Talk to one of our pharmacists or scan to book online
A BUSY MONTH OF GROWTH, HEALTH AND APPRECIATION
Wow, what a month it's been! The Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference & Trade Exhibition was a huge success—by far the largest attendance they have ever had. It was amazing to see so many people from around the country coming together, and it really reminded me of how lucky we are to be part of an industry that's constantly evolving and making a real impact.
On another note, with the cold and flu season right around the corner, we’re taking part in the 2025 Free Flu Vaccination Program. This means the Queensland Government are funding free flu vaccinations for all Queensland residents aged 6 months and older. The Free Shingles Vaccine is also available for those over the age of 50 years for ATSI and immunocompromised, or over the age of 65 years for non ATSI. We can administer both at the same time, making it more convenient for our patients.
Staying healthy during the winter months is so important, and we want to make sure everyone has the chance to protect themselves. Vaccines play a big role in keeping the flu and other illnesses in check. Talk to one of our pharmacists or book online at www.alivepharmacy.com.au
On another note, with Mother’s Day coming up, we’re celebrating all the women in our lives: mums, grandmothers, sisters, daughters. We’re offering some special fragrance sales in this month’s catalogue - the perfect gift for mum or a loved one.
Happy Mother’s Day! I hope everyone has another a happy, healthy month ahead.
Managing Director
THE TRANSITION FROM breastformulafeeding TO
Motherhood is one of the most life-changing experiences a women can experience, and breastfeeding is an essential aspect of it. It's not only a means of nourishment for a newborn but also a powerful bond that forms between a mother and her child. Breastfeeding is a natural process, yet it carries immense physical, emotional, and psychological significance for both mother and baby.
Packed with essential nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes, breast milk is perfectly tailored to meet the needs of a growing baby. From the moment of birth, the first milk a mother produces provides babies with vital immune protection, helping them fight off infections and illnesses. This early milk is also rich in proteins and fats that are crucial for healthy development. As breastfeeding continues, the composition of the milk evolves to provide the appropriate nutrients at each stage of the baby’s growth. You can then gradually transition to formula feeding - we’ve broken this down into 5 key stages.
1 Initial Gradual Introduction: When you decide to introduce formula feeding, it's essential to start slow. This gradual transition helps the baby get used to the taste and texture while maintaining some of the benefits of breast milk.
2 Increase Formula Feeding: As the baby becomes more accustomed to formula, more feeds can be replaced by formula bottles.
HOT TIP
Gradually replace 1-2 more breastfeeding sessions per day with formula, keeping the process steady to avoid abrupt weaning.
3 Complete Weaning: Fully transitioning from breastfeeding to formula feeding varies for each mother and baby. It can take weeks to make the full transition, so try to be patient and consistent.
4 Adjustment Phase: Once breastfeeding is fully replaced with formula feeding, the baby will begin to rely on formula for all their nutrition.
5 Post-Weaning: Once the transition is fully complete, mothers may experience a range of emotions. Continue to offer physical closeness and comfort to the baby, even if breastfeeding is no longer part of the routine.
FLU SHOTS DURING PREGNANCY
Flu shots are especially important for pregnant women for several reasons. During pregnancy, a woman's immune system changes, and these changes can make her more vulnerable to infections like the flu. Getting the flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect both the mother and developing baby.
Getting vaccinated during pregnancy can pass on some immunity to the baby, which helps protect them from the flu in the first few months after birth. Babies younger than 6 months are too young to receive the flu vaccine themselves, so they rely on their mother's immunity for protection. The antibodies transferred through the placenta provide some early defence against the virus.
The flu shot is safe for pregnant women and has been extensively studied. We recommend you have the vaccine in every pregnancy and at any stage of pregnancy. If you’ve had the previous year’s vaccine early in your pregnancy you can get the current vaccine later in the same pregnancy. If you had the vaccine before becoming pregnant, you can get it again during your pregnancy. It’s also safe during breastfeeding. The flu vaccine is free for pregnant women through the National Immunisation Program.
Another vaccination recommended to pregnant women is the whooping cough vaccine. If you get whooping cough (pertussis) during pregnancy you may get pneumonia, fits and brain damage from prolonged lack of oxygen. The whooping cough vaccine is also free for pregnant women under the National Immunisation Program.
MUM AND BUB ACTIVITIES
Going on an outdoor adventure for the first time with bub since giving birth is a big step but is an exciting time. It’s a good idea to go out when your baby is calm and happy. After a feed and a nappy change is often a good time. Here are a few activities for mums and newborns:
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Consider going on short trips to start. Pack a bag in case baby is hungry or needs a nappy change. Here’s what we recommend packing: nappies, wipes, change pad, 2-3 change of clothes, accessories (hats, blankets, sunshade), plastic bags for soiled clothes or nappies, hand sanitiser, formular and bottles (if bottle feeding).
GENTLE STROLLS IN THE PARK
Taking a walk around the park or in your neighbourhood is one of the simplest and safest outdoor activities you can enjoy with your newborn. Use a stroller or a baby carrier that supports proper posture for your baby. This allows you both to get some fresh air and enjoy nature while keeping your baby comfortable and safe.
PICNICS WITH SHADE
Pack a blanket, snacks and baby essentials, and head to a shaded area for a picnic. A lovely activity to do with family and friends. Ensure your newborn is in a shady spot or under a baby sunshade to protect them from direct sunlight.
PLAY WITH BUBBLES
Not only is it fun to watch soapy bubbles floating in the breeze, but it’s also a great activity for a baby’s sensory development. Bubbles popping on skin is a new sensation that can help your little one get used to various textures. “Bubbles” is also a relatively easy word for early talkers to learn, so don’t be surprised if your kiddo starts calling for bubbles on the regular.
OUTDOOR BABY YOGA
Once you’re ready to ease into a bit of light stretching, outdoor baby yoga is a fun activity you can do together. You can lay out a mat on the grass, practice some gentle movements and stretches, and even include your baby in simple motions that involve lifting them into the air or gently holding their hands. Fresh air and mild exercise can benefit both you and your newborn
ROLL A BALL
Another great sensory experience is rolling a ball back and forth. Bring a bunch of colours and difference sizes. Add some soft music to the background and baby might even start bouncing and twirling around to familiar songs.
SPLASH IN WATER
Most little kids get a kick out of splashing in water, as long as they’re supervised. Water play can be a great activity for babies. If baby is too young for community play areas, you can set up a baby pool in the backyard. Add a few water safe toys and play with baby in water. Positive association with water can make them more comfortable when it comes to swimming lessons later in life.
