if anything, will be left over when you switch to one income. “It’s the loss of that second income that becomes the biggest problem for most parents-to-be,” says Fiona. “They are generally not prepared for that.” If the final tally leaves you quivering, it’s time to try living off one income and cut back as much as possible. “Yes, it’s important to do a formal budget, but a lot of people won’t, so I say cut out all unnecessary expenditure right now. Don’t buy takeaway coffee, make sure you’ve always got a bottle of water with you and cook all your own meals,” she says. “See how low you can get and then you’ll know what your base level is.” It’s important to do this before you finish work so you build up a nest egg and get used to living lean.

Check your entitlements Your salary may stop but there could be new sources of income to look forward to. Check whether your employer offers maternity leave or if you’re entitled to

holiday, annual or long service leave. Government assistance will also help out, including Parental Leave Pay (PLP), which is currently set at the minimum wage ($695 per week before tax) for a maximum of 18 weeks. To be eligible you must be the baby’s primary carer, and meet certain work and income tests as well as fulfil residency requirements. Additionally, your partner may be eligible for two weeks of Dad and Partner Pay (DPP), currently paid at the minimum wage of $695 per week before tax. Depending on your family work status, income and assets, you may also be eligible for Family Tax Benefit, Child Care Benefit, Parenting Payment, Rent Assistance and a Health Care Card. For more information, visit humanservices.gov.au.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 31

YOUR FINANCES

do without and what they’d happily forgo the second time around. Remember that as your child grows, costs will naturally rise, but for most parents this will be largely offset by a return to work and that lovely second income.

Baby makes three – KERCHING!

From the minute that pregnancy test returns a positive reading, the costs begin to add up, but there’s no reason to panic. Many expenses can be reduced and some can be avoided altogether with a little foresight, generous friends and a bit of common sense. When it comes to working out what costs you’ll be up for, consider the following three categories.

Pregnancy

Some costs are unavoidable (for example GP consultations, vitamin supplements and maternity wear); some are unforeseeable (physiotherapy for that pinched nerve); and then there are the optional luxuries (massages, yoga, daily cravings for chocolate). Where possible, go without. POTENTIAL COSTS • Pregnancy multivitamins: $147 – $270 • Pregnancy tests and consultations with a GP or obstetrician: $76 – $300 • Self-help books: $40 – $80 • Maternity wear: $200 – $1000 • Childcare waiting list bond: $20 – $800 Total: from $483

Childbirth

If you use the public health system, you won’t have to pay for the doctor, midwife or hospital stay, and you’ll usually get two free ultrasounds and free antenatal classes. Depending on your needs and location,

32 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

you could be out of pocket for extra scans and antenatal classes (from $40 to $270). If you use a private hospital (or private obstetrician in a public hospital), your costs will rise dramatically but are largely offset through health insurance. Check with your insurer first and remember that some policies have long waiting periods. Homebirths and complications of any kind can blow the costs right out, so always consult your GP and insurer to get a realistic picture. POTENTIAL COSTS • Public hospital: $0 – $1500 (depending on whether you choose a private obstetrician and require extra scans, paid antenatal classes and so on) • Private hospital: $1500 – $20,000 (depending on the fee your obstetrician charges, the length of your hospital stay, extra scans and health coverage) Total: from $0

Nesting

Preparing for bub’s arrival (clothes, baby equipment, nursery furniture) is one area where you can really blow the budget if you spend without thinking. Shop around online or look for hand-me-downs – just make sure key items such as the cot, pram and feeding accessories meet the Australian safety standards. Before you buy, ask other mums what they couldn’t

POTENTIAL COSTS (first year) • Furniture (cot, car seat, pram/stroller): $480 – $2000 • Clothing: $560 – $1600 • Nappies (disposable): $1380 – $3000 • Nappy wipes: $150 – $250 • Food (from six months of age): $860 – $2400 • Miscellaneous (bottles, cups, bibs, dummies): $150 – $530 • Toys: $103 – $378 • Immunisations: $0 – $572 • Breast pads: $30 – $150 • Maternity bras: $40 – $140 • Breast pump: $80 – $250 Total: from $3833

SMALL MERCIES

Sure, some expenses will escalate, but there are plenty of areas where your costs will miraculously vanish! • You’re too weary to even step outside your house. Hurrah! There go all those expensive holidays, dinners out, cocktails with the girls and pricey taxis home. • No more maxing out the credit card at shoe shops and boutiques. Your biggest indulgence this month is breast pads. • New parents are never expected to put on lavish dinner parties or BYO anything at any time. Friends are just grateful if you show up with that little cutie for cuddles. • Who needs to be fashion-forward anymore? Trackie daks are much cheaper than tailored suits. Nor will you need to fork out for work lunches, coffee runs or a birthday cake for Bob in accounts. • Say goodbye to expensive beauty treatments. You’ll be lucky if you find time to wash your face. • No more overpriced cigarettes, alcohol, sushi and soft cheeses. They’re all taboo while you’re pregnant. Think of it as a chance to kick a few bad habits!

Are you

ready for your

close-up?

The lowdown on everything you need to know about your antenatal scans

he appointments may only last 30 minutes or so, but ultrasound scans are defining moments in any pregnancy. Ultrasounds check your baby is growing and assess the risk of abnormalities, such as Down syndrome and spina bifida. Additionally, many mums-to-be don’t relax until they see that first image of their babies. Here’s what you can expect from your antenatal scans.

How they work

An ultrasound machine emits high frequency soundwaves through a handheld device called a transducer. They bounce off solid objects, such as bone and organs, but pass through fluids, and are converted into an image of your baby. Usually, the first trimester screening (often referred to as the 12-week scan) takes place between weeks 11 and 14. At about 18 to 20 weeks, most women have a more detailed screening, the foetal morphology (or anomaly) scan. Your scans will be 2D, but it may be possible to opt for a 3D scan – for more detailed pictures – or even a 4D scan for pictures in real time, rather than stills. Since these are elective services, they won’t be available everywhere, and the extra costs involved won’t be covered by Medicare or private health insurance.

34 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

Name the date

Although you may have pinpointed the night you conceived and have a date from your GP based on your last period, the 12-week scan provides the most accurate calculation of your due date. Your sonographer will measure your baby from the top of her head to the bottom of her spine to confirm the due date. Babies grow at a set rate over the first 12 weeks, so the results are very accurate. Remember to drink plenty of water before the scan, as this will give the sonographer a clearer view of your uterus.

The bigger picture

As well as giving you a timeframe for your pregnancy, the 12-week scan will check for multiple gestations, so this might be the

Before your tests It’s important to be counselled by a doctor before you have antenatal tests, so you understand their benefits and limitations. For details about the tests or your nearest genetic counselling service, see your health professional.

first time you find out you’re carrying twins or triplets. The 12-week scan also involves a nuchal translucency (NT) scan to check for chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. The NT scan takes an image of the baby to measure her length and the thickness of the pocket of fluid at the back of her neck.The result is combined with a blood test (which examines the levels of two specific proteins: pregnancy-associated plasma and free beta human chorionic gonadotropin) and the mother’s age to assess the baby’s risk level for Down syndrome. While this method has an accuracy rate of about 85 per cent, it can only indicate whether the baby has a high or low risk of abnormality; it cannot provide a definitive result.

Measuring up

The anomaly scan is an analysis of the structure of the baby to ensure she’s growing at the correct rate. It involves taking measurements of her head, abdomen and thigh bones. Your sonographer looks at her face (to rule out cleft lip) and spine (for defects such as spina bifida). The heart’s size and shape is also examined to ensure blood is flowing through it correctly, and makes sure her stomach, kidneys and bladder are working.

YOUR PREGNANCY

It’s ok to feel nervous

Going to have a scan can be both exciting and nerve-racking. It’s normal to feel scared, but your sonographer will always explain what or she is looking at. Your doctor will go through your results and answer questions about your options. It’s important to be prepared for any result, even during routine scans, but it’s equally important not to worry unnecessarily.

Under the microscope

WORDS HANNAH FOX ILLUSTRATIONS GETTY IMAGES

Decode yousr scan note

AC Abdominal circumference: this figure is the measurement around the baby’s abdomen. BPD Biparietal diameter: the measurement from one side of bub’s head to the other, ear to ear. CRL Crown-rump length: the length from the top of your baby’s head to her bottom. EDD Estimated date of delivery: your likely due date. EFW Estimated foetal weight: this is how much your baby is likely to weigh at birth. FL Femur length: the length of your baby’s thigh bone. GA Gestational age: the age of your bub in the womb. HC Head circumference: the measurement around the baby’s head. OFD Occipitofrontal diameter: the measurement of your bub’s head, from front to back.

As well as looking at the foetus, the ultrasounds check your uterus. At the second scan, your sonographer will look at the position of your placenta. If it’s near the top of your womb, it’s described as anterior, which is good. If it’s at the bottom, you’ll need further scans in your last trimester. If it doesn’t move away as your baby grows, you may have placenta praevia (where the placenta sits near or over the opening of your womb). You’ll be checked again at 32 weeks and, if it’s still in the way, you may be booked in for a caesarean. There will also be checks to ensure blood is flowing normally through the umbilical cord and that there is enough amniotic fluid.

Finding out the sex

This is usually possible at an anomaly scan, but if bub is in an awkward position, the gender may be tricky to confirm. Not all ultrasound centres or hospitals will tell you the sex; check their policy. And if you don’t want to know, make this clear early on.

Multiple births

For twins (or more), clinical assessment of growth is difficult, and there’s an increased risk of gestational diabetes, intrauterine growth restriction and pre-eclampsia, so you’ll need extra scans. Twins and triplets can be smaller than single babies, so extra scans ensure they’re supported by the placenta.

All about ts diagnostic tes If a pregnancy is considered high risk (where screening results show possible abnormalities, the mother is over 35 or one parent has a family history of genetic disorder), you may consider chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and/or an amniocentesis. Both tests detect Down syndrome, chromosomal abnormalities and certain genetic disorders. CVS is performed between weeks 11 and 14, either vaginally, similar to a Pap smear, or abdominally, where a needle is passed into the placenta through the belly. A sample of placental tissue is removed for analysis. The risk of miscarriage associated with CVS is inconclusive but thought to be about one in 100. An amniocentesis is carried out between weeks 15 and 18. A needle is passed into the stomach and amniotic fluid is withdrawn. The risk of miscarriage is less than one per cent. A fairly new test, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) can be helpful for women at moderate to high risk for chromosomal abnormalities. This involves isolating foetal DNA fragments from a blood sample. l

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 35

Thmee naame g While naming trends may come and go, the latest research shows that Aussie mums and dads are still opting for traditional monikers when it comes to choosing a name for their babies.

hile celebrities continue to choose ‘unique’ names for their offspring, trends show that this has little effect on how Australian babies are named. The latest figures from the McCrindle Baby Names Australia 2017 report show that Charlotte is the most popular girl’s name for the second year running, with 1817 little girls receiving this moniker, while Oliver leads the way for little boys for the third year running, with 2145 boys getting this name.

The Royal INFLUENCE

Okay, so there’s one exception to the celeb baby naming rule – the original celebrities or ‘royals’. Prince William and Duchess Kate Middleton have clearly helped set a trend by naming their first daughter Charlotte, while Isabella – the name of one of Princess Mary of Denmark’s daughters – comes in at number 15. Other royal girls’ names in the top 100 include Elizabeth, Alexandra and Victoria. A royal influence is on the rise for boys, too, with the name George moving from 71st place

36 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

in 2012 to 38th in 2016. Names such as William, Henry, Edward and Charles are also becoming increasingly popular.

For the GIRLS

Pretty, botanical-inspired names continue to dominate the top 100 girl’s list, with Lily, Violet, Jasmine, Poppy, Rose and Daisy all making an appearance. Names beginning with vowels are also a big hit, with Olivia, Ava, Amelia, Emily and Isla all hitting the top 10. Names ending in ‘y’ – such as Lucy, Ivy and Molly – are also popular. The names to break into the top 100 in the past year are Bonnie, Thea, Quinn, Florence and Brooklyn, which has elbowed out Lillian, Leah, Gabriella, Maryam and Maggie.

For the BOYS

In general, names with a biblical theme are on the decline for boys, however some names, such as Noah, James, Thomas, Ethan, Alexander and Samuel, are still popular, making the top 20 list. New names to enter the top 100 this year

include Sonny, Vincent and Parker. The name John – which was the number one name nationally throughout the 1930s and 1940s, has also made a comeback, entering the top 100 at number 94. These names have entered the top 100 at the expense of the more ‘trendy’ Jesse, Harley, Jett and Braxton.

Pretty

botanical-inspired names continue to dominate the top 100

girl’s list.

BABY NAMES

Did you know? Charlie is the only name in both the boys’ (15th) and girls’ top 100 (89th) in unchanged form.

TOP CELEBRITY BABY NAMES IN 2017

AMALIA – NATALIE PORTMAN AND BENJAMIN MILLEPIED

Reinvention and EXTINCTION While some names have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity over the past few decades, such as Grace and Jack, other names haven’t made an appearance on the top 100 list in many years. Sharon, Kylie and Tracey were all popular choices in the 1960s and 1970s, however are now almost extinct. Similarly, Wayne, Darren, Brett and Craig were all in the spotlight a few decades ago, but haven’t been seen in the top 100 since the 1990s.

Other names which have shown a more recent decline in popularity include Cooper, Joshua and Matthew for boys, and Ruby, Sienna and Jessica for girls, with all of them showing a clear drop in popularity in the last five years. On the other hand, the top names with the most consistent trend of rising popularity are Leo, Hudson, Archer and George for boys, and Isla, Evie, Harper and Evelyn for girls.

RUDY – HAMISH AND ZOE BLAKE

RUMI AND SIR – BEYONCE AND JAY Z

JACK – ROSIE HUNTINGTONWHITELEY AND JASON STATHAM

The

TOP 10

4 Ava 8 Chloe 1 Charlotte 5 Amelia 9 Grace 6 Isla 2 Olivia 10 Emily 7 Sophia/Sofia 3 Mia WORDS NICOLA CONVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

GIRLS:

ELLA AND ALEXANDER – AMAL AND GEORGE CLOONEY

ZEN – ZOE SALDANA AND MARCO PEREGO

The

TOP 10

BOYS:

1 Oliver 2 William 3 Jack

4 Noah 5 James 6 Thomas 7 Ethan

8 Lucas 9 Jackson/ Jaxon/Jaxson 10 Lachlan

MILLER – LAUREN BRANT AND BARRY HALL

CHARLIE – ZOOEY DESCHANEL AND JACOB PECHENIK

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 37

Babymoon WITH YOUR

BESTIES

The best getaways for a girls’ weekend before your baby is due

ost women take time out with their partners to relax together before baby is due. But, a growing number of women are celebrating their pregnancies with their girlfriends, instead. Whatever your reason, we’ve rounded up the best all-girls getaway spots across the country so you can enjoy some much needed R&R with your tribe before your baby is born.

Country BELLS AT KILLCARE, NSW Just a short drive from Sydney on the Central Coast, Bells at Killcare offers three two-bedroom cottages that are perfect for a girls’ getaway. The resort doesn’t cater for children, so if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, then this is your spot. Set among manicured gardens, each cottage is decorated with a Hamptons feel complete with Ralph Lauren furnishings. The cottages accommodate up to 12 people and include three fireplaces (one in each bedroom and one in the large living room), a fully equipped kitchen and an outdoor deck. Of course, no babymoon is complete without a visit to the day spa and the Bells Day Spa doesn’t disappoint. Drawing on the bushland surroundings, the spa uses LI’TYA products made from native ingredients and uses Indigenous Australian

38 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

healing techniques, such as the signature Marma Kodo pregnancy massage. The other drawcard of Bells is the award-winning Manfredi at Bells restaurant, developed by celebrity chef Stefano Manfredi, set within the main manor house. The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally and uses local produce, including herbs and vegetables picked

from Bells own vegetable garden. There’s also an extensive mocktail list so you don’t feel like you’re missing out.

BOOK IT! Two-bedroom cottages start from $990 per night, which includes daily breakfast and Wi-Fi. For more information, visit www.bellsatkillcare.com.au.

GREAT ESCAPES

“It’s the perfect way to recharge” Jeannette Bouche-Lasorsa, 33, mum to Ruby, six, and currently 34 weeks pregnant, shares her babymoon experience with her girlfriends. “We rented a gorgeous country house in the Kangaroo Valley, NSW, and were away for two nights. While we were there we pretty much ate our way through the Southern Highlands! We also spent time in our outdoor spa, appreciating the amazing view of the grounds, relaxing, and most of all having a good laugh. “Two of the girls in our group are both due three weeks apart from each other, plus as both these pregnancies aren’t our first, we thought it would be the perfect (and maybe only) opportunity to get away as friends before our babies come along! “We were only away for two nights, but we felt rejuvenated. Plus, what they say about absence making the heart grow fonder is true – we couldn't wait to get home to see our hubbies and kids!”

CHÂTEAU ÉLAN AT THE VINTAGE, HUNTER VALLEY, NSW Enjoy a luxury escape in a beautiful, bushland setting in the Hunter Valley. Traditionally, this area is known for wine tasting, but there’s also plenty to see and do for a mama-to-be who wants to steer clear of soft cheeses and wines. Book in at the on-site day spa, take a make-up masterclass or tour the surrounds via minibus, helicopter or even hot-air balloon!

BOOK IT! The Château Élan offers private villas with balconies overlooking the adjoining golf course or the Hunter Valley, as well as cable TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, gas fireplace and, of course, plush bath robes! Accommodation packages start at $171 for a king room. To make your booking or for more details, visit www.chateauelan.com.au

LAKE HOUSE, DAYLESFORD, VIC Situated on the tranquil Lake Daylesford, the Lake House has a fantastic range of accommodation to suit any group of girlfriends, from suites to studios and even a country house. Daylesford is just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD, which makes for a simple to road trip. While you’re there, explore the beautiful surrounds, enjoy local produce and visit the renowned mineral springs. You can also book in at the Salus Spa for a relaxing

massage or facial. All residential guests get free parking on site, internet access and the use of the tennis court, sauna and spa to help all the girls relax and unwind.

BOOK IT! Packages start at $600, which includes overnight accommodation, a threecourse à la carte dinner and a full country style breakfast. For more information and to book, visit www.lakehouse.com.au.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 39

GREAT ESCAPES

Beach

Peppers Beach Club & Spa, Palm Cove ‘Stay & Save’ Deal

PEPPERS BEACH CLUB & SPA, PALM COVE, QLD Named after the palm trees that line the shore, Palm Cove in Far North Queensland is one of Australia’s most idyllic holiday destinations. Peppers Beach Club & Spa is set across the road from the beach and the resort is landscaped with a rainforest rock pool and lagoon pool with sandy beach. For a girls getaway to celebrate your bump, there are one-, two- and threebedroom apartments. And a must for any mum-to-be is the luxury spa where you can opt for a massage, facial and more.

For dining options, check out the resort restaurant Lime & Pepper or take your pick from the many eateries surrounding the resort in the Palm Cove village. Oh, and before you leave be sure to swim up to the pool bar for a refreshing mocktail and a snack from the bar menu.

BOOK IT! For more information or to book your stay, visit www.mantrahotels.com/peppersbeach-club-and-spa.

Stay from $269* per night in a Spa Suite (minimum three-night stay), including full breakfast daily, Wi-Fi (up to 500MB per stay), movies as well as daily housekeeping service. Visit www.mantrahotels.com or call 1300 987 603 to book. *Conditions apply, subject to availability. Valid for sale and travel from 1 November, 2017 to 30 April, 2018. Block out dates apply.

Relax on the gorgeous Fleurieu Peninsula as you take stock with your girlfriends and enjoy some time together before your bub arrives. These nautical-themed villas have bamboo flooring, luxe bathroom and kitchen décor, as well as a sun-drenched deck that overlooks either the water or the hills. In your kitchen you’ll find Miele appliances if you feel like cooking up a storm and enough space for up to 10 of your girlfriends. Outside

showers make it super easy to wash off sand from a day at the beach, and when you’re ready to head out, there are a number of delicious food options only a short drive away.

BOOK IT! Prices start from $360 per night for the three-bedroom Villa Grenada, which sleeps up to eight guests. For more details or to book, visit www.aldingabeachgetaways.com.au.

WHITE SANDS, HYAMS BEACH, NSW Known as ‘The Two Houses’, The Beach House and Boat House on Hyams Beach can be rented separately, or together for bigger groups. You’ll enjoy luxe bedlinen and furnishings, and have access to a full library, board games and pool table, so there is plenty to do while you relax with your girls at the property. These houses are only a handful of beach houses in the area with direct access to the picturesque Hyams Beach,

40 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

so you can easily stroll down to the gorgeous white sand and back again to the property. Other activities include whale watching, swimming and some stunning walking trails.

BOOK IT! Prices start from $550 per night in low season. For details on both properties or to book, visit www.whitesandshyamsbeach.com.

WORDS ERIN MAYO, DANIELLE SEN, FIONA WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

ALDINGA BEACH GETAWAYS, ALDINGA BEACH, SA

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connected WITH ELECTRONICS FOR BABIES AND PARENTS

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The ultimate monitoring system that uses a secure encrypted connection and a genius combination of two video displays for the kind of peace of mind you didn’t know existed postb a b y. T h e M i n i M o n i t o r i s t h e w o r l d ’s s m a l l e s t portable monitor (only 1.5 inches)! The perfect size to take with you around the house – or to the kitchen for that well-deserved tea break. The P a r e n t U n i t h a s a 4 . 3 - i n c h LC D s c r e e n ( g r e a t f o r countertops) with a user-friendly inter face and battery life that will put most smart phones to s h a m e . $ 3 9 9. 9 5

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Make bed-time a breeze with the ultimate sleep whisperer – the Sound S o o t h e r. T h i s p o r t a b l e d e v i c e c o m e s with six in-built sounds of either natural noise (heartbeat, waves, white n o i s e ) o r m e l o d i c l u l l a b i e s ( Tw i n k l e , Tw i n k l e L i t t l e S t a r, B r a h m s ’ L u l l a b y a n d M o z a r t ’s E i n e K l e i n e N a c h t m u s i k ) . A l s o featuring a sleep timer and a nightlight with adjustable brightness for a gentle r o o m g l o w, t h i s w i n n i n g c o m b i n a t i o n of soothing sounds and ambient light creates a peaceful, calming environment that will encourage sleep-filled nights fo r b a by – a n d fo r yo u . $ 6 9.95

stimulate Sight and Sound Projector

Whether you want your baby to be sung to sleep, stimulated when awake, or just want some ambient light, this is your s a v i o u r. T h e s i g h t e l e m e n t f e a t u r e s t h r e e image wheels of rotating, full-colour pictures and shapes to project onto w a l l s , p l u s t h e r e’s a l s o a n a d j u s t a b l e nightlight. On the sound front, there are pre-loaded lullabies, nature sounds (including forest and rain) plus white n o i s e f o r a g e n t l e l u l l t o s l e e p . O r, y o u can sync it to any device via Bluetooth t o c r e a t e b a b y ’s f i r s t p l a y l i s t o f t h e i r f a v o u r i t e t u n e s . $ 9 9 .9 5

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Arlo Baby 1080p HD Monitoring Camera L i k e h a v i n g a f u l l - t i m e n a n n y, t h e A r l o B a b y M o n i t o r i n g C a m e r a captures every moment – so that you won’t miss a thing. One of t h e m o s t c o m p r e h e n s i v e m o n i t o r s o n t h e m a r k e t , i t ’s p a c k e d f u l l o f f e a t u r e s i n c l u d i n g a m u s i c p l a y e r, m u l t i - c o l o u r e d n i g h t l i g h t , a i r sensors, motion and sound alerts and even night vision so you can s e e y o u r b a b y ’s m o v e m e n t i n t h e d a r k . A n d , i f t h a t ’s n o t e n o u g h , it also includes a clever two-way talk function so that you can listen to – and talk to – your baby if they’re unsettled. $399

With a reputation for improving everyday life with their innovative s m a r t h o m e t e c h n o l o g y, i t ’s n o surprise Netatmo is now helping you to get a healthier home. Healthy Home Coach tracks the vitals of your home, and gives personalised advice including temperature, noise, air quality and h u m i d i t y. I t a d v i s e s i m p r o v e m e n t s based on this data, the season a n d t h e t i m e o f d a y, h e l p i n g y o u to find your optimum healthy home environment. This info is all connected to the smartphone app where you can also receive alerts a n d u p d a t e s . $1 69.9 9 Av a i l a b l e i n s e l e c t e d s t o r e s .

SHOP AT YOUR YOUR LOCAL STORE, ONLINE AT HN.COM.AU OR CALL 1300 464 278 Prices valid for Sydney Metropolitan Area. Prices can vary between states due to additional freight costs. See in store for full range. Harvey Norman® stores are operated by independent franchisees. Ends 8/10/17.

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Soehnle Style Sense Multi 300 Scale That tricky task of weighing a toddler has never been easier with the new sleek and lightweight Style Sense Multi 300. Once you have weighed in, the weight will be stored for 60 seconds the difference will then be displayed when stepping back on the scale - easy! A d d a l a r g e ( 4 . 5 c m ) i l l u m i n a t e d LC D d i s p l a y f o r c l e a r r e a d a b i l i t y, h i g h l o a d capacity with safety glass and a non slip b a s e m a k e s t h i s s c a l e a s t a n d o u t . $ 6 9.9 5 Av a i l a b l e i n s e l e c t e d s t o r e s .

measure Nokia Thermo Smart Te m p o r a l T h e r m o m e t e r

This game-changing thermometer gives a detailed, precise temperature reading without going anywhere near potentially infected areas (like the mouth or skin). Measuring on the temporal artery of the forehead (which can best detect changes thanks to the blood flow in that area) the thermometer gives an instant reading. That data then automatically syncs to a smartphone app, so you can track symptoms and temperature readings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and it will even offer heath advice based on the age, sy m p t o m s a n d h i st o r y of t h e p a t i e n t . $1 89.9 9 Av a i l a b l e i n s e l e c t e d s t o r e s .

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AS TOLD TO DANIELLE SEN PHOTOGRAPHY TINA SMIGIELSKI STYLIST SAMANTHA DOCHERTY HAIR & MAKEUP JULIA GREEN AT RELOAD AGENCY

STYLE Fashion &

Dress your bump in the latest maternity trends to suit every style and occassion

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 47

GET

real

DANIELLA WEARS Grace Willow The Label ‘Chantal’ TOP, $129; Floressa at Queen Bee ‘Paris’ CAPRI PANTS, $79.95; Lovisa ‘Interlinked’ BANGLE, $15.99; EMU Australia ‘Allamanda Palm’ WEDGES, $139.95.

Four mums-to-be adapt their growing bumps wardrobe without compromising on style

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR FASHION STYLE? I always go for a classic, timeless, effortless look. HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED WITH PREGNANCY? Not really. I can still get away with fitted bottoms and a loose, relaxed top but I have added in some more fitted dresses.

48 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

DANIELLA NASCA, 29,

26 weeks pregnant

BUMP STYLE

FIONA WRIGHT, 38,

33 weeks pregnant

FIONA WEARS Gap rib tank midi DRESS, $84.95; Witchery ‘Milano’ waterfall CARDIGAN, $199.95, and fine stone RING, $24.95.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR FASHION STYLE? I like classic, simple pieces and I tend to avoid patterns in preference for black, grey and white or block colours. HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED WITH PREGNANCY? My style hasn't changed too much. I love a good pair of maternity jeans, and I’ve been living in comfy leggings with long tops and jackets.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 49

VIVIAN HEITZ, 34,

30 weeks pregnant

VIVIAN WEARS H&M BIKER JACKET, $59.99, and ‘Toujours Toi’ TEE, $24.99; her own Valley Girl LEGGINGS and Rubi Shoes BOOTS.

50 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR FASHION STYLE? Street-style, casual and sometimes it can be a bit more rock. HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED WITH YOUR PREGNANCY? I haven’t changed my style, but I can no longer wear high-waisted jeans, which I loved wearing!

BUMP STYLE

ALANA WEARS Soon Maternity ‘Hazel’ tank DRESS, $119.95; Sambag ‘Heidi’ fish braid SANDALS, $180.

ALANA LANDSBERRY, 35

PHOTOGRAPHY ALANA LANDSBERRY STYLIST SAMANTHA DOCHERTY HAIR & MAKEUP DANIELLE BUTCHER PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT LAUREN TROMPP FASHION ASSISTANT GABRIELLE MILLS *PRICE APPROXIMATE AND MAY CHANGE DUE TO EXCHANGE RATE

31 weeks pregnant

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR FASHION STYLE? It’s basic and comfortable. I like to wear a floaty dress or a maxi on weekends to mix it up and feel more feminine and beautiful! HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED WITH YOUR PREGNANCY? Work-wise I wear lots of jeans or harem pants and basic tops and joggers. My legs are skinny though, so I have trouble with maternity pants.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 51

Classic

1. Tluxe ‘Asymmetric’ dress, $249; 2. COS raised-neck knitted sleeveless top, $65; 3. FRANKiE4 Footwear ‘Nikki’ heels, $220; 4. Zara leather backpack, $199; 5. Trenery ‘Pimlico’ earrings, $49.95; 6. Isabella Oliver ‘Kirkton’ maternity skirt, $96*; 7. Búl ‘Primavera’ sandals, $290

Street style

6 1. Sambag ‘Jada’ croc embossed sneakers, $150; 2. SRC Essentials ‘Feeding’ tank, $49.95; 3. Holiday at Holiday Robe ‘Aku’ ring, $20.95; 4. Tony Bianco ‘Tokyo’ multi slide, $149.95; 5. Zara feather trim jacket, $139; 6. Soon Maternity ‘Blaze’ maternity jeans, $139.95

52 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

BUMP STYLE

Minimalist

6 1. Country Road belted pleat dress, $299; 2. COS gold plated ‘Amorphic’ necklace, $69; 3. Mesop ‘Dawn’ top, $159; 4. Zara knit dress, $49.95; 5. COS rubberised leather folded bag, $225; 6. Country Road ‘Allegra’ slide, $99.95

Weekend wear 2 3

6 7

1. Trenery ‘Lake Como’ sunglasses, $179; 2. Boom Shankar ‘Ahoy’ dress, $110; 3. French Connection ‘Shirred’ off-the-shoulder gingham shirt, $79.95; 4. Noppies at Queen Bee ‘Lake’ maternity jeans, $114.95; 5. Zara panama hat, $35.95; 6. Windsor Smith ‘Halo’ sneakers, $129.95; 7. Boden ‘Harper’ necklace, $55

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 53

It’s going to be tough,

but amazing. The excitement will outweigh any sleeplessness that comes with it.

The first-ever Australian Bachie baby is due soon! We caught up with Sam and Snez before the birth of their much-loved little girl

SNEZANA WEARS White Fox ‘Marrakesh’ DRESS, $79.95; Nimble ‘X-Back’ crop SPORTS BRA in Blue Splash, $69, and ‘Lauren’ 7/8 TIGHTS in Blue Splash, $95. SAM WEARS Jaggad ‘Glacier’ zip panel SWEAT, $99.95, and ‘Iceberg’ TRACK PANTS, $99.95.

54 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

CELEB MAMA

AFTER FALLING IN LOVE ON SEASON THREE OF THE BACHELOR AUSTRALIA BACK IN 2015, SNEZANA MARKOSKI, 35, AND HER PARTNER, SAM WOOD, 36, HAVE REVEALED THAT THEY’RE EXPECTING A LITTLE GIRL TOGETHER. THE PAIR SAT DOWN WITH PL&S TO DISCUSS THIS EXCITING NEW CHAPTER IN THEIR LIVES, FALLING PREGNANT IN THE MIDDLE OF PLANNING A WEDDING AND HOW SNEZ’S 12-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER, EVE, FEELS ABOUT BECOMING A BIG SISTER.

Congratulations to you both! Snez, how different is being pregnant the second time around?

SNEZ: It’s like you’re doing it all over again, because there is a 12-year-gap between both girls, and there are a whole new set of rules, including new dos and don’ts. Everything has changed, so it’s like I am having my first one again.

second trimester kicked in, she started feeling better. SNEZ: I had to set a timer about an hour before I had to pick up Eve from school to find the energy to get up and get ready, and eat something so I didn’t feel like I was going to pass out. It is only a fourminute drive to her school and then four minutes home again. I also had the timer in case I dozed off on the lounge, because I was sleeping so much!

You were both in the midst of planning a stunning European wedding when you discovered you were pregnant. Was it a surprise? SAM: It was Murphy’s Law. We were

trying and we wanted to get pregnant, but it didn’t happen in the first month so we thought as it didn’t happen straightaway, let’s stop and plan the wedding. And then as soon as we started planning the wedding, Murphy’s Law – Snez became pregnant! We had locked in locations for the wedding and everything… Thank god we hadn’t sent out invitations! If we had found

You’re parents to the first ever Australian Bachelor Baby! Are you going to tell your bub how you met when she’s older? SAM: Who knows how the world will be by the time she reaches her 18th birthday, but I think it will definitely be a funny story to tell her when she’s old enough to understand everything!

Snez, would you say you’ve had an easy pregnancy?

SNEZ: The first three months were horrible! I was sick day and night, constantly feeling unwell, and Sam had to deal with that. There were days where I couldn’t even get up. Once the first trimester passed I was feeling great! Now I am starting to slow down again, but it’s nothing like those first three months. I don’t remember being that sick when I had Eve! SAM: Snez was totally couch-ridden – no energy, throwing up. I was thinking, ‘How many days is this going to go on for?’ But almost to the day when the PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 55

out a month later then we really would have been in trouble. Having a baby is absolutely everything we wanted, more than anything else. SNEZ: I started feeling a little unwell, but I wasn’t sure that I was pregnant. Shortly after that, I started to get really sick and then I had an idea I could be pregnant. We did a few tests to make sure it was positive. I did one and then I showed Sam, and then I did another one just to make sure. SAM: I think you might have even done a third just to be totally sure so I didn’t get my hopes up!

Have you had any crazy cravings so far, Snez? SNEZ: I’ve started to get late-night

cravings for sorbet and ice-cream. I have to limit myself to a few mouthfuls, just enough to satisfy the craving and then I’ll go back to bed. But I’ll always include Sam, and ask if he wants to join in!

You’re very kind! Are you enjoying the late-night snacks too, Sam?

SAM: The cravings have kicked in worse than ever! I got woken up at 2.30am on Sunday morning with Snez tapping me on the shoulder, casually asking me if I was hungry. I was like, ‘Mmm no, I’m not… I am asleep!’ Snez said she thought she was hungry for ice-cream and the next thing you know she’s eating lemon sorbet at 3am, satisfying her craving before hopping back into bed. I woke up in the morning and wondered if it was actually a dream, or whether it really happened. Usually it’s me who has to

drive to the store on these occasions. I was lucky that night that we had some lemon sorbet at home!

Sam, do you think you are prepared for a newborn baby?

SAM: I’ve had no experience with babies and, up to this point, I am blissfully ignorant! All of my friends with young kids have this little smile on their faces when they look at me that says, ‘You just wait!’ They say they aren’t trying to prepare me for it but have said to me that it’s going to be tough, but amazing. I’m sure that the excitement will outweigh any sleeplessness that comes with it.

Sam, has having Eve in your life helped you get ready to be a dad?

SAM: I always say that in my life I am surrounded by girls – our household is very girly, but it is very different being a parent to a 12-year-old than a newborn. She’s like my best buddy, and we can hang out like friends. I really love my relationship with Eve, however I don’t think it will prepare me for taking care of my new baby, but it’s going to help me prepare for life as she grows older. Eve is as excited about having a little sister as we are about having a baby. She had a list when we went shopping for the baby, she’s been looking at Instagram and Pinterest and done loads of research.

Have you guys had a chance to get your nursery sorted? SAM: We’ve got a guest room in our

house, but it’s kind of a junk room at the moment! It’s full of clothes and fitness stuff… And because she will be sleeping

56 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

in our room for the first six months or so, we haven’t done a big nursery transformation yet. SNEZ: We aren’t feeling too much pressure yet and we want to really think about what we want to do with her nursery and how to lay it out. I’ve been looking online to get inspiration and right now I’m trying to figure out what I like and what I don’t like. If I see something I like I always run it past Eve and Sam as well. So far it’s going well and we are all agreeing on how we see it coming together – which is good!

We all know you love fashion, Snez. How have you been styling your growing body?

SNEZ: At the moment it’s very comfortorientated! In the beginning, I was wearing a lot of baggy clothes to hide it and now I am slowly growing out of so much of my wardrobe Things that fit me in the morning are too tight by the evening. I’ve been experiencing a lot of swelling and water retention, so if I am wearing jeans throughout the day that fit fine, by the afternoon I’ve got marks up and down my legs and need Sam to help me take them off!

What about your skin? Has your beauty routine changed?

SNEZ: I’ve had a lot of pigmentation. Melasma and chloasma from my pregnancy. It started as a little bit on my cheek and its spread to both my cheeks now. Lately, I have permanent bronzer on my cheeks! I’m also just using products that are safe for pregnancy and keeping my skincare routine pretty basic.

CELEB MAMA

SNEZANA WEARS Gap soft spun TANK, $39.95; BAE The Label ‘Stay Up Late’ SKIRT, $79; Seed Heritage slipon SNEAKERS, $129.95. SAM WEARS H&M Sport ‘Ian’ seamless TEE, $27.99; Uniqlo ‘Dry Stretch Sweat’ full-zip HOODIE, $59.90; Nike at The Iconic Sportswear Tech Fleece PANTS, $130; Sam’s own Nike SHOES.

I’ve started to get late-night cravings for sorbet and ice-cream. But

I’ll always include Sam.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 57

SNEZANA WEARS L’urv ‘Survival’ essential TEE, $59; Supermom at Queen Bee ‘Pien’ twin stripe casual TROUSERS, $89.95; Ziera ‘Denver’ SNEAKERS, $199.95.

58 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

CELEB MAMA

Fitness is so important to you both, and you’re especially passionate about it, Sam. Have you still been motivated to work out while pregnant, Snez?

SNEZ: Yes! I have still been working out and doing Sam’s 28 program, but with modifications. It’s still got me motivated and I think it is important to find ways to keep active even as I am getting bigger.

SAM: There is a pregnancy-specific program for women that will be available in September to the public, where all the modifications have been made automatically. There’s also pregnancy yoga and Pilates as well as the regular workouts which are designed to make sure you’re not doing any exercises that are unsafe. The program prepares you not only for a good pregnancy, but

hopefully a good recovery from your pregnancy, too.

Finally, Snez, are you planning on having a baby shower?

SNEZ: Sam is saying that I should, but I tend to not like being the centre of attention when it comes to things like that. I’d rather go to somebody else’s than mine!

AS TOLD TO DANIELLE SEN PHOTOGRAPHY TINA SMIGIELSKI STYLIST SAMANTHA DOCHERTY HAIR & MAKEUP JULIA GREEN AT RELOAD AGENCY PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT LUKE CHANG

SNEZANA WEARS H&M lace-up sleeve T-SHIRT, $54.99; DKNY at The Iconic mesh side panel JOGGERS, $95. SAM WEARS H&M knit JUMPER, $54.99; Sam’s own JEANS.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 59

EXERCISES FOR E B O T S M U M Former Bachelor and exercise guru Sam Wood and his fiance, Snezana Markoski, show off some of the best and safest fitness moves for pregnant mamas

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;m always asked by expectant mums if they should exercise and the answer is yes! Exercising during pregnancy can help reduce back pain, increase energy levels and strengthen your muscles to help you cope with pregnancy-related aches and pains. Before starting a new exercise regimen, speak to your GP. Here are my top 10 exercises that are safe during pregnancy.

EXERCISE #2

Walking Go at your own pace, stay well hydrated and rest whenever you need to. 10-30 minutes.

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EXERCISE #1

PliĂŠ squat

Stand with legs wide. Lower to a squat, raising your arms in front, then stand up and lower arms. 20 reps.

EXERCISE #3

Stair s So simple. So effective. It will get tougher the further along you are in your pregnancy, but climbing stairs is a great way to tone and strengthen your legs and butt while getting some safe cardio. 5 minutes.

FIT MAMA

EXERCISE #4

Exercise helps

Tr icep extensions

reduce back pain and increase energy

Sitting tall, hold a dumbbell in both hands and slowly lift over your head with arms extended. Go back to the starting position. Breathe in on the way down and out on the way up. 20 reps.

levels.

EXERCISE #5

Side lying inner-outer thigh Lie comfortably on your side, with tummy and head well supported. Raise your leg, working through a wide but comfortable range to get a deep burn in the butt. 20 reps each side.

EXERCISE #6

Seated curl & press EXERCISE #7

Kneeling plank

Sit tall with your back straight and shoulder blades back, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Raise the weights above your head with control, then return to the starting position. 15 reps.

Kneel on a mat, resting your weight on your forearms and knees, so that your feet are just touching the ground. Hold the position for 10 seconds on and 10 seconds off. 3 reps.

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FIT MAMA

EXERCISE #8

One-arm row

EXERCISE #9

EXERCISE #10

Kneeling alternating supermans

Pelvi c floor DO THIS IMPORTANT EXERCISE DAILY. DRAW UP YOUR PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLES AND HOLD FOR FIVE SECONDS, THEN RELEASE. 5 TIMES A DAY. 62 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

Kneel on a mat on all fours with your hands directly under your chest and knees directly under your hips. Raise your right arm and left leg at the same speed and to the same height and hold. Lower before repeating on the other side. 15 reps each side.

WORDS SAM WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY INSTAGRAM

Lean on a windowsill, keep your back straight and adopt a comfortable stance, knees bent slightly. Using a hand weight, draw your arm up to the side of your chest, ensuring your posture stays constant, then lower. 20 reps each side.

FIT IN PREGNANCY In addition to these exercises, a special mention must be made about prenatal yoga, Pilates and water aerobics, which are all great for staying active throughout pregnancy. Always check with your GP, midwife or other health professional before taking up or continuing with exercise when pregnant.

Sam Wood is launching a new pregnancy program at 28 By Sam Wood with tailored workouts and a meal plan. A free seven-day trial is also available for new members. See 28bysamwood. com for more information. #

Birth &

BEYOND

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

The best positions during labour, everything you need to know about feeding your bub, and what to expect when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to bring baby home.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 63

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LABOUR PAIN

The phase that means

YOUR BABY’S NEARLY HERE The transitional phase of labour is the most intense part of the birthing experience, although it is also the shortest. Here’s how to recognise the signs and manage this stage so you can bring your baby into the world

here are three stages of labour, right? The first stage when your cervix opens up, the second stage when you actively push your baby out, and the third stage when your body squeezes out your placenta. Whether you’re listening to your midwife, reading up on labour or chatting at your antenatal class, that’s the general consensus. But there’s a part of labour tucked away in there that’s so significant, it should be a whole stage in itself. It’s called the transitional phase, and it happens right at the end of the first stage. Midwife Annie Francis says the transitional phase is when an enormous amount of physical and emotional changes take place. “If you understand just what’s happening through this period of change, you’ll be able to help your body have a better labour,” she says.

BABY IN TRANSIT When you’re in the first stage of labour, your body experiences a regular pattern of energy as your uterus contracts, and the muscle fibres gradually get shorter and tighter to pull your cervix open.

However, once your cervix has dilated, or opened, to 7cm wide, another energy starts getting involved as your body gears up to get into pushing mode. And it’s this phase, when your cervix is between 7cm and 10cm dilated, that’s called the ‘transitional phase’. At this point, you’ll have two strong forces at work in your body: the regular contractions that are opening your uterus up, as well as the muscles at the top of the uterus that are gathering together and gearing up for the pushing stage.

“In the early stage of labour, the top of your uterus fits snugly around your baby’s bottom,” explains Annie. “But as your baby starts to move down, the muscle fibres gather together into a thick chunky pad at the top of your uterus. When you reach the second stage, this pad will pat down on your baby’s bottom to help move her through your cervix and into the world. “These are big physical sensations and by understanding what’s happening, you’ll be better able to cope with them,” continues Annie. “You’ll have got used to

“During the transitional phase women are often told not to push, but some experts say you should go with your

body’s instincts, so listen to what your midwife says is right for you.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 65

LABOUR PAIN

Horse lips technique

Okay, so the name may not be very appealing but this is an effective breathing technique to help you through the transitional phase. It’s called the horse lips technique because it mimics a noise that horses often make when they’re excited – they inhale and then puff the air out, letting their nostrils vibrate. This makes a breathy, purring or whinnying sound. And that’s the sound you’ll make! Try it now: Breathe in and, holding your lips loosely together, push the air out through them. Because you have to relax your mouth, this technique has the knock-on effect of relaxing other parts of your body, which keeps the oxytocin flowing. It’s also a good tactic to adopt if your midwife tells you not to push while you’re in the transitional phase.

the contractions and you’ll be riding them like a surfer rides the waves. But when the transitional phase kicks in, these new sensations are like strong cross-currents that might make your surfboard wobble!” And this that causes many women who’ve coped really well with labour so far to suddenly feel like they’re all at sea. “You might feel shaky, nauseous, or zoned-out like you’re in a trance,” says Annie. “Many women feel they can’t cope when they reach this phase, and ask for an epidural or more pain relief. Often this request isn’t just a result of the physical sensations of labour, it’s also about the emotions you’re feeling.” And while pain relief might be the right option for you, there are a lot of things you can do to help yourself through this transitional phase.

HOW TO HELP YOUR BODY If you were climbing a mountain, the transition phase would be the last slope before you got to the top. It’s the hardest bit – but it doesn’t last long, and the view from the top is worth it. To speed you up this last slope, you simply need to trust your body and go with the flow. “The best thing you can possibly do during this phase is to go with these sensations,” says Annie. “Let go of your rational, analytical brain and let your older, primitive, ‘animal’ brain take over. And do whatever feels right for you. Strip off. Roar like a lion. Don’t worry about it. Your body knows what it’s doing and it will do the right things.” The thing is, these days we are used to being in control – we deal every day with

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our jobs, our relationships, our money. We’re used to knowing what’s going on in our lives and keeping a firm hold of the reins. And you might struggle when you get into the transitional stage of labour, and your body is taken over by a force you can’t control. It’s all too easy to tense up, to feel worried or overwhelmed, and to be knocked right out of the calm zone you’ve happily been in so far. “Giving birth is driven by hormones, led by oxytocin flooding through your body,” says Annie. If you get worried or tense, your body will release adrenaline and too much will disrupt this flow of helpful hormones.” So, knowing how to calmly manage this transition leads to an easier labour. The good news is that simply knowing that this is a transition phase in the first place, and understanding what your body is doing and why, helps a lot. Knowing that what you’re feeling is normal means it’s far less likely to knock you off course. Also make sure that your birth partner knows what to expect and how to help you through it. “He needs to tell you that once the transitional phase arrives, you’ve completed the longest part of the journey, you’re nearly there, and it won’t be long until you meet your baby,” says Annie. This sort of reassurance and empowerment can really help you stay in your zone. Your birth partner plays a crucial role in helping you to stay strong, so ask him to stay grounded and be a positive source of calm energy. Make it his responsibility to keep your environment calm and quiet, too. He also needs to anticipate and be

Bottoms UP! During transition, you might feel pressure in your bowels. “This is because the cervix doesn’t always open up evenly,” says Annie. “Kneel on the floor, with your bottom in the air and your head down, exhaling in little pants. This position will relieve the pressure.”

responsive to your needs, which will include offering you regular sips of water and small snacks. So, instead of asking, ‘Would you like a drink?’ he knows to pop the straw into your mouth so you can take a sip if you want once the contraction passes. One useful tactic during the transitional stage is to get on your very own timescale. Forget about what the clock says, and instead focus on the timing of your

WORDS KATIE MASTERS PHOTOGRAPHY ISTOCK

contractions. Think about moving through each contraction, and then waving goodbye to it forever. There are many different ways to think about this ‘timing’ – some women like to count the seconds of each contraction out loud, while others take a more visual approach, such as picturing a flower slowly opening as the contraction builds. Having your birth partner breathe with you through a contraction also helps – sometimes when you’re in this zone you can’t focus on speech, but the sound of someone else breathing can help you keep your own breathing on track. Listen to your body and try moving into different positions in between contractions, too. This can give you a fresh injection of

energy, and you may find it much easier to go with the flow in another position. Let your partner know this is something you plan on doing at this point, so he or she can support you. Many women find getting into a birthing pool is relaxing and soothing. Alternatively, try sitting on the toilet. We naturally relax on the toilet and now is the time to let everything out! Do all this and you’ll sail through those choppy waters. Embrace this special phase in your labour: it’s the moment that marks a huge transition in your life, moving from being a pregnant woman to a mum on the way to holding her baby in her arms. “Above all, remember that you can do this,” says Annie. “Your body is very good at giving birth. Trust it.”

If you were climbing a mountain, the

transition phase

would be the last slope before you got to the top. It’s the

hardest bit but the view from the top is worth it.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 67

Take your

POSITION Being active during the birthing process can help minimise pain and shorten delivery time

taying active during labour is known to help the process along, so it’s good to remember some tried-andtested positions to make your baby’s delivery as easy as possible. According to research, women in labour who use upright positions, such as walking, sitting, standing or kneeling, may shorten their delivery times by as much as an hour, as gravity assists in opening the pelvis. Staying upright and moving your hips helps ease the baby’s head towards the birth canal. And mums-to-be who move into good positions are also less likely to use pain relief. Just as every labour is unique, so too are the positions you’ll favour – and you’ll need a range of different positions for different phases of labour. As labour progresses, changing positions will help keep you focused and energised. Practise these positions ahead of delivery day.

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LABOUR STAGES EXPLAINED

First stage: ACTIVE

Your cervix dilates up to 8cm, contractions are frequent and last up to 90 seconds.

TRANSITIONAL

Starts when your cervix is about 8cm dilated. Contractions are less frequent but strong.

Second stage: DELIVERY

Starts when your cervix is fully dilated and finishes when your baby is born.

THE SLOW DANCE

ACTIVE PHASE

Getting into position

Stand facing your birth partner. Put your arms around his shoulders and neck, resting your head on his chest. Your partner needs to place his arms around you and clasp his hands at your back. Sway your hips together, just as if you were slow dancing.

How does it work?

Swaying your hips rhythmically helps ease pain, speeds up the first stage of labour and encourages your baby to move deeper into your pelvis. “Gravity will help your baby move down and settle into the right position for birth,” says midwife Megan Baker. “This position also offers intimacy with your partner and lets him support your weight.”

BIRTH MOVES

THE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

TRANSITIONAL PHASE

Getting into position

How does it work?

Sit on a fitness ball, with your feet placed a comfortable distance apart and flat on the floor. You can place your hands on your knees for support. Now rock from side to side. Your birth partner can massage your shoulders and back to ease pain further.

The motion of rocking is calming and helps you focus, so it can be soothing during the transitional stage. “This can be the most shocking stage for partners,” says Megan. “The mum-to-be can become agitated and lose focus, so it’s important that she has someone there to encourage and help her through it.”

FOR DELIVERY

Getting into position

With your birth partner sitting on a chair in front of you, kneel on cushions on the floor, legs apart, and grip your partner’s arms to help you brace during a contraction. You can rest your head on your partner’s lap between contractions.

THE LAP DANCE

How does it work?

WORDS SAM MILLER ILLUSTRATIONS CLAIRE MANNING & JOSIE GRANT

Get on the bed or floor on all fours (use cushions for comfort), keeping your legs open. Lean over a fitness ball or chair for extra support.

It’s useful when contractions come hard and fast but you’re not yet ready to push, and to slow down a too-fast labour. Being on all fours relieves pressure on your back by using gravity to pull the uterus out of your pelvis, and helps bub into the optimum position by taking the pressure off his head. It can also ease back pain during labour.

Getting into position

THE FROG

Sit down on the bed or a mat on the floor, with your back against the bedhead, side of the bed or between your partner’s legs, and lean up against his chest. With your legs open, bring your knees up towards your ears.

How does it work?

“As your body is upright, gravity will help speed up the delivery, while kneeling will take any strain off your legs,” says Megan. “Your partner can also ease back pain by massaging your back or shoulders.”

THE DANGLE

THE CRAB

This position helps open up your pelvis by flexing the hips, and it can also help speed up delivery. “This is quite a common delivery position and it is often supported with pedals that you can push your feet against,” says Megan.

Getting into position

Also known as the supported squat, your partner sits on the edge of the bed or a chair with you squatting in front, your back to him. Keep your legs open and feet flat on the floor. He can place his arms under your arms so, each time a contraction comes, he can support your body as it hangs in position until the pain fades. Then between contractions you can rest against his lap.

How does it work?

“This puts women in the pushing mode,” says Megan. Having gravity on your side can also help with delivery.

You’ll need a range of different positions

for different phases of labour.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 69

Prepped to feed Clue up on the next stage of your mum journey with our guide to nourishing your bub, plus all the gear you’ll need for stress-free breast- and bottle-feeding

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What’s in your kit?

YOUR BABY

ourishing your baby is the first of many learning curves that you’ll both face together. Whether you decide to breastfeed, bottle-feed or do a mixture of both, having the right equipment – and knowing who to call on for help – will make the experience easier. Breastfeeding doesn’t require a lot of essentials, other than breasts, a baby and a lot of perseverance and patience. However there are items that can make your journey go more smoothly, including expressing equipment, breast pads, comfortable nursing bras and easy-access tops. For a variety of reasons, bottle-feeding works better for some mums, but you’ll need a bit more equipment. Experiment with the bottles and teats that suit your baby best and invest in an efficient sterilising system. Don’t stress too much about which way you choose to feed your bub. As long as you’re relaxed and happy and dinner is served with plenty of cuddles, hugs and time together, she’ll thrive.

best to try to avoid a rigid routine and, rather, respond to your baby’s needs. This will help to establish breastfeeding. At first it’s

● Good attachment is when the baby

has a lot of the breast in her mouth, rather than just the nipple. If you’re starting to feel sore or feeding is really painful, get in touch with someone who can help – a lactation consultant or the Australian Breastfeeding Association are great places to start. ● You’ll probably worry about whether your baby is getting enough milk. A good sign is whether she attaches well, sucks strongly and swallows, producing about six wet nappies a day. If she’s feeding eight or more times in a 24-hour period, and growing, she’s sure to be getting enough milk.

● At first, it’s best to try to

Keeping abreast

It can take a while for you and your bub to get the hang of breastfeeding, but once you’ve made the breakthrough, it usually runs smoothly. Check out our tips to help you get to grips with your new skill.

● Be prepared for lots of feeds

WORDS CARMEL SPARKE PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

– especially at first. A newborn can feed around eight to 12 times in a 24-hour period. Once feeding is established, your bub’s feeds will become shorter, with longer intervals between them.

● Attachment is

the key to pain-free, successful breastfeeding. Lactation consultants and midwives in hospital will help you with this, so hopefully when you head home, you’ll be up and running. If you are struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

avoid a rigid routine and, rather, respond to your baby’s needs. This helps boost supply and establish breastfeeding while you are both learning. Over time, feeds get shorter and become more regularly spaced. ● Expressing your milk then refrigerating or freezing it for use at a later date is great because it means you don’t always have to be around for your bub to be fed – plus dads can get involved with night feeds. Expressing can also help boost your supply. You can do it by hand, but it can be a laborious process, so invest in a breast pump if you intend to do it regularly.

Breastfeeding essentials ● Comfy tops that are easily accessed by a hungry baby are must-haves. In the early days, separates are quickest and easiest, but as you get the hang of it, specially designed feeding dresses and tops come into their own. ● Maternity bras are usually fitted in the last few weeks of pregnancy. At first, when your milk comes in, you may well and truly

fill the cups. But over time your breasts will settle down as your supply is established. Look for clasps that can be undone with one hand, and a wire-free style to keep milk ducts from becoming restricted. ● Breast pumps are useful, but before spending the money consider your situation and whether an electric or manual pump will suit best (see page 74).

● Other handy items include storage bags or containers for breastmilk, breast pads for wearing inside your bra and absorbing any leaks, soothing nipple cream and a feeding pillow. ● Keep the Australian Breastfeeding Association’s helpline number handy for invaluable info and advice. Call 1800 686 268 or visit www.breastfeeding.asn.au.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 71

YOUR BABY

Bottle it

Most mums start out breastfeeding, but may switch to bottle-feeding, or they do a mixture of both. Here’s the lowdown on feeding your bub with formula.

● A baby’s immature immune system needs extra protection at first,

which is why it’s so important to sterilise all bottles and teats for the first six months at least. There are a number of different ways you can sterilise equipment, all with

the same end result of killing germs that could be harmful to your bub. ● Before making up a feed, always wash your hands and ensure that your preparation area is clean.

● Fill the kettle with fresh tap water

and bring to the boil. Let the water cool, about 30 minutes, to a safe temperature. Following the exact quantity specified on the tin, pour the cooled boiled water into the bottle. Using the measuring scoop provided in the tin, add the specified amount of formula to the water.

● Seal the bottle and give it a swirl

first, so the formula doesn’t block the teat, then shake the bottle to mix the formula and water. Warm the made-up bottle of formula in a saucepan of hot water or a bottle warmer until at room temperature. Avoid using the microwave to do this, as it doesn’t heat evenly and can create hot spots. Immediately use made-up formula and discard leftovers. ● Transport formula and cooled boiled water in separate containers then mix as required.

Before making up a feed, always wash your hands and

ensure your prep area is clean.

Bot tle-feeding must-haves ● Start with at least six bottles, with leak-proof discs and caps, made of clear glass or polycarbonate, BPA-free. Teats come in latex or silicone. ● Good-quality brushes are vital to clean equipment properly after each feed. Bottles and teats need to be washed in hot, soapy water and rinsed before sterilising.

72 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

● Sterilising your baby’s equipment is essential and there are a few different ways to do this. Steam sterilisers come in electric and microwave designs and are convenient and quick – they raise the temperature quickly to sterilise. ● Sterilising tablets are effective and easy to use. You submerge items in a sterilising

solution made up with tablets or powder for half an hour and then rinse with cooled, boiled water. ● If you don’t have any of this equipment, boil feeding utensils rapidly in a saucepan for at least five minutes, making sure they’re covered with water and there are no air bubbles inside the bottles.

My Journey, My Best Friend, MyMedela

Advice, Tracking and Expertise for Your New Family. Download the app now at mymedela.com.au for FREE!

Personal profile

Breastfeeding tips, interesting articles and contact with Medela lactation consultants.

Important answers

Answers to the most important questions about pregnancy, breastfeeding and Medela products.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss anything

Follow your goals and celebrate your successes with helpful tips and a lot of useful information.

Best overview

Track your breastfeeding and expressing times and keep an eye on the most important data about your baby.

Scan the QR code to download the MyMedela app.

www.mymedela.com.au

YOUR BABY Philips Avent Comfort Single Electric breast pump, $249.95

SMART

buys

MANUAL PUMPS

Spectra ‘S2’ hospital grade double electric breast pump, $299

NUK ‘Jolie’ manual breast pump, $59.99

Medela Harmony Manual breast pump, $59.95

ELECTRIC PUMPS Medela Swing Maxi Double Electric breast pump, $449

Chicco Wellbeing manual breast pump, $79.95

Electric or manual?

If you’ve decided to buy a breast pump for expressing milk, your next decision is whether to choose an electric pump or a manual one. Electric pumps are more expensive than manual ones, but are a good investment if you are considering expressing regularly, for example if you need to go back to work. A double pump also allows you to use both breasts at the same time, for greater efficiency. Another good feature to look out for is variable suction in an electric breast pump, so you can alter the pressure. A manual pump is less pricey and would be sufficient for using every now and then. Overall, look for a pump that seems comfortable and easy to use. Other factors to consider – apart from the cost – are the weight of the pump, the noise level and power options.

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Express and Go Breast Milk Pouches (pack of 20), $19.99

BOTTLES STERILISERS

Comotomo 250ml Silicone Baby Bottle, $29.95

Philips Avent 3-in-1 electric steam steriliser, $139.95

Suavinex ‘Scottish’ wide-neck bottles, from $19.95 each

Medela Quick Clean microwave bags (pack of 5), $26.95

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Electric Steam Steriliser, $139

Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature at Babies’R’Us 260ml bottles (pack of 3), $39.99

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Milton Anti-Bacterial Tablets (pack of 30), $8.99

HANDY EXTRAS

Ergobaby nursing pillow, $129

PROMOTION

THE MEDELA WEBSITE HAS SEVERAL ARTICLES WITH EXCELLENT INFORMATION TO GET YOU STARTED.

Preparing to go

medelabreastfeeding blog.com.au

BACK TO WORK

With a bit of careful planning, breastfeeding and/or expressing at work can be done easily.

E When your baby ven if you have a supportive employer, the key to returning to work and keeping breast milk in your baby’s diet is to have a plan before you go back to work. Think about how you can present your ideas in a way that highlights the benefits of continued breastfeeding and expressed breast milk feeding for the organisation. The Australian Breastfeeding Association has great resources to help you and give you ideas or information for your employer. It’s a good idea to make sure that you are familiar with the law concerning your rights at work as well.

Here are a few tips to consider:

• It might be hard to work the same hours that you used to. Can you arrange a more creative work schedule? Could you work a compressed week, or work from home one day a week? • Discuss your plans both in person and written form several weeks before you return to work. Most employers will be supportive. • Most companies are expected to provide reasonable accommodation for breastfeeding mums to breastfeed their babies or express their breastmilk during the work day. Ask your employer about the availability of lactation rooms or a private area or office

you can use. You shouldn’t have to breastfeed or pump in the toilet! Most employers will happily accommodate your need to express. • Start expressing and storing your milk in the freezer about fourto-six weeks before you start work. This allows you plenty of practice time if you haven’t expressed before. Mid-morning is a good time to start, as this is often a time when baby is asleep and your milk is often most abundant in the morning. • In terms of how much milk to express, think about how many days per week you’ll be working

becomes the next big thing. Answers to to the the big big questions questions Answers about pregnancy pregnancy and and breastfeeding. breastfeeding. about Download the app app now now Download the MyMedela app is free and available to from the Apple Store and the atdownload mymedela.au for free free!! at mymedela.au Google Play Store. for

and for how many hours each day, including travel time. This will help you to work out the volumes of milk you will need and how many expression sessions to factor in whilst you’re at work. Keeping your milk supply at a good level will require pumping at similar intervals that you feed at home. • There is no ‘perfect’ balance and bear in mind that you need to take care of yourself, too. Your life will eventually return to a more balanced state as you get in the swing of being back at work and being a breastfeeding and expressing mum.

For more information on breastfeeding, download the free MyMedela app at www.mymedela.com.au Visit www.medela.com.au and www.medelabreastfeedingblog.com.au to learn about our breastfeeding solutions or to find your nearest stockists and rental stations.

Taking baby HOME Between feeding, sleeping and visitors, adapting to life with a new bub can be overwhelming. But help is at hand

he first few weeks of your baby’s life are a truly magical time, but new motherhood can also be challenging. After all, there’s feeding your baby and sleep routines to get to grips with – all while functioning on little sleep, after an exhausting labour from which you may still be recovering. To help you navigate through the first six weeks, here’s a guide to both surviving and enjoying this precious period with your new baby.

Sleep FOR BABY

Newborns usually sleep about 16 hours out of every 24, in short bursts throughout the day and night and in blocks of up to four hours. Red Nose

76 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

recommends that babies sleep in the same room as their parents for at least the first six months of their lives. Your little one’s bassinet or cot should be free of pillows and bumpers, and she should be placed on her back, not her tummy or side, ensuring her face and head are uncovered. Co-sleeping in your bed is not advised. To learn more about safe sleeping practices, visit www.rednose.com.au. Some mums like to put a bedtime routine in place as soon as they bring bub home, while others are more relaxed in the early weeks. Your newborn’s sleep schedule depends on her feeding schedule, and she’ll most likely sleep better with a full tummy, so try to make sure she gets a good feed.

Sleep FOR YOU

Experts agree that if you can get this right, everything else will seem a little bit easier. Midwife Megan Baker advises you to take things easy and do as little as possible in the first few weeks of your newborn’s life apart from resting, sleeping and making sure she’s fed and comfortable. “You’ll be much less vulnerable to postnatal depression if you can recover properly after birth,” says Megan. It’s a classic rule, but an important one: sleep whenever your baby does – whatever the time of day.

Food FOR BABY

Once you can get the hang of it, breastfeeding is best because you’re giving

NEWBORN CARE

your baby all the nutrients she needs for healthy growth and development. She will also benefit from immunity that passes from mum to bub through breastmilk. Numerous studies show the long-term benefits of breastfeeding also include a reduced risk of obesity, diabetes and asthma. It’s a great way for you and your baby to bond, too. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding exclusively for six months, with continued breastfeeding for up to two years.

Food FOR YOU

Unlike pregnancy, few foods are out of bounds once your baby arrives. Making breastmilk requires lots of nutrients. It also increases your energy needs – so it’s a great way to help shift the extra weight gained during pregnancy. You’ll probably find your appetite increases, too. But you’ll need to eat sensibly to ensure you’re getting enough nutrients, too. The Australian Dietary Guidelines (www.eatforhealth.gov.au) provide useful advice, including outlining the serving sizes for each food group and how many serves per day breastfeeding women require. The arrival of a new baby is certainly cause for celebration, but before you reach for the bubbly, be aware that alcohol passes into breastmilk – and can remain for 30 minutes. Drinking alcohol can also affect supply, so talk to your doctor about how your body processes alcohol between feeds, as this will depend on various factors.

If you are

still feeling blue after the first week or so don't

hesitate

to ask for help and support.

Bonding

Touch is your baby’s first language and holding and cuddling her will help you bond. Another good way is through baby massage. Make sure the room is warm, you use gentle strokes and maintain eye contact. A good time to give her a massage is after her bath, when she is clean, dry and relaxed. Remove all her clothes apart from her

nappy and start by laying her on her back on a soft towel. Most health professionals recommend using sorbolene cream or a food-grade organic vegetable oil, such as sunflower or olive oil. Tip the cream or oil into a warmed bowl, remove jewellery, wash your hands, then dip your fingers into the bowl and rub your hands to cover.

Do I need to worry?

If your little one displays any of the following symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately. • Your baby has a temperature higher than 39°C. • She is floppy, listless and seems generally unwell. • She has a rash on her skin that doesn’t turn white when you press your finger onto it. • Her breathing is troubled, she has a chesty cough or seems hoarse. • She refuses to breastfeed for more than eight hours. • She has fewer than five wet nappies in a 24-hour period.

WORDS BECKY SHEAVES PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

ERRATIC EMOTIONS Even though you are no longer pregnant, residual hormones can affect your mood and it’s common to feel down or teary in the early days with a newborn. If you’re still feeling blue after the first week or so, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your first port of call is your midwife, early childhood nurse or GP, but organisations such as beyondblue (1300 224 636; www.beyondblue. org.au) and the Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA, 1300 726 306; www.panda.org.au) also provide support and advice.

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NEWBORN CARE

Using a baby carrier or fabric sling when you’re out and about, or even at home but when you need to get on with chores, is another good way to bond. She’ll be comforted by your warmth, smell and heartbeat. Also, make sure you follow the safety guidelines on babywearing, called TICKS, so your bub’s chin is kept off her chest and her back is supported, with her tummy and chest lying against you. For more information on the TICKS guidelines, visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/ marketplace/product-safety/ safety-warnings/baby-slings

Dads, family

AND FRIENDS Getting involved with nappy changes, massages and bathing are all great ways for dad to connect with bub. Dads can also manage the constant flow of family and friends who will be keen to meet the latest addition. But too many visitors early on can be overwhelming for you and unsettling for bub. It’s fine to ask people to wait and to keep visits short.

Dads can get

involved with nappy changes, massages and bathing.

PROFESSIONAL HEALTH CHECKS As soon as your baby is born, medical staff will carry out tests to ensure she is healthy. Before you’re discharged from hospital, she’ll be checked by a paediatric doctor. At home, you’ll find plenty of support at your local early childhood centre, too. Here’s a rundown of the medical checks your baby will have in the first few months.

At birth

A midwife will carry out a physical examination of your baby.

The first few days

While you are recovering in hospital, midwives will visit regularly to make sure your body is healing from the

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birth, you’re adjusting to motherhood and you’re able to breastfeed. Bub will also be given a heel-prick test, which checks her blood and indicates if she’s prone to health issues, including the genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU). You will also be offered a newborn hearing screening test, which allows early identification of hearing loss in babies. If you’ve had an early discharge, a midwife may visit you at home. Hospital staff will also put you in touch with your local early childhood health centre.

From one week onwards You can attend your local early childhood centre regularly at one to four weeks, six to eight weeks, six months and 12 months. Here, your baby will be weighed, and you

can raise any concerns. These services, known as women and children’s health services or child health clinics, are provided free of charge by your state or territory’s health department and are staffed by midwives, lactation consultants and nurses who conduct regular checks at key stages up to five years of age.

At six to eight weeks

Both you and bub will have a routine review by your GP (or obstetrician and paediatrician), during which time you can raise any concerns. Your doctor will check your baby to make sure no congenital problems, such as heart murmurs, have been missed and you’ll be assessed for postnatal depression.

PROMOTION

Love toSHOP Great buys for mums-to-be and growing families IT’S ONLY NATURAL

Spatone® 100% natural liquid iron supplement. Available in 28 sachets for RRP $36.25 or 14 sachets for RRP $24.15 from selected health food stores and pharmacies. For more information go to www. martinandpleasance.com or call Martin and Pleasance on 1800 652 443.

SLEEP SOUNDLY

Keep your baby calm even on the go with the ST1000 Portable Soother by VTech. It attaches to almost anything and lets you choose from five gentle lullabies and five soothing sounds. www.vtech.com.au

IT’S PARTY TIME!

Medela Quick Clean Microwave Bags, $26.95, steam sterilise breastfeeding accessories such as bottles and breast shields in less than three minutes and kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria. Faster and easier than boiling. Small and easy to store. www.medelastore.com.au

EXPRESS YOURSELF

The NUK ‘Jolie’ manual breast pump is designed to make expressing easier. Its innovative design provides an excellent expressing movement and the ergonomic handle makes it easy to express breast milk with just one hand. Available at Babies“R”Us from $59.99. www.nuk.com.au

BABY SKINCARE

With beeswax, zinc, castor oil and marshmallow and more, GAIA Natural Baby Soothing Cream is the perfect companion to soothe and protect skin. www.gaiaskinnaturals.com

Set up a

routine that leads to a

7pm bedtime â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and seize back the evenings.

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REAL ADVICE

Your happy

BEDTIME PLAN Try our five key tactics to help your little one – and yourself – have a restful night

orried that you’ll never get a proper night’s sleep again? Don’t despair. Whether the idea of your newborn ‘sleeping through’ is a distant dream or you’re wondering why your child hasn’t yet reached this magical milestone, we’ve put together a five-step plan on how to get there.

Teach him

WORDS EMMA HARTFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

TO SLEEP IN HIS COT

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? Getting to sleep on his own is a learned skill for a baby, and an important breakthrough. You may need to rock or soothe him when he’s tiny. We all sleep in ‘cycles’, moving between deep and light sleep – a newborn’s sleep cycle is about 40 minutes. If your little one isn’t able to sink back into a restful slumber every time he reaches the end of a cycle, you’ll both have an interrupted night. WHEN CAN I START? Get your baby used to being in his cot from day one, to help him feel secure enough to drift off on his own when he’s in there. As he grows older (about three months) he will start to associate his cot with sleeping. HOW DO I DO IT? Put bub in his cot as he’s dropping off after a feed or if he is showing signs of tiredness, so he can learn this is where he sleeps – but don’t go away. Marie Clifford, former nurse manager at Tresillian, advises you remain near your baby. “For the first three months, stay with your baby and be soft, gentle and repetitive as you settle him,” Marie says. If you feel he’s not too upset, you can try leaving bub to settle alone. “But if, at any time, you feel your baby is distressed, go in and reassure him, again being soft, gentle and repetitive,” she says.

Start a

BEDTIME ROUTINE

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? A regular routine signals to your baby that it’s bedtime and helps him wind down. WHEN CAN I START? By about eight to 10 weeks, bub should know the difference between day and night. Research shows it’s around this time that a baby starts producing enough melatonin (the hormone that induces sleep) to influence him. From around three months, babies are more aware of what is going on around them, and this is when sleep associations can be established. So set up a routine that leads to a 7pm bedtime, and seize back the evenings for you and your partner. HOW DO I DO IT? Allow enough time before 7pm for a gentle massage and a warm bath. Dress him in pyjamas and read or sing to him, then darken the room, give him a feed and put him in the cot.

Get nap SAVVY

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? As your baby gets older, he’ll need fewer daytime naps. Reducing these should ensure he’s fulfilling his sleep quota by sleeping through the night. Once he’s old enough to only need a couple of hours’ sleep during the day, aim for one long daytime nap. Day sleeps encourage better night sleeping and are necessary until the age of about three. WHEN CAN I START? He’ll start staying awake for longer periods between feeds – signs he’s moving to one lunchtime nap, at around 12 months old. If he won’t settle for his morning nap or is resisting a second sleep in the afternoon, he could be ready. HOW DO I DO IT? Have an active morning, an early lunch at about 11.30am and put him to bed by midday.

Reduce

NIGHT FEEDS

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? It will get your baby used to taking enough milk to keep him satisfied and encourage him to sleep for longer stretches. WHEN CAN I START? Small babies have small tummies that need refilling overnight, but by three to four months some bubs need only one night feed. Your baby will need to be capable of taking on enough milk during the day to help him last several hours at night. HOW DO I DO IT? If your baby feeds well during the day, is gaining weight and is healthy, you don’t need to wake him for a night feed. Or offer a ‘dream feed’ at about 10.30pm, which may help him make it through to the morning. The idea is not to fully wake your baby, so keep the lights off and be quiet and gentle. His natural reflexes should allow him to feed while he’s still half-asleep and to settle quickly afterwards.

Break the

NIGHT HABIT

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? Sleeping through the night is restorative and allows your baby to rest fully after his busy, adventure-filled days. WHEN CAN I START? The magical milestone of a solid night’s sleep can come and go, but you may see it before his first birthday. From around six months of age, a healthy developing baby no longer needs a night feed. HOW DO I DO IT? A six-month-old bub could be waking for a small feed from habit. If he’s at the right weight and is taking enough solids, encourage him to self-settle. Visit Tresillian for techniques at www.tresillian.org.au.

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SLEEPING AIDS

Sweet

DREAMS Send your little one off to the land of nod with these bedtime buys SOOTHERS

The Gro Company ‘Panda-Monium Grobag (2.5 TOG), from $79.95

VTech Baby at Kmart Starlight Sounds Hippo, $39

Plum ‘Anchor’ Sleep Bag (2.5 tog), $74.95

Baby Shusher, $49.95

Love to Dream Swaddle UP, from $39.95

SLEEPING BAGS

The Gro Company ‘Ollie the Owl’ soother, $59.95

Ikea ‘Spöka’ LED Night Light, $25.99

Uniden BW3451R Baby Video Monitor, $349

MONITORS

Ergobaby Original Swaddler, $42.95

Merino Kids ‘Go Go Bag’, $179

Bugaboo soft wool blanket, $159.95 Koala Baby at Babies”R”Us muslin wraps (pack of 3), $24.96

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VTech BM500 ‘Owl’ Pan and Tilt Video Monitor, $289

COMPILED BY FIONA WRIGHT

WRAPS

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Featuring hand illustrated world landmarks paired with classic black and white stripes, the new Small World collection is perfect for little adventurers! Range includes cot sheet, muslin wraps, cot quilt, musical mobile, hooded and novelty towels, face washers, bibs, newborn gift set, change mat cover and new reversible round play mat!

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BaBbSy JA

Most mums choose to have their bubs fully immunised. Here’s the lowdown on what this involves and why it’s a good idea

REE H T GOOD RE

ASONS TO IMMUNISE

nce upon a time, you only needed to consider vaccinations if you stood on a rusty nail or were planning an exotic overseas holiday. But now that bub is on its way, you’ll be offered a series of regular immunisations to protect your little one against a range of nasty diseases, including whooping cough, measles, rubella, chickenpox and meningococcal disease. In fact, vaccinations that benefit your baby begin even before she is born, with mums-to-be encouraged to have a whooping cough vaccine in their last trimester so they can pass on their immunity via the placenta. Read on to find out how offering up bub’s plump thigh for an injection or two is actually the kindest jab of all.

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WHEN

do we start?

Bub’s first immunisation is shortly after birth, when she receives a hepatitis B vaccination. The next shots, recommended at six weeks, four months and six months, are administered as a combined vaccine covering six diseases – diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), hepatitis B and polio – plus there’s a vaccine against pneumococcal and one for rotavirus, a gastroenteritis bug. These vaccines are available free of charge at your GP’s surgery or at clinics run by councils. Following these, your bub will be due a few more before school age – at 12 months, 18 months and four years – to cover measles, mumps, rubella, chicken pox (varicella) and meningococcal C, among other diseases. Most states follow

It’s a child’s best protection against serious illnesses. There may be short-term side effects, such as swelling, soreness and numbness at the site of the needle, but social scientist Julie Leask says the benefits mostly outweigh the risks. “The benefits vaccines have in averting serious complications from the diseases they prevent still outweigh their risks,” she says. Science supports immunisation – studies that suggested a link between the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism have been discredited. You’re contributing to a healthier community and helping protect vulnerable members of society, such as the elderly and other children, especially those who are sick and cannot be vaccinated.

2 3

FUTURE HEALTH

A NUMBERS GAME Around 93% of all children in Australia are fully immunised by the age of two and up to date with the government’s National Immunisation Program Schedule. Some pockets of Australia have much lower rates of immunisation than the national average, with up to 10% of children not fully vaccinated. According to social scientist Julie Leask, this is usually due to an increased number of conscientious objectors. To prevent childhood diseases getting a foothold and spreading across the community, immunisation rates need to stay high (95% is the goal).

the same schedule, but there are some minor differences, depending on the brand of vaccination used.

WORDS CARMEL SPARKE PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

WHY

so young?

Experts recommend that your baby has her first vaccination for whooping cough – a bacterial lung infection – at eight weeks because it can be fatal in the first few months of life. Associate professor Julie Leask, a social scientist specialising in immunisation from the University of Sydney’s School of Public Health, says babies have no immunity to the disease so it’s important they’re protected as soon as possible. Until babies have had all of their first three pertussis vaccinations, they remain vulnerable to catching the disease. “Whatever we can do to get that protection to babies is very important, so getting vaccines done on time is vital,” Julie says.

WHAT

else can I do?

Mums-to-be are urged to have a booster shot for whooping cough, either before they fall pregnant or in their final trimester. Your partner and anyone caring for your baby, including grandparents, should also be vaccinated against whooping cough, or have booster shots, so they’re less likely to catch the disease and pass it to your child.

There are some vaccines that aren’t listed on the National Immunisation Program Schedule, including protection from additional strains of Meningococcal, other than C, so you will have to see your GP and pay a fee for the extra jab.

HOW

do vaccines work?

Vaccines contain a small dose of a killed bacteria or a weakened form of the virus that causes a particular disease. Vaccination works by gradually exposing the body to these inactive bugs, allowing your baby’s immune system to develop its own protective antibodies. The vaccine won’t give her the illness, but it will provoke a response in her immune system so that when she comes into contact with the disease she can fight it off before she becomes sick.

IS immunisation compulsory?

There’s no law that says you must have your child immunised according to the government’s schedule – it’s your choice. However, being up to date with your child’s immunisation schedule is a condition for receiving the Child Care Rebate and, if you’re eligible, the Family Tax Payment Part A and Child Care Benefit. If you have chosen not to vaccinate your child, you will only be eligible for government benefits if you have an approved medical exemption that has been recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register. As of last January, the government implemented a No Jab, No Pay policy, which removed religious and conscientious objectors. “There are a number of costs involved in not getting your baby’s vaccinations done on time – financial as well as costs in terms of not giving bub the best possible chance of protection from vaccine-preventable diseases,” explains Julie.

Getting vaccines done on time is vital.

The National Immunisation

PROGRAM SCHEDULE For more information on this government initiative specific to your State or Territory, visit www.immunise.health.gov.au

BIRTH • Hepatitis B (hepB)

2 MONTHS • Hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b, inactivated poliomyelitis (polio) (hepBDTPa-Hib-IPV) • Pneumococcal conjugate (13vPCV) • Rotavirus

4 MONTHS • Hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b, inactivated poliomyelitis (polio) (hepB-DTPa-Hib-IPV) • Pneumococcal conjugate (13vPCV) • Rotavirus

6 MONTHS • Hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b, inactivated poliomyelitis (polio) (hepB-DTPa-Hib-IPV) • Pneumococcal conjugate (13vPCV) • Rotavirus b

12 MONTHS • Haemophilus influenzae type b and meningococcal C (Hib-MenC) • Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)

18 MONTHS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough) (DTPa) • Measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox) (MMRV)

4 YEARS • Diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough) and inactivated poliomyelitis (polio) (DTPa-IPV)

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Best way to save for my kids future? Answers at moneymag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

Health & BEAUTY The best products for bubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skin and the beauty treatments you should avoid during pregnancy.

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Treat

YOURSELF… SAFELY While you’ve said sayonara to sushi and soft cheese, some cosmetic treatments present conundrums. We’ve asked the experts to reveal what cosmetic treatments are okay and which ones you should steer well clear of during your pregnancy

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PREGNANCY BEAUTY

or many women, pregnancy is the most wonderful time of their lives. For others, it can be really tough. Swollen feet, back pain, bloating… the list goes on. “Everyone tells you you’re beautiful and glowing, but the fact is that many women don’t feel it. It’s very common for women to feel unattractive,” says Sydney-based cosmetic physician Dr Anoop Rastogi. “And it is certainly understandable that they want to reach out to their beauty therapist or specialist to help themselves feel more attractive.” Before you do, check if the procedure is safe for your unborn baby, as well as for when you are breastfeeding.

Botox AND FILLERS “Leave them alone when you’re pregnant,” stresses Anoop. “While there is no evidence to suggest that either will cause harm to an unborn baby, that child is precious, so you don’t want to risk it.” Fillers are okay after baby is born, as they remain in the local tissue and don’t enter the bloodstream,” says Anoop. “However, Botox does show up in breast milk, so I would certainly wait until after you’ve finished breastfeeding before having wrinkle-relaxing injections.”

WORDS SHONAGH WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

Dental WORK “Steer clear of teeth whitening,” says Dr Sandra Short from Gentle Dental Care in Sydney. “The chemicals used are very strong bleaching agents and we use UV light to activate them. It is definitely a case where you should err on the side of caution.” Sandra continues, “I also don’t like to take X-rays when women are pregnant as we are dealing with radiation.” If you need to have a filling, make an appointment during a safe time in your pregnancy. “We always do them in the second trimester to cause as little stress to the baby as possible,” says Sandra. Surprisingly, orthodontics works well in the third trimester. “Your body is preparing for birth and, as such, all the bones, including the jaws and teeth, soften, which means teeth move rapidly. We can achieve a year’s worth of results in those three months.” Who knew?

If you really want to colour your hair, have foils or balayage as the

product

doesn’t actually touch the scalp.

Laser RESURFACING TREATMENTS “You don’t want to go anywhere near anything that uses radiation or other kinds of laser, ” warns Dr Joseph Hkeik from All Saints Skin Clinic in Sydney. “The treatments aside, we also have to look at the medication required to perform these treatments – things such as anaesthetics, or medicated creams, and the risks they pose.” Joseph does concede that having ultrasound treatments are perfectly safe for the face. After all, we use ultrasound to take images of the baby, so these types of treatments should be safe to have on your face and neck should you need to.

Hair COLOUR “The problem here is ammonia,” says Jose Bryce-Smith from haircare company O&M, which creates ammonia-free hair colours. She adds, “There is no evidence to say that hair colour is dangerous, but whatever you are putting on your scalp is going to be absorbed into your skin and ultimately your bloodstream.” The other chemical to look out for is paraphenylenediamine, or PPD, which is present in many hair colour products. “This can cause severe allergic reactions in anyone who is sensitive to it,” says Jose. “At O&M, we have specifically formulated all our products without this chemical, for this very reason.” If you really do want to colour your hair, the best solution is to have foils or balayage, as the product doesn’t actually touch the scalp.

Chemical

HAIR STRAIGHTENING The jury is out on this one, but according to hairdresser Neil Cleminson of Bhave, it’s imperative that you request a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from the supplier and take it to your physician for advice, first. He says, “Every product formulation is individual and contains different ingredients and chemicals, so get the go-ahead from your physician, first.”

Spray TAN Technically, there is no apparent danger in having a spray tan while you’re pregnant, unless you inhale a great deal of the airborne formula, warns tanning expert Stacey McPherson. “Inhaling it regularly into the lungs means that it would enter the bloodstream, so you should really wear a mask and ensure the room is well ventilated,” she says. When you’re tanning, be on the lookout for 100% eco-certified and organic tanning agents or products with a high percentage of organic ingredients. A paraben-free product is always a good idea.

Lashes

AND BROW TINTING As with hair dye, the tint used to colour lashes and brows is chemical-based, warns eyebrow expert Svetlana Burckhardt. “For this reason, I always recommend that my clients consult with their doctors before making a booking. If they’re given the go-ahead, be unequivocally sure that you are seeing a reputable therapist who specialises in brows and lashes and uses sterilised, disposable tools and makes you as comfortable as possible,” she says. Svetlana also suggests a patch test is done 24 hours prior to treatment to eliminate any possible sensitive reactions. “There are a small number of people who might have an allergic reaction. It’s rare, but it can often be severe. Even if you’ve been regularly tinting prior to pregnancy, do the patch test – your hormones change when you’re pregnant and this could change how you react,” she advises.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 89

Baby skincare

SAVIOURS Treat a range of conditions, which are common among infants, with these simple solutions and bathroom cabinet essentials

Cradle cap

Cradle cap usually occurs in young babies before the age of three months, causing yellow, crusty scales to form on their scalps. In most cases it will go away on its own, but if you want to tackle the issue, simply massage a few drops of oil onto your bub’s scalp and then wash off with a baby shampoo the next morning. If it continues to reoccur or spreads to other areas of the body, seek medical advice.

STOCK UP ON…

Egozite Cradle Cap Lotion, 50ml, $9.95

If your

baby’s skin is sensitive, use products free of

paraben,

Mustela Foam Shampoo for Newborns, 150ml, $19.95

90 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

GAIA Baby Massage Oil, 125ml, $10.99

fragrance and alcohol.

BABY CARE

Eczema

This non-contagious skin condition can affect babies, and may continue until they’re young kids or teens. Eczema results in dry, itchy, red skin on the elbows, legs, face, body, hands and feet. To help soothe bub’s skin and prevent flare-ups, use a soap-free wash and moisturise twice a day, especially after bath time. If your baby’s eczema flare-ups are extreme, don’t improve or become infected, see your doctor asap.

STOCK UP ON…

MooGoo Natural Mini Moo Bubbly Wash, 500ml, $17.50

Weleda White Mallow Body Lotion, 200ml, $27.95

Billie Baby Vitamin E Bars, 100g (pack of two), $9.95

Sensitive skin

Nappy rash

WORDS NATASHA PRICE AND DANIELLE SEN PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

Most babies will experience the inflamed, red condition that is nappy rash, affecting the skin on the thighs, bottom and genitals. In addition to frequent nappy changes, using fragrance-free wipes and going nappy free when possible, treat the rash by applying a thin layer of barrier cream. The rash should clear after a few days. If it doesn’t, see your doctor.

Lullaby Calming Body Wash, 250ml, $28

STOCK UP ON…

Ego QV Baby Barrier Cream, 50g, $7.99

Sudocrem Healing Cream, 125g, $10.99

BabyLove Baby Wipes (pack of 80), $4.50

Curash Babycare Soothing Oatmeal Wash, 400ml, $9.99

Neonatal acne About one in five newborns develop neonatal acne in their first three months, and it’s more commonly seen among boys. Small, red bumps and pimples may appear on bub’s cheeks, forehead, chin and back. Increased testosterone is thought to cause an imbalance in bub’s skin. Neonatal acne tends to clear up on its own, but washing bub’s face daily with a mild, soothing soap can help.

A newborn’s skin is naturally delicate, so use a gentle bath wash and moisturiser. However, if your baby’s skin is especially sensitive, it’s important to use products free of paraben, fragrance and alcohol. Just as you might do with your own beauty goods, test a small amount of product Mater Baby Moisturiser, on her arm to see how 500ml, $14.99 she reacts. Using a natural bath oil can also help STOCK soothe and calm before UP ON… bedtime.

STOCK UP ON…

BabyU Goat Milk Body Wash, 250ml, $9 Organic Island Baby Bath Wash & Shampoo, 100ml, $14.99

Ego QV Baby Gentle Wash, 250g, $10.65

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PROMOTION

A place to

CELEBRATE If you’re searching for the ideal venue to celebrate a christening or baby shower, let Dedes Waterfront Group look after your needs

edes Waterfront Group’s beautiful venues provide the perfect backdrop to celebrate your little miracle. First-class dining experiences, panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline, and tailored packages will create a lasting and truly special and memorable day. Invite your friends and family to the party and let us take care of every last detail.

VIEW BY SYDNEY - Hickson Road, Walsh Bay

DECKHOUSE - end of Clarke Road, Woolwich

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Shopping & NESTING Gorgeous real-life nurseries plus the latest and greatest prams, and the best baby buys

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 93

Metallic Design your nursery

94 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

miss

A lover of all things cute and quirky, Dainslie Cairns, founder of handmade toy store Kawaii Pie, created a nursery space for her daughter with warm, feminine dĂŠcor and a touch of sparkle

YOUR NURSERY

DAINSLIE CAIRNS, 28,

mum to Aurora, 2 How did you get started with your daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nursery design process?

It all started with a lot of imagining and pre-planning. We were on a budget but we still wanted to make sure the room reflected us as a family. This meant we had to channel inspiration from the things we love, including our taste for a minimalistic lifestyle. There was also a lot of Instagram and Pinterest searching, to find the right look and evoke the right emotion.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favourite part of the nursery? I painted the tree when I was seven months pregnant. It was a labour of love that had me climbing a ladder to paint the highest leaves while my husband held me from behind!

Where did you splurge and where did you save?

The rose-gold cot from Incy Interiors was my splurge, but as soon as I saw it I knew it was the one. I think it complements the metallic paint in the tree so beautifully. The Grant Featherston Contour Series chair is surprisingly my save; ours is a replica and was bought second-hand, so really we doubled the savings!

The small details are what really brings this room together. Carefully styled shelves with whimsical toys and vintage touches add depth and texture without overcrowding the room. Pretty pastel colours work together to bring a sense of calm to the nursery.

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I do a lot

of research before purchasing things, which tends to

mean that

I love it for longer.

Look out for funky second-hand items which can give your nursery a point of difference. Replica furniture is also a great way to save money.

What special touches are key to the look of the room?

The special touches are definitely the toys I make in my business Kawaii Pie! Aurora is my tester, so the newest ones live there. Right now, it’s the Mushy Mushies in my favourite colours. The canopy from Spinkie is another wonderful addition because I can move it over the cot or in the corner for reading. It adds an extra magical touch to the room, while being practical.

What decorating advice would you offer to mums?

It sounds like a cliché – but keep it simple. While I take inspiration from many things, I condense that information down, and

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it may be reflected in one special doll or the choice of paint colour. To minimise the items in Aurora’s room I do a lot of research before purchasing things, which tends to mean that I love it for longer and spend money on the right things.

What parenting advice would you offer new mums?

Not every part of motherhood comes with laughter, magical moments and love. There will be high emotions, exhaustion, vomit and crying… and it’s ok to hate these moments. Every experience is different, so try not to compare yourself to others. VISIT DAINSLIE on Instagram @kawaii.pie

YOUR NURSERY Wool & Willow sequin crown, $28 each

Me Too at Lil Spaces ‘Angela’ sleepy rabbit’ doll, $34.99

Spinkie at Miss n Master ‘Dreamy’ canopy, $219

Miles by Milan Direct at Temple & Webster armchair and ottoman set, $499

Printspace ‘Bertie Bear’ art print, $15

How to get DAINSLIE’S LOOK

Create a cosy, luscious haven with warm pastels, shiny metallics and soft textures.

Kmart stool, $12

Baby Isalina rattle toy, $15.95

Linen House ‘Aiden’ cushion, $44.95

COMPILED BY DANIELLE SEN

Miss Molly cot sheet set, $150

Incy Interiors ‘Ellie’ cot, $899

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 97

Sail away

Mum of three Meagan knew that third time would be lucky when she enlisted the help of Nest Design Studio for her sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nursery

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YOUR NURSERY

MEAGAN

mum to Felix, 9 months Tell us why you chose to engage an interior designer? We hired Belinda Nihill of Nest Design Studio to design our first son Hugo’s nursery and assist in finishing off our first daughter’s ‘big girl’ room. There was absolutely no question that we would have her back to design our third baby’s nursery, seeing we were so happy with her work the first two times that we had used her skills and expertise.

What was the brief for this room this time?

We really like strong, dark colours and wallpaper. We wanted nautical touches. Our first son had a similar brief and we loved the final result of his room. We wanted the same for this nursery, but also to ensure it was different. Wainscot panelling was discussed early on in the brief and we chose to go with it. We are so happy we did – the effect is amazing.

What was your inspiration? After meeting with Belinda and discussing what we were after with her, she presented us with an image that hit the nail on the head! It has stunning navy wallpaper and white wainscoting. It was exactly what we were after, and the room evolved from that image.

How did you select your colour palette?

We wanted to use navy and white again as we had in Hugo’s room. Belinda suggested adding some tan leather and olive to tie everything together and to allow the room to be different. She found a divine olive cushion and some gorgeous tan elements that worked beautifully.

What is your favourite item in the room and why?

We reused the Nursery Works rocker and I think it will always be my favourite nursery item. It was difficult to get and it has been used so much for two children

that this room will grow with Felix.

I was worried we wouldn’t come up with something so fabulous again! Obviously, my fears were a waste of time because we now have another amazing nursery

Every single love that

100 MOTHERANDBABY.COM.AU

What was the biggest challenge?

that compliments Hugo’s room and is just as outstanding.

What is your favourite thing about this space? This is a tough one, as it is hard to find the words to describe the feeling I get every time I enter this room. Every single item in the room just works! The way the furniture is placed and the warmth that comes from such a dark wallpaper. There are details everywhere – the anchors on the moccasins, and the personalised spinning top and cushions. Who finds a vintage aeroplane cushion?! I also love that this room will grow with Felix and easily transition into a ‘big boy’ room for him without too much hassle.

PHOTOGRAPHY MARTINA GEMMOLA (WWW.GEMMOLA.COM) INTERIOR DESIGN NEST DESIGN STUDIO (WWW.NESTDESIGNSTUDIO.COM.AU) GET THE LOOK COMPILED BY SAMANTHA DOCHERTY * PRICE APPROXIMATE AND MAY CHANGE DUE TO EXCHANGE RATE

item in the room just works… I also

now. It sits perfectly next to the cot under the amazing sailing ship mobile. It’s a special spot that corner. I also love the custom joinery. Storage is important and I love the big draws and the shelving for displaying items. The wallpaper is simply superb. Its texture is amazing and it has a beautiful shimmer to it in natural light. It will grow with Felix, and I don’t think we will need to change it for the sake of him outgrowing it.

YOUR NURSERY

Jellycat ‘Wilbur’ whale 46cm plush toy, $75.60*

Sheridan ‘Lake Cave’ wall art, $149.95

Cam Cam at Dane Studio baby quilt, $129.95

Beacon Lighting ‘Nuvo’ floor lamp, $329

How to get MEAGAN’S LOOK

Stick to stylish nautical themes, mixing navy, mint and grey. Cush & Co leather Moroccan pouf, $179

Babyletto at Design Kids ‘Hudson’ 3-in-1 convertible cot with toddler conversion kit, $699 Zanui ‘Wood Quad Sailboat’ print, from $39.95

Hobbe ‘Georgetown’ rocking chair, $995

Hamptons Style ‘Long Island’ cushion, $109, ‘Rodeo’ square cushion, $99.95, and rectangle cushion, $79.95

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 101

Join FOR YOUR FREE

Simply join our fantastic mum’s club and complete your profile to receive your own FREE BOUNTY BOX! Personally curated, you’ll receive some of our favourite mum and bub products.

VISIT WWW.BOUNTYREWA

JOIN NOW

*Postage & Handling fees will apply. Items in box may vary. Offer not available to existing Bounty Rewards members.

RDS.COM.AU/BOUNTYBOX

Babu Merino bodysuit, $37* Ergobaby Four Position 360 Carrier, ‘Keith Haring’ Pop, $249

Silver Cross ‘Timble’ knitted bear, $49.95

Peas and Quiet by Gabrielle Tozer (Harper Collins, $24.99)

NEWBORN

GIFTS YOU’LL GO

4moms MamaRoo multicolour plush infant seat, $599.99

GA-GA FOR Need some baby buys inspo to celebrate little one’s arrival? Look no further than these ‘welcome to the world’ ideas… Little Belle fairy house nightlight, $149.95

Louelle Liberty of London gift set (sleeping bag, towel, face washer and collar bib), $235

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Philé monogrammed nursery blanket, $160

WISH LIST

My Little Perfect organic happy wraps, $59 each

Henry and Grace short-sleeve bodysuit, $49.50

Little Sketchy ‘Fox’ birth announcement, from $20

Sheridan ‘Wombie’ hooded baby towel set, $69.95

Lullaby Treasure the Beginnings gift pack, $130

Roots & Wings organic merino bodysuit, $64.95, organic merino drawstring pants, $64.95, and organic merino booties, $39.95

COMPILED BY FIONA WRIGHT *PRICE APPROXIMATE AND MAY CHANGE DUE TO EXCHANGE RATE

I Just Couldn’t Wait to Meet You board book by Kate Ritchie (Penguin, $14.99)

Enchanting Angels playsuits, $29.99 each, and bears, $69.99 each

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best prams THE

OF 2017

Choosing a stroller for your new bub is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s our guide to the top prams and strollers

Glee star Naya Rivera shows off the Joolz Day2.

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OUT AND ABOUT

Super light

BABYZEN YOYO+, $699

Key features:

Suitable for babies from six months old, this is a stylish and savvy little stroller. It weighs just 5.8kg and boasts a maximum load of 15kg. It has a convenient single-handed fold-and-unfold option.

Why we love it: If you have a

small car or apartment (or both!), this zippy little stroller is ideal. It has four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride and an extendable canopy with sun protection (UPF 50+).

GB POCKIT STROLLER, BABIESâ&#x20AC;?Râ&#x20AC;?US, $399

Key features:

Weighing in at a mere 4.3kg, this award-winning feather-light stroller can be used for babies from six months old and folds down to 35cm x 18cm x 25cm. It has a maximum load of 17kg, onehanded push and easy steering. Its front swivel wheels can be locked for stability on uneven surfaces.

Why we love it:

This pint-sized stroller folds down to a handbagsized shape in just two steps, and is great for parents on the move. It is the smallest, most compact stroller currently available and is budget-friendly.

WORDS NICOLA CONVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY GETTY IMAGES

BABY JOGGER CITY TOUR, $479

Suitable for babies six months and older, this stroller is lightweight at just 6.5kg and has a maximum load of 15kg. It folds down to just 56cm x 23cm x 45cm, and the seat adjusts easily with one hand from upright to a generous recline. This is the perfect stroller for the travelling family, and its petite folding size means you can even take it on a plane as carry-on. It also has an extendable canopy with SPF 50+.

Why we love it:

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Great value PHIL & TEDS MOD, $699

Key features:

Suitable from birth, this stroller will take you through to the toddler years and beyond, with a maximum load of 20kg. It weighs in at 12kg and comes in a range of stylish colour combos, plus it has a soft-touch hand-operated brake and adjustable handlebar.

Why we love it:

The Mod has a super-slim width, so it’s easy to get around whether you’re at the shops or squeezing into a café. It has a low centre of gravity and collapses into one of the world's smallest standing stroller folds.

JOIE MIRUS REVERSE-HANDLE STROLLER, $329

MOUNTAIN BUGGY URBAN JUNGLE, $799

Key features:

This stroller offers great longevity, as it’s suitable from the newborn stage to around five years of age (maximum load is 25kg). It weighs 11.2kg and has one-hand fast fold, great manoeuvrability, hand-braking system and a compact stand fold with hidden automatic frame lock.

Why we love it:

This all-terrain stroller is perfect whether you’re navigating the city streets or going on a walk in the countryside.

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Key features:

This light, yet durable, stroller weighs 7.2kg and is suitable from birth, with a maximum load of 17.5kg. It has a soft-touch harness that is gentle on baby’s skin. This Joie Mirus stroller can be paired with the Gemm infant car seat to complete your travel system. The automatic fold lock means the stroller stands when folded, too.

Why we love it:

You can switch easily from front- to rear-facing mode thanks to an easy-to-manoeuvre reversible push bar, so baby can face in or out.

Luxe looks

OUT AND ABOUT

BUGABOO BUFFALO ATELIER, $1949

Key features:

The brand new Atelier collection from Bugaboo is suitable for newborn to around three years of age. It weighs 12.3kg and has a maximum load of 17kg. Inspired by classic French fashion, this limited-edition collection is elegant and modern. The one-piece fold stroller has multiple luggage options, a high, spacious seat and an extendable sun canopy for extra protection.

Why we love it:

It’s as sturdy as it is stylish, and while the black-and-stone colour combo looks great, it’s also robust enough to withstand toddlers and the weather.

JOOLZ DAY² EARTH, $1869

Key features:

Suitable from newborn to toddler stages, with a maximum load of 17kg, this new-andimproved version has lots of upgrades, including an extra-large UV sun hood, light, puncture-proof tyres and a smooth folding design. It weighs just under 13kg and has four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride.

Why we love it:

It looks super stylish and modern, plus it’s compact and narrow with a spacious storage basket underneath. Additionally, the high seat means that you’re close to bub at all times.

CYBEX MIOS STROLLER (INCLUDES FRAME AND MESH SEAT), $959.99 (CARRY COT, $399.99)

Key features:

This elegant stroller will take you from the newborn stage to toddler years, with a maximum load of 22kg. It’s light at just 8.7kg, but doesn’t skimp on stability. The retro-modern seat design features breathable mesh to help regulate your child’s body temperature. It also boasts a storage basket with a capacity of up to 5kg, easy-to-use foot brake and a simple one-hand folding action.

Why we love it:

Compact with a mere 50cm width, the Mios is also flexible, functional and stylish.

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 109

City slickers BUGABOO BEE5, $1079

Key features:

This urban pram is suitable from newborn to toddler stages with a maximum load of 17kg. It’s reasonably lightweight at just under 9kg, and has good manoeuvrability and suspension. It comes in a wide range of fabrics and colours so you can personalise it as you wish. It also turns smoothly so it’s great for nipping around the neighbourhood.

Why we love it :

It’s super stylish as well as compact and comfortable. It’s also very flexible, with a forward- and rear-facing seat, heightadjustable handlebar and backrest, and an extendable sun canopy.

NUNA MIXX2 STROLLER, $1199 (CARRY COT, $359)

Key features:

Suitable from birth through to the toddler years, with a maximum load of 20kg. This super-sleek stroller weighs 11kg, has a five-position recline, opens easily and can be folded down with one hand, regardless of which way the seat is facing.

Why we love it:

With premium fabrics, leather-look accents and chrome wheels, this stroller is great for the style-conscious mum. Plus it has substance with extras that make urban living easier, such as a large storage basket and an oversized, extended canopy. It also folds down flat and compact for easy storage.

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CYBEX BY JEREMY SCOTT PRIAM LUX SEAT AND FRAME, $2499.99 (CARRYCOT, $649.99)

Key features:

A compact, one-hand fold, extra-large sun canopy and reversible seat with full-recline functionality makes this a great choice of wheels for your baby from birth. Everyone from Liv Tyler to Heidi Klum has been spotted with this pram. It’s even featured in Fergie’s M.I.L.F.$ video clip! Also, the seat is high enough to be used a mobile high chair when you’re out and about at restaurants.

Why we love it:

OUT AND ABOUT

Two’s company

JOOLZ GEO² STUDIO PRAM, $2579

Key features:

This stroller packs a big punch, weighing 15kg and supporting up to 40kg. It’s functional and versatile with the option to add an extra seat, whether you’re pushing newborn twins or a bub and toddler.

Why we love it :

It’s the perfect convertible luxury stroller, growing as your family does. It’s stylish and comfortable with extras such as an extra-large basket and canopy with an air top.

Nicky Hilton is mum to daughter Lily Grace and is currently pregnant. She is seen here with the Jeremy Scott for Cybex PRIAM pram.

JOOVY CABOOSE ULTRALIGHT STROLLER, BABIES”R”US, $399.96

Key features:

This lightweight stroller weighs just under 10kg, supports a maximum of 40kg and is suitable for a baby, with an option for an older child to sit or stand on the back platform. Sealed-bearing wheels and four-wheel suspension make it a smooth ride and allow for easy navigation.

Why we love it:

It’s a great, budget-friendly option for mums with a newborn and older toddler.

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YOUR ESSENTIAL

baby planner Prepare for bub’s first six months with this comprehensive checklist

FIRST AID

CLOTHES

Sure, it can be loads of fun dressing up bub as your adorable mini-me, but you’ll need to cover the baby basics as well. Here’s what you’ll need.

Must-haves

■ Six singlets ■ Six jumpsuits (summer or winter style) ■ Six pairs of socks/bootees ■ One sunhat ■ Two beanies ■ Four cardigans ■ Two pairs of scratch mittens

FEEDING

Nikki Phillips in the maternity and nursing wear range at www. jeanswest.com.au

Must-haves

■ Emergency contact numbers (GP, nearest hospital, 24-hour medical services) ■ Guide to administering first aid ■ Book on childhood illnesses ■ Thermometer ■ Antiseptic lotion ■ Band-Aids ■ Sunscreen and lip protection ■ Children’s insect repellent

Optional

When you’re breastfeeding, make it a special time for you and your little one with these pieces.

Must-haves

Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand and you’ll be prepared for any situation that may arise.

■ Ice pack ■ Soothing lotion for insect bites and stings ■ Baby paracetamol (on doctor’s advice only) ■ Antifungal cream

■ Breast pads ■ Maternity bra ■ Nursing top

Infacol Wind Drops, 30ml $10.59 Bubba Organics, May Gibbs range, from $24.95

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Cocalo knitted plush Owl, $19.95

ARMED AND READY

THE NURSERY

Decorating your baby’s room is a great opportunity to indulge your inner interior designer – but what items will you actually need?

Must-haves

■ Cot, ideally with drop-down sides for easy lifting ■ Firm, clean mattress in good condition ■ Two waterproof mattress protectors ■ Two sheet sets ■ Cotton cellular blankets ■ Chest of drawers ■ Muslin wraps ■ Two safe sleeping bags (Red Nose guidelines recommend these as alternatives to blankets)

PHOTOGRAPHY ANTHEA NICOLL, RED RABBIT PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.REDRABBITPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.AU

Optional

■ Bassinet ■ Shelves ■ Change table and mat ■ Comfortable feeding chair ■ Cot/cradle underlay ■ Small table (next to feeding chair for tissues, snacks, etc) ■ Baby monitor ■ Night light ■ Breastfeeding pillow ■ Room thermometer ■ Hanging nappy stacker ■ Portable baby rocker/seat ■ Hanging wardrobe organiser ■ Mosquito net ■ Mobile ■ Toys ■ Toy box with slow-closing safety hinge and air gap ■ CDs and player or smartphone dock ■ Play gym ■ Wall borders and stickers

BATH TIME

Newborns can go through up to 10 nappies a day, so go for comfort and absorbency. Consider quality, cost and performance.

Must-haves

■ Disposable nappies ■ Baby wipes ■ Nappy-rash cream ■ Changing mat or table ■ Disinfectant (for cleaning the mat) ■ Hand sanitiser ■ Cotton-wool balls ■ Bin/nappy tub with sealable lid

■ Baby bath ■ Non-slip bath mat ■ Baby wash and shampoo ■ Cotton-wool balls or pads ■ Four face washers ■ Two soft towels ■ Clean nappy ■ Nappy-rash cream ■ Sorbolene cream ■ Nail scissors

Optional

■ Bath stand ■ Bath thermometer Mater Baby Wash, 500ml, $13.99 ■ Bath toys ■ Hooded towel ■ Baby hairbrush ■ Massage oil (vegetable based)

OUT & ABOUT

Leaving the house with your baby might seem like a daunting task in the early days, so before you venture out, check this list to ensure a smooth ride.

Must-haves

■ Child car restraint ■ Pram/stroller or baby sling/carrier ■ Rain or shade pram cover ■ Nappy bag containing ■ four nappies (minimum) ■ baby wipes and soft tissues

NAPPIES

Bathing is a fantastic opportunity for both mums and dads to bond with their babies. Make sure everything you need is within reach before you start.

■ muslin wraps ■ plastic bags for soiled nappies and clothing ■ small bottle of hand sanitiser ■ change of clothes for bub ■ two bibs ■ baby sunscreen

Must-haves

FOR CLOTH NAPPIES, YOU’LL NEED ■ 20-24 modern cloth nappies or 24-30 traditional cloth squares and fasteners ■ Two buckets with tight-fitting lids ■ Nappy-soaking solution

Optional

■ Plastic nappy covers ■ Nappy liners ■ Small squirt bottle (for hosing cloth nappy contents into the toilet)

Storksak ‘Caroline’ leather nappy bag, $499.99

Optional

■ Disposable change mat ■ Portable high chair ■ Car-window shade ■ Pram blanket ■ Toys ■ Snacks

PREGNANCYLIFE+STYLE 113

CELEB STEALS

I’ll have what

SHE’S HAVING! Be inspired by these celebrity choices and stock up for your impending arrival

Movemamí ‘Shine’ nursing sports bra in Kitty Kat, $89

Ronan Keating and his wife, Storm, shared their travel essentials for a night away with their baby on Instagram, which included the Gro Egg room thermometer.

Movemamí maternity recovery leggings, $149

Gro Egg² digital room thermometer, $49.95

Blogger, Michelle Alan (@mishmac) is spotted out with her bub in a Joolz pram. She’s wearing a nursing top and recovery leggings from maternity and post-partum active wear brand, Movemamí.

We all know model, Chrissy Teigen and singer, John Legend, are gaga for their gorgeous daughter, Luna. John’s pictured here carrying her in a super-comfy carrier while on a recent ‘Original’ holiday to Bali. Ergobaby carrier in natural linen, $219

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TV personality, Lauren Brant’s little bub, Miller, celebrates reaching eight weeks old in a cute dapper ensemble.

WORDS TIFFANY LIM AND DANIELLE SEN

Bugaboo cameleon³, $1869

Australian Netball champion, Laura Geitz enjoys a stroll with her son, pet dog and stylish Bugaboo stroller.

Pappe ‘Ardallie’ cashmere cardigan, $129.95

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