eBaby Sister Lilian Centre since 1988
Advice you can trust Issue 28 • June 2019
Number games •
7 Ways to
involve Dad in pregnancy •
5 C-section
recovery tips •
7 Amazing
massage moves
How to foster
imagination
in small children
It’s time to
fight back! • Tackle constipation in pregnancy • Declare war on family winter woes • Beat unnecessary induction & C-section • Win the buttock rash battle • Overpower plastic domination
HOLDING YOUR NEWBORN Let instinct be your guide
CONTENTS Issue 28 • June 2019
3. Dear Moms & Dads – editor’s message 4. Dear Sister Lilian – we answer your pregnancy and birth questions 5. Dear Sister Lilian – we answer your baby, toddler and parenting questions
Pregnancy
6
6. Tough toilet times – tackling constipation in pregnancy
22. Invest in your baby’s immunity and keep your whole family healthy this coming winter 26. Holding your newborn - instinct will soon kick in if you’re open to your baby’s body language 28. 7 Amazing massage moves – to keep your baby relaxed and healthy, and her skin beautifully smooth 29. Baby bytes
8. Winter warfare - Sister Lilian gets you battle-ready for cold and flu season
»» Coughing isn’t an illness but a symptom
11. Belly talk
»» Baby’s unique breastfeeding clock
»» 7 Ways to involve Dad in pregnancy
»» Probiotics could prevent postpartum depression
»» Breast changes in pregnancy
»» Spitting up vs reflux
»» Arnica in pregnancy
»» Baby-led weaning is safe!
»» Choosing a midwife »» Meat-free Mom-to-be
Toddler
»» Intimate issues
31. A whole new world – how to foster an active imagination in small children
Birth
16
34. KidFeed
14. The marathon mentality changing your mindset can ensure you a better birth 16. The risks of rushing birth – but what if your doctor suggests inducing your labour?
»» The brushing battle »» Epsom salt sleep soother »» Autism red flags »» Two types of play »» Temper tantrum triggers
18. Due date »» Five C-section recovery tips
Parent
»» Once a Caesar is not always a Caesar!
36. Contraceptive choices - an overview to help you make your decision
»» Antenatal classes – to go or not to go
38. What's new on shelf
»» One stage, two stage, three stage, four …
39. Horizons »»
Power over plastics
»»
Tender touch is mindbody therapy
»»
Glorious grapefruit
Baby
28
21. Diarrhoea and buttock rash – safeguard your baby’s sensitive skin
eBaby
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Sister Lilian & Midwife Margreet
Editor's Letter
Dear Moms & Dads How do you like our new look and logo? It is with great excitement and anticipation in my heart that I am writing my very first editors’ letter for eBaby magazine. My name is Margreet Wibbelink, aka ‘The Surfing Midwife’. I am a passionate Midwife Specialist and have recently embarked on this brand-new journey with Sister Lilian Centre. It feels like I am paddling for a very big wave! Thank you, Sister Lilian, for entrusting me with your baby, that has grown up to be a healthy thriving magazine.
motherhood and to do what is intuitively right in an era that values technology and medicalisation more than physiology. • It requires daring to stand up for your and your child’s rights and to make wise choices when all around you follow the path of least resistance. • Every mother, father, baby and child is unique – and we value individuality and diversity. This winter edition is packed with advice you can trust for your pregnancy, birth and beyond. For instance, ‘winter warfare’ will help you tackle cold and flu season effectively and, in addition, we make sure you’re battle-ready against unnecessary labour induction and C-section, two of the greatest violations of your birth rights! Enjoy the beauty of this season, stay warm and healthy.
You will notice change everywhere if you hop on to our website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We chose our new logo, the Protea, which symbolises transformation, courage, daring and diversity, because: • Birth and becoming a parent are two of the most profound transformations in life. • It takes courage to trust the natural processes of pregnancy, birth and
eBaby
Happy reading!
Sister Lilian Centre since 1988
Advice you can trust
Blog
www.sisterlilian.co.za
TEAM eBaby Managing editor Sister Lilian Editor Margreet Wibbelink Business manager Alan Paramor Advertising sales Gillian Richards Design Lise-Mari Coetzee, JBay Studios Email magazines@sisterlilian.co.za Call +27 12 809 3342 Fax2email +27 86 691 2485 Snailmail PO Box 11156, Silver Lakes, Pretoria, 0054 Published by Sister Lilian Centre® Copyright: Sister Lilian Centre®
No part of eBaby online magazine may be reproduced in any format without written consent of the publisher. All rights reserved. Every precaution has been taken to ensure correctness of information, but advice given and opinions expressed in eBaby do not replace a consultation with a health practitioner, nor can responsibility be taken for individual readers’ experiences. However, the publishers and editorial team set great store by ethical, responsible baby and child care advice and firmly believe that the content found here will help improve your parenting experience. eBaby
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Issue 27
Q&A Dear Sister Lilian Pregnancy & Birth I’m 22 weeks and my gynae said that my amniotic fluid levels look a bit down on a quick scan and he’ll check next time again. Would it help if I drink more water? Waiting another four weeks seems so long! Catherine
brought to you by
Problems with amniotic fluid levels are sadly overdiagnosed, and your doctor’s reaction makes me think that this was more a passing comment than genuine concern. Many pregnancies progress just fine with somewhat lower than ‘normal’ amniotic fluid levels; the real cause for concern is when the levels are exceptionally low and get progressively lower over time. Your doctor will check at each visit, but if he doesn’t seem worried about it you shouldn’t be either. If he raises concern at the next visit again, it’d be a good idea to get a second opinion. You’re not doing anything to cause this. Drinking more water won’t help unless you’re very dehydrated. SL
Baby City makes it possible for you to ask Sister Lilian for advice about your pregnancy and birth
What can I do to feel less bloated? I’m 10 weeks pregnant and have never felt as uncomfortable in my life! Bongi
My friend told me that there is a homeopathic remedy that can help turn a breech baby before birth. Is this true and what is it? Cindy
Bloating is common in pregnancy and is often in reaction to a change in diet. Foods which many women increase during pregnancy, and which tend to cause bloating, include refined grain products like cereals, bread, cookies, pasta and pizza; as may dairy products like cheese, milk, and cream.
The remedy Pulsatilla is indeed useful for supporting turning of a breech baby in the womb, so that it then lies with its head down (called vertex presentation). Babies may turn from breech to vertex spontaneously too, right up to when you’re in labour. However, you can safely take a dose of Pulsatilla daily from 32 weeks, to encourage Baby to turn.
Sometimes a pregnancy supplement may cause bloating and even constipation. To test this, stop taking it for a few days and see if your symptoms improve. If your supplement is the culprit, you may need to change brands or try to get all your nutrients from food sources. There are homeopathic remedies which can help relieve bloating, and taking probiotics can help too. SL
Of course, babies can be born in the breech position, so consult an experienced independent midwife if you don’t automatically want a C-section. She may also be able to show you massage techniques to help turn your baby. SL
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Q&A Dear Sister Lilian Baby & Toddler
brought to you by
I’m embarrassed and worried about my twoyear old’s bad breath. What could be the cause at this young age, and what can I do? Nonto Most parents try to cover up bad breath, rather than deal with the cause, so congratulations for wanting to get to the bottom of it. Airway and throat infections, constipation and a diet with lots of grain and dairy products (which can cause excess mucus) are the three main causes in children. Little ones may push small objects up their nostrils and this can cause irritation, leading to bad breath too. Poor oral hygiene may contribute, but this is usually more obvious to parents. Start by increasing fresh fruit and veg in your child’s diet and decreasing bread, baked goodies, pasta, cheese, processed meats, savoury ‘treats’, and beverages other than water, a little fresh juice or rooibos tea. It may seem difficult to do but within three days you’ll notice the difference! You can also use homeopathic remedies for mucus problems to assist you. SL
Baby City makes it possible for you to ask Sister Lilian for advice about your pregnancy and birth
My baby of 11 months hates lumps in her food, yet all the baby foods contain ‘pieces’ for this age group, and I’ve heard that it’s essential that they get texture at this stage. Any advice? Meg While most babies are ready for textured food from about 8–10 months, some still prefer pureed foods – if they’re healthy there’s usually no need for concern. However, the best solution is usually to offer healthy finger foods like cubes of softish pear, a lightly steamed carrot, or a round of sweet potato instead of mushy foods containing small pieces. You should supervise to prevent choking, of course.
My two-month-old will only fall asleep if I rock or carry him. I don’t really mind but am I creating a bad habit? Priya No, you are responding to an emotional need, and that’s good mothering! As your baby grows too heavy, try to replace rocking with rhythmical patting. Co-sleeping at night will usually circumvent the need to rock a baby. For daytime naps, you can hang a mobile over his cot and when the weather is warm, put him under a tree, so that the movement, sounds, swaying branches and fresh air can soothe him to sleep. You can also put your baby in a sling or carrier so that you can rock him while still having your hands free – just make sure he gets lots of floor playtime too. SL
If the problem persists, it may be that your baby has tactile defensiveness, which is more common after a C-section or a difficult birth. Other symptoms include dislike of certain fabrics and labels in clothing, sensitivity to loud noises, and extreme dislike of close contact with people (although being held by close caregivers is mostly fine). If you suspect this, get her checked and treated by an experienced occupational therapist. SL
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Pregnancy
Tough toilet times What you can do about constipation in pregnancy
M
any of the digestive problems of modern humans, including in pregnancy, can be traced back to non-physiological birth practices, not breastfeeding, and over-filling the stomach from babyhood. That may even be true of adult constipation, which is often a chronic condition with its roots in anxiety or stress, suppression of natural urges, digestion-unfriendly eating habits and nutrition which leads to sluggish bowel action. That’s why, in order to break this vicious cycle, an expectant mom should take the messages of her digestive health seriously, while also considering how birth impacts her baby’s future digestive health. Pregnancy truly offers women the opportunity to make necessary changes to their wellbeing and that of their family – carry these forward once Baby is born and you’ll be giving your child one of the most precious gifts possible!
That gut feel is real The digestive system affects not only physical health, but also reflects and affects emotional well-being. The connection between the gut and the brain has also been called the ‘enteric brain’. This is why if you are anxious, you may feel nauseous or have a runny stomach, and why sayings like ‘I feel it in the pit of my stomach’ and ‘a gut-wrenching experience’ evolved. These feelings occur because the gastrointestinal tract and the brain regularly communicate and influence each other. All strong emotions can trigger actual digestive symptoms or changes, which is why conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation could be the result or the cause of anxiety or stress. Research has also shown that increased levels of non-pathological ‘helpful’ bacteria in the gut could reduce stress and anxiety levels too. When a baby is born, a crucial event that cannot be seen by the human eye takes place, and could determine the lifelong digestive and general health of that baby. This is the seeding or establishment of the baby’s microbiome, which occurs exclusively during vaginal birth by exposure to the mother’s bacteria. Continued on page 7
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Pregnancy
But why constipation? Unfortunately, many women struggle with constipation during pregnancy. To make things worse, most laxatives can’t be used because they can cause dehydration and irritate the womb into contractions. What’s a mom-to-be to do?
1. Eat at least five pieces of fruit and drink 1.5 litres
of water daily 2. Sip a cup of boiling water first thing in the
morning and last thing at night 3. Eat your main meal at midday instead of at night
as often as possible, and don’t eat shortly before going to sleep
Constipation isn’t unexpected when you consider the changes your body is undergoing. The biggest culprits are the hormones progesterone and relaxin, which help relax your muscles and ligaments for birth. That’s good, but unfortunately, they also relax the muscles of your bowel wall and this may weaken the peristaltic action.
4. Take omega-3-rich supplements like linseed
Your iron supplement can cause constipation too – your stools may even turn dark green or black! This is usually accompanied by bloating and abdominal discomfort. Chronic constipation from supplements may even lead to headache.
7. Walk briskly for 20–30 minutes most days – all
Interestingly, women who suffer from constipation before falling pregnant sometimes find relief while expecting, precisely due to the progesterone and relaxin factor. As the bowel muscle loses a little of its ‘tension’, peristalsis returns to its normal rhythms, with softer stools and more regular voiding the result.
Ten natural laxatives It’s always best to approach problems with the body’s normal function as naturally as possible. Often, taking medicine for relatively mild conditions like constipation yields side-effects which you may find worse than the original problem. And, let’s face it, constipation is mostly a lifestyle disorder which can easily be sorted out. All it takes is determination to change a few basic things! Try these ten tips for speedy resolution of constipation in pregnancy:
or flaxseed 5. Use homeopathic remedies for constipation 6. Make enough time to go to the toilet so
you don’t have to suppress the urge – this causes the stool to dry out and be more difficult to pass
exercise impacts the internal muscles favourably as well 8. Swimming, or relaxing in a bath will stimulate
bowel action 9. Stop taking your iron supplements to test them
and swap brands if necessary – constipation will disappear within a day or two if the supplement is the cause, and will resume if you start the supplement again 10. Massage the midpoint of the underside of the
heel of your left foot with your knuckle for 2–3 minutes a few times daily – this easy-to-do, safe reflexology tip will stimulate your bowel action within a few days of starting it
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Pregnancy
Winter warfare!
Sister Lilian gets you battle-ready for cold and flu season
C
olds and flu generally aren’t risky for Mom or Baby, but they need to be treated to avoid secondary infections. Yet many medications can’t be used during pregnancy! Here’s Sister Lilian’s natural approach to three common winter woes:
1. Fighting flu As soon as you feel that sore throat starting, take Ferrum phos and Calc phos tissue salts every two hours. Also: • Drink a mug of boiling water containing two teaspoons of fresh lemon juice, a teaspoon of organic honey, and some fresh grated ginger, twice a day • Rest lots and drink more healthy fluids like water and fresh orange juice • Take a remedy containing echinacea to strengthen your immune system’s fighting ability See a doctor if the symptoms persist or you’re feverish.
2. Combatting coughing To soothe a nagging cough, rub vaporising gel on an under-garment which covers your chest, once a day. You can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a humidifier and run it overnight – just wash and dry it every morning! Make Sister Lilian’s natural cough mixture too: • Peel an onion, cut it into rings and place them in a glass jar • Cover the onion rings with organic honey, close the jar, and leave for at least four hours • Remove the onion rings and take a teaspoon of the frothy honey mixture two to three times a day See a doctor if you cough badly or breathing is painful.
3. Nuking nasal congestion A blocked nose is common during pregnancy because extra tissue fluid accumulates in the membranes. In this case, it probably won’t clear up until you’ve given birth! However, many women eat more dairy and grain products for calcium and energy during pregnancy, and these foods can cause excess mucus. Try cutting down on them and opting for healthier food sources instead and you might just be breathing easy once again! Continued on page 9
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Pregnancy
Go on the winter offensive! Winter health is all about investing in a strong immune system before winter. Prevention is always better – and more pleasant – than cure. Mother Nature has designed your immune system in such a way that it’s quite easy for you to support its well-being, for instance in these six ways: 1. Eat more fruit and veggies – have at least five, and
preferably seven, portions a day; reach this easily by starting your day with 1-2 pieces of fruit, having a mid-morning banana smoothie, taking a large salad to work for lunch, eating 1-2 dates as a pick-me-up energy booster mid-afternoon, starting your dinner with a fresh salad, and including more veggies than animal protein in your meal 2. Get lots of fresh air and sunshine – this could mean
you need to walk to the closest park at lunchtime or in your home neighbourhood after work, as well as making full outdoor use of South Africa’s amazing weather over the weekends 3. Do appropriate physical activities you enjoy –
‘movement therapy’, we call it – not only does this elevate your mood (and destressing is immuneenhancing) but the stronger and more toned your body, the greater your resistance to disease will be 4. Keep a positive outlook – your mind and psyche are
your strongest allies in the fight against disease and you can influence them by doing fun things that make you happy, as well as helping others 5. Pay heed to your body’s messages – you may need
a bit of extra R&R to restore your energy levels, especially if you live life so intensely that you seldom take time to pamper yourself 6. Take homeopathic immune boosters and proven
natural pregnancy supplements
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Issue 27
GINGER EXTRACT
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GINGER EXTRACT
Pregnancy
Breast changes in pregnancy You might notice these changes to your breasts during pregnancy:
7 Ways to involve Dad in pregnancy A pregnant woman is often the centre of attention and Dad may feel a bit left out. Sometimes, to set this right, all it takes is to assure him of your love for, and pride in him. Also: 1. Bring Dad to ultrasounds, doctor’s appointments
and antenatal classes - he’ll see how Baby develops, and can ask all his questions too. 2. Decorate the nursery together - this is a fun
project to tackle together while you chat about your parenting dreams. 3. Give him a Father’s Day gift even during
pregnancy! 4. Pick out names together. 5. As soon as Baby starts kicking, allow him to feel
and see your belly move. 6. Include him in your baby shower. This isn’t
traditional, but times change, and many women are starting to invite men to their showers. 7. Ask him! Chat about what you can do to make
him feel more included – he may have some fantastic ideas!
• Tenderness and feeling full – this should pass by the second trimester; wear a comfortable, supportive maternity bra • Burning or shooting pains – take the tissue salt Ferrum phos for relief • Unequal size – this is normal for non-pregnant women too, it’s just more noticeable now; don’t worry unless you are feverish or have extreme pain on one side • Prominent blue veins – simply due to the added blood vessel network • Increased size – your breasts can gain up to 450g • Leaking colostrum – it’s normal and you can leave it on or rub it into your nipples
Arnica in pregnancy Although taking homeopathic arnica is safe in pregnancy, it’s best to take it after birth, when it will help you heal. It is intended to heal, not prevent, and is useful after both caesarean and normal birth. Remember, only the herbal form could cause bleeding, and not the homeopathic remedy. However, it is safe to use diluted herbal arnica oils and creams externally on unbroken skin to help relieve aches, pains and bruises during pregnancy.
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MATERNITY/LABOUR KIT 8 Remedies and a topical oil, to facilitate a healthy pregnancy term, ease the labour process and enhance recovery in both natural birth and caesarian section. tel: 021 712 0324 • email: info@pegasuskits.com www.pegasuskits.com
Pregnancy
Intimate issues Pregnancy brings about lots of changes – for both you and your partner – so it’s not surprising that your love life will change a bit too. Common concerns include: • Women feeling insecure about their changing bodies
Choosing a midwife
• Men feeling that women should be treated gently so there shouldn’t be any lovemaking
An experienced midwife in private practice is most likely to give you a happy, safe, and empowering birth experience based on dedicated professional care and easy access to information supplied by a knowledgeable person. A midwife is not only fully trained to handle normal deliveries and offer personalised support for the mom-to-be, but can also recognise when medical intervention is necessary. There will also be more time to address your individual concerns and offer you personal support than when you have a traditional medical birth – this can be very reassuring if you’re anxious about birth. Most medical aids reimburse private midwifery services, at least in part. Individual rapport is vital, so carry out a few ‘interviews’ and choose someone you like and get on well with, just as you should with an obstetrician. You can also find a midwife on the Sister Lilian Centre website.
• Couples feeling embarrassed because it feels like Baby is watching them! Most women need some extra tenderness and caring during pregnancy, and lovemaking is a perfect time for Dads-to-be to show their partners how much they mean to them. It’s also a time when women often feel intuitive and hormonally powerful, and they’re keener on lovemaking than ever – if the couple’s emotional connection is good. The key here is communication; let your partner know that you’re keen and that it’s safe. As for your new curves; most men find them delightful!
Meat-free Mom Many women go off meat while pregnant. Others, who eat an animal-based, protein-rich diet, complain of indigestion and heartburn. Ultimately, the pregnant body generally battles to tolerate fatty foods, which are mostly animal foods, including dairy. Vegans can have a healthy pregnancy and baby! All you need to do, is eat as much of the fruit, vegetables and whole, unprocessed legume and grain foods as your tummy desires. If you are a vegetarian, take care not to overdo dairy and processed produce.
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Birth
The marathon mentality
Changing your mindset can ensure you a better birth
A
fter nine months of pregnancy, most women can’t wait for it all to be over. They see labour as a marathon, and while there are some similarities, pregnancy was your excellent time of preparation. You’re not just dumped into the ‘race’ without any training! If you approach labour and birth with this mindset you should have a much better birth!
marathon mentality, but most of all, remember that giving birth is a life experience – one you and Baby are perfectly designed for!
A good start Take things slowly when your contractions start. Go back to sleep if they strike at night and take a deep warm bath – or shower, if your water has broken – to soothe any discomfort. You’ll only need to go to the hospital or birth centre when your contractions are regular and strong. Until then read, water the garden, take a stroll, or even dance with your partner!
Labour’s bad reputation – often fuelled by the horror stories the media and moms love to share – plays a big part in making it the less-than-perfect experience many women think it will be. Ponder this – labour is a natural part of the pregnancy process; right along with your growing belly and strange cravings. Dreading labour literally makes it worse! Anxiety makes labour more difficult because it triggers adrenalin and raises your cortisol levels, suppressing the hormones which make labour easier and provide natural pain relief. How sad; how bad is that? Here we share a few ways to get your mindset right and into the
Prime position To help speed things up and reduce pain, walk, dance, stand, squat, and even kneel on all fours. When you need to rest, sit backwards on an armless chair to keep your pelvis splayed. Upright positions are best for giving birth, but choose whatever position you feel most comfortable in. Continued on page 15
Photo by: Nicole Honeywill www.sincerelymedia.com
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Birth
someone to wipe your face, give you a massage, or simply encourage you. Some simple but very useful birth items you should pack include:
Pace yourself Stay patient and don’t try to rush things. Play soothing music to help you relax and get a massage with arnica oil for backache. You’re going to need your stamina, so nibble throughout to keep your energy levels up – fruit is a great option. Sip on water or rooibos tea for hydration, and keep your bladder empty so that it doesn’t slow Baby’s progress. As your contractions build in strength, so does your natural painkiller release. Mother Nature has an answer, if you’ll just relax enough for her to show it!
• Lip balm to soothe lips chapped from the heavy breathing • Warm socks so your feet don’t get cold • Hair elastics to keep your hair off your hot neck • A hot water bottle and an ice pack – use whichever works best for you • Arnica oil – for a massage to help ease backache
Get a support team
Take it in your stride
Research and read up about birth beforehand and carefully choose the setting that appeals to you most, and support people to be with you at the birth – your partner and perhaps your mother or a doula. It makes such a difference to have
It’s a good idea to have an idea of what you would like for your birth, but remember that things don’t always go according to plan. Be flexible and go with the flow; the birth you end up having can still be the best birth for you.
Birth with a midwife One of the best ways to have a fear-free birth is to use the services of an independent midwife, because then you are guaranteed to have a birth focused on you and Baby without the interference of protocols, shift changes, and added stress. Adding a doula to your birth team enhances the emotional support you will receive too, and thus your birth experience. Check out the midwives registered on the Sister Lilian Centre website.
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Birth
The risks of rushing birth What if your doctor suggests inducing your labour?
A
3. Increased labour pain: Induction
n induced labour is started medically, not naturally. Synthetic oxytocin is given to you either vaginally, in tablet form, via a drip, or a combination of these, and contractions usually start soon afterwards.
contractions are generally a lot stronger, and you’re more likely to need strong pain relief. These medications could make you woozy and nauseous, detracting from your experience of the birth, and cause possible negative side-effects for Baby, like fetal distress or suppressed breathing after birth.
Certain medical conditions do make induction preferable to waiting for spontaneous labour to start, but often, labour is induced simply because a woman goes over her supposed due date. The procedure is also often used to suit either the doctor’s or the family’s calendar. Considering the many potential adverse effects of induction, it is quite unethical of a medical professional to suggest one for no real reason. These seven induction risks are of special concern:
4. Postpartum haemorrhage: Excessive
bleeding after birth has been shown to be far more likely after induction because natural oxytocin production, which would work to contract the uterine muscle after birth, has been derailed by synthetic oxytocin. 5. An unsuccessful induction: Sometimes an
induction fails to initiate labour, causing fetal stress and possibly leading to a C-section or other interventions.
1. Hormone interference: By taking synthetic
oxytocin to induce labour, you’re interfering with your body’s ability to make oxytocin naturally. This will make your labour more difficult and Baby will be robbed of this hormone’s positive effects after birth too. This could lead to difficulty breastfeeding or bonding with Baby, and to behavioural difficulties later on.
6. Negative feelings for the mother regarding
the birth: It should be one of the most transformative, empowering experiences of her life, but not only will this not be the case, she is also more liable to postnatal depression after the use of synthetic oxytocin.
2. Being born too early: Even being born a
7. Death: Studies have indicated that induction
few days too early could lead to respiratory complications, neonatal jaundice, and greater difficulty stabilising temperature and bloodsugar levels. In addition, you might be in for far higher hospital and therapy bills.
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can result in the death of about 1 in 10 000 women, caused by amniotic fluid embolism (AFE); research shows that 50%–70% of AFE is ‘associated’ with induction.
Continued on page 17
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Am I even overdue? When you go for your first antenatal checkup, your doctor or midwife will give you an estimated date of delivery (EDD), based on your last normal menstrual period. This date often coincides with the prediction of an early scan done between 12 and 16 weeks. Research shows that this scan date is the most accurate prediction of when your baby will be born. Despite this, a woman’s due date is often brought forward as her pregnancy progresses! Make sure to question this with your caregiver.
CALCIUM CHEWABLE
Remember that while 40 weeks is the average, a baby is said to be born at ‘term’ if labour starts naturally between 37 and 42 weeks – yes, 42 weeks! Left to nature, most babies will be born between the end of the 39th week and 41 weeks. In Denmark, based on research into induction, the policy of waiting until 42 weeks for labour to start spontaneously, was adopted for low-risk women, as the data showed that 70% of all pregnant women will go into spontaneous labour by 42 weeks gestation. Rather than rushing your baby’s birth, you can choose to be monitored more closely towards the end of your pregnancy. If there’s no medical reason to induce, allow your labour to start naturally. Not only will your birth be easier, but there will be far fewer risks to you and your baby.
Calcium is critical for many metabolic functions. 99% of the body’s calcium is found as part of the structure of bone and teeth. 1% is found in plasma and body cells and is crucial for functions such as blood clotting, nerve impulse conduction and muscle contraction. Calcium supplementation assists in maintaining and ensuring healthy strong bones.
GET THE FULL ZINPLEX RANGE AT YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY AND SELECTED RETAIL STORES
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Manufactured for and on behalf of House of Zinplex (Pty) Ltd. t: 086 111 9462 | Issue 27
f: 012 803 9283 w: www.zinplex.co.za | e: info@zinplex.co.za
Birth
Once a Caesar is not always a Caesar! About 70% of vaginal births after a Caesarean section (VBAC) are successful. Many unnecessary C-sections are done for a ‘too big baby’, ‘too little amniotic fluid’ or a ‘calcifying placenta’. If the reasons were really good and recur, or you feel burning pain in your scar or deep beneath it, a repeat C-section is, of course, best on the day.
Five C-section recovery tips
Chat to your midwife or doctor in good time if you would like a VBAC, remembering that they might not have experience of, or know as much about VBAC as you do. If you give birth in an upright position, your labour will progress far better than if you’re lying down, adding to the safety of a VBAC. Some research shows that healing from a C-section wound is complete after about four months, but for safety, it’s generally advised to allow a year to pass since your last pregnancy.
See your doctor immediately if you have any signs of infection such as fever, bad smelling vaginal discharge, or excessive pain over the lower abdomen or scar area. Follow these tips for ease of recovery: 1. Cup your interlaced hands around your wound
for some gentle but secure support when you laugh, sneeze or cough. 2. Rest a lot in bed on the first day, but do ankle
It’s best to avoid inducing labour and having an epidural during a VBAC. An induction will place abnormal pressure on your uterine muscle, and an epidural could hide any symptoms of tearing. Chat to your midwife about other pain relief options, including the many natural ones available. Your doctor may hesitate about the safety of a VBAC, but many women have had one successfully with the dedicated help of a private midwife and an experienced obstetrician as back-up.
and calf exercises every hour. 3. Lie as flat as possible for the first day after spinal
anaesthesia to help prevent head- and backache. 4. Wear slippers with a slight heel to make walking
upright easier. 5. Wait until at least six weeks before starting a full
exercise programme or picking up heavy objects; from about two weeks you can take gentle walks.
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Birth
Antenatal classes – to go or not to go A good antenatal class can be invaluable, covering all your labour and birth options as well as dealing with pregnancy niggles and early baby care. You will meet other soon-to-be parents and classes also help partners to understand what to expect and how to be supportive. Costs of classes differ, so get quotes and compare, and know that most medical aids will reimburse you. Ideally, you should start an antenatal course between 22 and 26 weeks so you have time to make important decisions about caregivers, clinics and birth options. Later in pregnancy, you will likely be tired, and attending classes on a weekend or at night will be more difficult for you. Ask other parents for recommendations, but classes are also advertised in the classified section of baby magazines, at doctors’ rooms and on the Sister Lilian Centre website. Private hospitals may offer classes on their premises and the Sister Lilian Centre has an easy-to-do, special online antenatal course which you can do in the comfort of your own home.
One stage, two stage, three stage, four … Baby has arrived, your placenta is out, and the next few hours are known as the fourth stage of labour. Often, the fourth stage is a time filled with procedures such as weighing, measuring and checking Baby’s vitals. While these are important, they’re seldom urgent, or necessary to perform in an intrusive manner. You have a right to insist on what you (and your baby!) need most. Oxytocin, the hormone essential for bonding and breastfeeding success, is at its highest ever in the first few hours after birth, if the fourth stage is a gentle one. Ask for the lights to be turned down, and that the room be kept quiet and warm, and also put Baby skin-to-skin as soon as possible to maximise the benefits.
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Issue 27
Baby
Diarrhoea & buttock rash D
iarrhoea is one of the prime causes of buttock rash in babies. Looser stools with one or two extra bowel movements per day is not diarrhoea, which is usually characterised by lots of loose stools per day accompanied by nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, fever and feeling ill.
What causes diarrhoea? Diarrhoea can be caused by a tummy bug or something which a little one has eaten or had to drink, or even by some medicines. Teething can also cause looser stools, although this shouldn’t develop into full-blown diarrhoea. Some little ones simply have a sensitive digestive system - if their weight gain, appetite, milestones, and general health are still good then there’s no need to worry. If diarrhoea gets worse quickly, lasts longer than 24 hours, or there are other worrying symptoms, you should see a doctor. Even if your little one isn’t that ill, he’ll need some special attention to prevent or treat dehydration and buttock rash. Homeopathic remedies can be effective and should be given orally after each loose stool. Also offer your
little one frequent sips of water, rooibos tea or a rehydration solution.
Loose stools and rash strategies The sensitive skin of the nappy area is particularly prone to irritation, burning and blistering when a little one has loose stools. Antibiotics may deplete the healthy bacteria of the body which would normally protect buttock skin cells from rash. The best way to avoid buttock rash when Baby has diarrhoea is to: • Thoroughly wash Baby's buttocks in a basin of water at each nappy change, not just wiping with a cloth or using cotton wool and oil • Use fabric or bamboo nappies, but take into account that detergents and softeners may also irritate sensitive skin • Allow the buttock area to breathe freely, so give Baby some ‘birthday suit’ play time at nappy changes • Add a cup of rooibos tea to the water • Apply a zinc-based buttock spray to prevent and treat rash
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Planning a zero-nappy rash life for your baby Every Mom dreads the prospect of trying to get rid of painful nappy rash. Fortunately, your baby can have smooth, blemishfree buttocks… with zinc-enriched ZINPLEX BABY BUM SPRAY. Buy it during pregnancy already so that your baby has its benefits from Day One! Zinc has been acclaimed for its skin-healing, antiseptic and antiinflammatory properties for thousands of years, so use convenient ZINPLEX BABY BUM SPRAY at every nappy change to help: • Protect your baby’s sensitive buttock skin from rash • Keep irritants away from direct buttock skin contact • Moisturise, soothe and heal dry, red and painful skin
For more information, visit www.zinplex.co.za
Baby
Invest in your baby’s immunity Building immunity will keep your whole family healthy this coming winter
N
Breastfeed for Baby’s health
o parent wants to see their baby sick. Fortunately, there are many tricks and tips to keep your baby fighting-fit.
By breastfeeding your baby for as long as possible, and feeding whenever your baby is hungry, not according to a schedule, you could help to prevent or alleviate allergies, colds, a range of infections, diabetes, pneumonia, salmonella and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) – and that’s just to name a few! This doesn’t mean breastfed babies will never get sick, but when they do, the illness is often shorter and less severe.
First things first! There are three essential tools in your health cabinet, if you are to be ‘Doctor Mom’ to your little ones: 1. Courage: To become more proactive in your
baby’s health, you’ll need to give your little one fewer harsh medications, which could be difficult at first, but will become increasingly easy as your see how your baby becomes healthier.
Four ways to build your baby’s immunity • Massage your baby. Research has shown that therapeutic massage strengthens resistance to illness. • Only introduce solids after six months, and offer fruits and yellow vegetables as Baby’s first foods. • One-on-one care in the early years (from a trusted, trained nanny or a loving granny, for example) is often a good solution if day care seems to be causing frequent illness. • Give your baby lots of extra love and attention.
2. Patience: Nursing your baby through an illness
requires time and lots of TLC if the cycle is not to simply be repeated. Your reward will be that your little one becomes sick less often. 3. Maternal instinct: Many moms simply ‘know’
when something is really wrong. If that little inner voice continues to niggle, take your child to a doctor, but combine your maternal instinct with courage and patience when you make a decision on treatment options.
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Baby
Mealtime immunity for the whole family Apply these principles, and food will become your natural link to a strong immune system: • Eat simple, wholesome, fresh foods and reduce the amount of animal fats, proteins and harmful additives in your diet • Eat with gratitude and acknowledge the nurturing value of food • Buy organic food whenever possible
and irritation from cold, dry air are all causes of excess mucus. If anyone in the family comes down with blocked nose, postnasal drip or sinus congestion, give a homeopathic remedy for mucus to nip it in the bud. 2. Sore throat
Symptoms of sore throat include a change in your child’s voice, a loss of appetite and constant clearing of the throat. To treat a sore throat:
• Include fresh produce from all of nature’s colour groups
• Give a homeopathic remedy for sore throat three to five times a day.
• As winter approaches, feed your family plenty of fruit, dates, fresh coconut, pure honey and nuts – all known to improve immunity.
• Offer thin soups or liquidised food instead of solid food.
Out-of-the-box immunity tips • Regularly tap into the power of Mother Nature by going for a walk, sitting alongside a river, or game and bird watching – with Baby. • Happiness is important for health – embrace family and friends, and appreciate the little things in life. • Don’t hand over all responsibility for your family’s health and read up about natural health therapies too.
Become a mucusbuster Winter bugs very often have two common starting points – mucus build-up and a sore throat. Deal with these two symptoms quickly, and more serious respiratory disease is unlikely.
• If the air is cold and dry, run a warm-air humidifier. • Offer older toddlers and children a drink of hot water with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice and two teaspoons of honey.
Middle ear infections Little ones will mostly develop a fever. Other symptoms that will alert you to a possible middle ear infection include a thick discharge from the nose or ears if the eardrum has burst, Baby may not like lying down, pain in the region of the ear, and a higher-pitched cry than normal. If Baby seems very ill, see the doctor. Otherwise, try these five tips: 1. If you are not breastfeeding, change to an
allergy formula, and avoid or reduce grain and dairy products. 2. Give a homeopathic remedy for mild earache.
1. Too much mucus
All mucus membranes are coated with a light layer of mucus to keep them moist and healthy, but too much mucus provides an excellent place for disease-causing organisms to grow. Poor resistance in winter, certain hearty winter foods
3. Place a warm hot-water bottle against the
affected side. 4. Keep Baby upright as often as possible. 5. Press their little toes with your thumb or index
fingertip for a reflexology tip to help.
23 Continued on page 24
Soothe, Heal and Protect BABY GLYCERINE SOAP BAR
Keeping your baby’s skin moisturized and free of redness.
Baby
Baby
Fever Fever in itself is not a disease, but is the body's way of fighting off inflammation or infection. Normal body temperature is 36–37°C. If Baby is warmer than normal, measure his temperature accurately. A fever of over 39°C, or if it continues for longer than a day or two or there are sudden high peaks, needs treatment - see your doctor. To help control a raised temperature: • Give Baby the tissue salt Ferrum phos during the day. • Undress Baby and keep only a vest and nappy on. • Cool the room by opening all windows and turning on an electric fan, but don’t put your little one in the draught.
Ad
• Wrap cool wet linen cloths around legs and arms, renewing every few minutes. • Bathe Baby in lukewarm water. • At night and if the fever peaks higher than 39°C, give a fever medication suggested by your pharmacist.
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Help fight Allergies, Congestion and Sinus
The natural way with an ELEKTRA HEALTH HUMIDIFIER which has all the benefits of either Warm or Cool Steam in one unit by simply adjusting the Selection Control button. • Built-in Ioniser • Aromatherapy holder • Provides efficient relief from the discomfort of dry air • Large 7.5 litre tank • Humidifies for up to 60 hours. COOL / WARM STEAM
Silent operation & run-dry protection feature. You’ll wonder how you ever did without it!
www.sp-africa.com eBaby
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S & P Africa
Baby
Holding your
newborn
Instinct will soon kick in if you’re open to your baby’s body language
D
elicate as they may seem just after birth, full-term babies are actually pretty tough. In fact, Baby needs the snug pressure of Mom’s hold to give her a sense of security, so don’t worry about holding her too firmly.
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Photo by: Nicole Honeywill www.sincerelymedia.com
Baby
Most of Baby’s back should roll back against your forearm. Then, slip the other hand around Baby’s buttocks from the side closest to you, and lift her toward your body, allowing her head to rest against your chest, or her chin over your shoulder.
Just after birth Straight after birth, lift your newborn directly onto your chest. Here, Baby’s heavy head and wonky neck will cradle safely between your breasts. This simple action usually removes all anxiety about handling Baby, especially if you hold her skin-toskin. Continued skin-to-skin contact has numerous benefits for you and Baby, from promoting bonding to preventing postnatal depression and making breastfeeding easier.
3. Looking ahead
Many babies love looking forwards. With Baby lying on her back on a bed, position yourself at her feet. Place one arm, with your hand palm-up, on the bed alongside Baby. Roll her onto her tummy on your forearm and support her jawline along your thumb and forefinger. Slip your other forearm under Baby’s lower abdomen and pick her up against your tummy.
Until about three months, Baby’s neck muscles aren’t strong enough to hold her head up. This means that you’ll need to support Baby’s head and neck whenever lifting her. Here’s how to pick her up with head and neck in mind:
Dad’s hands
1. Madonna position Stand at baby’s side. Use the hand closest to her feet to cup and lift her head and neck. Then, slip your other hand and arm down the length of Baby’s back, starting from her head, until it cradles in the crook of your elbow. Now slip your first hand under Baby’s buttocks from the side furthest from you and lift Baby against your body.
Dad’s touch is often different to Mom’s – his skin is likely a bit rougher, his hold is a little firmer, and his hands may cup most of Baby’s body. This very special touch is just as important to Baby’s sense of security and learning, so Dad shouldn’t worry about hurting Baby.
You are your baby’s safe place As one of its special effects, the hormone prolactin gives you the capacity for tender mothering and the instinct to hold your baby in the best possible way.
2. Upright Baby
Roll Baby slightly to one side to face you. With the hand closest to her feet, reach behind her and cup her head, allowing her neck to rest on your wrist.
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Baby
7 Amazing
massage moves Keep your baby relaxed and healthy, and her skin beautifully smooth with these massage moves
1
2
Keep one hand on Baby’s shoulder and massage around the nipples with flat fingers of your other hand; also rub clockwise around Baby’s lower abdomen – this is great for relaxation and easing tummy cramps.
4
‘Milk’ Baby’s legs (and arms!), using alternating hands and pulling gently from thigh to foot – this helps stimulate muscle strength and is very enjoyable.
3
Pull Baby’s abdominal flesh up toward the navel, using alternate hand strokes – this helps stimulate Baby’s sense of touch, and her circulation.
5
Place one hand on Baby’s chest, the other on Baby’s tummy, and alternate downward strokes – this is deeply soothing.
6
Start with Baby’s arms stretched out to the sides at shoulder height, then cross them over her chest by crossing your arms – stretching tones muscles and stimulates circulation.
With one hand over Baby’s shoulder, do circular thumb massage alongside her spine with the other hand and then reverse – this is great for the nerve network from the spinal column, and for before Baby’s bedtime.
Models: Mom Roxy and Baby Priya Zowitsky
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Support Baby’s foot in one hand and using your thumb, ‘walk’ all over the soles and sides of her foot – this stimulates key reflexology points and will help to calm Baby.
Baby
Baby’s unique breastfeeding clock For Baby’s first few days, she’ll suckle every one to four hours, drinking small amounts at a time because she has a small tummy. After Day 3, Baby may feed every one to four hours, sometimes closer, sometimes further apart. At three months she’ll feed every two to five hours, influenced by growth spurts and even anxiety. From six months it’s every two to six hours, her pattern gradually changing as she starts eating solid foods.
Coughing isn’t an illness but a symptom Coughing isn’t always serious and while you should see your doctor if your little one seems quite ill, you can do a lot to help relieve it. If you can hear mucus in Baby’s airways, place a capful of Friar’s Balsam in a basin of boiling water; take care that she doesn’t burn and let her breathe in the vapour. If you can’t hear mucus in the airways, try to avoid allergy triggers, and use a humidifier during at night. Should the cough sound painful and Baby’s chest pulls inward, see the doctor, but also use a humidifier at night and apply vaporising gel to the chest and throat, or onto a vest if her skin becomes red. For irritation coughs caused by a postnasal drip give a homeopathic mucus remedy but decrease processed foods, and dietary colourants, flavourants and preservatives too. Intermittent, painful cough spasms could be a chest infection – you should see the doctor but also use a humidifier, or add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to Baby’s bath.
For the first few days each feed will last for 5–20 minutes. From Day 4 it’ll take 30–90 minutes, and at six weeks 30–60 minutes, both scenarios including a few ‘courses’, interspersed with nappy changes, burping and power naps. The number of courses per feed will reduce from three months and feeds take 30-45 minutes, including burping and nappy changes. From six months babies usually have one ‘course’ lasting 10–30 minutes.
Probiotics could prevent postpartum depression There’s growing evidence to show that the community of bacteria living in the intestine (also called the gut microbiota) might be very important for improving mental health. A recent study, which was reported in EBioMedicine, discovered that women who were given the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HN001) during pregnancy and after birth, had significantly lower depression and anxiety scores in the postnatal period. The researchers state that this probiotic may be useful for the prevention or treatment of symptoms of depression and anxiety postpartum. Now that’s something to digest if you’re feeling more than the more common baby blues. 29
Baby
Spitting up vs reflux Almost 70% of healthy babies spit up once a day, and it always seems like more milk than it actually is. Coercing babies to drink more than they are naturally able to will result in more spitting up. Your baby may have true reflux if he constantly spits up milk after and between feeds. With mild reflux Baby will continue to gain weight, reach his milestones and thrive and you need not be concerned. Serious reflux will make Baby cry for most of the day, especially during or immediately after a feed. Other true reflux symptoms include screaming when asleep, clenching his fists, arching his back after feeds, and refusal to feed. The vomited milk may have a bit of blood and Baby may develop a constant cough. To help, feed Baby smaller amounts more frequently; keep him upright and handle him gently for 30 minutes after a feed; place a purpose-made wedge under Baby’s mattress; use a reflux or antiregurgitation formula in formula-fed babies; and if you’re breastfeeding, substantially reduce the amount of dairy and grain products in your diet.
Baby-led weaning is safe! The Sister Lilian Centre has for decades advocated that mothers carefully observe and heed their babies’ cues and body language with respect to many basic ‘milestones’, like sleep cycles and feeding patterns, precisely because this more intuitive and sensitive approach yields far more adaptation success for little ones, less tension in the home and greater mothering enjoyment.
Super Soft for maximum comfort Breathable & Ultra-thin Keeps you dry Day and Night *Weight of 1 piece breast pad
Now, recent research suggests that letting babies feed themselves solid foods from as young as six months does not increase the risk of them choking, compared to spoon-feeding them. Yay! Not that we think research was needed, but we’re glad that Swansea University took the time to gather the evidence, even if ‘not choking’ was the main focus of the study. Bottom line – baby-led weaning not only makes common sense, but is safe too.
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Issue 27
A whole new world It’s so important for a young child to have an active imagination, but it can sometimes be difficult to foster this.
A
ccording to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, imagination can be defined as ‘the act or power of forming a mental image of something not present to the senses or never before wholly perceived in reality.’ It’s an integral part of creativity and the ability to confront and deal with a problem, and involves the thinking or active mind running free. With children, imagination will especially be fostered during unstructured and sufficient play. Children simply do not play enough anymore. Really play, that is. Play, as in dream up their own games, let imagination take them to whole new worlds, and invent solutions to the problems they encounter in their child-world. We are all born with an ability to play. Do everything you can to encourage playfulness from babyhood. Both you and your child will reap the rewards for the rest of your lives! Continued on page 32
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Toddler
Toddler
Two enemies of imagination 1. Toy kits: Often these are so wonderful that they leave little scope for a child to discover the world.
The kits are designed to stimulate all manner of senses, yet often these very tools of play are keeping children away from chance discovery of the wonders of the environment. 2. TV and other screen devices: These aren’t bad in themselves. The problem is that they are almost
always overused, and can inhibit a child's overall development and true imagination. The problem often starts because busy parents are too tired to engage in play with their toddlers after a long day at work.
Encouraging imagination There is a child hidden in each one of us; sometimes, all you need to do is rediscover it. Once you can do this, you’ll find that fostering your child’s imagination comes naturally. To start out, use nursery rhymes as a form of playful communication as often as possible. Embrace music and sing to your child often. Look for fairies at the bottom of the garden, or turn the bathtub into a pirate ship in search of treasure! Soon, this type of play will become easier and far more enjoyable, and will form many fond memories for you and your child.
Liar, liar Sometimes, parents confuse imagination and deviating from the truth. Toddlers don’t always lie intentionally. At this age, they live in a world of fantasy, and as they master language, will often say whatever comes to their minds without worrying about whether it’s true or not. Try not to get angry; gentle correction and a good example is mostly all that’s needed. True lying with bad intention is mostly found in older children. If you’re struggling with this, decide on a fair consequence and don’t dwell on the matter once it’s over. A positive incentive system, like a star chart with a reward at the end of a week, helps discourage persistent lies in a toddler of three to five years. Be gentle with your toddler as he treads the path towards adult reality.
Making milestones Having a handle on what to expect when in your toddler will help you create opportunities for his imagination to soar. Remember, milestones are simply guidelines, so don’t stress if your child is a little late with some of them, and some children may even reach these earlier. Take these three things into account: Continued on page 33 eBaby
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Toddler
1. Time is the most valuable developmental gift
you can offer your child – it will also awaken a child’s imagination in you, and what better encouragement can there be for your child? 2. Healthy outdoor activity will promote top-notch
development and provides ample opportunity for the imagination to dream up truly wonderful things, while bringing peace to the mind. 3. Nursery rhymes, music and story books are
essential tools for developmental stimulation, with wonderful spin-off value for imagination. Here are 10 important milestones from 1–2 years: 1. Masters basic step climbing
JUNIOR SYRUP
2. Climbs onto low furniture and steps when
holding onto something 3. Will visually track large, rapidly moving objects 4. Throws a ball between 16 and 24 months 5. Kicks a ball between 18 and 24 months 6. May undress without help 7. Walks steadily by 18 months, wants to run 8. Puts two or three words together by 24 months 9. Will be able to point to most body parts 10. Builds a four-block tower by 24 months
ALL NATURAL TARTRAZINE-FREE COLOURANT-FREE PARABEN-FREE
Here are 10 important milestones from 3-4 years: 1. Can dress independently 2. Can catch quite well 3. Practices climbing skills 4. Learns to slide and swing
S0
5. Starts to tiptoe walk 6. Speech can’t always keep up with thoughts 7. Can name most colours 8. Draws a stick person or faces to
represent people 9. Uses imagination when playing;
games are logical, but seldom with a storyline 10. Starts to use scissors
and can colour-in within borders
FOR IMPROVED IMMUNITY, CONCENTRATION AND RESPIRATORY FUNCTIONS. eBaby
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Toddler
Epsom salt sleep soother
The brushing battle Some toddlers resist the idea of brushing their teeth, but it’s important that this doesn’t turn into a daily battle, as you want him to develop a positive association with dental care. • Explain why it’s important. Simply saying that teeth can get holes and hurt may be sufficient motivation. • Let him copy you; that’s how little ones learn. • Let him pick his own toothbrush. Toddlers like to feel independent and this will help him feel involved in his own tooth care. • Use a mirror. Being able to see all his teeth will help him ‘give each tooth a turn’. • Play a make-believe game, and let your little superhero get to any ‘nasties’ on those back molars! • Get an egg timer or an hourglass, or play a twominute tune, if your toddler only brushes his teeth for a few seconds. • Choose a flavour of toothpaste that he likes, but make sure it is as natural as possible.
Epsom salt is a compound of magnesium and sulfate which is easily absorbed by the skin. Among other benefits, Epsom salt baths can ease anxiety and promote a feeling of calm and relaxation. Add a handful to your toddler’s bathwater if he is very restless at night! Use less if he has raw patches of eczema, as it might burn.
Autism red flags Early autism signs tend to be most recognisable between two and three years of age, although you might notice a few worrying signs even earlier, like no big smiles by six months; no back-and-forth sharing of sounds or facial expressions by nine months; no babbling, not responding to his/her name, no reaching by 12 months; no spoken words by 16 months; and no meaningful two-word phrases by 24 months. If your child experiences regression and loses any speech or social skills at any age, you should also consider taking him/her for an autism assessment. This includes difficulty engaging with or making eye contact with other people, being overly sensitive to noise, and not noticing or caring if others hurt themselves. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a huge difference to children with autism. 34
Everything you need from South Africa’s leading baby hyper.
Toddler
Two types of play It’s important that your child experiences a balance of two different types of play, to ensure that he builds a variety of skills. Structured play includes activities that are organised or encouraged by an adult, such as swimming lessons, puzzles and sorting games. Structured play can even include everyday household ‘games’, such as tidying up, sorting laundry, or asking your little one to skip or hop to his bedroom. Structured play is ‘play with a purpose’ – its goal is to teach your child something. Through these adult-led, yet fun activities, your child can develop new skills, from knowledge to physical development. Free play is ‘unstructured’, meaning that your child is left to play on his own or with other children, without adult involvement. You should still keep an eye on your tot while he plays, but don’t influence or direct his games. Free play allows children to discover their imaginations, explore their interests and abilities, develop their independence, and learn important problem-solving skills through creativity. Examples include ‘cooking’ with pots and pans, hosting a ‘tea party’, building with blocks, playing dress-up with your old clothes, ‘tent' building with sheets and blankets, or running around the garden looking for fairies.
Equip yourself for parenthood in the comfort of your own home, by signing up for these two amazing, costeffective online Sister Lilian Centre courses:
1 Essential antenatal course CLASS 1: Pregnancy and Birth Prep CLASS 2: Labour and Birth CLASS 3: You and Baby After Birth Online course available here
Temper tantrum triggers Identifying what triggers a tantrum in your tot may help you to halt them before they happen. Try to keep a tantrum diary, noting what sparked the behaviour. Here are a few common causes: • Feeling frustrated: If she wants to wear the red and not the green socks, let her – it’s not worth a fight! • Feeling alone: Children crave connection and need meaningful attention and may act out if they don’t get sufficient. • Feeling hungry: Make sure she has access to healthy snacks between meals. • Feeling bored: Distract your child with creative activities when you see anger or a tantrum mounting; this allows self-discipline to develop! • Being tired: An overtired toddler is much more likely to throw a wobbly – it might just require some restful time instead of a full sleep to restore good humour.
2 Sleep like a baby In this unique course we share the best tips to help you with the most frequent query parents have about babies and toddlers – sleep! Sensible, sensitive advice that helps moms and babies, and does no harm!
Online course available here eBaby
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Parent
Contraceptive choices An overview to help you make your decision CONTRACEPTIVE
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
BARRIER METHODS These block sperm’s access to the uterus and fallopian tubes. Diaphragm Placed over the cervix before intercourse
No serious medical risks
May cause cystitis; can’t use if you have a vaginal infection
Male condom
Easy-to-use; wide variety available
May reduce sensation; preplanning necessary; risk of tearing and latex allergies
Female condom
Allows women to take responsibility for contraception
May be uncomfortable, less effective than the male condom
Spermicides Chemicals placed in the vagina to kill sperm
Provides additional lubrication; no serious medical risks
May cause sensitivities; messy
HORMONAL CONTRACEPTION These thicken cervical mucus to keep sperm from reaching the womb. You need a prescription to use these, and certain medicines can interfere with their effectiveness. Combined pill Contains synthetic oestrogen and progesterone
99% effective when used correctly; can improve heavy and painful menstruation
Will reduce breastmilk supply; may cause mood swings, breast tenderness, nausea, headaches, vaginal thrush and skin pigmentation
Progestogen-only pill
98% effective when used correctly; suitable during breastfeeding
Need to take at the same time every day; often causes spotting and irregular periods
Injectable progestogen contraception An injection given every 8–12 weeks
99% effective
May cause menstrual irregularities and vaginal dryness; can delay the return of fertility
Intra-uterine systems A non-copper hormonereleasing device inserted into the uterus Recommended to use only after having had a baby
Effective for five years; suitable during breastfeeding; not affected by other medicines
May cause menstrual irregularities, headaches, acne, breast tenderness and ovarian cysts
Not affected by diarrhoea or vomiting
Side effects similar to combined pill; may be visible and cause skin irritations
Contraceptive patch A patch that delivers hormones into the body through the skin
OTHER Intra-uterine devices (IUDs) A copper device inserted into the womb to destroy sperm cells
Effective for 5–10 years
May cause spotting and heavy, painful periods or pelvic pain; risk of infection after insertion; body may reject the device Continued on page 37
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Parent
Have you considered natural family planning? This involves carefully interpreting your body’s signals to find out when you’re ovulating, and therefore, most fertile. Then, during your fertile times, you either abstain from sex or use a barrier method. Popular amongst women because it’s completely hormone free, meaning no unpleasant side effects, you will need to be very dedicated and disciplined – there are however many computerised systems and handy apps that make it much easier to monitor.
Emergency contraception This is to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex; hormonal tablets can be taken within 72 hours, or an intra-uterine device inserted within 120 hours after intercourse. The only contraceptives that protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the male and female condom, if used correctly.
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Parent
What’s new on shelf? Sister Lilian’s
Baby and Toddler
Sleep Guide
gives you factual, compassionate insight into baby sleep, dispels the many myths about how babies should sleep, and offers you innovative yet simple solutions to improve Advice you can trust disturbed nights. Probably the only sleep guide that will do no harm to your baby, while helping you feel more rested! be found in the baby aisle at all leading retail stores.
PIGEON FEVER COOL PLASTER Baby running a fever? Place a Pigeon Fever Cool Plaster on Baby’s forehead for some cool and calm relief. They’re suitable for all ages and safe for use on sensitive skin. Colourant, paraben & fragrance-free. Make sure to keep a pack handy in your home.
Available online for only R75.00
BIO-GINGEROL is rich in bioactive compounds and packed with valuable phytonutrients. It is a specialised ginger extract designed to provide many health benefits and is perfect for those wanting a safe, convenient, effective way to help reduce the severity of nausea and vomiting related to morning sickness and digestive discomfort.
R79.99 for a pack of six from Baby City, Pharmacy and On-Line Stores
SPATONE® LIQUID IRON SUPPLEMENT is a natural iron-rich spring water providing iron in a highly bioavailable form. Supports healthy iron levels, gentle on the stomach, effective and clinically proven to be a highly absorbable source of iron. Ideal for everyone including pregnant women. It is safe, pure, vegan-friendly iron-water free of chemicals. Available at leading pharmacies, health shops, and from practitioners
SISTER LILIAN’S BABY AND TODDLER SLEEP GUIDE
Available at Health Shops, DisChem, Wellness Warehouse and online at www.faithfultonature.co.za
ZINPLEX JUNIOR COUGH BEE CALM SYRUP is an expectorant to help relieve coughing through loosening of mucus and phlegm in the airways, while boosting the immune system. It contains Ivy Leaf extract, Vitamin C and Honey, and is colourant-, flavourant- and tartrazine-free. Suitable for children aged two years and older. Available in Dischem and selected pharmacies.
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Parent
horizons Power over plastics How do you reduce your exposure to plastics and help create a safer environment for the next generation? Of course, the first step is to be aware of the dangers of plastic in the first place. Also: • Cut back on disposable diaper use • When possible, use glass bottles (a silicon sleeve can protect against breakages) • If Baby only takes a polycarbonate plastic bottle, discard it when the plastic shows signs of wear (e.g. a cloudy appearance or scratches) as old plastic leaches chemicals more easily • Choose clear, silicone teats for baby bottles and pacifiers, and avoid latex rubber which can leach carcinogenic nitrosamines • Carry reusable water bottles when out-and-about • Use reusable shopping bags • Store leftovers in glass containers • Cut back on plastic straws by using a plastic-free straw (or skip the straw) • As chemicals are released from plastic when heated, don’t microwave food in plastic containers and don’t cover food with plastic to avoid splattering – rather cover with a paper towel or wax paper • Be mindful of what things are made of when doing craft activities with kids (glitter, tinsel and other shiny things are often made of plastic) • Buy refills for washing and bath products and decant into reusable bottles
Tender touch is mind-body therapy One of the most important things to know about touch is that when a mother simply holds her baby close to her own body, she already provides ‘touch therapy’. Cuddling up together in bed provides this too and breastfeeding and cuddling a formula baby during a feed achieves the same result! Touch is one of those amazing experiences that affects more than just the tactile sense. It has an uncanny way of integrating mind, emotions and body, releasing tension, relaxing, calming and helping heal an ill baby. Touch is a gift every parent can give their child and ensure health, well-being and optimal development. It is one of the most enjoyable and beneficial things a parent can do, as well as one of the most natural. Research shows that massaging baby in addition to touch given during routine daily care, helps to improve language development and social skills too.
Glorious grapefruit Although grapefruit is often avoided due to its bitter taste, its health benefits may just be enough reason to pucker up and eat a few. As well as being high in vitamin C (approximately 77mg per grapefruit), a grapefruit also contains iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, phosphorous, folic acid (which is important for pregnant women) and B vitamins. Grapefruit promotes better digestion, leads to healthy and smooth skin, and is often used in aromatherapy. Grapefruit contains salicylic acid, which has strong antiseptic properties, and it has high levels of the antioxidant lycopene, which rids the body of cancer-causing free radicals. Another antioxidant found in grapefruit known as naringenin helps to repair damaged DNA found in prostate cancer cells. Grapefruit is high in enzymes that help to increase metabolism, plus, the water and fibre content will keep you feeling fuller for longer, helping peel away the pounds.
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