Maternity Wear Collection Casual Maternity Wear Maternity Work Wear Plus Size Maternity Wear Maternity Jeans Maternity Swimwear Formal Evening Maternity Wear Gym/Active Maternity Wear Formal Evening Maternity Wear HIRE Maternity Bras/Maternity Hosiery Breastfeeding Maternity Accessories Maternity Wear Sale Items Maternity Wear Tips Pregnancy Information Maternity Bra Tips Breastfeeding Tips BabyCo Beyond Blue  Australian Multiple Birth Association  Casey & District Multiple Birth Association Sids & Kids - Safe Sleeping Australian Breastfeeding Association Panda - Depression Austprem Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond  Essential Baby  Kidspot  The Bub Hub Home Safety

END OF SUMMER MATERNITY WEAR SALE = MORE MATERNITY SAVINGS!!!

50% OFF all Maternity Swimwear plus FREE postage!

(no returns on maternity swimwear purchases, while stocks last)

FREE Postage on all garments Australia Wide - no minimum order

(Please note:  all postage for returns and exchanges is payable by the customer on all their maternity wear purchases)

 

Just 4 Mums Maternitywear is an online maternity wear store designed to save you money on your maternity wear purchases.  Online only we are able to pass on the savings which lets you save money to buy all your maternity wear needs.

 

Maternity Wear made for comfort ... feel good with great maternity wear

Maternity wear made for comfort.  Feel good with great maternity wear. Maternity jeans, maternity tops, maternity dresses, maternity pants, maternity swimwear, maternity bras, plus size maternity wear and all things maternity during pregnancy at www.imaternitywear.com.au by Just 4 Mums Maternitywear.

We have helped thousands of pregnant women over the years with getting the most out of their maternity wear with a mix and match maternity wardrobe for all seasons.

So enjoy your new pregnancy body and boost your confidence during your pregnancy with some great maternity wear pieces that will keep you comfortable, fashionable and looking your best.

Maternity wear is available in:

 

	Casual Maternity Wear Maternity Wear made for comfort, all of your day to day needs are catered for with our great range of basic casual maternity wear and more.
	Maternity Work Wear Need to maintain your corporate image for the office? Then look no further with our maternity work wear range. Maternity work pants, business shirts, maternity skirts and jackets are available as part of our commitment to pregnant women still in the workforce.
	Plus Size Maternity Wear If you are looking for maternity wear garments in sizes 20-26, we cater for you. Our plus size maternity wear range offers the same great maternity wear choices with plus size casual maternity wear, plus size maternity work wear, plus size breastfeeding tops; plus size maternity jeans; plus size formal maternity evening wear and plus size maternity accessories like tummy bands and belly belts.
	Maternity Jeans Who can live without their jeans???  Maternity jeans are essential in any maternity wear wardrobe.  Very versatile and in many different styles, colours and fit, you will find your perfect pair of maternity jeans here.
	Maternity Swimwear Maternity swimwear is one of the maternity wear garments that pregnant women have trouble finding. If you are after a fashion pair of maternity swimmers or maternity swimwear which is chlorine resistant then we can help you. With stock all year round we can offer maternity swim wear for those much needed holidays in the middle of winter or for a local water aerobics class or for pregnant women just looking to swim a few laps.
	Formal Maternity Evening Wear Just received that formal invitation in the mail? Having nothing to wear? Then look no further with a great range of formal maternity evening wear for all occasions.
	Gym/Active Maternity Wear Can I exercise throughout my pregnancy? Always check with your doctor/obstetrician before commencing exercise during your pregnancy but it has been discovered that healthy women who exercise regularly during pregnancy deliver healthy babies without compromising fetal growth or development. Get comfortable in maternity wear made for exercise.
	Formal Maternity Evening Wear HIRE Did you say "Maternity Wear Hire"? Put those maternity dollars back in your purse for a cheaper alternative. Inspired by a need for one off occasions our formal maternity wear range is about You and saving You money.
	Maternity Bras & Maternity Hosiery Didn't know that maternity hosiery existed? Well, Kayser Maternity have been a champion for pregnant women sick of the feeling of being cut in two by their regular hosiery. In winter you can also purchase your opaque maternity hosiery for the cooler months. Ugly maternity bras are a thing of the past. Berlei Maternity and "Barely There" have found a comfortable maternity bra option with their maternity t-shirt bra for wear during your pregnancy and for breastfeeding once your new bundle arrives.
	Breastfeeding Convenience, convenience, convenience. Breastfeeding tops and breastfeeding garments are your answer to continuing your life on the run with minimal fuss. Ranging from breastfeeding tops, breastfeeding dresses, breastfeeding singlets the range of breastfeeding garments is ever-expanding.
	Maternity Accessories These are all the little bits and pieces that pack a punch. Belly Belts to extend your own pants, tummy bands for a little more coverage and milk bands for breastfeeding convenience are all the go.

 

Your Pregnancy 

Your First Trimester - Weeks 6-13

Article provided by Kidspot - http://www.kidspot.com.au/article+1042+113+Your-pregnancy-first-trimester.htm

The first trimester takes you through to week 13.  Our step by step guide takes you through what to expect at each step.

Your Pregnancy - Week 6

You

Congratulations!  You have found out that you are expecting, although you may not really believe it just yet.  No doubt you are feeling a sense of nervous excitement about the months ahead of you.  Take time to talk to your partner and include them in your thoughts, they are probably feeling as nervous as you are.  You may already be feeling physical changes with sore breasts (try sleeping in a soft cotton bra top for extra comfort) tiredness, frequent peeing and nausea.

Your Baby

Baby is busy already.  Baby has grown to 5mm long, although baby is curled up like a bean shoot.  Baby's larynx is starting to form, along with their inner ear.  The lining of the placenta begins developing but the placenta will not take over production of the hormones until about week 12.  Your baby's heart (which is starting to divide into the right and left chambers) is beating about 100 to 130 beats per minute - almost twice as fast as yours - and blood is beginning to circulate through baby's body.  Baby's intestines are developing and tiny breathing passages are beginning to appear where their lungs will be.  Baby is also starting to build muscle fibres and, halfway through this week, baby will likely start moving their tiny limbs.

Your Pregnancy - Week 7

You

It's more than likely you are going to have cravings.  Often the stress of trying to resist can cause more harm than having that second Tim Tam with a hot chocolate chaser and pink marshmallow on the side.  Make your motto "everything in moderation" and you'll stay healthy and happy all through your pregnancy. 

It's important to take pre-natal vitamins as recommended but watch out for constipation.  Sometimes the extra iron can cause you to become less regular.  Try switching to another brand, however, if the problem continues to persist ask for professional advice.

Feelings of heartburn or indigestion can be relieved by eating smaller meals more regularly.  If you find yourself snacking more than usual, try to stick to healthy options such as peanut butter and celery sticks, or apple and cheese.  Begin taking folic acid even if you haven't already.

Your Baby

Baby is continuing their rapid growth phase and is now 1 cm long.  Baby's skin is paper-thin and their veins are clearly visible. 

Baby's teeth and the inside of their mouth are forming, and baby's ears continue to develop.  Each eye has an optic cup, retina and lens and the tip of baby's nose is sprouting.  Baby will go through three sets of kidneys, and is currently developing its second set.  There's is an appendix and a pancreas, which will eventually produce the hormone insulin to aid in digestion.  Baby's liver is busy producing red blood cells, and a loop of your baby's growing intestines is bulging into their umbilical cord, which now has distinct blood vessels to carry oxygen and nutrients to and from their tiny body.  Baby is certainly on the move now but you won't be able to feel anything yet. 

Your Pregnancy - Week 8

You

Exciting news!  It's more than likely that you will be having your first appointment, this week.  Be prepared with the questions you should ask your doctor or midwife (we've put together a 20 questions to ask your doctor list together for you).  You probably won't remember all the answers from your first visit so it's worth keeping the list and asking your doctor or midwife to explain again, once you start to get a feel for this pregnancy thing and work out exactly what you don't know.

Your Baby

Baby is 1.5 cm long and their skeleton is starting to form.  Their arms and legs have grown longer, with their elbows appearing and the process of ossification, or hardening of the bones beginning.  Babies are measured from the crown (or top) of the head to the rump (or bottom) until about 20 weeks.  After that, they're measured from head to toe.  This is because baby's legs are curled up against their torso during the first half of pregnancy and very hard to measure.  Your baby's hands and feet now have five ridges on each, separated by narrow grooves, making them appear webbed.

Your Pregnancy - Week 9

You

You may find yourself riding pregnancy's emotional roller coaster, feeling moody one day and joyful the next.  Disturbing as this is to some women who pride themselves on being in control, what you are going through is normal and will probably continue throughout your pregnancy.  Up and down emotions are partly caused by raging hormones.

Your skin needs a helping hand to survive pregnancy, too.  It will become drier, and perhaps itchier, as your body loses much of its natural oils.  It may be worthwhile switching to a moisturising bodywash and a gentle body moisturiser.

Your Baby

Your baby is almost fully developed and measures approximately 2.3cm long and weighs 2 grams.  Your baby's tiny body is starting to make its first movements although it is unlikely that you will feel these yet.  Baby's eyelids are fused and won't open until week 27.  Baby's wrists are more developed, ankles have formed, and their fingers and toes are clearly visible.  Baby's arms are growing longer and bend at the elbows.  By week's end, the inner workings of baby's ears are complete.  Though you can't identify the sex of the fetus by ultrasound, their genitals have begun to form.

Your Pregnancy - Week 10

You

Some women will have extreme bouts of nausea, while the lucky ones will scarcely have a trace.  The might sight of certain foods may send you running, or else you just can't stop eating everything in sight.  Be prepared for extreme swings in terms of your nausea, that way you won't be caught by surprise after a couple of "great I'm eating again days".

If you do have serious morning sickness, which is not uncommon, swap your big meal to the morning and east something light, such as a bowl of cereal for dinner.

Your Baby

Baby is still considered a foetus at this point.  Baby is beginning to take on human features and looks more like a miniature person, but baby's head is still the largest part of all 3.1 cms of them.  Baby weighs just 4 grams.  Baby's arms and legs are short and thin, and curled up tight next to their body.  In the coming weeks the rest of your baby's body will grow to be more in proportion to its head.  Its skin is clear and see-through, so if you were to have a 4D ultrasound you could see the inner working of your baby too.

Your Pregnancy - Week 11

You

Already you may be seeing the physical signs of pregnancy.  Bloating, swelling and being just plain old tired are not uncommon, even at this early stage.  Your body is having a surge of hormones while it develops your baby, and retaining all sorts of fluids.  And it's not just a small amount - your body is holding an extra 75 millimeters of fluid. With all of the work going on, you may be extremely tired and fatigued throughout the day, even when you have had a good night's sleep.  Nap as often as you can and rest assured that this will pass with the first trimester.

It is very important for you to eat well, especially during the first trimester while your baby develops its essential systems.  With a bad case of morning sickness, eating will be the last thing you will want to do, but don't worry, you can still eat well if you take it little by little.  Choose foods that are high in protein, iron, folic acid and calcium.  If you can't manage to get them all in each day, make sure to take pre-natal vitamins.  Take the vitamins at a time during the day when you feel the least sick and aren't likely to throw up.

Your Baby

Baby is now 4.1cm from crown to rump and weighs 7 grams.  Baby's placenta is beginning to produce and deliver all of the hormones needed for their development.

Baby's placenta will also grow slightly in size as she grows.  The placenta is full of fluids such as hormones, blood and antibodies that circulate to your baby while it grows.  Your baby is forming their organs, skeletal system and muscles, but they won't have any significant weight for several weeks yet.  From week 16 onwards, you will feel those muscles working as that's when baby begins to kick.

Your Pregnancy - Week 13

You

Having pains in your abdomen this week may be common.  Your abdomen will begin expanding, and when it does, the muscles tissues and ligaments need to stretch too.  This stretching may occur quickly and cause you some pain, especially if this is your first pregnancy.  To prevent sharp pains across your lower belly, move more slowly and reduce your physical activity until they have stretched comfortably.  You should avoid sit-ups during exercise for the duration of your pregnancy.

You may find your vaginal discharge increases with pregnancy.  This is partly due to an increase in estrogen production and greater blood flow to the vaginal area.  Wearing panty liners may help to make you feel more comfortable. 

Keep a dream journal.  During pregnancy your dreams will be so much more vivid so keep a record in your pregnancy journal.

Your Baby

Your baby increases their growth spurt.  Baby is 7.4cm long from crown to rump and weighs 23 grams.  Baby's intestines will emerge from the umbilical cord and will shift into the stomach cavity.  Baby's intestines won't be in their proper place for a few more weeks but are getting there.  When they do move into the correct position, they will remain fairly empty until the end of the pregnancy.  Fluid will flow through baby's system and will be filtered through the kidneys and bladder as urine.

 

 

Your Second Trimester - Weeks 14-26

Article provided by Kidspot - http://www.kidspot.com.au/article+1080+115+Your-Pregnancy-Second-Trimester.htm

You've made it to the second trimester.  Chances are the morning sickness is starting to subside, you feel more radiant and your skin is glowing.  You'll soon start to feel the first flutters of your baby's moving.  Our week by week guide will help you with getting organised and taking care of yourself and your growing baby.

The second trimester takes you through weeks 14-26.

Your Pregnancy - Week 14

You

This week you are exiting the first trimester and beginning the second trimester.  One third of your pregnancy journey is completed.  By now, pregnancy hormones are levelling off.  This means less nausea, less frequent urination and less frequent exhaustion.  What a relief!  However, you may be experiencing some constipation since those darned hormones have relaxed your bowel muscles causing them to work slower and less efficiently.  Your uterus is also pressing on your bowel.  Be sure to increase the fibre in your diet if constipation becomes a problem.

Your Baby

Baby is now 8.7cm long and has nearly doubled its weight since last week to 43 grams.  Lanugo, the fine, short hairs that help keep the body heat inside your baby, will form now and grow to cover baby's entire body.  Baby's skin is very thin and fat won't develop for several weeks, so  baby needs extra help staying warm.  The lanugo will cover your baby for several months and won't be shed until there is enough fat to keep them warm.  When the fat is thick under the skin, the lanugo will fall off and end up in the baby's intestines as meconium, which is what comes out as their first dirty nappy.

Your Pregnancy - Week 15

You

This will be a very exciting week for you.  When you visit the doctor or midwife, there is a very good chance that they will be able to pick up your baby's heartbeat with  Doppler.  The Doppler determines the rate of your baby's heartbeat.  If the doctor or midwife can't pick up your baby's heartbeat yet, don't fret.  It is still very early in your pregnancy and you will probably be able to hear it in the next week or two.

If you are having trouble sleeping try drinking a glass of warm milk or having a warm bath before bed.  Don't run the water too hot as it's not healthy to raise your temperature above 37.8 degrees while pregnant as it increases your heart rate, reduces blood flow to the fetus, and potentially puts the baby under stress.

Your Baby

Baby is now 10.1cm long from crown to rump and weighs 70 grams.  By the end of this week, all of the major organs will be formed within your baby.  The heart, kidneys, liver, pancreas, lungs and spleen will be in their proper locations, but not necessarily performing their function yet.  The organs will continue to grow and develop with each respective system, and being working over the next couple of months.  In no time, all of baby's systems will be up and running.

Your Pregnancy - Week 16

You

Can you feel butterflies fluttering in your stomach this week?  That's a great sign.  The feeling is called quickening, it's when you first feel the movements of your baby.  It may feel like gas, an upset tummy or like butterflies floating around in your stomach, but it really is baby on the move.  Quickening starts from week 16 but becomes more pronounced by week 18-20.  You may find it easier to feel those early fluttery movements if you lie down.  The distinctive kicks and punches are still a few weeks away and that is most likely when your partner will be able to feel baby's movements, too.

Your Baby

Baby is 11.6cm, weighs 100 grams and has enough muscle strength and co-ordination for them to form a fist.  Baby's fist is small and tightly clenched and fine details are beginning to emerge.  The creases between baby's fingers, knuckles and palm are beginning to appear.  Baby's nails are starting to grow, and the fingerprints that make baby completely unique are now programmed in the skin but won't be apparent for several more weeks.

Your Pregnancy - Week 17

You

Around this time your doctor may recommend you have an amniocentesis test if you and your partner's genetic history puts you in a high risk category or you are over the age of 37.  This safe test checks your amniotic fluid for certain chromosomal abnormalities present in your baby such as Down Syndrome or hereditary conditions such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and skeletal dysplasia.

If you have the test, you will visit hospital as an outpatient and the whole procedure takes no more than 30 minutes.  It begins with a technician performing an ultrasound to locate baby's position, ensuring the technician stays well clear of your baby as he or she uses a needle to extract a small amount of amniotic fluid.  The fluid is then sent to a lab and you should have your results within two weeks.  A negative result excludes only the condition for which the test was performed.  Unfortunately, there is no test to exclude all pregnancy abnormalities.

Your Baby

Baby will begin looking more like a baby this week and less like an alien, now baby is 13cm long and weighs 140 grams.  Baby's eyes will have moved to the front of their face and be completely forward looking.  Baby's eyelids are still tightly fused shut but their eyes are continuing to form underneath.  It will be a few more weeks before baby's eyelids open, blink or remain open.  Your baby's body is becoming more in proportion to what they will be at birth.

Your Pregnancy - Week 18

You

Does the smell of coffee turn your stomach?  When commercials come on the TV, do you want to cover your ears and reach for the volume control?  With added hormones in your system, and all the work that your body is doing for your baby, your senses may be in overdrive.  Things don't usually bother you - like sounds, tastes, touches - may drive you crazy right now.  Once your baby's growth and development slows, your system will come out of overdrive and your senses will relax and go back to normal.

Your Baby

Baby is 14.2cm long and 190 grams and their circulatory system has begun to work.  Baby's blood vessels are visible through their skin and blood will pump through their veins, arteries, flow through their heart, and all of their other major organs.  The heart will pump six litres of blood each day.  The blood will carry oxygen and nutrients through their body and filter out through the liver.  Baby's ears are now in position and stand out from their head.

If you are having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place.  If your baby is a boy, his genitals are noticeable.

Your Pregnancy - Week 19

You

You are one week short of the half way mark and so your body is definitely looking pregnant now.  Your shape will begin to show your curves, and finding comfortably fitting clothes that you already have may be limiting your wardrobe choices.  Investing in maternity clothes is worthwhile because not only will you wear them as you grow in size, you will return to them after your baby is born as you drop in size.  When you shop for maternity clothes, buy your regular size in maternity.  The clothes will be tailored to your shape and dimensions of pregnancy.

Make a list of your favourite baby names.  Ask your partner to do the same then swap lists and cross off any names you don't like on each other's lists.  Hopefully you will have at least one you both agree on.  If not, start again.  Use our Baby Name Finder to help you in your search - you may find you spend a long time choosing a name.

Your Baby

Baby is 15.3cm long and weighs 240 grams.  Vernix will begin to coat your baby's beautiful skin.  Vernix is a greasy, fat like substance that will cover all of the skin on your baby.  The reason for the vernix is two-fold.  One it provides added insulation on the outside until the fat can build under the skin and regulate their body heat.  Two, it protects their skin, which is growing thicker, against being submerged in amniotic fluid 24/7.  Once the vernix is covering their body, the lanugo will begin to fade away.  And once the fat is thick under the skin, the vernix will being to fade and be mostly gone by the time your baby is born.

Your Pregnancy - Week 20

You

Congratulations!!!  You are halfway through your pregnancy at the end of this week.  You have seen significant changes in your mood and now you will see big changes in your figure.  Your morning sickness should have eased a bit, if it has not disappeared completely.  The tiredness you have been feeling should also be going away and your energy levels should be closer to normal.  If it isn't, make sure to get plenty of rest and eat lots of protein rich foods to boost your energy.

This is a great time to discuss with your partner your options for after baby - are you going back to work or ill you stay at home?

Your Baby

Baby is 16.4cm long and weighs 300 grams measured from their crown to their rump.  This week, however, the measurements switch to crown to heel and that makes baby 25.6cm long.  Those little ears on your baby are in fine working order.  Your baby can hear sounds, both inside the uterus and on the outside.  They will not recognise what they are, however, since it has no way to identify noises.  But your baby will have come to recognise your voice over someone else's.  Your baby will also startle when it hears loud or sudden noises from the outside.  The internal noises baby hears are your heartbeat and growling stomach.

Your Pregnancy - Week 21

You

Visiting your doctor or midwife this week could be a lot of fun.  Halfway through most pregnancies your doctor or midwife will order an ultrasound as a routine procedure.  The ultrasound checks baby's size, organ functions and overall health.  During the ultrasound, the technician can measure specific bones, usually the leg and tell if your due date is accurate.  If the bone measures smaller or larger than normal, they may adjust your due date accordingly.  Before your ultrasound, you will need to drink a lot of water so your bladder is full during the procedure.  The purpose of a full bladder isn't to torture you, it is so the technician has an easier time viewing all of the parts of your baby.

Your Baby

Baby is 26.7cm long and weighs 360 grams.  The sex of your baby will be distinguishable during this week so you can confidently find out what you are having if you wish.  An experienced technician will be able to tell the difference, as long as our baby co-operates.  Baby may have their hands between their legs, or may not turn the right way, or just won't move in the right position to get a good view.  Even though the reproduction systems in your baby will be in place, it all remains immature until baby hits puberty and adolescence.

Your Pregnancy - Week 22

You

Are you having short periods of light-headedness?  Maybe even feeling a little dizzy when you stand up quickly after sitting for a long period, you may be light-headed.  This is because so much of your blood is centred around your uterus and with your growing size, it may not be able to move through your system as quickly as it used to.  To prevent this from happening make sure you change positions slowly.  You can also sit with your legs propped up to help with circulation, so that when you do stand up, your circulation has a head start.

Your hair may feel a lot thicker than it used to because you shed less hair during pregnancy.  To get rid of unwanted hear, you can safely tweeze, wax and shave, but bleaches or depilatories are not suitable because they can be absorbed into the skin and contain chemicals.

Your Baby

Baby is 27.8cm long and weighs 430 grams.  During this week, your baby's skin will make the transformation from being translucent to opaque.  No longer will you be able to see everything underneath all of that skin.  It will become cloudy but remain red.  The skin will appear red until the fat, which is white, builds under the skin layers.  Then the skin will turn from red to pink, and then to a very light pink or white if they are Caucasian.  The skin will be very wrinkly under the thick coating of vernix, until the fat fills it out and pushes the wrinkles out.

Your Pregnancy - Week 23

You

Back pain may be a constant, nagging ache for you right now.  Your frame isn't used to the added weight, which was put on quickly.  With the added weight, your balance and posture will change.  Those changes may throw your back out of its normal position , resulting in some minor aches and pains along the way.  Ask your doctor before you take any medications  ease the pain.  Other ways to ease the pain are to take short breaks through the day so you can get off your feet, wear good support shoes if you are on your feet for periods and hold a good posture when you walk.

Your Baby

Baby is 28.9cm long and weighs 501 grams.  This week will begin a rapid growth phase for your baby's brain.  During this week, and for the next following weeks, billions and billions of brain cells will develop.  These brain cells will control every aspect of your baby - from breathing to circulation, recognising sensory stimulation to movement, and everything in between.  The rapid brain growth will also make your baby's head size grow - a little bit.  Baby's head will only enlarge by less than two centimetres as the head is the biggest part of baby to emerge from the birth canal.

Your Pregnancy - Week 24

You

A common ailment during pregnancy is swollen ankles.  Swollen ankles are usually the result of being on your feet or an extended period of time.  When you are on your feet all day, the excess fluid in your system has a hard time circulating, and ends up where gravity resists it the least - in your ankles.  To prevent swollen ankles there is a variety of action you can take.  Take time throughout the day to sit with your feet propped up to aid in circulation.  Or, if you know you will be on your feet all day, wear support stockings to keep them from swelling.  And one of the best things to do is to keep drinking water.  The fluids will help flush the other fluids through your system.  If none of these tricks work, check with your doctor to make sure you don't have a serious complication.

Your Baby

Baby is 30 cm long and weighs 600 grams.  A feature that will make your baby unique starts growing this week - your baby's hair.  Baby locks will start to cover baby's scalp and any traits on their scalp will appear too.  Cowlicks, widow's peaks and even the hairline itself will be visible once the hair grows.  The hairs will not have pigment yet, remaining colourless strands for several weeks.  Baby's hair will also be short, fine and won't have any texture until closer to the birth.

Your Pregnancy - Week 25

You

Your skin will need some extra care during your pregnancy.  To accommodate the baby growing inside of you, your skin will need to stretch.  If you put on weight quickly, or if you have multiple babies, you skin will stretch fast and you have a higher chance of developing stretch marks.  Stretch marks occur when the elastin in your skin can't stretch fast enough, resulting in damage to the collagen below.  A clear, red or even pocked skin will result - and last throughout your lifetime.  To prevent stretch marks, keep yourself hydrated with plenty of fluids.  Get lots of exercise to help moderate the weight gain.  Use a lotion with vitamin E and rub it over your abdomen at least once a day.  Nothing will guarantee that you won't end up with stretch marks, but these suggestions might reduce the severity of them.

If you are planning to paint, organise for someone other than you to paint baby's room.  Scraping or sanding any kind of paint during pregnancy is definitely not recommended as it could contain lead.

Your Baby

Baby is 34.6 cm long and weighs 660 grams.  Your baby's spine will form this week.  The spine is a very complex system, with rings, joints and ligaments all forming to work together to form the backbone.  The cartilage will grow harder and become bones in the spinal column.  All 100+ bones will be in place, but very small at this point.  Make sure you are eating foods rich in folic acid, as this nutrient is said to prevent many spinal cord defects.  Orange juice is a great source for your necessary daily intake of folic acid.

Your Pregnancy - Week 26

You

It is important for you to continue some type of exercise throughout your whole pregnancy.  Exercise will help control your weight gain, as well as keep your muscles strong for the rigors of delivery.  The exercise doesn't have to be strenuous or for long periods of time.  Half an hour of activity taken three or four times a week is all you need to manage.  Two of the best forms of exercise for pregnant women are swimming and walking.  Always check with your doctor or midwife if you have trouble doing any activity.

Your Baby

Baby is 35.6 cm long and weighs 760 grams.  Your baby may develop a new habit is week.  Baby can learn how to suck their thumb.  Baby's hand will still remain clenched for large portions of the day but can unclench and stick out their thumb.  Your baby has the co-ordination to figure out how to get their thumb in their mouth.  If baby likes the comfort from sucking, they may well make it a habit. 

 

Your Third Trimester - Weeks 27-41

Article provided by Kidspot - http://www.kidspot.com.au/article+1081+114+Your-Pregnancy-Third-Trimester.htm

 

You are now entering your last trimester and the end is in sight.  You'll be starting to feel more uncomfortable and may not be sleeping as well.  Try to get as much rest as you can.  Our week by week guide will see you through to the end. 

The third trimester takes you through weeks 27-41.

Your Pregnancy - Week 27

You

One funny thing with pregnancy is what you feel like eating.  Pregnant women throughout time have been known to crave weird foods, at all hours of the day.  The most common offenders are highly talked about in movies, on TV and in comic strips - ice cream and dill pickles.  Some women like both at the same time.  You just never know. It only makes sense that if your hormones are acting up, that your taste buds will too.  Keep a food diary to make sure you are eating well and to record those crazy cravings.

If you need a family project to take your mind off your food, prepare a family tree for baby's keepsake box.

Your Baby

Baby is 36.6 cm long and weighs 875 grams.  This week your baby's eyelids will open for the first time.  His eyelids won't remain open for too long yet, that comes later.  Your baby will also begin the reflex of blinking.  Baby's blink may be slow at first, but they are learning how to protect their eyes beneath.  Eyelashes will be present on the ends of the lids, but not fully grown.

Your Pregnancy - Week 28

You

Have you turned into a typical pregnant woman and developed a waddle?  Or you didn't even notice you waddled, until your lovely partner commented on it?  You can thank your hormones for your new gait.  The hormones are working to prepare your body for delivery, and one way they do so is by relaxing your joints.  This allows your hips to spread, making your birth canal wider and easier for your baby to exit.  Once your baby is born, the hips will tighten back up and your walk will be back to normal.

Your Baby

Baby is 37.6cm long and weighs 1005 grams.  Baby's eyes will receive their colour this week.  Pigment will fill in your baby's irises, and they will have colour when they are born.  Caucasian babies are usually born with blue eyes, and the irises don't change into brown, hazel or green until six months after birth.  Babies of other nationalities are born either blue or brown, and then can change to other shades in several months time.

Your Pregnancy - Week 29

You

With any amount of luck, your baby will turn this week or begin thinking about making a turn down.  What that means is the head is down and ready to enter the birth canal.  The majority of babies will turn on their own before birth, but a few will require assistance.  Those that don't are considered breach, and may need to be delivered via a C-Section.  Your doctor will monitor your baby's position, and can tell just by feeling if they are head up or head down.

Your Baby

Baby is 38.6cm long and weighs 1153 grams.  Is your baby moving around a lot?  Do you get kicked at all hours of the day, and in every place imaginable?  Your baby is using those movements to gain strength and co-ordination for when they emerge from your uterus.  Baby's movements are becoming less reflexive and more determined as they grow.  It won't be long, however, before baby is too cramped to be able to move much at all.  The kicks and pokes will become less pronounced and a little less frequent.

Your Pregnancy - Week 30

You

If you are suffering from headaches buy a wheat bag to place over your eyes for when you take a rest.  It will help calm your throbbing head as you can't take aspirin or ibuprofen if you are pregnant.  Consult your practitioner about which medications you can take if you're prone to severe migraines.  Buy extra pillows to make yourself more comfortable in bed.

At this point in your pregnancy, your blood volume is double what it normally is pre-pregnancy as your body works to look after the two of you.  Your blood is nourishing your baby and feeding the placenta with all the important vitamins, minerals and nutrients from your system.

Check that Dad has organised to take holidays once the baby is born.

Your Baby

Baby is 39.9cm long and weighs 1319 grams.  This week your baby's bone marrow will begin functioning. The bone marrow's function is to make all of the blood cells for your baby.  First up in the production area is the red blood cells.  The red blood is what carries the oxygen and nutrients through the veins and arteries.  The bone marrow won't be making white blood cells or platelets for a few more weeks.

Your Pregnancy - Week 31

You

To keep your blood supply high and in peak performance, eat plenty of iron rich foods.  Some foods that are high in iron include kidney beans, lean beef, liver, spinach, asparagus, peaches, apricots, almonds, cashews, pork, turkey, tuna, trout, sunflower seeds, eggs, molasses and tomatoes.

There is one draw back to having an iron rich diet though.  Too much iron and not enough fibre and water can lead to constipation.  To avoid that problem, simply eat plenty of other fruits, vegetables, fibre and drink two litres of water to maintain a proper balance.

It's time to narrow down your list of possible baby names if you haven't already made a choice.  Use our baby name finder to help you in your search.  Or use our popular baby names list to get you thinking.

You might like to take a video of your stomach, capturing the baby moving.

Your Baby

Your baby's bones will begin to store up phosphorous and iron.  Baby uses the phosphorous and iron to remain strong and grow during their lifetime.  This is another reason why an iron rich diet is necessary - to build your baby's stores.

The cartilage that made up all of the early bones are hardening in most places on the skeleton.  The one place where the bone will not be hard is the skull.  Baby's skull will remain in pieces and will not fuse until after delivery.  Since the head is the largest part that needs to fit through the birth canal, it is in pieces so it can compress slightly if it needs to during delivery. 

Your Pregnancy - Week 32

You

The hormones working hard to develop your baby may also be working on you.  Don't be surprised if you discover you have leaky breasts before your baby is born.  A baby crying in a restaurant might be enough to trigger a hormonal response that activates your mammary glands.  It isn't harmful - but maybe a little embarrassing if you aren't expecting it.  Any fluid that does leak out will just be pre-milk.

Your Baby

Baby is 42.4cm long and weighs 1702 grams.  All five senses within your baby are now working.  Baby can see, hear, smell, taste and touch.  While it doesn't seem like there is much to stimulate any of the senses, there certainly is.  Your baby can taste what you had for dinner a few hours after you eat it.  Baby can hear sounds inside and outside of your body.  Baby can tell the difference between light and dark.  Baby's fingers are co-ordinated to reach for things to touch in utero.  The one thing baby hasn't available to them is anything to smell.  There is amniotic fluid, but there isn't much scent to it really.  Once your baby is born, your baby will begin to understand smells.

Your Pregnancy - Week 33

You

Leg cramps may send you shooting out of bed at night and can be very painful symptom during your pregnancy, if you aren't careful.  The leg cramps can happen for several reasons.  One, you had a rigorous day of walking.  Two, you may not have had enough water during the day to keep your muscles hydrated.  Three, your calcium and potassium balance can be unbalanced.  To help prevent leg cramps, take it easy while you walk by taking frequent breaks.  Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.  And eat a banana with a glass of milk to keep the calcium and potassium balance equal.

Your Baby

Baby is 43.7cm long and weighs 1918 grams.  Baby's adrenal glands have begun to work, producing the adrenaline that will cause baby to feel fear, exertion of even surprise.  The adrenal glands are very small, but efficient.

Your midwife may comment on your baby's "presentation", referring to the position your baby has assumed.  Babies usually settle into the head down, or cephalic position around this time.  In about 3% of term pregnancies the baby remains breech, meaning that their buttocks or the feet are leading, and would be delivered first.  A cesarean may be recommended if your baby is in the breech position.  While vaginal breech births are possible, discuss the possible risks with your doctor.

Babies usually assume a head-down position sometime before the 36th week, although some do it even later.  If you currently have a baby in the breech position, you can try this exercise to encourage your baby to rotate.  Lie on your back and prop your buttocks off the floor with firm, supportive pillows.  Do this exercise for twenty minutes, two to three times a day.  It is best done in loose clothing and with a (relatively) empty stomach.

Your Pregnancy - Week 34

You

Heartburn may be a cumbersome problem right now.  You are exhausted and want to sleep, but soon after you lie down you start to feel the burn come up your esophagus.  There are a few ways to try to prevent heartburn.  One, watch your diet.  Avoid citrus, garlic, spicy and rich foods.  Second, at least an hour before you plan to lie down.  Third, eat small, frequent meals to help the food digest quicker.

Your Baby

Baby is 45cm long and weighs 2146 grams.  Your baby's eyes are fully open now.  The eyes will only close now when our baby sleeps.  And your baby is sleeping in regular patterns right now, and you may be aware of their sleep pattern.  Even though your baby's eyes are open, your baby doesn't have good eyesight.  Even after your baby is born, it will take several weeks for their vision to be clear and focus on objects.  Your baby will rely on other senses such as hearing and smell to identify people until they can clearly focus.

Your Pregnancy - Week 35

You

How can you tell a Braxton Hicks contraction from a real contraction?  Braxton Hicks will be irregular in length, irregular in their timing and not get stronger.  Real contractions will get closer together, last longer each time and get progressively worse.  If you still aren't sure, take a hot shower.  Hot showers usually ease Braxton Hicks and false labour, while it may aid true labour.

Your Baby

Baby is 46.2cm long and weighs 2383 grams.  The lanugo is wearing off now.  With less lanugo on your baby, it means its fat is developing.  Your baby will weigh anywhere from 2 to 3 kilograms this week.  Your baby will continue to add a quarter of a kilo of pure baby fat each week until delivery.  And just because your baby is putting fat on doesn't mean that you should.  Continue to eat a healthy diet so that the weight will be easier to lose after delivery.

Your Pregnancy - Week 36

You

Your doctor will perform a Strep B test during the next checkup.  Strep B is bacteria in the genital region of adults and is quite harmless.  Your doctor will simply take a swab and send it off to the lab for results.  If you are positive, you will simply need to take an antibiotic to clear it up before delivery.

Your Baby

Baby is 47.4cm long and weighs 2622 grams.  The gums inside your baby's mouth are very hard.  The teeth buds are inside of the gums and it will be four or five months before the first tooth will emerge.  But until the teeth do emerge, their gums need to be able to mash up the first solid food you feed your baby.  Your baby will also need strong gums to suckle, whether it is from a bottle or breast.

Your Pregnancy - Week 37

You

You are now considered to be full term.  Relax about the due date.  Only 5% of babies arrive on their due date.  If your baby were to be born this week, there should be little chance of complications.  All systems are go - from circulatory, to the senses, to the muscles.  The only organ that may require assistance is the lungs, if they are immature.  And if they are, don't worry.  The hospital will have all the assistance your baby will need to thrive.

Your Baby

Baby is 48.6cm long and weighs 2859 grams.  Your baby is piling on the fat - and it is good for them.  A lot of the wrinkles have been pushed out, but now fat rolls may be in their place.  Your baby will still have wrinkles around the head, feet and hands, but its stomach will be nicely rounded.

Your Pregnancy - Week 38

You

Is your cervix thinning and dilating?  That is great news.  The thinning is your cervix spreading out as a result of having the baby's head pressing on it.  When it is thinned it will be easier for it to dilate.  If it has already thinned, it may even be slightly dilated.  Your cervix will dilate between 1 and 10mm.  When you hit 10, you are ready to deliver.  Take it easy.  Your heart is pumping more than 45% extra blood around your system.

Your Baby

Baby is 49.8cm long and weighs 3083 grams.  What is that jerky movement?  Your baby might have the hiccups.  Hiccups are your baby's way of strengthening the diaphragm and getting ready to breathe oxygen on their own.  So think of hiccups as a good thing.  They are mildly amusing if they only last for a short period of time.  They can become bothersome if they continually repeat or last for long periods.

Your Pregnancy - Week 39

You

You will feel less movement and more forceful kicks as your baby has less room to manoeuvre.  Your uterus is stretched to the maximum, you are carrying a lot of amniotic fluid, and baby has used up all the space available, leaving no room for gymnastics.  That may be a good thing.  If you can, settle in for some restorative naps.  Enjoy the less chaotic rumblings inside of you.  In the days before labour begins you can expect to experience the following, although they are not always accurate predictors of when labour will begin:

• bloody show;
• loss of mucous plug;
• nesting instinct;
• loose stools;
• loss of weight; and
• increase in appetite.

Your Baby

Baby is 50.7cm long and weighs 3288 grams.  Even though your baby is in the uterus, she could produce tears.  The tear ducts are functioning inside of the uterus, but once your baby is born, it won't have real tears for a while.  the tear ducts need time to adjust and make their own salty fluid.  And once you see those first tears, no doubt it will break your heart.

Your Pregnancy - Week 40

You

Remember only 5% of babies are born on their due date, so don't be too disheartened you are still pregnant, take advantage of this time and rest.  Also, finish any last minute projects before the hectic pace of life with a newborn settles in.

If you have older children, spend some extra time with them to reassure them that you haven't forgotten about them.  This may help to settle future jealousies in those first few weeks when baby comes home.  Extra rest is very important, balance your bout of energy with naps.

Your Baby

Baby is 51.2cm long and weighs 3462 grams.  Your baby has probably settled into the birth canal and is awaiting final approach.  Your baby is taking regular naps and moving less, but ready and able to live outside of your uterus.

Your baby's immune system is still immature and receives antibodies from the placenta and after birth your baby will receive antibodies continually from your breast milk.  Most of the lanugo has fallen off your baby's body, although you may still find some hidden spots, particularly in the creases, and around the shoulders or ears when you finally meet him or her.

Your Pregnancy - Week 40

You

You probably thought you wouldn't need to read this, but don't be worried, only 5% of babies are born on their due date.  It's common for the due date to be miscalculated.  You will be seeing your doctor or midwife more frequently once you pass 40 weeks, and having regular tests to ensure your baby isn't under any stress and the placenta is still healthy.  The good news is that no matter what, you only have one week left of your pregnancy.  Make sure you keep drinking lots of water and try to have a daily walk.

Your Baby

Baby is 51.7cm long and weighs 3597 grams.  Clearly someone forgot to tell your baby your due date because it doesn't seem as if your baby is making any moves to leave the comfort of your womb.  More likely it's that your baby is the only one who really knows what the plan is, and your baby will arrive when it is good and ready.

 

Feeding the Bump

Article provided by Essential Baby - http://www.ebdirectory.com.au/members/user_register_account.php

Diet is one of the most important factors during pregnancy, but more importantly, it is one of the few factors you can have complete control over.  A healthy diet can contribute towards a happy and comfortable pregnancy by reducing many of the common complaints such as fatigue, nausea, anemia and heartburn.

It will also ensure you are providing the best possible environment to grow a healthy baby.  Your developing baby relies on you for all of its nutritional needs, which basically means your own needs are doubled.  While the appealing prospect of "eating for two" when expecting is no longer recommended, a pregnant woman must definitely eat the nutrients for two.  And there are also some specific nutrients to focus on, with intake varying throughout your pregnancy.

So what should an expectuant mum be eating and how does she double the nutrients without doubling food intake?  It's as simple as choosing foods and make them a part of your daily diet.

Almonds  - rich in protein, zinc, calcium and magnesium.  Good for the development of brain, heart and nervous system.

Avocado - rich in omega 3 and essential amino acids for brain development and the production of collagen to reduce stretch marks.

Bananas- a convenient snack rich in iodine, iron, zinc, folate and B vitamins for normal growth and development.

Blueberries - One of the best antioxidant food sources.  Rich in vitamin C for a healthy immune system for both mum and bub.

Chickpeas - an absolute wonder food with over 9 essential nutrients.  Invaluable excellent source of protein, calcium and fibre.

Carrots - excellent for eyesight, immunity healthy skin, hair and nails.

Brazil nuts - the best source of selenium for fertility.

Dairy products- most absorbable source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.  Also rich in protein and vitamin B12 for energy and healthy blood.

Dark green- invaluable source of folate to reduce the risk of birth defects.  Leafy vegetables also rich in calcium, vitamin B & C and dietary fibre.  Increases the absorption of iron when eaten with lean protein sources.

Eggs - nature's own vitamin capsule.  Higher in protein than chicken.  Always use fresh eggs, but no runny yolks during pregnancy.

Flaxseed oil - extremely rich in omega 3 and other essentially fatty acids for brain development and healthy heart, skin and placenta.

Lean meat- most absorbable source of iron for healthy blood.  Reduces risk of anemia and fatigue.  Fantastic fuel for foetal growth.

Seafood - excellent source of zinc for conception, as well as zinc, omega 3 and iodine for optimum IQ brain development.

Tofu - The only non-animal complete protein.  Rich in calcium and dietary fibre.  Fabulous for vegetarians.

Wholegrain products- one of the best sources of folate and the B group vitamins essential to normal growth and development, great energy source to reduce fatigue and excellent aid for constipation.

See Lisa Neal's "Feeding the Bump" for more super foods and easy to follow recipes.  Available at all good book stores or online at www.allenandunwin.com/

 

The following article has been supplied by the Huggies website.  For lots more information on pregnancy & parenting, special offers, games ideas, family recipes and more visit www.huggies.com.au.

A Fit and Health Pregnancy - What's happening to me?

Discovering that you are pregnant is usually a time of great excitement; it also heralds a huge emotional journey that takes most of us by surprise.

Pregnancy (especially with your first child) is the beginning of a new life stage, as a parent.  It also has a big impact on a woman's physical body, with both hormonal changes and changes in your body shape - and all this co-incides with the beginning of a new life-long relationship with your unborn child.  No wonder it's emotional!

Of course there will be lots of feelings that come up at this significant time - not all of them positive; it's all pretty normal and having a bit of an idea of what is to come might help you prepare a little better.

Mood Swings While Pregnant

Pregnancy involves some fairly heavy-weight hormones which usually induce some wildly fluctuating changes in your emotional state (although it may not, everyone does respond differently).

You may feel elated, and just a few hours later feel upset.  Crying bouts are not unusual.

You may be feeling forgetful and pre-occupied (in fact a recent study showed that over 80% of pregnant women had periods of absent-mindedness during pregnancy).

You may also find yourself becoming over-sensitive and perhaps over-reacting to small problems, or getting frustrated and irritable more often.

It's okay to have these feelings but it's not very fair to take them out on your partner or close friends, family or workmates.  Not very fair - but quite common.

You don't need to feel guilty or ashamed about reactions that you wouldn't normally experience, but it is important to be aware that you may be acting outside your normal pattern - and you should be prepared to apologise and explain yourself to people you care about.

Dealing with Pregnancy Fears

It is very normal when you are pregnant to worry about your baby's health.  Your may find yourself poring over baby books and websites and becoming anxious about your child being born ill or disabled or about problems like miscarriage or premature delivery.

Make sure you you attend all your pre-natal check-ups and discuss your fears with your doctor or health care provider if you are very concerned.  Most fears can be addressed by getting more information, and feedback about how your own pregnancy is going will often help to alleviate anxiety.

Follow recommendations for healthy eating, rest and exercise to help you feel good about the outcome of your pregnancy.

Most women feel worried about how they will cope with labour and birth, whether they will handle the pain and whether they will embarrass themselves by screaming or losing control of their bladder or bowels.

Once again, getting more information from a reliable source can help you address these fears.  Every woman's experience of birth will be different, so don't be intimidated by other people's personal stories.

Enrolling in a class that teaches about labour and childbirth will give you some strategies, positions, breathing exercises and tips that will prepare you better and hopefully restore a feeling of control.

Look around next time you are in a busy place - every single person you see was born successfully ... as were the other six billion people on the planet.  Try to trust that you will also be okay.

Most new parents feel anxious about whether they will be a good parent and whether they will cope with the demands of a new baby - or a teenager!

Most childbirth classes also cover information on caring for newborns and there is lots of information around for you to learn.  It can be hard to find a balance between feeling ignorant and feeling overwhelmed by too much information and conflicting advice.

If you have not grown up with babies around you, it can seem quite foreign and intimidating.  It might help to spend some time with a friend who has a baby to help you feel a bit more confident.

Hopefully, you will have a support network, your partner and/or family and friends, who will help you in the early days.  There are also community resources to help you, such as early childhood nurses who usually provide free clinics to new parents.

Coming to Terms with Your New Life

Whether your pregnancy was unplanned and unexpected or a long wished-for event, some time during your pregnancy, a stark reality will hit you:  that you will be a parent for the rest of your life.

Most new parents feel mixed emotions, no matter how excited they were about pregnancy.  This is part of the normal psychological journey that you will experience, once you have spent some time thinking about the implications of parenthood and understanding the reality.

Hopefully you will be able to discuss your hopes and plans with your partner or supportive friends and family.

When you start to think about the reality of the journey ahead, it is very normal - and healthy - to experience a range of feelings and concerns.  Going through these rationally will help you to cope better with your pregnancy and prepare for your new life.

Dreams During Pregnancy

Many pregnant women report disturbing, terrifying or just plain weird dreams or nightmares about their baby or about childbirth.

This is very normal and probably happens because you have some underlying (or not so underlying) fears about what is happening.

If you have thought about your new life as a parent and you have accepted, and started to prepare for, the big changes ahead, your dreams may start to become less frequent.

Try not to dwell on bad dreams and remember not to take them literally; they are not real - so don't give them any power.

You might find that listening to some calming music or distracting yourself by watching a movie or reading a book will help you recover from the fears that come up in dreams.

Body Changes During Pregnancy

Though everyday life suggests otherwise, our magazines and movie screens are so populated with thin humans that any other shape may seem abnormal.

In just a few months of pregnancy, your body will change from the shape you have been used to for most of your adult life to that of a pregnant woman - and that usually means that you will have larger breasts, wider hips and a beautiful baby bump at the front.

Lots of pregnant women find their rapidly changing body somewhat alarming and a little surreal.  Later in pregnancy, when your baby starts moving independently and you can see a limb stretch across the inside of your belly, it's easy to feel that your pregnancy belly doesn't belong to you at all.

Pregnancy is a wonderful, sensuous and beautiful phase in a woman's life and ancient art shows that human culture has celebrated this shape for thousands of years.

However for women who have spent much of their life worried about their weight or body shape conforming to the skinny Western ideal, becoming a curvy fertility goddess can be quite confronting.

Trashy magazines that applaud celebrities who "regain their body" after having a baby can make many pregnant women worry that they are getting fat and won't be able to return to an ideal shape.

Attending pregnancy exercise classes and spending time with other pregnant women can help you appreciate your pregnant body and realise that it is normal and beautiful.

Pregnant women - particularly towards the end - can also attract lots of attention from other people, because we are genetically programmed to find pregnancy attractive.

Enjoy the attention, if you can, and don't forget to celebrate your pregnancy as a time of beauty and purpose, when your body is doing exactly what it was built to do.

Serious Emotional Issues - Antenatal Depression

Whether you have a history of mental health issues or not, pregnancy can impact on your mental health.  It's important to be aware of this and to get some help if you think that the emotional changes you are having may be more serious.

Some women find that during pregnancy they experience relief from pre-existing problems with depression, anxiety or other mental health issues.  For others, pregnancy can trigger an onset of problems.

If you are experiencing negative feelings for more than a few days, talk to someone you can trust about your feelings.

Feeling flat and disinterested in your normal daily activities, ongoing insomnia, feelings of sadness and hopelessness that don't go away, feeling worthless and guilty, losing your appetite and finding it difficult to concentrate for any period of time can all be signs of a problem.

But unfortunately, many of the things that may indicate a more serious problem are also the things that may indicate a more serious problem are also things that are normal pregnancy side-effects, so it can be difficult sometimes to tell if you are having a normal pregnancy or if you might need some extra support.

There are many professional services that are available for advice, including free hotline telephone services , where you can seek reassurance and information.

It's important to realise that the risk for depression and other mental illness in women is highest during their childbearing years - and that there is lots of help available.

There is more information about antenatal depression on the Black Dog website.

Where to Get Counselling and Support

Where to get help if you are concerned about serious emotional changes:

• Beyondblue or 1300 224 636
• Lifeline or 131 14
• SANE Australia or 1800 187 263
• Mental Health First Aid

 

The following article has been supplied by the Huggies website.  For lots more information on pregnancy & parenting, special offers, games ideas, family recipes and more visit www.huggies.com.au.

A Fit and Healthy Pregnancy - Changes to Your Body

After years of living in a body that behaves fairly predictably, pregnancy can come as a shock to many of us, with our hair, skin, teeth and nails all suddenly changing.  For many women, pregnancy hormones are the best natural beauty product ever invented - but some of the changes can be less welcome.  It's certainly worth re-visiting your usual beauty regime while pregnant.  Here's a short summary of what you can expect:

Changes to Your Hair During Pregnancy

In pregnancy, your rising blood circulation and faster metabolism combined with all those hormones will speed up hair growth; you may not notice it, but the few hairs that you usually shed each day will probably stay put.

For lots of women, this means bouncy, thick, shining tresses that are just gorgeous.  But, depending on your hair, it may also mean that you end up with a few bad hair months!  Too much hair may become unmanageable.  Make an appointment with a trusted hairdresser who knows you are pregnant and get some advice on a manageable style for the rest of your pregnancy.

There's lots of debate about the use of hair dyes and other chemical hairdressing treatments while pregnant.  Most seem to be quite safe but if you're unsure, talk to your doctor or just avoid them.

A mild organic shampoo and conditioner will probably give you the best results while pregnant.

Be warned - after your baby is born, all that wonderful extra hair will start falling out until you have returned to your pre-pregnancy hair state.  Shedding so much hair can be pretty scary at first but don't worry, you are just losing the hair that you would normally have lost over a nine-month period, over just a few weeks.

Changes to Your Body Hair During Pregnancy

While lots of extra hair on your head can be fun, the extra hair that may appear on your top lip, chin, arms and legs, is not such a welcome side-effect.  Body hair may also become darker during pregnancy.  Avoid bleach and depilotary creams and electrolysis during pregnancy if possible; plucking, shaving and waxing excess hair with natural products is a wiser choice.

Changes to Your Nails During Pregnancy

Another surprise bonus for many women is great nails - all that extra oestrogen in your body may make your fingernails grow faster and stronger.  Enjoy! (and keep your calcium levels up with sensible eating to make sure those nails stay healthy).

Changes to Your Teeth During Pregnancy

All of the body's soft tissues soften during pregnancy - and this includes your gums.  You may notice increased bleeding when you brush your teeth.  This can usually be reduced by a trip to your dentist for a professional clean - but do make sure you tell the dentist that you are pregnant and ensure you're not exposed to x-rays.

Once again, a healthy diet with plenty of calcium will help you minimise the negative side-effects that the hormones may have on your teeth and gums.

Changes to Your Skin During Pregnancy - Pigmentation and Chloasma

All those stories about pregnant women "blooming" probably refer to the effect of the extra hormones on skin.  Your skin can often benefit from the increased circulation and for many women, their skin will also retain moisture and feel plumper and softer.

But unfortunately, that is not always the case; some women find that pregnancy hormones actually irritate their skin, sometimes causing an outbreak of acne or eczema, rashes and irritation.

Pregnancy also causes deeper pigmentation - so your nipples, genitalia, even armpits and inner thighs may get darker and you may notice that freckles or moles appear darker too.  Many women also get a "linea nigra", a dark line down the centre of your abdomen marking the separation of the rictus muscles in the abdomen.

You may be one of the rare women who suffers from "chloasma", or the "mask of pregnancy" which causes darker patches of skin on the face or neck similar to a birthmark.  It can be hidden with makeup.

Your skin pigmentation changes will gradually fade back to normal after your baby is born.

In pregnancy, your skin will be more sensitive to sunlight; and although you tan more easily, you may also burn more easily too, so do take extra care to be sun-safe, using sunscreen, covering your skin and wearing a hat where possible.

Although pigmentation may increase the darkness of all your moles, do keep an eye on other changes to moles as pregnancy triggers rapid cell changes in the body, including skin cancer cells.

During pregnancy, many women will also experience "spider veins", little red veins on your face that become more noticeable when you are hot or cold - these, too, will fade after delivery.

Most pregnant women will also get a few stretch marks, as a result of the breakdown of the protein in the skin.  These often occur particularly across the "bump" and breasts although they can also appear on legs and arms.  If you gain a lot of weight during pregnancy you may be more susceptible.  Although stretch marks won't disappear entirely, they usually become silvery and very faint a few months after your baby is born.  Consider them a medal of honour for growing a whole new person in your body - what an amazing thing to do.

By Fran Molloy - journalist and mother of 4.

 

The following article has been supplied by the Huggies website.  For lots more information on pregnancy & parenting, special offers, games ideas, family recipes and more visit www.huggies.com.au.

A Fit & Healthy Pregnancy - Exercise & Fitness 

Many years ago, pregnant women were "in confinement"; they were advised to take their beds wherever possible, minimise all physical activity and rest for much of their pregnancy.

But in recent years, researchers have shown that for healthy pregnant women who have no complications in their pregnancy, there are many benefits to both mother and baby from regular, appropriate exercise during pregnancy.

Most women find that there are times during their pregnancy when they struggle just to drag themselves out of bed - and the thought of exercise is just beyond them.

But while it might be hard to get started, gentle exercise can be just the ticket to getting rid of some of the worst of those pregnancy side-effects, helping you feel much better throughout your pregnancy, improving your baby's health by increasing oxygen flow and placental function - and it will also help you to be better prepared for labour.

Before you start an exercise program in pregnancy, discuss it with your midwife or doctor to make sure that you don't have any complications that would restrict the type or amount of exercise you should be doing.

Some conditions that may preclude many forms of exercise include a previous history of premature birth, very high blood pressure, incompetent cervix, placenta praevia (or low-lying placenta) and heart disease.

Benefits of Exercise & Fitness to Pregnant Mother

There's plenty of research supporting a link between regular exercise and good mental health - and in pregnancy, when hormones can trigger wild mood swings and you're facing a fairly momentous life change, exercise can be calming and incredibly satisfying.

Many of the more uncomfortable pregnancy side-effects like cramps, constipation, aches and pains, insomnia and even headaches, respond well to gentle exercise.

Lack of exercise can leave you feeling flabby and unhealthy, which makes it hard to get into shape again after your baby arrives.

Regular exercise that lifts your heart rate slightly can also reduce your blood pressure; and it will certainly give you more energy.

And the final - and most important - benefit of exercise in pregnancy is a big one; it will improve your ability to handle labour.  After nine months of pregnancy, your body has a really big job to do.

Labour is well-named; it is often hard physical work that goes on, usually, for many hours.  Walking and remaining upright through most of your labour can shorten the duration of labour and improve birth outcomes, so it's worth getting your body ready for this really important job.

If you have exercised throughout your pregnancy, your body will recover from childbirth more readily - and you will also find it easier to get back in shape after your baby arrives.

Benefits to Your New Baby

Even gentle exercise, when done appropriately, will raise the level of oxygen in your bloodstream - and that will lift the oxygen levels in your baby's blood, too.

At a time when your baby is growing all those important organs and limbs and developing nerve and brain cells, extra oxygen is a great way to encourage healthy development.

The natural "happy hormones" call endorphins, that your body generates will exercising will also pass to your baby, along with the pleasurable, calming effect they create.

And research results suggest that babies whose mothers exercise while pregnant will cope better during labour.

Exercise to Avoid When Pregnancy

Not all exercise is good exercise and no matter how fit you were before you became pregnant, everything changes once you have a baby on board.

In pregnancy, your softened ligaments increase your risk of some injuries, like spraining joints; towards the end of pregnancy, you will have gained an average of 10 to 15 kilograms of baby weight, you may be retaining fluid and as the baby's head drops into your pelvis and your belly pushes outwards, your balance and posture will be affected.

It's really important that the exercise you do is "appropriate"; in most cases, that means you should avoid contact sports or other activities that carry a risk of impact or falls (like surfing or trampolining).

You're also advised to avoid any activities involving heavy lifting, strong stretching, jumping, jarring or possible overheating.

From about four months onwards, you should not lie on your back while exercising as this may restrict the blood flow to your baby.

Safety Tips for Exercising During Pregnancy

Talk to your doctor or midwife before you start your exercise program.

Before you begin a session, make sure that the instructor knows that you are pregnant - and let them know if you have any existing injuries or weak areas.

Wear supportive well-fitting shoes, comfortable clothing and a suitable bra.

Exercise should be at moderate intensity or below.  Your resting heart rate usually lifts in pregnancy so check with your doctor to find out your maximum target heart rate so that you can be sure that you are not overdoing it.

Never get overheated during exercise as this may harm your baby; and avoid saunas or hot spas during pregnancy.

Don't forget about those soft ligaments - in pregnancy it is really important to warm up at the beginning of your session and cool down at the end.

Make sure you have water nearby - and that you drink plenty of fluids before and after.

Never hold your breath, or exercise so hard that you become breathless as this will affect the flow of oxygen to your baby.

And don't change positions quickly as you may cause strain or become dizzy.

What Type of Exercise is Suitable When Pregnant?

Brisk walking for no more than an hour is great exercise, as long as you wear supportive shoes, and if you have trouble with varicose veins, perhaps wear some snug, leg-supporting tights as well.

Many maternity hospitals offer - or know about - specialised exercise classes for pregnant women.  Often a physiotherapist will run these classes; pilates instructors may also offer a tailored class for pregnant women.

There are a few advantages in attending specialist pregnancy classes - meeting other pregnant mums can be really enjoyable; you may also get some useful tips for labour and birth from your instructor.

Yoga supervised by a trained instructor giving a tailored program for pregnant women is a fantastic pregnancy exercise - and often includes useful labour positions, breathing and meditation techniques which will prepare you for labour.

I attended a yoga in pregnancy class until I was 39 weeks pregnant with twins and every week, walking out of class, I felt fabulous.  I believe it made a big difference to all of my pregnancies and really helped with the labour and birth of my babies.  I also made some lifelong friends.

Exercise in water - whether swimming, aqua-aerobics or walking in water - is usually very suitable in pregnancy, particularly towards the end when the water supports the growing weight of your body.   Just be sure that if you are doing a class that the instructor is qualified and aware that you are pregnant.

By Fran Molloy - journalist and mum of 4

 

 

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