What is Active Folic Acid and what are its advantages?

Here’s an interesting fact ladies. Folic acid is good for any woman. No matter the age, and it doesn’t matter if you’re trying to get pregnant or if you’re already pregnant.

Folic acid is especially important for pregnant women. You might ask why. Well, because A) it is not an acid per se, but a vitamin from the group B (B9). And B) because mother’s low level of folic acid is a risk factor for the development of neural tube defects in the developing fetus. The neural tube forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord, necessary for the structure and the proper function of the nervous system.

The realization that taking folic acid in the form of a dietary supplement reduces the percentage of defects to the nervous system of a newborn by more than 70% is one of the most important medical discoveries of the 20th century. So, you can understand why it is recommendable for pregnant women to take it.

It also is important to know that major development of the brain and spinal cord occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy. Those first 12 weeks are crucial and that’s why additional intake of folic acid is recommended during that period. Ideally, you’ll start taking folic acid at least 3 months before you get pregnant, but the general rule of thumb is… It’s never too early to start taking folic acid.

A beneficial effect is achieved with an additional daily intake of at least 400 micrograms of folic acid during one month before conception and during the first three months of pregnancy.

And what about Active Folic Acid?

Active folic acid is actually the form in which our body utilizes folic acid. This means that folic acid itself and folates from food are not biologically active. They must go through the process of conversion into the metabolically active form of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), with the help of the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). Part of the population, due to unique genetic patterns, has polymorphic forms of this enzyme and does not produce adequate or effective MTHFR.

By taking an active folic acid through a food supplement actually means that you are taking a readily prepared, biologically utilized form of folic acid and needn’t worry whether your body might or might not be having the right capacity to convert non-active forms to active folic acid.

Now, all active folic acid forms are not the same.

The Quatrefolic® form belongs to the fourth generation of folic acid. It is considered an innovative form of active folic acid, with high level of solubility in water, and by this is expected to have a high level of bioavailability which means high utilization in the body.

So, our dear ladies, if you are planning a baby, or you are already pregnant, your gynecologist or pharmacist will most probably recommend a food supplement specially developed for your needs. It is recommendable it contains an active form of folic acid, and Quatrefolic being the innovative one is expected to provide adequate amounts of folic acid to your body.

First and foremost, let us put your mind at ease future mama. Weight gain in pregnancy is completely normal. There we’ve said it. All pregnant women go through it, and most likely you are as well. It is expected for a pregnant woman to gain between 10 and 12.5 kilograms, and most are putting the majority of the weight after week 20 in their pregnancy.

However, there’s one thing to consider when talking about weight gain in pregnancy. It’s important to maintain a healthy weight gain. That means eating healthy and nutritious food and staying active during the entirety of your pregnancy will ensure that the weight gain stays in the healthy weight gain range.

What Are the Possible Health Complications If You’re Having an Unhealthy Weight Gain?

Gaining too much weight during pregnancy may increase the chances of developing serious complications that can potentially be harmful to you and your baby. One such complication is hypertension which can occur during pregnancy, or even pre-eclampsia.

Gestational diabetes is another potential complication in pregnancy. It means you have too much glucose in your blood during pregnancy, and it may result in delivering a very large baby.

Nevertheless, even if no health issues may appear, the more weight you gain, the more difficult it would be for you to lose afterwards.

We already mentioned that gaining too much weight during pregnancy can be a problem. But at the same time gaining too little weight can become a possible problem as well. Gaining too little weight may result in the premature birth of your baby or the delivery of an underweight baby.

So, What’s Recommended for A Healthy Pregnancy Weight Gain?

Experts advise that you maintain a healthy and balanced diet during your pregnancy. They also recommend not eating more than additional 350 calories (on top of the usual recommended caloric intake for women) in the first and second trimesters. And they also recommend not eating more than additional 450 calories, during the final stages of your pregnancy.

The amount of calories changes if you’re pregnant with twins or other multiples so there needs to be a consideration to adjust your diet accordingly. You may also want to consider limiting the intake of processed foods and added sugars or fats in your diet. At the same time, try to stay physically active during the entirety of your pregnancy.

Another think to have in consideration when defining how much weight you should gain during your pregnancy is your starting BMI. The higher the BMI, the less weight you should gain, the lower the BMI, the more weight you should gain during pregnancy.

Talk to your health provider about any questions and concerns you might have. And enjoy your pregnancy. You’re at the start of one beautiful journey called motherhood and try to make the most of it during the 9 months of your pregnancy.

There’s an old saying: „Never wake up a sleeping baby “. And the older generations love to say it to new mothers, don’t they? But nowadays that old saying belongs solely in the past. New recommendations from the leading pediatricians and health providers say otherwise… We’ll get to that in a second.

Baby’s Sleep Is Different from Grown-Up Sleep

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that most babies sleep a lot in their first year. Like, a lot, lot. And that’s perfectly normal because they’re growing so quickly. Their brains and their bodies need rest and good sleep in order to properly develop.

Next, day and night confusion are quite common among babies, as your baby’s circadian rhythm is still underdeveloped. However, if your baby sleeps more during the day than at night, it can be a bit of a problem. You don’t want your child sleepy all day, and up all night? Well, then you have permission to wake up your sleeping baby if the day naps exceed the 3-hour mark.

Experts recommend that babies up to 12 months should sleep from 12 to 16 hours a day. Naps are included in this time of course. So, don’t be afraid to let your baby sleep. However, there are exceptions to this rule.

So, Is It A Good Idea to Wake Up Your Baby?

Yes. It’s perfectly OK to wake up your baby, and there are several instances where that is very much allowed.

As we mentioned previously, you should wake up a sleeping baby during the day, especially if the baby’s nap exceeded the 3-hour mark.

Most newborns need up to 12 feedings a day, which means they should nurse every two or three hours. Also, frequent feedings are good both for the baby and the mom. The baby is getting fed, while the mom is getting her milk supply regulated. Remember, breastfeeding is all about supply and demand. The more you breastfeed your child (or pump) the more milk you’ll produce.

The babies who are fed with formula may extend the stretches between 3 hours, but that’s only because the formula needs more time to digest in the baby’s little tummy.

Another thing to remember is that most babies tend to lose 10% of their birth weight after they’re born, so frequent feedings are recommended for getting to a healthy weight.

And finally, a good reason to wake up a sleeping baby is a dirty or wet diaper. You definitely don’t want to leave your baby in a dirty diaper for too long. It can cause a diaper rash, and it’s not pleasant for the baby.

But How to Stretch Your Baby’s Sleep During the Night?

Through consistency and routine. Before bedtime, set a routine and stick to it every night. You may try a calming bath, a diaper change, a new clean set of clothes, feeding, and then off to the crib. Also make sure not to get your baby into an overtired state. Because overtired, cranky, and fussy babies are not easy to settle. So, start the routine, follow your baby’s sleep ques, be consistent. Your baby will love it.

Hey pregnant lady. A gentle reminder that swelling in pregnancy (or pregnancy edema) is completely normal. If you’re experiencing swelling while heavily pregnant we empathize with you. You probably feel like a balloon, and let’s face it. You probably think you look like one. That couldn’t be further from the truth, you know?

Yes, it may seem unpleasant, but edema in the last stages of pregnancy is completely normal. About two-thirds of all pregnant women report having some form of pregnancy swelling in their legs (especially ankles), fingers, and face. So, don’t worry too much about it, and try to enjoy the last stretch of your pregnancy.

When and Where Does Pregnancy Edema Appear?

Although it may appear at any point of your pregnancy, the swelling most often appears the further along you are in your pregnancy. Typically, during the last trimester. However, when it comes to the time of the day specifically, many pregnant women report that it appears near the end of the day. It’s quite understandable really. Many pregnant women are working during the bulk of their pregnancies. They’re either sitting or standing over long periods. Or perhaps they’re pregnant during the summer, which also contributes to the pregnancy edema. Yes, the swelling will most likely go away in the morning, and re-appear at the end of the day.

But why does it appear?

Well, there’s a perfectly good medical explanation for the appearance of pregnancy swelling. Around the second trimester of your pregnancy, the blood flow in the body decreases and fluid starts to accumulate in the tissues. Also, it’s because the growing uterus is putting a lot of pressure on the inferior vena cava. This decreases the blood flow to the central circulation and thus the swelling starts to become noticeable.

If it is gradual, then it’s not harmful so don’t stress too much about it.

However, What Can You Do to Reduce the Pregnancy Swelling?

You could try elevating your feet of course. If you’re spending the majority of your day sitting or standing, then you should probably take time to elevate your feet, higher than your waist. Or perhaps you should consider putting a pillow under your feet at night. You can also try to reduce the intake of salt in your diet and increase the intake of water. So, in order to prevent fluid retention, don’t eat too many those salty snacks in the last stages of your pregnancy.

Lastly, if the pregnancy swelling gets too uncomfortable and pronounced then you could invest in some compression socks. They do an excellent job of reducing the enema by putting pressure on the swelling. And of course, they’re highly recommended if you’re standing a lot in your third trimester. They’re not a permanent cure for pregnancy swelling, but they do help a lot.

In the End… Stop Stressing About It!

Pregnancy swelling is uncomfortable yes. You’re feeling like a balloon and the growing baby in your belly is not helping matters much. But it usually goes away after the delivery, so try to hang in there. This too shall pass, and you’ll be meeting your bundle of joy soon as well. A win-win for every pregnant lady.

You just find out that you’re pregnant. Congratulations are in order of course. The nine months of pregnancy are a period of lots of anxiety, trepidation, and for first-time parents, a lot of firsts. The first ultrasound, the first kick in the belly… However, out of the many tests that you’ll be assigned to take during pregnancy, there are a few that are optional.

Yes, each semester of the pregnancy requires plenty of monitoring, tests, and guidelines to ensure the pregnancy is healthy for the mother and the baby. Every parent is hoping to have a healthy baby, and prenatal screening tests are a great way to be certain of that.

What Are Prenatal Genetic Tests?

They’re tests that are designed to give future parents information regarding the potential genetic disorders that their child might have. Most of the genetic disorders are inherited disorders from one or both parents, so it’s best to know them early in pregnancy. It’s worth noting here that genetic tests can be performed even before pregnancy, if both of the partners would like to ensure they’re not carriers of some genetic disorder. But for now, we’re going to focus solely on the prenatal ones.

There are two main types of prenatal genetic tests. Prenatal screening tests and Prenatal diagnostic tests. The former determines if the baby is likely (or has a risk) to have some birth defects, while the latter determines if a baby does have a birth defect. Diagnostic tests are the only way to establish a diagnosis, but both of these tests are optional.

First Trimester Screening Tests

The most common are the first-trimester screening tests. Otherwise known as Combined first-trimester screening (CFTS). Those can include tests that indicate the risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21 or presence of an extra chromosome at position 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). The tests are compiled from blood work, a nuchal translucency (NT) screening ultrasound, mother’s age and weight determination, and the age of the pregnancy. They’re usually done between week 9 and week 13 of the pregnancy and yes. They are optional as well.

Prenatal Diagnostic Tests

These tests can determine with accuracy greater than 99.9 percent whether or not a developing baby has a chromosomal abnormality. Most commonly used one is amniocentesis. It is performed in the second trimester. Usually, if the first trimester screening test shows a certain level of risk for genetic disorder, or if the mother is older than 35 years, the doctor may recommend an optional diagnostic test.

Why Should You Have Prenatal Genetic Screening Tests?

Well, as we mentioned the tests are elective and depend on the personal preferences of the parents. However, there are many reasons why parents may choose to do these tests. One of those reasons is the family history of some of the genetic disorders. If one or both of the parents have a family member with some genetic disorder, there is high probability that their baby would inherit it as well. One more reason is if the expectant mother is over the age of 35, while another is if the mother has had a history of miscarriages or stillbirths.

Whatever you choose to do, it’s best to consult with your doctor first. The medical team will advise you on the types of tests and the options that you might have as the pregnancy progresses.

It’s been estimated that one in ten women will experience postpartum depression after giving birth, while some studies say that it’s one in seven women. Yes, this may sound concerning, but what’s more concerning is that nearly 50% of the mothers with postpartum depression are undiagnosed by health professionals.

Just by hearing about Postpartum depression, it might seem like it’s a common trend among today’s mothers. It may seem like a made-up illness that most of modern women experience these days. The truth is, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Postpartum depression is not a modern trend. Mothers throughout history have certainly had it, but back then it was not discussed at all. Back then Postpartum depression was even called differently. Your mothers and grandmothers called it „the baby blues“ for instance. If we go further back (in the 4th century B.C.), we’ll encounter the famous Greek physician Hippocrates. He was actually among the first to notice it and make a written note about it. Which leaves us to ponder and ask…

What Is Postpartum Depression?

As the name would suggest, Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs in women in the postpartum period. It usually starts in the first two or three days after birth and can last weeks or even months after birth. It’s important to understand that the act of giving birth is a life-altering experience for the mother, and being a parent is extremely hard. Especially for the mother. The late-night feelings, the exhaustion, the sleep deprivation, and the raging hormones are all culprits for the Postpartum Depression (or PPD) in mothers. There’s nothing to feel ashamed or guilty about. If you experience PPD you’re not alone. It’s also not your fault and you can get through it with the proper help.

How Can You Tell If You Have Postpartum Depression?

There are several symptoms that women with Postpartum Depression may experience, which are good indicators that you might be suffering from PPD as well. Feeling sad or being in a low mood is one big symptom to look out for. Feeling agitated or easily irritated is another red flag of having PPD. Lack of energy and loss of interest to do the things you did previously is something to be mindful of. Insomnia, loss of appetite, and poor concentration are also symptoms of PPD. So are negative or intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness. Crying is quite common in Postpartum depression and so are the problems with bonding between you and your baby. If you experience some of these symptoms (or all of them), make sure to talk to your doctor.

What to Do to Treat Postpartum Depression?

Remember. Reaching out for help is a great way to start treating your Postpartum Depression. Talk to your doctor or other health providers and they will provide you will the appropriate course of action. Whether it’s counseling, cognitive therapy, or medication there are ways to help.

In the meantime, ask for help around the house chores and the baby. You can limit visitors to your home. You can also do things that bring you joy. Things like light exercise or leisurely walks with your baby. A balanced nutritious diet is always a good idea in this period. Rest is also very much needed, so make sure to sleep and rest as much as you can.

And last but certainly not least, be kind to yourself. You’re a great mother and this too shall pass.

Giving birth to your child is one of the most life-changing moments a woman can have. However, the period after birth (often called the postpartum period) seems like the most challenging for most mothers. Not only they’re responsible for this tiny human they’ve created, but they also need some love and care themselves. Mothers are in an especially delicate emotional and physical state in this period, so the six to eight weeks of postpartum are especially important for postpartum care.

What Is the Postpartum Period You Might Ask?

Well, as the name suggests it is the period after the birth of the child and up until eight weeks after that. This is a challenging period in which the parents are trying to bond with the baby, establish good sleeping patterns and breastfeeding practices that will benefit not just the baby… But also, the mother as well. Although the mom is mostly focused on the tiny albeit very adorable baby, the mom needs some postnatal care as well. She’s sleep-deprived, tired, sweaty, and probably in pain, at least during the first few days. Not to mention, she’s struggling with a surge of hormones on a daily basis. We’re here to offer some tips, tricks, and general suggestions to make the postpartum period a bit easier for the mom. Remember. A happy mom will make a happy baby.

Sleep when the baby sleeps

Or at the very least, take every opportunity to get some much-needed rest. Go to bed early. Take an afternoon nap. Trust us. You’re going to need it. The newborn stage is rough for both parents, but more so for the mother. You’re probably getting up to change diapers, to nurse, and to rock your baby back to sleep. It’s exhausting, for sure. Sleep deprivation is tough, so if you have an opportunity to rest and get some sleep… Take it.

Be kind to yourself

You’ve brought a baby to life, so, make sure to be kind to yourself. The negativity, criticism and harsh self-talk are counterproductive and will bring you nothing but trouble. Have some compassion and grace towards yourself. You’re a wonderful mother, the best for your child and the postpartum period will pass. Just try to be kind to yourself.

Find ways to be more active

Yes. We know that going to the gym is not on the list of priorities in the postpartum period. However, there are ways to keep yourself active even with a newborn by your side. Simply, go for a walk outside. Put the baby in the stroller and go for a 30-minute’ walk. It will be good for you and the baby, and you’ll get your physical exercise along with some fresh air. Besides, a change of scenery is always good.

Accept help whenever you can

The saying, it takes a village to raise a child is not for nothing. If you have the opportunity to get help around the house or with your child, take it. It will save you so much energy and time, and it’s a good way to get your partner involved in the postpartum period.

Establish a routine with your baby

With a newborn at home, things can easily become messy. Establishing a routine benefits you as much as your baby really. Regardless if it’s a morning or night routine, a routine is still a predictable action that will help things go smoothly and make your days (or nights) more organized and lot easier. It is very important for your baby since it gives them a sense of security and stability. Your baby will start to recognize the cues of the routine, like about waking up or going back to sleep. It would make them feel calmer and more comfortable. So, make sure to set a good routine.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself

For most people, self-care seems like a regular daily occurrence. However, for moms of newborns, this seems like a luxury that they can’t afford. Most moms don’t have the time or willpower to do much, let alone take a nice warm bath, or eat a well-balanced and nutritional meal. But you should eat and you should make some time for yourself. So, ask for help. Leave the baby with your partner, a relative or a friend for a while. Do something you enjoy.

Limit visitors

This seems like a weird suggestion, but it’s a highly recommended one. Plenty of your extended family members and friends will likely want to come and see the baby. Although this sounds like a good idea on paper, in reality, it’s the exact opposite. It’s a rather terrible idea. The first six to eight weeks are critical for you and especially for your baby as you’re both fragile. So, it’s best to say no to your family and friends, if they express wishes to see you or the baby. They’re carrying germs and bacteria that your baby can catch easily, so it’s best to limit visitors to a bare minimum.

Keep an eye on your mental health

This is extremely important for mothers. Especially for new mothers who are dealing with sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, hormonal imbalance, and fussy babies by their side. Postnatal depression is a real thing and it can affect you. So, if you see the signs of postnatal depression (like sadness, moodiness, inability to bond with your baby) don’t hesitate to ask professional help.

Break away from routine

Yes, we know. We just said it’s good to have an established routine. However, for us grown-ups routines can be mundane and boring at times. Especially for moms who are stuck at home all day with the baby. So perhaps you should shake things up. Take a new route to your favorite park today. Cook a new quick yet delicious meal today. Or perhaps call a new friend that you haven’t talked to in a while. Just small things that are going to make all the difference.

Last but certainly not least. Limit stimulation!

This applies to your baby, but it can apply to you too. Remember, your mind is already preoccupied all day and night. When did my baby nurse last time? How much milk did my baby have? When is her doctor’s appointment? Your mind is stimulated and you’re going to get to a state of burnout soon. So, when it comes to getting rest at night, feel free to dim the lights. Turn off any appliances that overstimulate (TV, computer) and put away the phone. You don’t need to be scrolling at 11 p.m. You need to rest and recharge.

The Post-Partum period is hard, it’s especially hard for the mothers, so do what’s best for you and your baby. Yes, your baby may be a priority for you, but you have to make sure to take care of yourself as well. Take it easy, ask for help and try to survive the postnatal period with your physical and mental health intact.

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural, normal processes a woman can experience in her lifetime. It’s a beautiful bonding moment for the mother and child. Experts advise a mother to breastfeed her child exclusively for a minimum of 6 months and as supplementary feeding for up to 2 years of age.

Breastmilk is the ideal food for infants. It’s nurturing them, it contains antibodies that protect the baby. Breastfeeding is also good for the mom as well.

However, for some mothers, breastfeeding can be quite a challenge. Breastfeeding doesn’t always come easy to some mothers, and some moms do report problems such as discomfort and pain during the breastfeeding process. Yes, it can take time for both the mom and the baby to get the hang of it, but once they do, it’s smooth sailing from there.

What Are the Challenges for Breastfeeding Mothers?

Well, there are many challenges for a breastfeeding mom. Especially if she’s a first-time mom. However, we’re going to mention a few.

Breast engorgement is a big challenge for most breastfeeding mothers. It’s when the women’s breasts get overly full with milk, and they may feel hard and very painful. Especially in the early days of breastfeeding, when the baby actually needs very little milk, and yet very often. It can be due to overproduction of milk, or simply by bad latching from the baby.

Poor latching may lead to sore or bleeding nipples which causes a lot of pain and discomfort as well.

Blocked milk ducts can be a painful challenge for breastfeeding mothers as well. If the milk ducts in the breast aren’t drained properly they can get blocked, and yes, it’s also an unpleasant and painful experience. You may also feel a lump on the breast that has the blocked milk duct. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly normal.

If blocked ducts are not drained, it may lead to mastitis, which can be also quite painful. It’s an inflammation of the breast tissue that sometimes can involve even an infection. It results in swelling, pain in the breast, and redness and it can be quite hard on the mother. She may even experience flu-like symptoms during mastitis, and the pain is typically more intense than the pain from blocked milk ducts.

Make sure you contact your doctor if you suspect having a mastitis. You might need additional pharmaceutical therapy, such as antibiotics.

So, What Can Mothers Do to Reduce the Chances of Pain During Breastfeeding?

Well, there are plenty of things to do in order to reduce the pain depending on the situation. It may sound counterintuitive, but in most cases, you must push through the pain and keep breastfeeding.

Getting a good and proper latch for your child is essential, cause improper latching sores the nipples and causes pain for the mother.

Also, you could invest in a good nipple cream. Nipples that are too dry can cause nipple soreness, and a good nipple cream can ease the pain and discomfort. Most nipple creams are made from 100% lanolin, and they’re perfectly safe for the baby. Breastfeeding mothers could also invest in some good quality nursing bras. One that’s made from natural materials (like cotton), and a bra that can be easily attached and detached when needed.

And of course, a warm shower and a gentle massage to the sore breast could do wonders for easing the pain when having a blocked duct. The warmth of the shower and the pressure from the massage can help with the flow of milk, and thus prevent the pain of transitioning into a more serious problem.

Don’t give up! It does get better!

Hey breastfeeding moms. Don’t give up. The first days of your breastfeeding journey can seem difficult, but there are ways to ease the process. And of course, to make the breastfeeding journey a bit more comfortable for you and your baby.

Every mother wonders about this at one point in her breastfeeding journey. Is my baby getting enough milk? Is my baby eating enough? That has proven to be especially true for first-time mothers, who lack the experience and the knowledge of second and third-time mothers.

Pediatricians and healthcare experts recommend mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies for six months, so it’s safe to say that breastfeeding is a full-time job for most mothers. Babies tend to feed around the clock or even on demand, so don’t worry if you’re feeling like a milk machine. Most mothers feel this way.

Yes. It may take a while to get comfortable to accurately tell if your baby is getting enough milk. That’s also true for mothers who choose to formula-feed their babies. Practice does make things easier, but in the early days and even weeks with your baby, it’s hard to tell.

So… How Can You Tell If Your Baby Is Eating Enough?

Well, the first latch of the breastfeeding process is always important. If there’s a good latch then the breastfeeding process will become much easier for you and your baby. Not feeling any pain while breastfeeding is also a good indicator of a good latch. Although the first few sucks of the latches may feel a bit strong, the latch and subsequent breastfeeding should be a painless experience. Nevertheless, it may take some time before you get used to it.

What else is there?

Well, for starters your baby is feeding regularly. Babies tend to feed quite often, so frequent feedings are generally a good sign that your baby is getting enough milk. Babies up to 2 months tend to feed up to 15 times a day, so yes. Frequent feeding is always a good sign.

You can also tell if your baby is eating enough if it’s happy and content. If your baby is happy, alert, and content after the feeding, that usually means it reaches full satiation and is well-fed.

One of the methods that’s very helpful in the first days to track your baby’s feeding is by the wet diapers you change during the day and night. If you’re changing at least 6 wet and dirty diapers in 24 hours, that means your baby is getting fed well.

Another good indicator if your baby is eating well, is if it’s gaining weight. If your baby is progressing, growing, and developing nicely then that means it’s eating enough.

And finally, if your baby is pulling away from your breast then that probably means it’s not hungry anymore. Babies have a great way of letting you know if they’re full and well-fed. They’ll start refusing your breast and even pushing it away from them.

First Feeding Then Burping

If you thought that’s the end of the feeding session, then you’d be wrong. Burping is the next step that comes after feeding, especially for very small babies. Not burping after feeding may make your baby cranky and gassy. Or it can even spit up most of the milk you tried so hard to produce. That’s because babies tend to swallow plenty of air while breastfeeding, and that air may become trapped in their tummies. It can become quite uncomfortable so a good burping is always welcomed. Position the baby in an upright position leaned upon your shoulder, while gently padding on the baby’s back.

Good luck, mama. You’ve got this.

Most pregnant women start to feel the baby’s kicks between the 16th and 25th weeks of pregnancy. However, if this is your first baby, you may not start to feel the kicks until after week 20. On the other hand, if this is your second pregnancy you may start feeling the movements well after the 13th week. If you are, then congratulations. You’ve just hit another milestone in your pregnancy. Mothers-to-be are eagerly anticipating this stage of pregnancy, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful feeling.

But Are Kicks Simply Kicks?

Well, no. Not really. Not in every stage of the pregnancy anyway. Pregnant women often report movement in the early stages of pregnancy as butterflies in their stomachs. Some say they feel like twitches and some even go as far as to describe them as tumbling motions.

However, the movement in the second and third semesters should be more distinct and noticeable. They might feel like literal kicks, jabs, and elbows in your belly. That’s probably because they are. The limbs of your baby are more developed in the second and third trimesters, and they are heavier with each passing week. The number of movements increases steadily until about 32 weeks of pregnancy. And then remains more or less constant until the baby is born.

What Is Important to Know About Pregnancy Movement?

You don’t need to measure and count the number of kicks you feel daily. This puts unnecessary added stress and as an expectant mother, you don’t need that. Also, there’s no uniform and set number of kicks that a baby has during the day. Every baby is different, so don’t stress about that too. Thirdly, if you don’t feel the baby’s kick for some time during the day, your baby is probably sleeping.

So it’s best not to worry about something that is probably not an issue.

As your baby grows you’ll probably be able to distinguish the movement a bit better. And as you reach week 32 of your pregnancy you’ll probably feel a little less movement than usual. That’s also normal, as your baby grows in the uterus and it’s getting a bit too crowded to move freely. In other words, the baby has a lot less room to move, so it’s normal for it to stay in one position for an extended period.

Nevertheless, if you notice less kicks than usual in a prolonged period of time, a call to your gynecologist might help settle down the worries.

And What About the Time of Baby Movement?

That’s also something good to know. Babies love to move around at certain times of the day. That’s because they alternate between sleep and alertness. They cannot distinguish between night and day, but they’re usually most active between 9 P.M. and 1 A.M. That’s why most pregnant women complain of lack of good night sleep in the final stages of their pregnancy. So, if this is you, again it’s OK. Try to enjoy your pregnancy (kicks and all), because very soon, you’ll be meeting the baby who’s been giving you the “kung-fu” kicks.

The waiting is a bit of a hustle, but it’s worth the wait.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind during pregnancy? A baby in your belly, eating for two and relaxing all the while growing a human. Exercise is probably not that high on the list of things when one usually thinks about in pregnancy. However, experts disagree with this statement and strongly advise pregnant women to stay physically active during the entire pregnancy.

Can You Keep Exercise While Pregnant?

You most certainly can. If you are already a sporty type of lady. Or if you go to the gym. Or perhaps if you run every day, there’s no reason to stop just because you’re pregnant. Anyway, make sure you do consult your gynecologist in case there is a certain reason to make some changes in your routines.

Anyway, one of the most annoying myths about physical exercise is that women should refrain from it, and focus on exercise during the post-partum period. Solely to shed the baby’s weight. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Getting regular physical activity along with a healthy and balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do during pregnancy. It’s good for you and your baby.

So, the bottom line is, if you were active before getting pregnant, you should continue being active in your pregnancy as well. Some strenuous activities like horseback riding, lifting weights, or skiing are not recommended, but light physical activities like Pilates and pregnancy yoga, or simply walking most certainly are.

Once again, it’s best to discuss the physical exercise options for you and your pregnancy with your health provider.

What Are the Benefits of Physical Exercise During Pregnancy?

There are plenty of health benefits to staying physically active during your pregnancy. Exercise can prepare you better for childbirth, and can help reduce the chances of developing gestational diabetes. However, for women who already have gestational diabetes, exercise may help control it better.

Exercise can also help you control the weight gain, and the ever-changing shape of your body during pregnancy and it may reduce the appearance of swelling. Not to mention the improvement of back pain. A common occurrence during pregnancy for most women. Exercise in pregnancy can help with the improvement of your mood and may help reduce depression and anxiety. Last but not least, exercise during pregnancy may help reduce the blood pressure. A fantastic help for those mothers who are susceptible to developing pre-eclampsia.

The bottom line is… Don’t be afraid to exercise in your pregnancy. You may have to pick a less strenuous and physically challenging exercise, but you shouldn’t spend your pregnancy without it. There are far more pros than cons to physical activity in pregnancy, and you should go for it. Your body will thank you.

Breastfeeding is a beautiful process. Not only does it allow the mothers to feed and nurture their babies, but at the same time, it poses a great bonding opportunity for both of them. However, that process doesn’t come easy to a lot of the mothers. Most of them struggle with sleep deprivation, and for plenty of new mothers, breastfeeding can be challenging itself, at least in the first days.

But while it’s well established that babies need nutrition and care, that exact statement can be said about the mothers as well. Yes, babies get their daily dose of nutrients, water, and antibodies through their mother’s milk. But what about the mothers?

Breastfeeding Nutrition Is Highly Important

Indeed, it is. The general guideline that most of the experts tend to give to breastfeeding mothers, is that they don’t need a special breastfeeding diet. However, the diet of breastfeeding mothers needs to be healthy and nutritionally balanced. What does that mean? All of the food groups need to be included in your daily diet. That means plenty of seasonal fruits and veggies should be on the menu. Lots of protein sources like eggs, fish, and meat as well. Let’s not forget about the healthy carbs and other starchy foods. Like rice, whole-wheat bread, potatoes, and pasta. Finally, quick and delicious grains also should be included in your breastfeeding diet. Don’t be afraid to incorporate healthy cereals, muesli, and oats that are rich in fiber.

Once you have reached full milk production, it would typically be somewhere between 750 ml – 1000 ml per day. So, make sure you are well hydrated, as well.

What you should stay clear about during breastfeeding is processed, deep-fried, or in general terms “fast food” that doesn’t have any nutritional value. It’s bad for pretty much everyone, let alone for breastfeeding mothers. It’s best to avoid alcohol when you’re breastfeeding as well.

Some of you are maybe following a certain lifestyle (vegan or vegetarian), or need to follow restricted diets out of certain reasons. But regardless, we know it’s not always easy to take good care of your nutrition, when you need to handle so many things during the day. Then it’s good to consider supplements as a way to add on to your daily nutrition. They could really be of help.

What Does Breastfeeding Nutrition Looks Like in Terms of Calories?

Well, believe it or not, there isn’t a drastic difference when it comes to breastfeeding nutrition in terms of calorie intake. It is recommended that breastfeeding women consume only an additional 450 to 500 calories per day, on top of the usual recommended caloric intake for women.

Yes, at times the number of additional calories would vary. That includes the mother’s BMI, whether she’s breastfeeding twins and the extent of breastfeeding, or if the mother is supplementing some of the breastfeeding with formula feeding.

In the end, you shouldn’t concern yourself with the calories in your breastfeeding journey. It’s counterproductive to be too strict about it. Just follow your body’s needs. Breastfeeding burns a lot of energy, so it’s only normal to need extra calories in your diet.

Remember, you’re feeding a human. You’re producing food that will provide growth and health for your baby. And a healthy mother can nurse a healthy baby. So, make sure you eat healthy during your breastfeeding journey, and everything else will be OK.

You’ve got this.

For most of us, the smell of that first cup of coffee is enough of a reason to wake up in the morning. And a great and delicious way to kickstart our day too. Hey, some even enjoy it multiple times during the day. However, if you’re pregnant you might want to limit your caffeine intake. For your sake and the baby’s. Let us explain.

Foods and drinks that are a no-no!

Among the foods and beverages that pregnant women aren’t allowed to take (in large amounts or at all), coffee and alcohol are right there, high up on the list. Also, certain meats and cheeses, deli meat, and partially cooked eggs are deemed not safe to consume in pregnancy. So, naturally, many doctors will advise pregnant women to limit their consumption or completely cut off the consumption of these products.

Caffeine Is Not Just in Coffee!

Yes. If you’re pregnant, it’s best to know that caffeine is not solely found in coffee. It’s also in some teas, soft drinks, plenty of energy drinks, and even in some chocolate. So, if you’re pregnant, it’s best to stay clear of those things as well. They’re filled with added sugars anyway, and for a good part of them with other harmful ingredients as well. So, there are plenty of reasons why doctors advice on limited caffeine intake during pregnancy.

First and foremost, although you might safely process the intake of caffeine, your baby cannot. The baby’s metabolism is still maturing and cannot handle the influx of caffeine. It can affect to your baby’s sleep patterns, and because caffeine is a stimulant, it can also keep you both awake. And nobody wants that, right?

Next, caffeine is a natural diuretic. Overconsumption of caffeine can not only increase your urination but also can contribute to dehydration. On the other hand, it can raise your blood pressure as well. And if you already suffer from high blood pressure, caffeine will do more harm than good. Make sure you follow your doctor’s orders at all times.

So, that begs the question… How Much Coffee Is Allowed in Pregnancy?

If you wish to be quite certain about the exact amount of caffeine that you should consume during pregnancy, it’s best to consult with your gynecologist or obstetrician. A medical professional can be more helpful in providing such advice. But the general rule of thumb that plenty of medical experts advise is to limit the caffeine intake to less than 200 ml per day. That’s about one cup of brewed coffee a day.

Finally, avoiding caffeine in any shape or form is the best form of action for you and your baby. But if you can’t help but consume caffeine then one cup of coffee a day is more than enough.

You just find out that you’re pregnant. Congratulations are in order of course. The nine months of pregnancy are a period of lots of anxiety, trepidation, and for first-time parents, a lot of firsts. The first ultrasound, the first kick in the belly… However, out of the many tests that you’ll be assigned to take during pregnancy, there are a few that are optional.

Yes, each semester of the pregnancy requires plenty of monitoring, tests, and guidelines to ensure the pregnancy is healthy for the mother and the baby. Every parent is hoping to have a healthy baby, and prenatal screening tests are a great way to be certain of that.

What Are Prenatal Genetic Tests?

They’re tests that are designed to give future parents information regarding the potential genetic disorders that their child might have. Most of the genetic disorders are inherited disorders from one or both parents, so it’s best to know them early in pregnancy. It’s worth noting here that genetic tests can be performed even before pregnancy, if both of the partners would like to ensure they’re not carriers of some genetic disorder. But for now, we’re going to focus solely on the prenatal ones.

There are two main types of prenatal genetic tests. Prenatal screening tests and Prenatal diagnostic tests. The former determines if the baby is likely (or has a risk) to have some birth defects, while the latter determines if a baby does have a birth defect. Diagnostic tests are the only way to establish a diagnosis, but both of these tests are optional.

First Trimester Screening Tests

The most common are the first-trimester screening tests. Otherwise known as Combined first-trimester screening (CFTS). Those can include tests that indicate the risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21 or presence of an extra chromosome at position 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). The tests are compiled from blood work, a nuchal translucency (NT) screening ultrasound, mother’s age and weight determination, and the age of the pregnancy. They’re usually done between week 9 and week 13 of the pregnancy and yes. They are optional as well.

Prenatal Diagnostic Tests

These tests can determine with accuracy greater than 99.9 percent whether or not a developing baby has a chromosomal abnormality. Most commonly used one is amniocentesis. It is performed in the second trimester. Usually, if the first trimester screening test shows a certain level of risk for genetic disorder, or if the mother is older than 35 years, the doctor may recommend an optional diagnostic test.

Why Should You Have Prenatal Genetic Screening Tests?

Well, as we mentioned the tests are elective and depend on the personal preferences of the parents. However, there are many reasons why parents may choose to do these tests. One of those reasons is the family history of some of the genetic disorders. If one or both of the parents have a family member with some genetic disorder, there is high probability that their baby would inherit it as well. One more reason is if the expectant mother is over the age of 35, while another is if the mother has had a history of miscarriages or stillbirths.

Whatever you choose to do, it’s best to consult with your doctor first. The medical team will advise you on the types of tests and the options that you might have as the pregnancy progresses.

Congratulations mama! You just gave birth to a beautiful baby, and you’re probably headed home with the newest addition to the family. You also probably have everything set for the new arrival. A crib, onesies, and lots and lots of diapers on hand. However, one thing is missing. The milk.

If you’re planning on breastfeeding, you’re probably already wondering… When will my breast milk come in? You have a hungry, crying newborn now, but the breast milk is missing in action. Well, don’t you worry. It’s coming.

Colostrum First, Regular Breast Milk Second

Indeed. Before the regular breast milk comes you’ll probably feed your baby with Colostrum. What is Colostrum you might ask? It’s actually the first milk your breasts produce, right after you give birth. Usually an hour or two after you deliver your baby. It’s thicker, it comes in smaller amounts than the regular breast milk, and it has a bit more pronounced yellow color.

Colostrum is actually highly nutritious, and has protective properties for your baby, contacting a high number of antibodies.

You could also consider harvesting your Colostrum, it may help you with your breastfeeding journey afterward. It can be given by using a cup, a spoon, or even though a dropper. The amount of Colostrum you produce may vary, but it’s usually between 2 ml and 20 ml during the first few days. If you’ve breastfed before it may come faster, and in bigger amounts, compared to first-time breastfeeding mothers. Ask your nurse or healthcare provider how to collect your Colostrum.

But What About Regular Breast Milk?

Yes, it might take a while to get the breast milk flow. Usually, there are several indicators that your body is ready to breastfeed. Usually around 72 hours after childbirth your breasts may start feeling full (or engorged). Your breasts may also feel a bit firmer, warmer, and a lot heavier than before. Your breasts may start leaking breastmilk as well. That means that they’re filling up with breast milk and that it’s time for the baby to eat. You may also feel the letdown reflex. Those pins and needles feeling in your breasts are helping you push the milk out of your breast. And once your milk does come in, your baby will begin to take more with each feeding.

So, don’t be tempted to stop now. Breastfeeding is a process of supply and demand. The more your baby demands breastmilk, the more you’ll produce. You may also want to consider pumping to increase supply. But if you’re not feeding on schedule then you might consider breastfeeding on demand. It can be quite challenging, especially for new and inexperienced mothers, but it’s so rewarding for your baby. Its actually consider to be a better approach, both for you and your baby.

Babies have tiny stomachs, and in the first days (and even weeks) since birth, they require frequent feedings. Small babies tend to feed every two or three hours, or even more often, while other babies are fed on demand. And if you choose to pump and store some of your excess breast milk, make sure to freeze it. You can keep it that way for up to 6 months and thaw it whenever you need it. As a general rule, freshly expressed milk can be stored for up to 4 hours at room temperature, or up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Relax and Enjoy the Breastfeeding Process

If you’re a new mother, it’s useful to try to relax as much as possible and remind yourself to enjoy the time you spend with your baby. You’re both getting to know each other and sometimes it comes naturally. However sometimes that’s a more challenging process, so give yourself some grace. You just made a tiny human and you’re trying to keep it alive. You’re doing a great job.

There’s an old saying. A mother’s job is never done. The cooking, the cleaning, the nursing. The mental and physical load of a mother is never ending. That’s especially true if the mother is going through some type of flu. Yes, flu and cold seasons are especially hard on the family, but we would argue that they’re particularly hard on the breastfeeding mothers. Mothers who are breastfeeding their babies often wonder if they should continue with the breastfeeding while being sick, and we are here to clarify some misconceptions about that.

Breastfeeding while sick may become quite the challenge for the mother. Mostly because there are some safety measures in place, but also because it’s quite the unpleasant experience. Let’s face it. When you’re sick with the flu, all you want to do is lie in bed and be miserable. However, breastfeeding mothers don’t have that option. So, it’s best to ask…

Is It Safe for You to Breastfeed Your Baby While Being Sick?

Don’t worry. It’s very much safe to breastfeed your baby if you’re sick. As long as you take the proper hygiene steps such as washing hands, or wearing a mask, your baby will be safe. In fact, most health professionals encourage mothers to breastfeed their babies even trough sickness in order to maintain their milk supply.

Breastfeeding also provides a good dose of protection for your baby against the cold or flu, or other sickness that you’re experiencing. That’s thanks to the antibodies that are produced while you are sick, and stored in the breast milk.

However, whatever you do, do not stop breastfeeding (or pumping) in the period that you’re sick. Your milk supply may be affected, if that pause is much longer than a couple of days.

Is It Safe to Take Medicine While Breastfeeding?

When it comes to taking a medicine for flu or cold, it’s best to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t take anything without consulting a medical professional, as some medicines could be harmful for your baby.

Usually, OTC products like paracetamol and ibuprofen, which are used when you have high body temperature or pain, are considered safe during breastfeeding. And maybe you would also need to take an antibiotic. Note to check with your doctor if it’s safe to take them while breastfeeding.

What Else Can You Do?

Well, you can take a supplement containing vitamins and minerals. The mother’s body gets exhausted from the breastfeeding, sleep deprivation and all the challenges during this period. So, supplementation with essential micronutrients would be beneficial for your overall health, not only your immune system.

It’s best to stay hydrated during this time as well. Drink plenty of fluids, and also crank up the humidifier. Dry air and poor ventilation can make the cold even worse. Try to rest and yes. Try to sleep when the baby sleeps. We know it’s not always possible but resting your body is very much needed when you’re sick, so make sure to get plenty of good rest. That also includes less home chores and less strenuous physical exhaustion.

Breastfeeding while being sick at the same time is challenging for sure. But you’ll have to do your best to stay calm and follow the advice of your health provider on what to do and take during this period, and remember. Most mothers will go through it at one point or another. This too shall pass.

Every woman who’s given birth will experience post-partum bleeding. And every woman who’s given birth may experience blood clots. Don’t be afraid. Some post-partum bleeding and some blood clots are perfectly normal for women who have just given birth. Also, most blood clots occur after the delivery, but some pregnant women may experience a risk of blood clots during pregnancy. Clots can last up to six weeks after delivery and in most cases, there are no causes for concern about the health and wellbeing of the mother. However, there are a few things to consider, when it comes to the risks associated with developing blood clots.

What is a blood clot you might ask?

Bleeding is fairly common in the postpartum period. That means that your body is healing from childbirth and there’s shedding of the uterine lining. However, there’s one pretty accurate way to recognize a blood clot from regular bleeding in the postpartum period. That’s according to the look. A blood clot is a mass of blood that sticks together and forms a jelly-like structure or mucus. Regular postpartum bleeding is not so viscous and doesn’t have a jelly-like structure.

There are two main types of blood clots that women may experience after birth.

The first type is one that’s passed through the woman’s vagina after birth. The one we already described. That’s because there’s a lot of shedding from the womb’s lining. And of course, because of the removal of the placenta post-delivery. This type of clot is completely harmless and it’s expected to exit the woman’s body through the vagina entirely.

The second type of clot is a bit more dangerous but also very rare. It’s a type of clot that happens inside the woman’s veins and it should be treated by medical professionals. The medical term for this clot is a Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT and it’s a bit more serious. It typically occurs in the woman’s leg, arm, thigh, or pelvis and if untreated can cause plenty of medical problems.

What Are the Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Here’s the thing. A woman can develop DVT during pregnancy, in childbirth, and ever after the delivery. And there’s not just one single profile of women that can develop DVT. However, the risk of developing DVT in pregnancy increases if the woman has a genetic predisposition to blood clots or has had them in the past. Increased maternal age, obesity, and decreased mobility are additional factors, but also if the woman has some pre-existing health conditions. Conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are big risks when it comes to developing DVT.

But what about the symptoms? How can you tell if you’re developing blood clots?

If you are pregnant, or just had a baby be mindful of symptoms like shortness of breath, fever, pain (when you walk or stand) and swelling. Also, veins that look larger than normal or discoloration, and redness on your skin may indicate a development of blood clots so be mindful about those possible symptoms.

What to Do to Prevent the Development of Blood Clots?

If you are pregnant or have recently given birth there are a few things that you can do in order to prevent the development of blood clots. Movement may help with the prevention. Doctors may advise to avoid sitting still for longer periods, and that applies after delivery. We know it’s hard, but you’ll have to force yourself to move a bit more. The medical team may advise you to walk even right after delivery, to prevent the formation of blood clots. Yes, we know. You’re swollen, tired, and in pain, and the last thing you need is walking. However, it may do you more good than harm.

However, if you do develop blood clots, your healthcare professional will recommend you the right treatment.

Try to stay calm during this period. The medical team that guided you through your pregnancy and subsequent delivery will ensure you don’t develop blood clots. But if you do, don’t worry. There is an efficient treatment for it, and there will not be any long-term effects for you or your baby.

If you are pregnant, and you notice a small amount of blood on your underwear… Try not to panic. It’s quite common to have bleeding during pregnancy and it’s not always a sign that something is wrong with your baby.

Yes, vaginal bleeding in pregnancy is more common than you think and has many causes. Some are quite serious, while most are harmless and should not cause concerns. We know that the sight of blood on your underwear is unpleasant and frightening, but that doesn’t always mean there’s something wrong. However, if you do notice vaginal bleeding in your pregnancy it’s best to consult with your health provider and make an appointment. Better safe than sorry right?

Causes of Bleeding in Pregnancy

As we mentioned earlier, there are many causes of bleeding in pregnancy. However, it’s important to note that there are two vastly different types of bleeding during pregnancy. The first type is called „spotting“. It’s usually harmless, light bleeding and occurs early in the pregnancy. It mostly happens when the embryo attaches itself to the uterine lining, and the bleeding is not that worrisome. However, the most common causes of bleeding in the second and third semesters are placental abruption, preterm labor, or miscarriage.

Pregnancy is a delicate period in every woman’s life and even the pregnancy itself can cause changes to the already sensitive cervix. During this time pap smear exams, and sexual intercourse during pregnancy can cause vaginal bleeding, and of course even urinary tract infections. Those are quite common as well.

Bleeding in the first trimester may also be a sign of ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, or simply a miscarriage. Women who miscarry may have some type of bleeding before the miscarriage, but not always.

What Type of Bleeding Is Normal?

The light bleeding (or spotting) is quite normal in pregnancy. Bleeding in the first trimester happens in 15 to 25 of 100 pregnancies. However, the heavy bleeding in the later stages of pregnancy is not. Make sure to inform your health provider if there’s heavier bleeding than usual or if it’s accompanied by pain, fever, or cramping. Also, make sure to check the color of the blood, and check the flow of bleeding as well. If it’s getting heavier, it’s usually a sign that something is not right and you need to go to a doctor.

The most common treatment for vaginal bleeding is a medicine called progesterone, and you may have to take the progesterone until the 16th week of pregnancy, or even longer. A scan will follow the progesterone therapy, but you’ll be also advised to get plenty of rest as well. Make sure you don’t do any type of strenuous activities in this period, and make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Out of the things you shouldn’t do, don’t take any medication that is not prescribed by a doctor, and don’t use tampons as well. And finally, try to stay calm throughout it all. Make sure to stay positive and reach out to your doctor if you need any medical advice.

During your pregnancy or even after childbirth, some symptoms are not quite worrisome, but others can mean that something might be seriously wrong. Try to stay calm in the midst of it all. Good or bad, this too shall pass.

You’ve probably heard the term „Baby brain syndrome “. Sometimes it’s „pregnancy brain syndrome “. At times you can even find it as “momnesia”. Yes, that is an actual term that most moms use, and yes. It’s quite funny. But what is the baby brain syndrome, and is it actually real? Or is it just a myth?

Here’s the thing. Plenty of pregnant women report usual and well-established pregnancy symptoms. Such as swelling, pregnancy cravings, or morning sickness. But putting the car keys in the freezer, or the pots and pans in the washing machine is not that usual in pregnancy. That’s what is colloquially known as „baby brain syndrome “and yes. It’s very much real.

What Is Baby Brain Syndrome Actually About?

Here’s a hint. It’s not a syndrome. It’s not an official medical condition, but rather a universal term for a variety of symptoms that affect most pregnant women. It’s not entirely clear what causes forgetfulness or „momnesia “. However, research has shown that there are some possible factors to consider.

Hormones are considered to play a role in the baby brain syndrome. Yes, women tend to experience big shifts in hormones during pregnancy, and one of those things that they trigger is brain function.

Lack of sleep during pregnancy is another trigger for „momnesia“.

Poor sleeping habits during pregnancy are quite common, especially as the pregnancy progresses in the final trimester. Granted, pregnancy brain can start as early as the first trimester, but there’s no need for concern. It’s not going to have a long-term effect on your memory or cognition.

Some pregnant women may experience brain fog along with forgetfulness, disorientation, clumsiness, and poor concentration. Those are also symptoms of baby brain syndrome and yes. Those are also harmless and will disappear after some time.

What Can You Do to Improve Your Pregnancy Brain Syndrome?

There are a few things you can do. First and foremost, you should try to get some rest and a good night’s sleep. Sleep is important for the proper function of our brain, so a good rest could be just the ticket.

You can also keep a daily reminder of what needs to be done, in order not to forget about it. A doctor’s appointment for instance, or a birthday event. A good calendar, an alarm notification, or simply an app for the organization will also do a tremendous job. Post-it notes may be an effective and cheap way to remind you of certain things.

Eating well may also have a positive effect on your memory and cognition. But proper hydration is beneficial as well. And finally try to reduce the stress and anxiety. We know that pregnant women are extra stressed and filled with anxiety, but try to keep those things to a minimum.

Just Relax and Take It Easy

We know it’s easier said than done. You’re growing a human being and it’s not an easy job. With all the changes going on, it’s easy to develop pregnancy brain syndrome. But if you do, don’t worry too much about it. This too shall pass.

Night waking is a fairly common complaint for most mothers. Especially in the first year of the baby’s life. Sleep deprivation is not pleasant, we can all agree on that. The crying at night is a gut-wrenching experience for every parent out there. But hey. You’re not alone. Almost every parent goes through this, and you’ll have to hang in there. Your child needs you and they’ll never be this small again. So, it’s best to learn about the possible reasons for your baby’s night wakes. These are some of the causes of your child’s night wakes.

Do you recognize them?

Hunger

Yes, the night wakes because your baby is hungry can last for months, and at times even beyond the first year. That’s completely normal and there’s nothing to be alarmed about. Your newborn has a tiny stomach capacity and needs frequent feedings at night in order to grow and develop properly. Sometimes up to 12 times a day, and that can be quite hard for the parents. Make sure that your baby has regular feedings during the day in order to intake the daily calories needed, a in time night awakenings should reduce.

Underdeveloped Circadian Rhythm

All babies are born with underdeveloped Circadian Rhythm. Your baby cannot distinguish between day and night and the sleep cycles are mixed up. However, there’s a way to improve your baby’s circadian rhythm even from a young age. It takes most babies up to 8 weeks to start distinguishing day from night, and that’s the perfect age to start their sleep training.

One of the tricks would be to not let your baby sleep more than 3 hours during the day. After 3 hours, it is recommendable to wake up your baby for feedings. Try to keep the room bright and loud, turn on the TV or the vacuum cleaner during the day.

Do the opposite at night. Dim the lights, turn off any electronic devices, and any other loud music. Establish an evening bed routine and stick to it. It can be soothing like: bath, putting on pajamas, gentle cuddling and singing, and off to the crib. That’s how your baby can know when it’s nighttime and when it’s time to go to sleep.

Gassy babies also wake up frequently

A gassy tummy can cause a lot of discomfort and a lot of tears. Especially at night. Just when you think that your baby is fed and changed, the tears start at night. Have you tried burping your child? That gas in the tummy needs to escape and a good burping session after feeding and even a massage on the belly will do the trick.

Teething

This is self-explanatory but it can become quite a problem for a lot of parents. Teething hurts and the pain can disrupt your baby’s sleep. Make sure to use teething remedies, cremes, and cold compressions for the swelling gums. During this time your baby will become clingier and will cry a bit more but you and your baby will have to persevere. Those pearly white teeth are coming out anyway.

Sleep regressions due to growth spurts

We’re using plural here because there are several sleep regressions in the first year of your baby’s life. Babies are constantly developing and growing. Only during the first 4 – 6 months your baby will double their birth weight. The development process is also very intense during the first year of life. And this affects their sleeping patterns. Sleep regressions happen around 4 months, 6 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 2 years of age. They usually last between 2 and 6 weeks and they’re also normal.

Hey tired mama. If you’re in the thick of it, don’t hesitate to ask your partner for help. Especially at night. Sleep deprivation is hard for both of the parents, but it can be especially hard for the mother. It’s important to know that all the sleepless nights are going to pass and the joy of seeing your baby grow is priceless. You can do this.

When it comes to feeding and nurturing your baby, experts agree that “feeding” is best. Your baby is getting fed nutritionally and that’s all that matters. Regardless of which vessel the milk is coming from, the thing that matters the most is that your baby is growing, gaining weight, and hitting the milestones.

However, experts also agree that there are numerous benefits to the act of breastfeeding. Both for the mother and the baby. But right now, in this article, we’re going to focus mainly on the benefits for your baby.

What Is in Breast Milk Anyway?

Since most pediatricians and health care experts recommend exclusively breastfeeding up to 6 months… It’s best to ask. What is in breast milk? There are two types of proteins that are found in breast milk. Whey and casein protein. About 60% to 80% of your breast milk protein is whey and up to 40% casein. In the rest, there are fats, carbs, vitamins, and white blood cells that help fight off infections.

With that in mind… What are the top 3 breastfeeding benefits for your baby?

Breast milk contains important antibodies that fight off bacteria and viruses. Breastfeeding may protect your baby from some short-term and some long-term illnesses. Research also indicates that babies who are breastfed, have a lower risk of developing diarrhea, respiratory and ear infections, asthma, and other conditions. This especially applies to the Colostrum or the so-called “first milk” that a mother lactates during the first days after birth. The Colostrum contains high doses of immunoglobulin A (IgA), which protects the mucosal tissues from infections.

Breastfeeding promotes a healthy weight for your baby.

Several studies have shown that breastfeeding may help your baby maintain a healthy weight, and could prevent becoming obese later in life. That’s because breastfed babies tend to better regulate their milk intake. They are better at nursing until they’re satiated, which can help them learn positive and healthy eating patterns down the line.

Breastfeeding may also benefit your baby’s sleeping patterns.

It’s a debunked myth that formula-fed babies sleep longer. Yes, research has shown that both breastfed and formula-fed babies are just as likely to wake up at night. As babies usually do. However, breastfed babies go back to sleep faster than formula-fed babies. Why is that you might ask? Well, it’s because of oxytocin that the mother’s body produces and then passes on through the breast milk. When you see your baby dozing off, that’s because of the oxytocin that you gave to your baby.

But that’s not all. Let’s briefly remind that breastfeeding is beneficial for you as well.

In the months after delivery, breastfeeding might lower your risk for postpartum depression if breastfeeding is going well and you feel well-supported. As the hormone oxytocin is produced, it helps your uterus contract faster to its normal size, and reduces the amount of vaginal bleeding after delivery. Breastfeeding may also help mothers lose the weight gained during pregnancy as it burns more calories.

Last but not least, breastfeeding is this special opportunity to build connection with your baby, feel each other, learn from each other and establish trust.

Finally, whatever you decide is the best option for you and your baby, the most important thing is they are fed nutritionally and happy.

At a conference held by the US National Institute of Health on the subject: “Dietary Supplement Use in Women: Current Status and Future Directions”, conclusions have been drawn on nutritional needs of pregnant women, as well as lactating mothers.

As generally accepted, the recommendations are of exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of baby’s life, providing that the maternal diet and reserves are adequate and sufficient quantity is transferred to the baby. The composition of the milk is variable and depending on mother’s nutrition, which is most notably evident in the vitamin constituents.

Nutritional needs during lactation are stated to be considerably greater that those of pregnancy.

The reason behind this is that in the first 4 to 6 months of their life the infants double their birth weight, gained during the 9 months of pregnancy. The milk secreted in these 4 months represents an amount of energy roughly equivalent to the total energy cost of pregnancy. Also nutrient density of the maternal diet assumes great importance during lactation because the estimated increase in energy needs is less than estimated increases in needs for other nutrients. Additionally, it has been concluded that for certain micronutrients there is greater need during breastfeeding compared to the pregnancy period, like vitamin C, vitamins B₁, B₆, B₁₂, pantothenic acid, biotin, choline, vitamin E, zinc, iodine, selenium, etc.

We can conclude that healthy nutrition providing high nutrient density is very important during breastfeeding, both for the mother to prevent depletion, and for the baby to provide proper growth and development.

Including a daily food supplement aimed for lactating mothers is not a substituent to a healthy diet, but it is a reliable source of support during this important period of yours and your baby’s life.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega 3 fatty acid essentially important for the health of our body. It is a main constituent of cell membranes and has various roles in the proper function of the human organism.

It is well known today that DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and the maintenance of normal vision.

Scientific evidence show that there is intensive accumulation of DHA in the brain and eyes of the baby, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy and the first 6 months of their life, when being exclusively on breastfeeding. This is a period when the baby is entirely dependent on their mother’s micronutrient intake for a proper nutrition.

Therefore it is now recommended that pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should have an intake of not less than 200 mg of DHA every day, to contribute to the normal brain and eye development of their babies.

As an omega 3 fatty acid, DHA can be found mostly in oily fish like salmon, trout, sardines or mackerel. Nevertheless, there has been a strong debate lately about the safety of fish we are consuming today, in terms of its origin and possible pollutants.

Having all of this this in mind, Premama Duo’s formulation includes DHA in the dose of 200 mg per capsule, to provide everyday recommended necessary nutrition for the mother and the baby.

Premama Duo is a food supplement aimed for all of you who are planning pregnancy, who are already pregnant, and for you who have finished your pregnancy journey and are now enjoying the new journey of beautiful, precious moments with your new family member.

Premama Duo is a multicomponent product, consisted of vitamins, minerals and omega 3 fatty acids. Its composition is carefully formulated following latest EU guidelines for antenatal care and nutrition recommendations for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Each package of Premama Duo contains 30 tables and 30 capsules. The tablets are consisted of 11 vitamins and 10 minerals essential for you, and the capsules contain omega 3 fatty acids – docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) being especially important during your pregnancy and breastfeeding period.

Premama Duo contains 100% Quatrefolic ®, active folic acid – 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) – with a dose of 400 mcg in one tablet!

We recommend 1 tablet and 1 capsule of Premama Duo to be taken every day after a meal, together or separately, according to your preferences.

Find out more about Premama Duo in our Product Information section.