It is very
women to quit smoking and avoid alcohol or drugs
important
during their pregnancy. Expectant mothers should
for women
also visit a healthcare provider for regular medical
checkups before and during their pregnancy.
to quit
If you suffer from high blood pressure or diabe-
smoking
tes, make sure you discuss this with your physician
and ask how best to control this throughout your
and avoid
pregnancy. Also make sure you are eating a healthy
alcohol or
diet and taking the prenatal vitamins your physician
recommends. It is important to take 400 micrograms
drugs
of folic acid daily before and during early pregnancy.
during their
Although preterm labor often begins unex-
pregnancy.
pectedly, you should consult with your physician if
you are experiencing symptoms - your doctor may
be able to help you and your baby. Warning signs
include contractions, where the abdomen tightens
like a fist every ten minutes or more often. Any
unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding should be
reported to your physician immediately. Let your
doctor know, as well, if you are feeling pelvic pres-
sure, like the baby is pushing down or if you are
experiencing a low, dull backache. Cramping that
feels like a menstrual period is another warning sign,
as are abdominal cramps, with or without diarrhea. If
you are showing signs of a premature delivery, your
physician may prescribe medications to try to stop
labour. In addition, you may be given steroids to help
cells in your baby’s lung to mature, which in turn will
prevent breathing problems.
You may also want to discuss breastfeeding with
your healthcare provider. Breast milk is the best food
for babies, whether they are born early or at term. At-
tending breastfeeding support meetings during your
pregnancy will prepare you for getting off to a good
start and avoiding difficulties.
Birth is a complex and wonderful process. For-
tunately, the outcome for most women is a full term,
healthy baby. Taking good care of yourself, avoiding
cigarettes, alcohol and drugs and having regular
check-ups with a healthcare provider before and dur-
ing your pregnancy gives you and your baby the best
chance for a positive outcome.
Gentle Birth
Supporting You Through Birth and Beyond
•
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Increase your confidence by learning effective pain-
coping techniques to use in any type of labour and birth
Gain practical knowledge about nutrition, labour, birth
and your new baby
Prepare for your birth using dynamic, multi-sensory methods
Discover what to do when the unexpected happens
Separate dad/partner class
Classes taught by:
Limited space available, sign up early.
Reserve your spot and enroll now!
Katrina Ball Dr. Peets Talbot
(Birth Doula &
Childbirth Educator) (Pediatrician)
Email: [email protected]
Classes include:
Nutrition in Pregnancy ($100)
Birth Preparation ($275)
Newborn Care ($100)
Group classes start in Feb 2014
(save $100 - take all classes
together $375)
Location:
Oxford Learning in
British American Building,
133 Front Street
Sponsored by Pampers & Johnson and Johnson
www.bermudaparentmagazine.com
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