By Louise Goosen – Internationally Certified Lactation Consultant So much has been written about breastfeeding but do we really appreciate what this wonder food does for our babies? Did you know for instance, that the unique first milk (colostrum) is referred to as a baby’s first...
Meningococcal meningitis, a form of meningococcal disease, is a serious bacterial infection. Unlike viral meningitis, it can potentially kill an otherwise healthy young person within 1 day after the first symptoms appear. 1, 2 Meningococcal disease can be difficult to recognise, especially in its early stages...
(This article is also available in an audio format) By Marga Grey – paediatric occupational therapist. Author of Sensible Stimulation - Metz Press There are so many things that can go “wrong” in a baby’s development. A new parent or parent-to-be might be overwhelmed. Look at babies...
Giving a baby medication is not an easy task for a mother. Not many babies just sit there with their mouth’s open waiting to swallow the often not so pleasant tasting mixture. A more skilled approach is needed. Ensure you have the correct medication that your...
By Jennifer Van der Laan – www.birthingnaturally.net – childbirth educator and doula Few women go into labour realising that the strongest comfort measure is the love and encouragement of those supporting her. Let’s face it, childbirth classes are filled with charts of the baby descending and...
(This article is also available in an audio format) The buzz word in maternity care circles is informed choice! But how often are women exhorted to make an informed decision? How many times do these words appear in policy documents and procedure manuals within a health...
By Hettie Grove – Registered nurse, advanced midwife, internationally certified childbirth educator, SACLC – SA certified lactation consultant and course developer, IBCLC Looking at birth announcements, one of the most featured pieces of clothing these days has become the beannie…oh what a gorgeous baby in that...
By Anchen Verster - Registered nurse, midwife, SA Certified Perinatal Educator – SACPE, wife, mother to 4 children including a set of twins As a childbirth educator I’m often asked by expectant moms how they will know if their doctor is recommending a caesarean that is...
Suggested Labour Bag A labour bag should be a bag packed with items that you and your partner might want in labour. Plan to pack things that are of comfort both physically and emotionally. Labour Bag Birth plan Childbirth education class notes Loose fitting large T-shirt – for comfortable labouring Socks...
Dr Colinda Linde (Clinical psychologist), author of “Get the balance right” – www.metzpress.co.za From hearing the news “you’re pregnant” up to “it’s a baby boy/girl (or both)”, a woman’s body goes through incredible changes, the likes of which have never been experienced in any other form....