Pregnancy BUMP&baby issue 13

ISSUE 11

Is your baby’s room really safe & sound?

There are things in your baby’s nursery that look harmless, but could be very dangerous in an earthquake.

Here are some simple ways to make your baby safer and help you sleep at night.

• Don’t hang pictures, shelves or clocks above baby’s cot • Move heavy items onto lower shelves • Secure tall or heavy furniture to wall studs with brackets or straps • Hang pictures on appropriate hooks (no single nails) • Move baby’s cot away from windows – next to an interior wall is best.

Visit eqc.govt.nz to prepare your home and protect your whānau

PlunketLine is here to support all parents, caregivers and whānau, whenever you need.

We offer support on areas such as sleep, adjusting to parenthood, children’s health, breastfeeding via video call, and much more - so you and your family can receive the help you need.

Free from any landline or mobile and available 24/7.

0800 933 922

Kei konei mātou

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contents

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Every Issue 8 EDITOR’S LETTER Why change begins at conception

10 ONLINE ANTENATAL COURSE Take our course in the comfort of your own home

12 PARENTAL GUIDANCE

44

News, views and products we rate

44 GROWING YOU

Health+ Wellness

16 COVER BUMP

22 WHAT'S ON THE MENU?

Our cover māmā Juliette Perkins is ready to meet her little girl

Food and pregnancy: the dos and don'ts

126 RESOURCES Birthing bag, checklist and pregnancy jargon

Show us Your Bump

38

PREGNANCY BUMP &

MILESTONE CARDS & WALL ART INSIDE FOR YOU TO PERSONALISE

Aotearoa

ISSUE 13

PA INT YOUR OWN MILE STONE C A RDS A ND WA LL A RT T URN TO PAGE 6 6

26 THE HOLISTIC APPROACH Alternative therapy ideas

28 GOT YOUR BACK Managing back pain

Kiwi women share how pregnancy empowered them

30 beauty must-have 30 JUST FOR MUM

Beauty products to covet

33 BUMP CARE Balms and oils to nourish your skin

34 PELVIC FLOOR POWER

BROUGHT TO YOU BY TOTS TO TEENS

Get aquanted with these hardworking muscles FE RTILIT Y • PREGN A NCY • B IRTH • P OS TPA RTUM • BRE A S TFE E DING... We de li ver ever y t hin g except t he b aby

ON THE COVER COVER MĀMĀ Juliette Perkins of Red 11 Models (redeleven.net.nz) wearing a Cutwork Embroidery blouse from Zara (zara.com/nz), sits on a Sebastion Armchair in white velvet from Interior Warehouse (interiorwarehouse.co.nz) PHOTOGRAPHY Annupam, @annupam, (annupam.com).

38 NOURISH ME A BBQ dish to delight, snackworthy oat bars and more!

50 WIN A PĒPI PACK Send in a picture of your baby bump and be in to win a $700 pēpi pack thanks to chicco and isoki.

Shop From Home 20 SUBSCRIBE TO BUMP&baby and enjoy a PeekaBox full of amazing products

58 BUMP&baby MALL.CO.NZ The online store that delivers everything – except the baby!

121 DIRECTORY Good businesses to support Pregnancy BUMP & baby

5

contents

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104

Life+ Insight

Newborn+ Postpartum 98 DOWN TO EARTH Options for placenta burials

52 LOST BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN Understanding miscarriage

101 HUSH LITTLE BABY

54 ANGEL BABY

Sleep cycles, awake times, REM... oh my!

A heartbreaking story of baby loss and love

104 THE FIRST FEEDS How to navigate breastfeeding in the early days

56 LITTLE MONEY MAKERS

Labour +Birth

How a $2,000 investment now could make your child one million dollars!

80 HOME OR HOSPITAL?

Nursery+ Equipment

84 WELCOME, MIL A

Keeping their sleep space healthy

5 ways to create a cosy sanctuary with colour

72 NEWBORN BUBBLE

68 BOOK NOOK

The woman behind the smallest cloth nappies yet

Bond over pictures and storytelling

74 PUSH PL AY

71 BAG BOUTIQUE Just think of us as your personal nappy bag shopper

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

How to bath your delicate babe

Where will you give birth?

63 SNUG A S A BUG

64 PAINT... BY NUMBERS

110 SPLISH SPL A SH, TAKING A BATH

What's your stroller style?

77 SAFE TRAVELS How to correctly install a car seat

88

An at-home water birth

86 HELLO, L ACHL AN A scheduled C-section

88 KIA ORA, TA J

114 YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE Newborn and infant sun safety

116 PRICKLY SITUATION

A special delivery in hospital

Comfort your baby during pricks and procedures

90 STAND BY ME

119 COLIC CARE

Partners' roles in labour and birth

When the crying won't stop

92 EXIT ROUTE

130 HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Vaginal vs.

C-sections

Postpartum faves

kia ora

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A time of change Whether you’re rapidly approaching your due date or have only just come to terms with seeing two lines appear on a pregnancy test stick, we’re so glad to have you here.

Every pregnant woman’s rite of passage is hearing the words, “Becoming a mother will change you”. However, you’ve probably already realised that in actual fact your world (and your partner’s too) began to adjust not long after conception.

Pregnancy is a powerful thing; your body feels different, mostly thanks to morning sickness in the early days. You’ll think differently.

“Who are we going to announce our pregnancy to, and when? Plans will change. “Maybe we should cancel that holiday in lieu of nursery essentials?” And as each trimester travels and your beautiful belly expands to accommodate your newest family member, your wardrobe, exercise regime and social life will be modified too.

The 40ish weeks of gestation is a period to slow down and to use your time wisely. Don’t at all feel selfish to prioraitise what is important to you; respectfully decline invitations that don’t fill your cup and enjoy doing things you love and that help you gain confidence in your journey to becoming māmā.

On page 64, we look at the power of paint to create a sleep sanctuary for your new baby – and you can personalise your very own milestone cards and artwork. Be sure to tag @bumpandbabynz when you post your creations on social media.

Pamela

PAMELA MCINTOSH, EDITOR

Want to learn more about pregnancy in your own environment?

The Introduction To Antenatal Online Course, in association with Nest Pregnancy and Parenting, is available at bumpandbaby.co.nz or by scanning this QR code. Turn the page for more info.

PREGNANCY

Issue 13

&

PREGNANCY BUMP&baby IS AVAILABLE FROM SELECTED RETAILERS OR VISIT BUMPANDBABY.CO.NZ TO SUBSCRIBE. PUBLISHERS / Tony and Aana Marinovich tony@bumpandbaby.co.nz aana@bumpandbaby.co.nz EDITOR / Pamela McIntosh editor@bumpandbaby.co.nz ART DIRECTOR / Emma Henderson design@bumpandbaby.co.nz DIGITAL EDITOR / Maraya Robinson SUBEDITOR / Katherine Granich ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tony Marinovich tony@bumpandbaby.co.nz Ange Steiger ange@bumpandbaby.co.nz DIGITAL ENQUIRIES digital@bumpandbaby.co.nz social@bumpandbaby.co.nz

PREGNANCY BUMP&baby PUBLISHED BY TOTS TO TEENS PO Box 70, Kumeu Auckland 0841, New Zealand or The Media Barn 91 Moontide Road, RD2 Kumeu Auckland 0892, New Zealand T: +64 9 412 5123 JOIN US ONLINE! bumpandbaby.co.nz facebook.com/bumpandbabynz pinterest.com/bumpbabynz instagram.com/bumpandbabymagazine tiktok@bumpandbabymagazine PRINTER / OVATO Limited

Pregnancy BUMP&baby ISSN 2463-283X is published bi-annually (2 issues per year)

MORNING SICKNESS TONIC • ½ teaspoon finely grated turmeric • ½ teaspoon finely grated ginger • juice of ½ lemon

1. Place turmeric and ginger in a mug or heatproof glass, add lemon and a splash of water, then pour in 300ml of boiling water. Steep for 5 minutes, then stir and enjoy.

Turn to page 38 for more recipes from Egg of The Universe (Murdoch Books).

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

The opinions expressed and statements made in Pregnancy BUMP&baby are those of the contributors and advertisers and do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers. Pregnancy BUMP&baby, on behalf of itself and the authors, asserts copyright on all original material appearing in Pregnancy BUMP&baby and none of it shall be reproduced wholly or in part without the prior written consent of the publishers. The publishers reserve all rights in respect of all material received and accepted for publication. Pregnancy BUMP&baby reserves the right to edit or abridge all articles, letters, or other material (solicited or otherwise) accepted for publication.

While every care has been taken in the research and compilation of this publication, it is not intended to replace professional or medical advice. To the best knowledge of Pregnancy BUMP&baby, all information herein is correct at the time of publication. Please contact your healthcare provider in the first instance for medical assistance and advice. Prices on products are a guide only and may differ from stockist to stockist.

Saving your baby’s cord blood could save your baby’s life.

It takes just a few minutes to collect umbilical cord blood from your newborn baby. Saving the stem cells from this blood can give your child the chance to recover from many serious illnesses and conditions – now and into adulthood.

It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Here in New Zealand, we have our own world class cord blood storage facility at CordBank. Only CordBank collects and stores your baby’s cord blood right here in New Zealand. They’re 100% New Zealand owned and operated, and they deal exclusively with cord blood – the world’s most proven source of stem cells. And because your child’s cord blood stem cells are stored here, they’re close at hand and protected by New Zealand law.

To learn more about the lifesaving value of cord blood stem cells go to cordbank.co.nz or phone 0800 CORDBANK.

cordbank.co.nz

online course

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YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT...

b i t e -s i z e Y O J N E HOM E! T A s o e vi d

• Choosing your LMC • Birthing Options • Pregnancy Discomforts • Informed Consent • Pregnancy Nutrition • Scans & Monitoring • Premature Birth • Your Birth Plan • Induction • Pelvic Floor • Baby Clothing • Perineal Massage • Position of Baby for Birth • Signs of Labour • Stages of Labour • Positions in Labour • Assisted Delivery • Labour Support

Introducing the online

Introductory to Antenatal Course

Brought to you by Nest Pregnancy & Parenting and BUMP&baby magazine This is the perfect course to do with your partner when you find out you’re expecting, or a great refresher if this isn't your first baby. Watch and/or listen to our online course in your own time to better understand your pregnant body, birth options, and to feel more confident about labour and birth.

A friendly, easy-to-understand course made up of bite-sized sessions, each ranging from 5- to 15-minutes long, so you can binge-watch or select a different session to watch every few days. This is the perfect introductory course for yourself, or as a gift to a friend, to get a handle on pregnancy and everything to expect in the next nine months.

COURSE BONUS!

“We both loved the bite-sized workshops, they were so easy to listen to at the end of each day; we would make a cuppa and watch them together ” Caylie

UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS AND LOTS OF PRACTICAL, BONUS DOWNLOADABLES.

ALL THIS FOR JUST $28.75

bumpandbaby.co.nz/courses 10

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

Parental guidance...

News, views, and handy products in the pregnancy and parenting space

PLUNKET HONOURS ITS HERITAGE

The history of Whānau Āwhina Plunket is – like much of Aotearoa’s history – incomplete at best, misleading and incorrect at worst.

Stories have been told but not the full story.

“If it wasn’t for two Maori midwives and healers – Mere Harper and Ria Tikini – and the patronage and support of Lady Victoria Plunket, Whānau Āwhina Plunket would not be here today,” says Plunket Chief Executive, Amanda Malu. “We’re on a journey to reclaim our whakapapa to become what we were always meant to be: an organisation that partners with whanau, is helpful and doesn’t judge, is brave and thoughtful, and optimistic for the future.” plunket.org.nz

Brunswick Aces Spades Sapiir, $59.99.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY BOHEMIANBLUEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

12

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

t summer refreshmen

Even though pregnancy is a zero-alcohol zone, there’s still a ton of non-alcoholic options so you can still feel social.

The latest? Brunswick Aces’ non-alcoholic gin, which steam distills botanicals using purpose-built stills, allowing the best flavours and aromas to be extracted, before blending them all together to create the Sapiir. regionalwines.co.nz

noteworthy

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CASTING CALL

Kapiti-based Rosie Lewis-Jones discovered the world of casting when her son was born.

“My son entered the world three months early, weighing just 695g,” explains the former birth doula. “When he was just three weeks old (and not yet a kilogram in weight) I had someone cast his little hand and foot while he was inside the incubator in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). I love how these castings create a lovely memory or a cute keepsake – because time passes so quickly and a casting is something to treasure forever”. rosiescastingstudio.com

NAPPIES TO TREA SURE

New Treasures Comfort Dry and Snug Nappies are Treasures’ best nappies yet! With up to 12 hours of leak protection, an ultraabsorbent core, soft adjustable grip tabs and a high, soft waistband, they have your little treasure covered – quite literally – morning, noon and night.

Available exclusively at Countdown nationwide.

Treasures Comfort Dry and Snug, $17, treasures.co.nz

VACCINATION GUIDANCE

Latest advice (at the time of publication) from The Immunisation Advisory Centre (​​covid.immune.org.nz) is that pregnant women in Aotearoa are encouraged to be vaccinated against COVID-19 at any stage of pregnancy, due to the risk of severe COVID-19 complications being much higher than in people of the same age who are not pregnant.

There is also increasing evidence that antibodies made by the mother after vaccination are shared with her infant. As with all vaccines on the New Zealand Immunisation Schedule, there are no safety concerns about giving mRNA COVID-19 vaccine to women who are breastfeeding and by being vaccinated, mothers can provide some protection against COVID-19 for their babies in breastmilk.

Transitional transport The Silver Cross Pioneer Eclipse is a stylish way to stroll with your baby – with unique sculpted black fabrics and rose-gold detail. It will grow with your little one as they do – from bassinet, to facing inward then out. They will love exploring the world in this travel system, and you will too! Special offer $1399 (usually $1999), silvercross.co.nz

NIPPLE RELIEF

Lansinoh Lanolin Nipple Cream can help soothe and protect sore, sentitive nipples.

Lanolin is a thick, rich cream that provides a soothing, protective barrier for your skin. It’s 100 percent natural and contains no additives, preservatives or parabens. It’s safe for you and baby so it doesn’t need to be removed before breastfeeding (let’s be honest – when your girls are already tender, the last thing you want to do is touch them to wipe off nipple cream!)

Lansinoh HPA Lanolin, (15g) $16,99, lansinoh.com

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

13

noteworthy

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Little Berries Sleeping Gown, $39.90, redcurrent.co.nz

Plain and Simple Baby Sleepsack (Summer), $200, plainandsimple.eco

Filled with love Write down family memories for you and your loved ones to treasure forever, with beautiful keepsake journals from forgetmenotjournals.com

sleep... like a baby

MINI MAKERS

We Might Be Tiny’s Mini Freeze and Bake Poddies ($29) are non-toxic mini silicone trays that are not only adorable but are perfect for storing baby food and creating small delights. wemightbetiny.com

ACC cover for childbirth injuries

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

PEACE OF MIND FOR PREGNANT TRAVELLERS

Southern Cross Travel Insurance is believed to be the first travel insurer in Aotearoa to cover the cost of childbirth and neonatal care of an extremely preterm (up until the 24th week of gestation) baby delivered overseas, up until the time both mother and baby can safely return home. “For anyone, a preterm delivery is distressing, but this can be even more difficult if it happens for a very preterm baby whilst overseas,” says Chief Executive Jo McCauley. Babymoons are popular for expectant parents, but it’s important to check your travel insurance policy to see exactly what you’re covered for. southerncross.co.nz

About time! There’s a better future for improving equity and health outcomes for women, through the ACC legislation and the Maternity Action Plan. “We’re proposing to amend ACC legislation to cover more injuries experienced by women during childbirth,” says ACC Minister Carmel Sepuloni. "A small number of birth injuries injuries are severe and share similar features to other physical injuries covered by ACC – so it’s only fair that they are covered too.”

COMPILED BY PAMELA MCINTOSH

Tommee Tippee Swaddle Wrap, $44.99, tommeetippee.co.nz

We all like sleepwear to feel like a big hug, and it's no different for your baby. We love this range of baby sleeping bags made with breathable fabrics, soothing tones, and practical details. Now, if only they came in adult-size!

NATURALLY SOFT FOR YOUR BABY AND THE ENVIRONMENT

EarthSmart Aquawipes are made in New Zealand with Pure New Zealand Water and 100% biodegradable bamboo fibre.

With no plastic, harmful chemicals or nasties, EarthSmart Aquawipes are hypoallergenic and kind on your baby’s sensitive skin and the environment.

*0.2% Soy bean amino acid.

aquawipesnz

Aquawipes NZ

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

our cover bump

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Ready to

meet you

Juliette Perkins chats body changes, pregnancy emotions, and her hopes and dreams for her little one.

K

iwi model Juliette Perkins has How has pregnancy been for you? had a stellar career working - -all over the globe – Australia, Pregnancy has been one big journey, and I’ve Paris, New York, London, Los gone through so many different stages. In the Angeles – but the Nelson-born beauty has first trimester I was quite sick, in and out of returned home with her partner, professional hospital a lot. I found it hard to eat anything footballer Myer Bevan, for a very special for the first six weeks while Myer and I were reason – to welcome their first baby! based in South Africa [for Myer’s football “Myer and I were living in South Africa contract] prior to returning home to New earlier this year and we decided to try and Zealand. It was hard being in South Africa; conceive. I was fortunate to we were isolated, but Myer be able to become pregnant was so amazing. He cooked quickly and we were both and cleaned every day because over the moon,” says Juliette.

The hardest part I could hardly get out of bed, “I had taken a pregnancy test let alone spend time in the of pregnancy for kitchen. each week over the course of about five weeks. All Thankfully, the second me is definitely were negative, until the one trimester was better. I flew to the emotions. that wasn’t! Although I was Australia for work and did excited to see two lines on I feel like when I as many jobs as I could until the pregnancy test, it was still I felt like I needed to slow have a “bad day”, down. It was great to be busy, an initial shock; I told Myer, shaking and crying. There’s I just can’t get my but hard because Myer and the trying-to-get-pregnant I were apart for just under head out of it. I feeling, and then there’s three months. By trimester have to remind the I’m-actually-pregnant three, I was feeling good and feeling!” started to chill out and get myself that The self-professed “social ready to meet our baby. Right everything will butterfly” has been in her now, I’m feeling calm and Auckland lockdown bubble ready to become a mum. work out. with her partner in the The hardest part of lead-up to her due date with pregnancy for me is definitely Myer’s family, feeling “super-grounded” and the emotions. I feel like when I have a “bad excitedly awaiting the arrival of her little day” I just can’t get my head out of it. I have girl. Lockdown as well as a few pregnancy to remind myself that everything is going to ailments has certainly ensured Juliette slowed work out. One day I cried for the whole day down during her pregnancy, but each stage over seemingly nothing; I had to do a ton of has been quite the ride – as she explains errands and I recall crying while showering, when we caught up with her, just four days sobbing while getting ready to go out, and shy of her due date. then I was in tears at the supermarket.

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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our cover bump

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It was really overwhelming to not be able to stop crying (and even more so when you have no idea what you are crying about!).

How have the scans and appointments been?

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PHOTO: KAREN INDERBITZEN-WALLER.

Ultrasounds and appointments have been so fun for me, especially when I get to see our baby. But it’s a shame that Myer hasn’t been able to come into the most recent scans, because of COVID-19 lockdown. I always take pictures for him and he loves it. We decided to find out the gender of our baby, although Myer was in South Africa at the time and I was in Sydney, so we got a friend to deliver the news – a girl! – to us both at the same time over the phone. I cried, of course. We both had an inkling it was a girl.

How have the body changes been for you, particularly as so much of modelling work is body-focused?

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For a couple who travel a lot, how has it been settling into one place?

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There were a lot of changes that had to happen. Myer and I have been travelling the world for nine years for our respective careers, so to pick a place to stay for this was

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

This cute duo share their parenthood journey on TikTok @julietteeandmyer

a hard decision in itself. We moved back to New Zealand and got a house with more bedrooms. We bought a larger vehicle, car seats, a pram and all that jazz. We have been privileged to have been gifted a few items, and we feel very lucky. And Myer’s uncle had a baby not so long ago, so we’ve been able to score a few hand-me-downs. We’re keen to travel again once we’ve settled into our new life as parents and the borders open. Myer and I are pretty bad at staying in one place…

So we’ll see.

What’s your hope for your birth experience?

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I trust my body and plan to let it guide me through this. I feel that I’ll know what I need to do and I feel like I have incredible people around me that I can trust and ask if I feel helpless. Ideally, I’m going to labour from home as much as possible; I’ve got candles, a bath, TENS machine, and oils ready, and I’ll make my way to hospital when my midwife gives me the nod. I know I’ll feel safe if I have the option of an epidural, gas, and doctors nearby, which is why I want to give birth in

hospital. When it comes to feeding, I’d like to breastfeed, but as long as my baby’s fed I don’t mind how it happens. My midwife has given me such amazing information to read about breastfeeding, so I feel well-prepared and informed.

What kind of māmā do you want to be?

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Mostly I want to be a safe haven for my girl.

I want her to know she can always call on me. One of the best things about my own childhood was how much fun I had with my mum and dad. I want to continue that.

I want her life to be full of laughter, which won’t be hard with Myer around. I hope she lives a life in which she always feels heard, safe, and free to explore, roam, and take any opportunity that comes her way.

COVER MĀMĀ: Juliette Perkins, RED11MODELS, @red11models.co.nz, wearing Cosmo Wrap Dress from DESIGNER WARDROBE, designerwardrobe.co.nz; Photographer: ANNUPAM @annupam, annupam.com; Sebastion armchair from INTERIOR WAREHOUSE interiorwarehouse.co.nz

INTERVIEW BY PAMELA MCINTOSH.

I love experiencing my body change and discovering what it can do. Women’s bodies are amazing. To be able to grow a new life is incredible! I’ve always had to be in shape and to keep on top of my fitness, but I’ve just let my body do what it wants and I’ve eaten what I felt like I and my baby need – it feels good! Don’t get me wrong, I did eat what I wanted before pregnancy, and I definitely like the food I ate pre-pregnancy much more, but my body wants other things right now so I’m living for it. I’ve been going for gentle walks throughout pregnancy, and it’s been awesome to give myself a break on the fitness front. I’ll get back into all that whenever I’m ready – no rush.

The constipation though – it’s real. I’ve had to incorporate more greens and fruit, so it is less uncomfortable for me. I really wanted to take a prenatal supplement because they have all the good vitamins, but each one I tried made me sick, I think from the iron in them? I ended up getting an iron infusion and that made a world of a difference for me. Walking was my meditation during pregnancy. If I didn’t go on a daily walk I would feel very low.

Clinic Locations:

8

Smales Farm Henderson Northcote Sylvia Park

Manukau City Otara New Lynn Remuera

For an appointment phone:

0800 746 853

horizonradiology.co.nz

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PREGNANCY BUMP &

MILESTONE CARDS & WALL ART INSIDE FOR YOU TO PERSONALISE

Aote aroa

Your body,

THEIR SAFE HAVEN

ISSUE 13

JULIETTE PERKINS "Pregnancy emotions are... real"

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PREGN A NCY • BIRTH • P OS TPA RTUM • NE W B A BY • BRE A S TFE E DING... We deli ver ever y t hing except t he b aby

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Pay just $39.95 and get a BUMP&baby PeekaBox (worth $200!)

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CHOOSE 'OFFER #3' AND GET ALL THIS!

What’s in the BUMP&baby PeekaBox? We’ve joined forces with PeekaBox (your special treasure box) to bring you a BUMP&baby PeekaBox – full of amazing products, samples and vouchers valued at more than $200. Purchase ‘OFFER 3’ ($39.95) and get these full-sized products: • Bear & Moo Cloth Nappy ($17.95) with adjustable snaps for comfort (pattern design will vary in each pack).

• Ti Ora 15-pack of tea pyramids ($6.79), blended with a native New Zealand botanical.

• BUMP&baby magazine. You’ll receive one in your PeekaBox, and one delivered when the next edition is published ($19.99).

• Natural Paint Co. Test Pot of VOC-free, non-toxic paint, ($6). To get crafty with our template on page 64.

• Weleda Calendula Nappy Cream ($12.90). Protect baby’s most sensitive areas with the natural support of organic calendula.

• Olive Baby Baby Massage Oil ($22.99), a nutrient-rich blend of peach, calendula and meadowfoam baby oil OR Baby Barrier Balm, ($19.99); provide a barrier against wetness while it soothes baby’s skin.

• MAM Newborn Anti-Colic Bottle ($12.99). These easy-start bottles have a vented base to reduce colic, and a self-sterilising feature. Note: For the first 600 orders only.

• TERRA Biodegradable Nappy Bags (box of 50) and Anti-Bacterial Spray, ($10.98). TERRA is for those who seek something kinder – for their skin, for their family and for the planet.

• Epiology Advanced Anti-Acne Recovery Mask ($11.99).

A luxurious facial mask to rescue and restore skin troubled by pregnancy acne and to protect skin against the effects of sun and free radicals.

• QueenBee Pure Baby Bee Goat's Milk Soap ($4.50).

Subscribe to BUMP&baby magazine and get a PeekaBox with full-size products, samples and discount vouchers!

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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grazing table

If you can't manage big meals, graze on healthy snacks to keep your tummy full and your energy levels up.

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What s on

the menu?

It’s hard to stay on top of the dos and don’ts when it comes to food in pregnancy, so Yvonne Walus breaks it down.

E

ating well while pregnant is one (which is a frequent ailment during of the best things you can do for pregnancy). yourself and for your baby. Your Breads and cereals provide energy for body needs the right nutrients to the baby's development and assist in growing support your wellbeing while you’re growing the placenta. Wholegrain bread and brown a new life (how exciting!). A healthy diet rice contain more nutrients and fibre than will lower your risk of anaemia (low levels of their processed equivalents. iron in the body), help you manage morning Dairy products are a rich source of sickness, and boost your energy levels. calcium and vitamin D, both of which are For your baby, correct nourishment necessary to build strong bones and to grow has been scientifically a healthy heart, nervous linked to good brain and system, and muscles.

Healthy fats are an body development, as Together with meat, eggs, awesome source well as a reduced risk and beans, dairy products of birth defects. provide protein crucial of energy for your for the proper growth developing baby. They SO, WHAT TO EAT? of your baby's organs, contribute to building A well-balanced including the brain. Iron pregnancy diet includes (found in meat, seafood, the brain tissue, which all four food groups: and beans) is used to is 60% fat.

A large variety of make the blood for you vegetables and fruit and your baby. Healthy (preferably fresh), breads and cereals (make fats are an awesome source of energy for some of them wholegrain), milk products the developing baby, and they contribute (pasteurised to avoid listeria), and non-dairy to building the brain tissue, which is 60 proteins (meat, cooked seafood, legumes, percent fat. dairy, eggs, nuts, seeds).

Omega-3 fatty acid (found in fatty Vegetables and fruit contain most of the fish, eggs, and flaxseed) supports the vitamins, minerals, and fibre that you and development of the baby's brain, retinas your baby need. They supply vitamin C, and nervous system. However, avoid fish which promotes a healthy immune system that may contain mercury, such as shark, and helps produce collagen for the tendons, swordfish, king mackerel, tuna, and tilefish. bones, and skin. Eating vegetables and fruit Sometimes it’s difficult to get all these also aids digestion and eases constipation vitamins and minerals from the food Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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we eat – to get enough folic acid, for instance, you need about two-and-a-half cups of cooked spinach a day! That’s why most medical professionals recommend taking a prenatal supplement. It’s preferable to use a supplement made specifically for pregnant women, to ensure you get all the right nutrients in the right doses.

For example, too much vitamin A is harmful for the baby, so pregnant women are advised to stay away from supplements that contain it (as well as to avoid vitamin A-rich foods such as liver and pâté).

When pregnant, you obviously need extra water to cater for the baby: Produce amniotic fluid, carry nutrients, and eliminate toxins. It’s not optimal to drink a litre of water in one go; rather, make sure you take several generous sips often to avoid dehydration.

Medical practitioners caution against restricting your diet during pregnancy, as it can endanger your health and stunt the development of your baby.

This looks delicious, but I really just want sushi.

NOT-SO-SWEET

The general recommendation for pregnant women is not to exceed 30g of sugar a day, which is equivalent to six teaspoons (a can of Coca-Cola contains eight teaspoons!).

Eating too much sugar can lead to gestational diabetes, an increased risk of high blood pressure, and preeclampsia.

If you crave something sweet, fresh fruit is a healthier choice than fruit juice or a sugary treat. Be careful if you plan to use a sugar substitute. Some artificial sweeteners contain chemicals that may be harmful to the baby, such as cyclamate (952), saccharin, or sucaryl (954).

Check the ingredient lists of any diet or low-sugar foods, especially powdered drinks, carbonated drinks, jellies, readymade desserts, and sugar-free chocolate.

WHAT ABOUT VEGANS?

WebMD advises that “Vegan diets that lack in nutrients such as protein, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, DHA, and iron increase the risk that your baby may have low birth weight or birth defects.” If you’re a vegan or a vegetarian, aim for variety in your meals and make sure to get enough protein, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, and iron.

As for all women, a prenatal supplement may be beneficial to cover any shortfall.

EATING FOR TWO, OR THREE…

If you're pregnant with more than one baby, you need additional calories and nutrients.

Doctors suggest increasing your daily food intake as follows: By 300 calories per baby in the first trimester, 340 calories per baby in the second trimester, and 450 calories per baby in the third trimester. Ideally, the extra calories will contain some protein to help build cells and support an increased plasma volume. (100g of beef fillet contains 250 calories, while 100g of salmon contains approximately 200 calories.)

FOOD SAFETY REMINDERS

When eating at home In pregnancy, your immunity is lower than usual, so you're more at risk of getting sick, and this includes food poisoning. You’ve probably been advised to avoid sushi because of the harmful bacteria it may contain. In fact, it’s wise to forego all raw or undercooked meat, raw egg and mayonnaise, raw sprouts, and soft cheeses. But food safety goes deeper than that: Remember to store ready-to-eat foodstuffs away from raw foods in order to avoid cross-contamination, wash your hands after handling raw meat, and cook food thoroughly. Wash fruit, vegetables, and fresh herbs. Throw away any food past its use-by date, anything that looks abnormal, and anything that tastes weird.

When dining out When eating food not prepared at home, follow the same guidelines for avoiding raw meat, mayo, etc, but also – unfortunately – stay away from things like salads and ready-made sandwiches that haven’t been refrigerated. While homemade salads are super-good for you, those pre-packed ones might not be. Choose takeaway food that is well cooked, served hot, and prepared just before it's eaten. Soups make fantastic lunches, both homemade and when eating out. You can also order steamed dumplings, tacos, lasagne, ravioli, curry, or steamed vegetables.

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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! od go ls ee sf t hi ol y li M Ho

The holistic approach

G

Take your pregnancy journey to the next level, with alternative therapies that embrace you, your bump, and beyond.

rowing a human is a big deal.

And you’ve likely discovered everyone has an opinion on the ways things will change as you create a new life inside you. Here, we press pause on all the outside noise with tips and tricks to help you make the most of your path to becoming a mum.

Alternative therapies are enjoying a big uptake both here in New Zealand and around the globe thanks to all things COVID-19 – and increasing numbers of Kiwi mums are embracing this trend toward

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complementary and alternative medicine with their pregnancy journey.

Adonia Wylie of The Life Centre (thelifecentre.nz) says her vision of providing clients with a space to focus on whole health and well eing is one that resonates with the different stages of pregnancy. “In recent years, complementary and alternative medicine has begun to shed its ‘woo-woo’ image and is becoming increasingly more mainstream as the concept of holistic healthcare is better understood,” she says.

“We see a lot of pregnant women who come

to us for complementary therapies for a range of reasons, including their value of the emphasis on treating the whole person, a belief that complementary therapy will be more effective for their issue, and a belief that complementary treatments will enable them to take a more active part in maintaining their own well being.”

REIKI

“Reiki is an ancient healing art that strengthens the body and mind and attracts positive energy to help you relax

<

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Harmonyum and Homeopathy

If you’ve reached the 16-week milestone, Harmonyum is a spiritual healing system developed with the aim of making self-healing possible and to give you back your glow when it feels like your bump is depleting you of all your nutrients.

An ancient form of alternative medicine, homeopathy works to stimulate a healing response and strengthen the body’s ability to heal itself. It’s also super-gentle and a safe, alternative way to meet your needs when you’re pregnant. And here’s another milestone for you – according to our practitioner Diann Glucina, who is well versed in the practise of Kabbalah during pregnancy and birth, 120 days of pregnancy in Kabbalah is when the baby's soul arrives – “a day of celebration.” Who knew!

and rejuvenate,” says Adonia. “We encourage mothers to try Reiki during their pregnancy; it helps all kinds of physical imbalances created by carrying a baby, as well as supporting delivery. Reiki doesn’t involve working on muscles or tissues, so it’s safe for you and your bump.”

and tightness from around the ribcage.

A safe and very effective hands-on technique, fascial release therapy involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the fascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion where you need it.

FA SCIAL RELEA SE THERAPY

When it comes to preparing for the birth of your baby, practitioner Aiyanna Langemeijer recommends Yuan Gong Qigong (pronounced “chee-GUNG”) as a tool to prepare for childbirth, as well as

No mum is immune to the aches and pains brought on by an ever-expanding bump, which is why fascial release therapy is a popular choice to help release pressure

YUAN GONG QIGONG

navigating pregnancy in a calm, relaxed way. Qigong is a component of traditional Chinese medicine that combines movement, meditation, and regulation of breathing to enhance the flow of qi (an ancient term for vital energy) in the body, improve blood circulation, and enhance immune function. Aiyanna also offers sessions for clients to heal previous negative or traumatic experiences and help better manage or overcome anxiety, allowing for a happier, healthier you.

KINESIOLOGY

If your pregnancy journey has hit a few, er, bumps in the road, kinesiology can give you the emotional, physical and mental tools you need to embrace your pregnancy and prepare for life with a newborn. Kinesiology works to address all aspects of your life including you, your baby and your partner and family’s health. Whether you feel your hormones and emotions are out of whack since you became pregnant, you’ve experienced a traumatic birth in the past, or family members are finding the changes stressful, kinesiology has you covered.

With a three-tier approach to wellness, kinesiology focuses on important facets – nutritional/chemical to ensure your hormones are balanced and you’re receiving optimal nutrition and supplementation for your unique situation, and emotional/ mental to prepare yourself and every family member for what’s coming. “By clearing old stressors and traumas so that they no longer affect you negatively you’ll all be able to be more positively present,” says Patricia Smith, a nutritionist, Touch for Health Kinesiology Practitioner, and yoga teacher. Finally, kinesiology can help from a structural/ physical perspective to enable you during and after birth to be balanced and feel more comfortable and energetic in your body and recover from possibly the biggest physical change your body has experienced.

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Movement is your best friend. Avoid sitting for long periods, or anything that requires you to remain in the same posture for an extended period of time.

WHEAT BAG

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

Osteopath Sarah Boughtwood has got your back.

O

ne of the most common is not limited to where it is needed, and so aches and pains in affects every muscle, joint, and ligament in pregnancy comes from the body. Exercise is the best way to combat back pain, explains this by increasing your muscular strength pregnancy and postnatal osteopath Sarah to support ligaments and joints. But always Boughtwood. “The area of the back most seek advice from your trusted medical affected is the lower back in the lumbar professional before taking up an exercise spine, but additionally, some women get regime. There are personal trainers who pain in the mid or upper back, known as specialise in pregnancy. Additionally, to the thoracic spine. The lower make you stick to the exercise, back undergoes a vast amount The lower back choose something you enjoy. of anatomical changes during “Also, seeing an osteopath undergoes a pregnancy to accommodate early into your pregnancy for the growing baby and changes maintenance treatments to vast amount in your centre of gravity. help prevent pain can be very of anatomical During pregnancy, the curve useful. Treatment helps the changes during body adapt to the changes in your lower back slowly flattens and can disappear; that occur in pregnancy. pregnancy to your pelvis/hips can also rotate Osteopathic treatment is a safe accommodate forwards to accommodate the and effective form of hands-on the growing baby; and hormonal changes physical therapy. We treat the baby and affect your muscles, ligaments, entire body, rather than just and joints too. The hormone where a patient might be sore. changes in responsible for this is the By treating the whole body, it your centre relaxin hormone. Relaxin is addresses all areas of the body of gravity. important because it ‘loosens’ that might not be working as your muscles, joints and well as they could be, leading ligaments to allow your body to expand to the area of pain. For example, a sore lower – making room for your growing baby. back: If the neck, shoulders, and upper “My advice to prevent any kind of back are too tight and restricted, this places muscle pain in pregnancy is exercise. Why? further strain on the lower back, limiting The relaxin hormone (mentioned above) its functio and creating pain.”

GENTLE MOVEMENT

Applying heat to the area can help relieve the pain. Just make sure it isn’t too hot.

ways to relieve back pain

3

Massage ball

Use a spiky massage ball or tennis ball in the area where you feel the pain, but also your entire back, glutes, and other muscles that are tight and/or sore. Direct pressure to the area helps reduce the neural pain pathway, stimulates blood flow, and reduces inflammation.

4

CAT/COW STRETCH On all fours, curl your tailbone/ pelvis under and slowly arch your back upwards, hold, then slowly lower back down.

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Exercise

Key muscles that support the lower back include: Core, pelvic floor, hamstrings, and glutes. Great types of exercise to work these areas with little impact are swimming, walking, pilates, and at-home pregnancy programmes (weight training is great). Bridge exercises are helpful for these muscle groups. All exercise, regardless of type, should feel like “good” pain (using a muscle) and not “bad” pain (triggering your back pain even more).

8 9

SWAYING MOVEMENT

Standing up, sway your hips gently from side to side. This gently articulates/moves your lower back muscles and joints. Additionally, try drawing circles with your pelvis/hips. These should be a slow, small, and painless movement.

DON’T SIT FOR TOO LONG Ideally, every 20 minutes, stand up, roll your shoulders. and reset your posture. Then every hour take a “micro break” and walk to the kitchen and back. This “wakes up” your lower back, flushes away any inflammation, increases blood flow, and helps avoid muscles and joints stiffening up.

CHILD’S POSE

This is another good yoga pose, providing your belly doesn’t get in the way!

This stretch can help lengthen your back. Sitting on your bent knees (which can be in a V position), arms straight out in front of you, lean forwards.

HUG KNEES TO CHEST

Again, this is a great stretch if your belly allows. Lying on your back, hug your knees to your chest and hold.

You can draw circles with your knees to loosen your back too. If your belly is in the way, have your knees slightly dropped out in a V position, either side of your belly.

sarahboughtwoodosteopath.co.nz Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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Dyson’s new flyaway attachment is a game-changing tool to smooth and style flyaways. “It’s amazing for smoothing postpartum hair growth around the hairline and in the part, “says Michael Beel, director of Buoy Hairdressing in Wellington. “Simply dry your hair thoroughly with the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer (which gives a salon-like finish without the need for extreme heat), then use the flyaway attachment to smooth postpartum hair growth.”

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Linden Leaves Regenerating Night Cream, $59.99, lindenleaves.com

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

When sleepless nights are the norm, this gel is quickly absorbed and will hydrate for up to 12 hours. With the water-binding plant “prickly pear cactus” to moisturise the skin, and refreshing cucumber to cool, relieve and refresh your up-all-nightwith-a-newborn tired eyes.

Weleda Hydrating Eye Gel, $29.90, weleda.com

Growing a little human is hard work and requires abundant and diverse nutrient stores. Mum’s One is formulated to include crucial pregnancy nutrients: folate, B12, choline, iodine, magnesium, and iron, making it the ultimate pregnancy multi as well as to keep you nourished whilst breastfeeding.

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Hayley Benseman Tummy Time Pregnancy Oil, $31.50, bumpandbabymall.co.nz; Bio-Oil Skincare Oil Natural, $32.99; bio-oil.com; The Nude Alchemist Belly Bump Serum, $25, nude-alchemist.com or bumpandbabymall.co.nz; Aotearoad Natural Stretch Mark Balm, $18.99, aotearoad.com; Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks, $17.95, palmers.com​; LoveSkin Mahana Body Oil, $54, loveskin.co; Honey Babe Mummy’s Tummy Butter with Pure Manuka Honey, $27.50; bumpandbabymall.co.nz; Weleda Stretch Mark Massage Oil, $32.90, weleda.co.nz

The power of your pelvic floor Get acquainted with these hard-working muscles and learn how to keep them strong.

A

woman’s pelvic floor goes through major changes in pregnancy and in her postpartum recovery, so it’s important to keep this group of muscles (yes, muscles) strong, to ensure it functions at its best post-birth and beyond. Contrary to many messages, you are not destined to pee yourself for the rest of your life after having a baby, but with around 50 percent of women exercising their pelvic floor incorrectly, it’s important to “work out” your pelvic floor right. Pre- and postnatal fitness expert and mum-of-three, Brooke RS Wright (brsw.nz), gives us some intel on how to care for these crucial muscles – correctly.

WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF A PELVIC FLOOR?

The pelvic floor is like a sling or funnel that stretches from both front to back and side to side of the pelvis. It’s responsible for supporting the organs that sit within the pelvis: The bladder, uterus, and rectum.

HOW DOES THE PELVIC FLOOR CHANGE DURING PREGNANCY?

Pregnancy also triggers a massive change in hormones which causes internal tissue and muscles to stretch and soften, particularly around the pelvic organs (the bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum). It’s a totally normal change, but the strain of supporting

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a developing baby and then childbirth increases the workload of the pelvic floor muscles. This can result in a pelvic floor disorder, such as urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse.

WHAT CAN WE DO DURING PREGNANCY TO SUPPORT OUR PELVIC FLOOR AREA?

Pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy will help keep your pelvic floor strong and even control bladder and bowel symptoms during pregnancy.

Contracting as well as relaxing your pelvic floor is important, as it is possible to have an overactive pelvic floor (hypertonic). When your pelvic floor is too tense, you will often experience pelvic health concerns such as constipation, painful sex, urgency to urinate, and pelvic pain.

DO A VAGINAL BIRTH AND A CAESAREAN SECTION HAVE DIFFERENT IMPACTS ON A WOMAN’S PELVIC FLOOR?

A “normal” vaginal delivery places significant strain on the pelvic floor, resulting in an increased risk of suffering from stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. An emergency Caesarean section (performed after a period of labouring) can also increase the risk of urinary incontinence compared to

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Pelvic floor muscl

es , is s t a t- ue?

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mama wellness

an elective Caesarean section (performed before the onset of labour). However, Caesarean sections don’t protect your pelvic floor from aging or “wear and tear”. Delivery aside, women who are pregnant are all just as likely to experience similar pelvic floor weakening due to the weight of the baby, uterus, and an increase in body weight.

WHAT’S YOUR PHILOSOPHY ON EXERCISE DURING PREGNANCY?

amazing exercise for building leg and glute strength to support you during pregnancy, rows strengthen the upper back and open the chest, which helps support good posture as your breasts grow, and deadlifts activate and strengthen hamstrings.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR RETURNING TO EXERCISE POST-BIRTH?

Women can begin pelvic floor exercises A lot of women stop exercising during in the days following birth if they are pregnancy, as they are unsure what not experiencing too much pain, because exercises are safe to continue or pelvic floor exercises can reduce whether it is safe to exercise, full There is no swelling, increase blood flow, stop. However, in most cases, “bouncing and improve healing following staying active and exercising birth. Gentle stretching is back” throughout pregnancy is of also recommended, and when benefit to both mother and baby. a woman feels ready, they following Exercising under the guidance can begin walking again for birth and of a qualified pre- and postnatal cardiovascular exercise. women need trainer is vital, as pregnant and A check with a women’s health postnatal clients are a special to be guided physiotherapist is recommended population and need to be six weeks following a vaginal correctly taken care of correctly to avoid delivery and 8-12 weeks following on how to a caesarean section. Granted injuries and pre/postnatal contraindications that may be strengthen clearance has been given, strength worsened or ignored because they training can then be combined from the weren’t taken care of properly. with walking and other forms inside out. of cardio.

Pregnancy is a time to maintain your fitness and strength, not set Because there are still so many new goals or personal bests. You should changes taking place in the months after concentrate on low-impact exercises and giving birth, it is important that women staying stable throughout your exercise exercise under the guidance of qualified preprogramme while focusing on key exercises and postnatal trainers. There is no “bouncing for overall strength. back” following birth, and women need to Some of my favourite exercises are squats, be guided correctly on how to strengthen rows, and deadlifts, and during pregnancy from the inside out. This involves working it’s important to listen to your body and on your weakest link (which will often be decrease your weight or switch to resistance the pelvic floor) and avoiding heavy lifting bands as you progress through to the later and high-intensity exercise or anything that stages of your pregnancy. Squats are an causes discomfort or leaking.

HOW DO WE KNOW WE ARE DOING PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES PROPERLY?

This is the reason why every woman should see a woman’s health physio or a postnatal fitness expert following childbirth. We know that about 50 percent of women are bearing down on their pelvic floor when they think they are drawing in. The brain/ body connection can get confused following birth, and a woman’s health physio can assess your pelvic floor contractions with an internal assessment.

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Strengthen from within Pelvic floor contractions are recommended for all postnatal women several times a day to keep your pelvic floor functioning well.

To perform a contraction, get in a comfortable position (lying down is best for early postnatal so you’re not working against gravity) and lift your pelvic floor muscles “up” into your pelvis while breathing normally.

There are two main types of pelvic floor contractions: •S low contractions consist of aiming to hold for up to 10 seconds, resting for 10 seconds, and then repeating this 10 times.

• Fast contractions are held for one second, followed by rest for one second, and then this is repeated 10 times.

It is also important to be able to contract your pelvic floor muscles in conjunction with your deep abdominal muscles (transverse abdominals). To find your transverse abdominals, place your fingers low on your stomach, in from your hip bones, cough and you should feel a tightening under your fingers. When lifting or exercising, you must lift your pelvic floor and tighten your transverse abdominals to support and stabilise through your back and pelvis. By working your transverse abdominals daily, it will also help to close the gap between your abdominals (diastasis recti).

My eBook (brsw.nz/e-bookdownload/) also has stepby-step instructions on pelvic floor activations.

INTERVIEW BY PAMELA MCINTOSH.

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BBQ mea ls jus t go t gl am .

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Nourish 38

from within!

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Savour seasonal produce and holistic recipes to nurture your body and baby.

SLOW-COOKED BBQ SHORT RIBS Serves 6 - 8 • 2.5 kg beef short ribs, on the bone • 2 tablespoons lard, ghee or olive oil • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 onions, sliced • 6 garlic cloves, crushed • 75 g ginger, grated • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped • 1 carrot, finely diced • 1 leek (white part only), finely chopped • 2 lemongrass stalks (white part only), bruised • 2 tablespoons chopped rosemary leaves • 2 oranges, peeled and roughly chopped, seeds removed • 2 tablespoons molasses • 2 tablespoons rapadura sugar • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard • 700 ml tomato passata (puréed tomatoes) • Steamed greens, to serve • Freshly grated horseradish (optional), to serve

1. Preheat oven to 90°C (190°F). Season short-ribs liberally with salt and freshly ground pepper. Heat lard in a large, ovenproof, heavybased saucepan (cast-iron is ideal) over medium–high heat until melted and shimmering. Add short-ribs in batches and fry, turning, for 3–5 minutes until browned all over. Remove from heat.

2. Heat oil in a separate large saucepan over medium heat.

Add onion, garlic and ginger, stir for 5 minutes, then add celery, carrot, leek, lemongrass and rosemary and fry gently, stirring occasionally for 10–15 minutes until soft. Add orange, molasses, sugar and mustard and stir for 1–2 minutes until sugar dissolves.

Stir in tomato passata and 1 teaspoon salt, then pour into the other saucepan to just cover the beef (top it up with water if necessary).

3. Cover with a lid, transfer to oven and cook for 6–8 hours (or overnight) until the meat is falling off the bone at a touch and the sauce is thick and dark (if the sauce hasn’t thickened, you can always remove the meat and gently reduce the sauce on the stove).

4. Serve beef and reduced sauce in a bowl with steamed greens and top with horseradish.

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NOT-BUTTER CHICKEN WITH BROWN BASMATI PIL AF Serves 6 • ⅓ cup ghee or coconut oil • 2 kg chicken thighs, bone in and skin on (use other cuts if you wish) • 400 ml tomato passata (puréed tomatoes) • 3 cardamom pods • 200 ml coconut milk • Roasted cashews (optional) and coriander (cilantro) leaves, to serve • Lime wedges, mango chutney and lime pickle, to serve SPICE PASTE • 1 teaspoon garam masala • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon paprika • ½ teaspoon ground fennel seeds • ½ teaspoon ground coriander seeds • ½ teaspoon fenugreek • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste) • ½ teaspoon ground black peppercorns • ⅔ cup (100 g) raw cashews, soaked for 8 hours • 1 onion, chopped • 6 garlic cloves • 5 cm piece ginger, minced or finely grated • 2 cm piece fresh turmeric, minced or finely grated PILAF • 2¼ cups (450 g) brown basmati rice (ideally soaked in water for 4–8 hours) • 1 tablespoon ghee or coconut oil • 1 onion, thinly sliced • ½ cup (75 g) small currants, soaked in water until plump, then drained • Small bunch mint, leaves chopped • Small bunch coriander (cilantro), leaves chopped RAITA • 2 cups (520 g) natural yoghurt • 1 Lebanese (short) cucumber, grated • 1 teaspoon garam masala • Juice of ½ lemon

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recipes

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Sp ice, s p ice... b aby

1. For spice paste, combine all ground spices in a small frying pan and dry-roast over low heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Drain cashews and place in a food processor with onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, ground spices and 2 teaspoons salt. Blend until you have a smooth paste, adding 50–100 ml (1¾–3½ fl oz) water to loosen, if necessary.

2. Melt ghee in a heavy-based saucepan over medium heat, then add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and fry gently for 5 minutes until golden. Turn and fry for a further 2 minutes to seal, then remove from pan.

3. Add the spice paste, allowing it to sizzle and bubble for 1–2 minutes but not catch and burn. You want the paste to take on a little depth of colour here. Stir in tomato passata, cardamom pods and coconut milk, then bring back to a simmer.

4. Return the chicken to pan, submerging it in the sauce. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low and simmer very gently for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened and darkened.

5. Meanwhile, for pilaf, bring a saucepan filled with plenty of water to the boil.

Rinse rice well, then stir into water with 1 teaspoon salt. Bring back to a gentle simmer, stir rice to prevent it sticking, reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender. Drain, return to pan and cover with a lid for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

6. While rice is cooking, heat ghee in a small frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelised, about 10–15 minutes.

7. Once the rice is cooked and fluffed, stir onion through rice, along with currants and herbs. For raita, mix all ingredients well in a bowl and season to taste.

8. Garnish rice with cashews and coriander and serve with curry, raita and lime wedges.

We also like to serve this with mango chutney and lime pickle.

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

41

A KIND-OF PALEO BREAD Makes 1 loaf

,p

e.

st

pie

ce

is rom

La

• 1½ tablespoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds) • ⅓ cup (60 g) sunflower seeds • 1½ tablespoons linseeds (flaxseeds) • ⅔ cup (70 g) almond meal • 200 g (7 oz) cooked activated buckwheat • ½ cup (65 g) arrowroot flour • 1½ teaspoons baking powder • 5 organic eggs, beaten • ¾ cup (125 g) firmly packed grated carrot • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar • Coconut or olive oil, for greasing • Butter, to serve 1. Preheat oven to 175°C (325°F).

2. Place pepitas, sunflower seeds,

linseed, almond meal, buckwheat, arrowroot flour, baking powder and 1 teaspoon salt into a large bowl and toss to combine. Add eggs, mixing well, then add carrot and vinegar and stir until thoroughly combined.

3. Transfer mixture to a greased 22 cm x 12 cm (81/2 inch x 4 ½ inch) loaf tin and bake for 45 minutes until golden on top and firm to the touch (like an over-cooked cake).

4. Remove from oven and cool in tin for 30 minutes before removing from tin.

5. Bread will keep for 1 week in the refrigerator or for a month in the freezer. Serve with plenty of butter.

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tip

How to ac tivate and cook buck wheat: Cover buck wheat with water and leave to soak for 8 hours. Strain, then rinse. Bring a saucepan of salted water to the boil, add ac tivated buck wheat, then bring back to a simmer for 3 minutes. Drain and cool.

recipes

- --

ROSEMARY AND POPPYSEED OAT BARS Makes 10 bars • 750 g (1 lb 10 oz) oats • ½ cup (75 g) sunflower seeds • 75 g (2½ oz) desiccated coconut • 375 g (13 oz) butter, at room temperature • 1 ⅓ cups (250 g) raw sugar • 4 rosemary sprigs, leaves finely chopped • 100 g (3½ oz) dark chocolate, coarsely chopped • Poppy seeds, for sprinkling

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (325°F) and line a baking tray with baking paper. Combine oats, sunflower seeds and coconut with 1 teaspoon salt in a bowl.

Beat butter, sugar and rosemary in a stand mixer (or by hand) until pale and creamy. Add butter mixture to oat mixture, and beat until well combined. Turn out onto the lined tray and press flat with the back of a spoon. Before you bake it, make indents into the surface of the slice with the back of a knife, pressing firmly to mark where you’ll cut it once baked.

These will be your bars. We like to cut it into 10–15 bars, but you can make more (smaller) bars if you wish.

2. Bake for 15 minutes or until light golden (the bars will start to crumble if you leave them too long in the oven, so try to catch them before they turn dark brown).

3. Meanwhile, melt chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (don’t let the bowl touch the water).

4. Remove tray from oven and cut along the lines immediately to make bars. Drizzle melted chocolate across the whole tray of cooling bars, then scatter with poppy seeds.

Cool, then store in an airtight container. Bars will keep, refrigerated, for up to a week.

Recipes from Egg of the Universe

by Bryony and Harry Lancaster, photography by Alan Benson. ($52.99, Murdoch Books).

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

43

GROWING you Five Kiwi women share how pregnancy empowered them in personally unique ways.

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

beautiful bumps

- --

Aimee

34 WEEKS PREGNANT

“I have always been self-conscious of my body, but being pregnant is the most confident I have ever felt. I don't feel the need to hide my bump away or wear uncomfortable clothing to cover my figure. I love the linea nigra (dark line) running down the centre of my tummy, my accentuated scars from endometriosis surgery, and the stretch marks – especially in front from where my belly button was pierced when I was younger. I had always hated my stomach, partly due to years of IBS and endometriosis bloating, but my growing bump is highlighting the journey it's been on and makes me so thankful for my body for growing human life!”.

PHOTOGR APHED AT WAITAWA REGIONAL PARK IN K AWAK AWA BAY

BY AINSLEY DS PHOTOGR APHY

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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Ashlea 34 WEEKS PREGNANT

“I love my baby bump; I love feeling the movements and embracing my big belly. My body is growing a small human – how amazing and beautiful is that?! We found out the gender and picked a name for our daughter pretty early, so it has been really special to talk to her, using her name. She always moves when she hears my partner's voice, which was so special. I enjoy my nightly oil belly rubs and I think she does too.”

PHOTOGR APHED AT TE R APA , HAMILTON

BY KIMBERLEY-JOY PHOTOGR APHY

beautiful bumps

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Vivienne 36 WEEKS PREGNANT

“My husband loves to sing to our child, and even though this is my second pregnancy, he is still amazed by the kicks. Having these photographs taken felt so natural and genuine; precious moments captured just how I envisioned."

PHOTOGR APHED AT K ARIOTAHI BEACH, WAIUKU BY ROSAMOND DEL A CRUZ OF JOURNEY

BY ROSE PHOTOGR APHY

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

47

beautiful bumps

- --

Cheyenne 36 WEEKS PREGNANT

"It's a beautiful blessing that, as a woman, what our body can do – growing a little human. It can quite often be taken for granted, but nine months is such a short amount of time to create life, and something so perfect. Her kicks and punches are a beautiful reminder of how lucky I am to be pregnant with a healthy girl."

PHOTOGR APHED AT R AGL AN BEACH

BY ACACIA LILLY PHOTOGR APHY

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Jessi

34 WEEKS PREGNANT

“I have never had the best relationship with my body, but being pregnant is the first time, in a long time, that I feel confident in my skin.

Knowing that inside your bump is a whole little world is an amazing feeling.

Often our little one is quite active at bedtime, and my partner runs his hand along my stomach while the baby responds, which is very sweet”.

PHOTOGR APHED AT RIVER ROAD RESERVE, HAVELOCK NORTH

BY R ACHEL BURT PHOTOGR APHY

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Lost but

never forgotten

Maternal-Foetal Medicine fellow Rochanda Mitchell helps us understand pregnancy loss.

P

regnancy loss can be mentally and physically taxing. Women often have feelings of sadness, anger, isolation and guilt.

Often, women blame themselves for the loss, which may lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression.

I have seen firsthand the emotional upheaval that many women experience after miscarriage. Caregivers and loved ones can help by understanding a woman’s feelings and helping her know that this loss was not her fault. I know that having honest dialogue about the incidence and cause of early pregnancy loss may foster a community of support and make the topic of pregnancy loss less taboo.

WHY IT’S NOT YOUR FAULT

About 15% to 25% of all clinically recognised pregnancies result in pregnancy loss. Some miscarriages occur before a woman is aware, thus accounting for the wide variation in the incidence of pregnancy loss.

About 80% of all pregnancy losses occur within the first trimester. Sporadic errors during chromosomal division and duplication cause aneuploidy. Many of the abnormal chromosomes are incompatible with life and result in miscarriage. These genetic errors are considered sporadic because they’re due to chance and weren’t passed down as an inheritable trait from the parents.

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When an extra chromosome occurs, the result is called trisomy. The most common chromosomal abnormality found in first trimester loss is trisomy 16. The term trisomy 16 indicates that there are three copies of chromosome 16, instead of the normal two copies of the chromosome.

This almost always results in pregnancy loss.

About 5% of women will experience two consecutive pregnancy losses, and 1% will experience three or more consecutive pregnancy losses. Consecutive pregnancy loss is known as recurrent pregnancy loss.

Women who experience this should discuss it with their obstetrician/gynecologist and schedule a clinical workup.

WHAT DOCTORS KNOW ABOUT PREGNANCY LOSS

The cause of pregnancy loss is often beyond a woman’s control. It can be related to genetics, abnormalities in the uterus, autoimmunity, infections and metabolic disorders. Lifestyle choices, such as avoiding tobacco and drugs, are a few of the things that can lower the risk of miscarriage.

Miscarriages caused by uterine abnormalities happen most often in the second trimester. Something called a septate uterus is the most common of the malformations, occurring when a fibrous or muscular membrane, or septum, develops inside of the uterus and divides it. This typically happened when the woman herself was a developing fetus in her own mother’s

Sadly, like many Kiwi women, Shannon Radford (pictured) knows the heartbreak of miscarriage.

Read her story on the next page.

womb. Unless it has been diagnosed by a doctor, a woman would not even know she has this condition.

Septate uterus can be surgically corrected and improve pregnancy outcomes, but there are no known surgical corrective options for other types of abnormalities.

CLOTTING DISORDER

A clotting disorder known as antiphospholipid syndrome also is associated with pregnancy loss. This condition causes the placenta to develop and implant abnormally. About 5% to 20% of patients with recurrent pregnancy loss will be positive for antiphospholipid antibodies,

life+insight

- --

>

HOW TO SUPPORT A FRIEND THROUGH MISCARRIAGE It’s hard to know what to do when someone you know loses their dear baby (especially so when you’re pregnant yourself).

But you can and should be there for them, and you can do so in these comforting ways: • Acknowledge their loss.

• Listen and let them grieve.

THIS ARTICLE IS REPUBLISHED FROM THECONVERSATION.COM UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE.

• Encourage them to talk to other women who have had a miscarriage, or to speak to a counsellor. but women are not routinely screened for this condition. If a woman has a history of recurrent pregnancy loss, however, she and her physician should consider testing for this syndrome.

Women can and should do everything they can to take good care of themselves, pregnant or not. When pregnant, however, it is especially important to manage chronic diseases such as diabetes. Also, doctors who treat pregnant women who smoke, drink alcohol or use other drugs can and should help them get treatment to help them stop.

Ceasing the use of tobacco, alcohol and other substances has been associated with a decreased risk of miscarriage.

GRIEF AND GUILT

There is often a grief response associated with pregnancy loss. The psychological burden of miscarriage may negatively affect a couple’s relationship. Increased awareness and sensitivity to the issues associated with pregnancy loss are essential to eliminating the stigma some women experience.

And, many women feel guilty when they experience a miscarriage, which may compound the grief.

Having more open dialogue regarding pregnancy loss may reveal just how common miscarriage is. Fostering a community of support is important in helping couples move through this difficult process.

• Offer practical support (like meals or help with childcare).

• End the silence around miscarriage.

• Avoid cliche comments (“It wasn’t meant to be” or “it’s so common” don’t help).

• Recognise that the grief will be ongoing and each person will work through it differently.

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

53

Angel baby Heartbreakingly, miscarriage affects one in four women. Motherhood photographer Shannon Radford bravely shares her story.

W

e found out I was There was nothing they could do. pregnant in early I immediately burst into tears. We got November. Six days put on a waiting list to come back in an before my period was due, hour so a doctor could check me internally. exactly the same way we found out with our Back in Hamilton, I had never been to an three-year-old son Bjorn. We were so excited. ultrasound with this worried feeling before.

A sibling for Bjorn to run around with, to be I looked around to see smiling pregnant protective over. We made a little sign for him women, excited and happy. That was me, last to hold in front of the Christmas tree, and time. I had a blood test to check my HCG we announced it to our friends and family. levels and the scan showed a tiny yet strong I didn’t get a chance to go to the doctor; heartbeat. The sonographer was happy and I just contacted a midwife and made plans we were sent away with a glimmer of hope. to see her in a few weeks. Everything seemed Just a little passing comment about the sac normal. I was pretty sick from the outset, being smaller than usual, but that all should which was the same with Bjorn – vomiting be fine. Google, however, said it could be randomly and feeling horrible. We went a sign of miscarriage. I tried not to worry. to Whangamata with my On New Year’s Day, best friends, intending I got a call to say my I felt like being around HCG levels were on the to spend New Year’s eve others and talking there, bringing in 2021 lower side. I was asked with excitement for what to get in touch with my about day to day was to come. midwife to see when things only invalidated I needed more bloods/ I had chronic morning my baby boy. He was sickness. Think head scans, but it didn’t in the toilet, not coping happen soon enough. gone, and life just kind of sick. So we called Another day passed, moved on without him. and I started to feel the doctor, and they prescribed me some antisome pain. The bleeding nausea pills. It didn’t help a whole heap, continued. I called Healthline in tears, and we carried on with the holiday anyway. unsure of what to do. They advised us to go (So to those who say, “Oh, if you are sick, straight to emergency. This clinic acted fast that’s a sign of a healthy baby” – that’s BS.) with an immediate blood test, but I was sent I woke up on New Year’s Eve to blood home with only my fingers googling what when I wiped. I called out to Aaron, and we might be coming. headed straight to a clinic. When asked if we At 4pm, while in bed alone, I got the call. had an appointment, I responded, “No, but I was told my HCG levels had dropped I’m eight weeks pregnant and I’m bleeding.”

– meaning an inevitable miscarriage,

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

even though we currently had a heartbeat.

Why, why me? I wept. It was pouring with rain that day, and I ran out in it with my two-year-old son. I took some photos of the droplets falling on our tree outside to capture the moment we lost our baby.

It was time for another scan. The sonographer put the probe on my tummy, moved it around a few times. He quietly said, “Sadly, there is no heartbeat.” It was numbing. Tears streamed down my face, but no sound came out. “What’s next?” I asked.

Medication and a D&C are the last resort if it doesn’t happen naturally. We went to Bunnings and bought a beautiful plant that blooms in August (my due month), for we knew we would soon need to bury our little one somewhere safe.

Google became an hourly thing as I waited for something, anything to happen. At this point, I came across the stat that a quarter of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. How did I not know this? Sleep was an escape. If I was asleep, this wouldn’t happen, right? I woke up many times in the night asking Aaron if it was all just a bad dream. But it wasn’t. We cried together.

The emotional pain is one thing, but the physical pain is awful. Every time I went to the toilet, I wondered if now was the time.

Is this it? Maybe next time? It happened after a week of bleeding. I knew it was happening when the pains, which felt like early labour, got stronger and stronger.

He was beautiful. He had eyes, arms and legs. We held him in our palms for a while, cuddling together. Then we buried him under the plant.

The government announced this year that New Zealand was to give anyone with pregnancy loss three days off work to “deal” with miscarriage. Influencers around the country praised this on social media, but I don’t think it’s enough. I would have taken two weeks minimum if I worked for someone else. Not to mention the emotional

life+insight

- --

According to midwife.org.nz, a miscarriage is a pregnanc y that ends on it s own within the first 20 weeks of pregnanc y. Most miscarriages (more than 95%) occur in the first 12 to 14 weeks of pregnanc y (1st trimester). Miscarriage affects approximately 1 in ever y 4 women.

PHOTOGRAPHY SHANRADFORD.COM

husband and friends. They cooked, took our son, and let me cry on their shoulders (many times!). So please ask for help if you need it.

Miscarriage is such a common trauma; there is no reason to be alone.

We had a memorial box made, and inside I put the dried flowers friends had bought me. Pregnancy tests, pictures of the sky when we lost him. It made the process easier for me, knowing he wasn’t forgotten.

I saw pregnant women and wept. I couldn’t meet my friends’ newborn babies. I cried all day long and couldn’t get out of bed one day; then, the next day, I was completely fine. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions. I took one weekend off (I’m a wedding photographer), but that was it. The rest of the summer season, I pretended as if nothing had happened. Professionally – no one knew.

I didn’t want to put a negative on anyone’s best day ever, so I sat in silence. I smiled when people asked if I would have a sibling for Bjorn. “One day,” I kindly replied – and died on the inside. One thing I read about grief was this, "No one tells you grief isn't linear. There's no guidebook to 'get over it'. It comes in waves, and I've been told the waves slowly get smaller over time, but the tide never goes away. turmoil that lingers. You feel alone. You feel like people may think you are overreacting.

So many so-called helpful comments are thrown around too, such as “At least you weren’t further along,” “At least you already have one child,” “It just wasn’t meant to be,” “It’s just like a period that early anyway.”

I felt like being around others and talking about day-to-day things only invalidated my baby boy. He was gone, and life just moved

on without him. I ended up speaking to a counsellor, which helped. I searched high and low for grief coping strategies. Quotes, books, any way I could validate that he did live. I went to a spiritual meditation which helped silence all my thoughts and let me grieve. It’s such a numbing experience to go through. How can such a small thing hold such a big piece of my heart? I could not have gone through what I did without my

Shannon, a motherhood photographer, speaks openly about miscarriage on social media @shanradford_photo

turn to page

127

FOR MISCARRIAGE SUPPORT SERVICES

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life+rela tionship

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Yep, if you invest just over $2,000 today and do nothing else, that money could grow into $1million in 65 years.

By comparison, $2,040 put into a savings account at current 1% interest rates would grow to around $3,895 in 65 years. You don’t need a calculator to see that could make an enormous difference to your child’s future plans.

INVEST IN WHAT THEY LOVE

money Little

makers

Investing well can ensure your child is set for their future.

P

reparing for your new baby is easy way to supercharge growing their exciting, but with so much to money. By investing a little bit each month, plan for, it’s easy to feel like you they could reach long-term goals 18, 30, might miss a step. Setting your or 65 years down the track, such as having child up for a bright financial future – one money towards study, their first house that’s actually set and forget – is one simple deposit, or a happy retirement. step that could be easier than you think.

If you plan to create a savings account for THE MILLION DOLLAR QUESTION your child, that’s a great start. Savings is the The magic of investing is in the snowball ideal place to reach short-term goals, with effect known as compounding growth. quick access to funds whenever they want That’s where your child’s money to buy something extra, exponentially creates like their first bike or even more money. How? If you invest just over a cool gaming console.

On average, the US $2,000 today for your share markets have grown But with savings account interest rates around 10 percent each child, and do nothing sitting at all-time lows, else, their money could year since 1870, despite it’s nearly impossible for well-known ups and grow into $1 million... our tamariki to grow the downs. That means if you money they may want invested $2,040 when later in the bank. What worked for us when your child was born – and not a cent more we were growing up is no longer the best – and received average annual returns of 10 option for our family today. percent a year, by the time your child is 65 Thankfully, our kids have the gift of time, that initial investment could grow into and investing can be a low-effort, efficient, $1 million, thanks to compounding returns.

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

Financial literacy is a real game-changer for our tamariki and can help set them up for a lifetime of healthy financial habits. Simple things like learning when to spend, save, give back, or invest for their future.

The best bit? You probably have “spend”, “save”, and “give back” down pat, and you don’t need financial know-how to help them to invest; you can start your own investing journey and learn alongside them.

When your child starts school, they’re pretty confident in choosing one thing over another. Do they watch Netflix or Disney+?

Do they use Apple or Microsoft? Do they love online games or are they stargazing into space? For almost all of their interests, there’s a stock for that, and you can use their natural curiosity to help them to buy the brands they love.

Or to keep it really simple, start by investing in a basket of companies, known as exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This is where they can own a slice of every company in it with one simple purchase. ETFs are an easy, low-cost way to own hundreds of companies, like the S&P 500 index, which spreads money across 500 of the biggest companies in the US. Brands that kids already know and understand, like Hasbro Toys and Games, Kellogg’s, Nike, and Apple.

Or they could look at megatrend funds to invest in cool stuff like clean energy, robots or space exploration.

TIME ON THEIR SIDE

As parents, we want the best for our tamariki, so we set them up with every opportunity to help them succeed.

Whether it’s for their first house deposit or the freedom to chase their dreams, investing a small amount could set them up for life.

Because they’re in it for the longer term, whether the share markets go up or down, they can ride the peaks and dips and still come out on top. Go to hatchinvest.nz/kids to find out how to tick one thing off your “to do” list that could make a huge difference to your baby’s future.

Set your child up for a

BRIGHT FINANCIAL FUTURE with a Hatch Kids Investment Account. hatchinvest.nz/kids

Investing has risks and benefits.

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nursery+equipment

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Snug as a bug

Reduce allergens and toxins with these bedding tips.

heres how:

1. Wash bedding on a 60°C or 90°C wash to help to break down and reduce allergens.

While you may vacuum cots and mattresses only a few times a year, it's recommended that you launder and change bedding once a week to remove microscopic skin flakes and keep dust and allergens at bay.

2. Dust mites might be small, but their

claws help them cling on to the fibres deep in a mattress, which can make them difficult to remove. Using a high-power vacuum will deliver the suction you need to remove as many mites, skin flakes, and allergens as possible. Use a specific mattress tool which won’t damage the surface of your mattress but has stiff nylon bristles that can agitate the fibres and loosen dust mites and other debris. If your vacuum has a filtration system (like the new Dyson V12 Detect Slim does, trapping dust and sealing in 99.9% of microscopic particles) it’ll avoid allergens being expelled back into the air as you clean.

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

painting?

Because a baby spends so much time in bed, ensure the room or furniture – if painted – has low-chemical paint.

3. Focus on hard-to-reach areas.

Once you’ve deep-cleaned the surface of the mattress, pay attention to any crevices or folds where dust and allergens can gather.

Don’t forget under beds as well, as dust mites thrive in dark, warm, and humid areas with plenty of skin flakes that often remain undisturbed.

4. Flip the mattress over and vacuum the

other side, too. If you’ve cleaned any stains, ensure that these have dried out fully before remaking the bed – humidity will encourage mould, bacteria, or dust mite proliferation in the mattress. Using a mattress protector will absorb excess sweat and dust flakes and can be more easily washed.

Safe spaces New babies sleep up to 14 hours a day. A newborn’s sleep space is commonly a bassinet or co-sleeper in their parents’ room initially, before they are moved to their own room and/or into a cot. If you can, choose nontoxic, natural, and organic linen, and wash bedding (and clothing) in hypoallergenic or baby-specific detergents. Consider a mattress with organic cotton filling, rather than latex-fill or other chemicals.

Kinderfeets Cargo Walker, $189.95, bellybeyond.co.nz

FAB FINDS! Hape Penguin Musical Wobbler, $25, hapetoys.co.nz Tommee Tippee Ollie The Owl Light & Sound Sleep Aid, $99.99, tommeetippee.co.nz

COMPILED BY PAMELA MCINTOSH.

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abies and toddlers spend a lot of time sleeping, and the skin that is shed during slumber creates the perfect breeding ground for dust mites that feed on the dead skin cells (yuck!). Even if you’re regularly washing linen, the mattress can be a hotbed of microscopic life: Dust mites, their faeces, bacteria, viruses, and pollen. While dust mites themselves are harmless, extensive exposure in early childhood to indoor allergens, including house dust mites has been associated with asthma. Dennis Matthews, microbiologist at Dyson (dyson.co.nz), says we should thoroughly clean a cot mattress every six months to reduce the number of skin flakes present before dust mite season (summer) begins , and to remove any excess allergenic material once they’ve finished breeding (winter).

Pa re n ts , brea t he eas y

S c a n to l e ar n m o r e

Paints Licence No. 0705019

NEW Ultra Low Chemical Emission* Paint •Ultra Low Odour •Back in the Room Sooner •Lasting Finish

dulux.co.nz/ultraair Dulux, Worth doing, worth Dulux and UltraAir are registered trade marks of DuluxGroup (Australia) Pty Ltd. Global GreenTag Certified GreenRate Level A, the Global GreenTag Certification Mark, PlatinumHEALTH and the Trust Brands are trade marks of Dual Harmony Pty Ltd. Environmental Choice New Zealand is a registered trade mark of her Majesty the Queen in right of New Zealand acting through the Ministry for the Environment. *Ultra Low Chemical Emissions: Passes Shanghai Research Institute of Building Sciences test method JG/T 481-2015.

Paint by numbers Create a considered and cosy sanctuary for the newest member of your home with paint and inspiration.

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nursery space is pretty special; not only is it an area of your home dedicated to your baby, but it’s also a space where you’ll spend a lot of time nursing, reading, and simply staring in awe at the new life you’ve created. It’s a space to get away from it all too; forget the overdue housework and piles of washing and simply “be” with your baby.

But where to begin? What does colour offer?

What’s a good investment? And when should we tackle the job?

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PLANT THE SEED

Pinterest, magazines, websites and Instagram (#nurserydesign, #nurserydecor) are amazing sources of room colour, design and decor inspiration. Get lots of ideas together on a mood board or Pinterest board and revisit them every few days (with fresh eyes). Begin to edit down the looks you love, as you research paint and wallpaper websites that have the hues you feel will work with your nursery.

did you know?

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months old is when babies see colour.

Source: healthline.com

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HARMONIOUS HUES

According to colour psychologists, the colours in a nursery can affect babies’ mood, sleep patterns and even how much they eat.

Calm, restful and nurturing are common adjectives used by parents about to embark on nursery renovations, and here's some colour inspiration that’ll give your little one just that.

NEUTRAL: Taupe, beige, light tan, oak, chocolate brown – neutrals and/or clay tones are calming and grounding, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Introduce some interest through texture or wall art in similar hues.

BLUE: Powder blue, duck egg, pale turquoise, aqua – cooling hues that provoke calm and reduce anxiety.

GREEN: Sage, olive, moss, mint – bring nature indoors with a shade (or shades) of green. Associated with health and wellbeing, green is said to improve concentration. Soft, gentle tones work well in a baby’s room.

PINK: Pastel pink, lavender, lilac – the right shade of pink or purple (ie, soft and a touch “dirty”) can give a modern look to a room without it feeling overpowering.

WHITE: Ivory, antique white, cream, vanilla – warm whites are better for babies’ rooms than a cool, harsh, bright alternative, which could overstimulate your little one when they’re trying to rest.

GREY: Silver, blue-grey, dove grey – the ever-popular calming modern neutral, which can be matched with most other colours. Stick to soft mid-tones, rather than anything too dark.

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INVEST IN QUALIT Y We know the budget’s tight, but giving a baby's room a luxurious, understated, and calm vibe starts with the basics. Invest in good foundations – such as quality carpet, wall coverings, and baby basics (cot, change table, drawers) rather than frittering away lots of dosh on decorating bits and bobs that your little one will grow out of.

Make your own wall art just like this, using the template over the page!

Consider that the room potentially needs to last them from newborn stage through to preschooler or even teen.

So, unless you’re happy giving it a makeover every few years, choose colours and soft furnishings (curtains, chairs) that will still be relevant through the ages.

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REVIVING SECONDHAND PIECES

Perhaps you’ve scored a beautiful hand-medown cot or set of drawers, but they’ve seen better days, or have peeling paint.

Up-cycling nursery furniture is not only fun and reduces items going to landfill, but it means that you can personalise it to the exact hue you want. Here’s how: • Choose your colour, using a natural paint.

• Lightly sand back the surface to prepare it for new paint.

• Apply a natural, non-toxic primer and let dry.

• Apply two coats of natural, non-toxic paint.

• Allow to dry.

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DON’T LEAVE THE DECORATING UNTIL THE LA ST MINUTE

There’s nothing like an impending new arrival to stop the procrastination and get things underway. But when it comes to decorating a nursery space (or any part of your home for that matter) it’s important to prepare much sooner – and not just for your own organisation. New paint and furnishing can "off-gas" for weeks, although less so if you're selecting paint that is free of harmful chemicals and that has all ingredients disclosed.

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GET YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY INVOLVED

It's really important that generally – but absolutely during pregnancy – you think about your health and wellbeing while renovating and decorating. On the whole, it's recommended to pick a paint that is safe for your space, and safe to surround yourself (and your baby) with. We absolutely recommend being cautious with the nature of painting physically – think bending, stretching, twisting, ladders...

So enlist your partner, friend, family, or a professional to step in with the paintbrush

for you. If you have a small, art-type paint job (like painting a picture frame or a small upcycling project), check with your Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) and show them the type of paint you'll use, to see if they will give you the approval to get crafty.

THE ART OF A WALL GALLERY

If your home is being painted while you are pregnant, please take these precautions: • Ensure the room is well-ventilated • Open windows and doors, and perhaps use a fan to help push air outdoors • Do not eat or drink in the room being painted, as fumes can build up in things you consume • Wait two days after the surface has dried before you spend long periods of time or sleep in a freshly painted room.

The framing and wall gallery experts at Framefox (framefox.co.nz) – a New Zealand framing service that’s thought about practicality for pregnant woman and new parents, because their gallery service can be sorted without leaving your sofa – share some tips to create special and welldesigned nursery wall art.

• First, decide on the space where you want to put your wall art (small space or large feature wall). To ensure the quality of your prints or photography, try not to hang the art directly in the sun – although non-reflective glass is available, which reduces the glare on your piece of art.

PAINT IT! Got some time on your hands before pēpi arrives? Get crafty, and personalise your own wall art and milestone cards, using Natural Paint Co. testpots (available at naturalpaint.co.nz from $6). If you’ve got this magazine as part of your BUMP&baby PeekaBox (bumpandbaby.co.nz/subscribe), you’ll find your Natural Paint Co. test pot in there.

1. Using a very fine paintbrush, use hues you love to colour your nursery and exclusive milestone templates by KYX Creative (@kyxcreative) from the pages inserted into BUMP&baby magazine.

You can water down colours to create a watercolour effect, however if you water down paint, the solids (titanium dioxide) will settle and separate, so it is best to

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water down the paints on a palette rather than putting water directly into your testpot.

2. Cut out your milestone cards or frame your illustration – and don’t forget to tag us in your pictures on social media @bumpandbabynz @naturalpaintco @kyxcreative Create gorgeous artwork for your baby and enjoy a mindfulness activity in the process - a win-win!

• Explore gallery wall layout options. For instance, smaller spaces are ideal for a petite gallery wall, while a larger space is ideal for chunkier, larger frame options.

safety tips

Keep your little ones safe by keeping stacked frames out of reach. Fix wall frames securely and, ideally, not hanging directly over the cot or bassinet (in case they fall).

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Meet the Kiwi duo making natural paint for nursery and home.

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James Mount and Grace Glass

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utilises natural ingredients and renewable resources. We’re not only driven by helping families live in a low- or no-toxic sanctuary, but it's important to us to ensure sustainability is at the forefront of every aspect of production – from the ingredients used (where they come from and how they are sourced) through to running a carbonneutral business and ensuring leftover paint is reused, recycled, or composted.

A big contributor to poor indoor air quality is paint. Chemicals in paint can contribute to smog and pollution, and something which is little-known is that they can leach toxins into homes for up to 10 years. Sadly, this can affect asthma, allergies, chronic fatigue, or cause a range of other health issues.

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How do you come up with colours?

After hearing that conventional paint can create indoor air quality that's up to five times more toxic than outdoor air, James Mount and Grace Glass made it their mission to shake up the paint industry. They did so by co-founding Natural Paint Co. (naturalpaint.co.nz), bringing healthier, more sustainable paint products to all New Zealanders.

PAINT IS LUXURIOUS; IT'S MEANT TO BE EXCITING, IT’S COLOUR, FUN; IT’S THE ENVIRONMENT WE SPEND TIME IN. GRACE GL A SS E

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This is always one of our favourite projects, because we get to be playful and creative whilst also bringing in colour theory and chemistry. We've curated our colour range to be timeless, evoking feelings of natural beauty to be in line with our ethos – that paint is luxurious; it's meant to be exciting, it's colour, it's fun; it's the environment we spend time in.

What colours are most popular for a baby’s room?

We love the soft, warm, natural, earthy tones right now. “Low Tide”, “Smoke”, “Ginger Beer”, or “Jester House” for a pop of earthy colour.

What was the drive behind bringing natural paint into people’s homes?

And what about tones for the overall home?

In 2015 at just 22 years old, we quit our career paths as a psychology student and a registered nurse respectively, to pursue a passion for wellness in an industry that had barely changed for seven decades. We are really passionate about reducing chemicals in people’s homes and environment – because healthier homes make for happier people, and a happier planet too!

We started Natural Paint Co. and set out to create New Zealand-made natural paint and oil that's free of harmful chemicals, and

Egyptian Cotton is our most popular colour, found in our Naturally Timeless palette; it is the perfect mix of modern yet warm, timeless yet homely. All varieties of green are coveted right now, too. Green is a great choice to add a subtle touch of colour or go with something bold or moody to change a space. It pairs so beautifully with the greenery of house plants, which is such a vibe right now. Look at our “A Gathering of Green” palette on our website.

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PETER RABBIT THE CHRISTMAS PRESENT HUNT, $17.99 (Penguin Books) Peter Rabbit is very excited about Christmas the tree is decorated and Mrs Rabbit has made mince pies. But where are his sister’s presents?

With lots of flaps to lift, you can help Peter find the missing gifts and celebrate Christmas with the Rabbit family in this festive story.

ON THE FARM, $14.99, (Hachette NZ) With new farm friends to meet, peekthrough pages, colours to name, things to spot and lots to count, this peek-through book is perfect to share with little ones.

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Nursery

Delight their senses with beautiful books and increase your bond through storytelling.

WHY I LOVE THE FOREST, $16.99, Harper Collins This board book boasts heart-warming pictures and wonderful characters - a perfect celebration of all that is special about the forest.

A LION IN THE MEADOW, $14.99, (Hachette NZ) The little boy said, “Mother, there’s a lion in the meadow.” Mother said, “Nonsense, little boy.” Do you think there’s a lion in the meadow? Children can sense a good story like a successful Hollywood producer. The classics are classics for a reason.

RAINBOW COLOURS $16.99, Allen & Unwin Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet! Which colour is your favourite? Introduce your child to the colours of the rainbow with this bright, layered board book.

Humorous, rhyming text and bold illustrations introduce each of the seven rainbow colours in turn. Curved and layered touch-and-feel board pages increase in size as you move through the book, developing your child’s hand-eye coordination as they turn the pages.

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KORO/POPS, $17.99, (Gecko Press) A new board book with te reo Maori (Koro) and English (Pops) versions, by award-winning author and illustrator Gavin Bishop.

behind the book

IS IT HARD TO CREATE A CHILDREN’S BOOK?

Gavin: The fact that these are books for babies is a challenge right from the start.

The story has to be brief and the pictures, uncomplicated. Babies like the action to start right away and they don’t want it to last too long. And once they have finished ‘reading’ a book they usually like to begin again, immediately. The book has to be physically robust, too.

It will get lots of rides in a pram or on the back of a trike.

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE ARTWORK?

Gavin: I use collage and felt pen for details. I start by painting several sheets of paper with the colours I want to use for faces, hands etc. and then cut out the shapes of my characters and glue them onto stretched watercolour paper. I suppose it would be simpler to use digital images on a computer but I like working with my hands – it helps me to think.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE A DAY WITH YOUR MOKOPUNA?

Gavin: I have had the great pleasure of being “grandad” for the past fifteen years. My grandchildren come for visits and depending on which one it is, we visit the art gallery, go to the library, walk on the hills, check the rat traps in the garden and make sure there is nothing we absolutely need from several local junk shops. We do lots of reading, eating and talking too.

COMPILED BY PAMELA MCINTOSH.

T IS FOR TUATARA: AMAZING ANIMALS FROM A TO Z , $19.99, (Picturebook Publishing) You and your tot will enjoy this rhyming ABC about 26 of the world’s quirkiest animals, from Kiwi author Jo van Dam.

adventure awaits...

We are here for every stage of your parenting journey, from pregnancy, to birth & beyond

personalised experience meet the new team

15%

off your order when you use the code below Bump15

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Vanchi Steffi Carry-all Nappy Bag, from $199.95, bumpandbabymall.co.nz

Bags For Bubs Mila Convertable Nappy Bag, $199.95, bagsforbubs.co.nz

Bag

Hannah & Henry Classic Nappy Backpack, $185, hannahhenryapparel.com

Lequeen Leopard Print Nappy Bag, $59.95, lequeenbags.co.nz

boutique

These baby bags are so functional, you can almost pack the kitchen sink!

Isoki 'Ebony' Double Satchell, $149.95, isoki.co.nz

Lequeen Adventurer with USB Nappy Bag, $79.95, lequeenbags.co.nz

so many compartments

COMPILED BY PAMELA MCINTOSH

jujube BFF Baby Bag, $299, babycity.co.nz

Wear the Vanchi Billie Nappy Bag as a backpack or a tote!

Pretty Brave Stella 'Secret Garden' Nappy Bag, $149.99, prettybrave.com

NEW! Vanchi Billie Convertible Backpack-toTote Nappy Bag, from $189, bumpandbabymall.co.nz

Oioi Faux Leather Nappy Backpack, $229, parnellbabyboutique.co.nz

Isoki 'Hartley' Backpack in Onyx, $149.95, bellybeyond.co.nz

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mama insight

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Hamilton-based Hannah Porter and her newest family member, Maddie

Newborn bubble

A new baby and another lockdown didn’t stop Bear & Moo’s Hannah Porter from launching her littlest cloth nappies yet.

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Thank you! Maddie is nearly four months old and she is a total delight. She’s baby number three for my husband and I – and definitely our last – so she has to go with the flow a little bit, because we have two other kids to work around. It’s a busy life, but we’re very grateful to have her.

Has the first few months with her been different from the newborn stage with the boys?

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Yes, it’s quite different this time. Regan (6) was a NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) baby, and I think because of this, routine became our norm in those first few months. After I had Hadley (5), I experienced postnatal anxiety, trying to juggle a 17-month-old and a newborn.

This time I am in the privileged position of having more independent older kids, a stay-at-home husband, and my mum living just around the corner. I think Richard

and I parent differently too; I have always been quite routine-driven, whereas with Maddie we’re being led by her a bit more and I manage to still be able to get a few things done, thanks to a lot of babywearing!

standard cloth nappies, the newborn style is still adjustable by the dome system, but also features a top dome to allow space for the umbilical cord (which can take up to two weeks to fall off after the baby is born).

Did you manage to step away from work in those early weeks?

No doubt Maddie has been trialling these newborn cloth nappies?

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I can be a bit of a control freak [laughs], but I did take a full week away from work, and then slowly eased into it. The wonderful Jenn keeps everything on track at Bear & Moo headquarters, so it was really just the big-picture management stuff and a bit of marketing that had to take a back seat for a while. We love being at work and do spend a lot of time there, but I am trying to ensure I make time to do things with Maddie, such as taking her swimming, which she loves, because these early months go so fast.

I’m also trying to stay in tune with what I need for my own recovery and my physical and mental health.

Tell us about Bear & Moo’s newest addition to the cloth nappy family.

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Bear & Moo Newborn Cloth Nappy, $18.95, bearandmoo.co.nz

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Our adjustable one-size-fits-most (3.5-18kg) cloth nappies are our hero product, and they’re a great intro-level place to start. But there are some people who want to use cloth nappies from the newborn stage, which is why we created them. We went for a simple style with built-in microfibre and bamboo absorbency (rather than inserts like our standard cloth nappies have) because this is the most similar to the way a disposable nappy would be used. Much like the

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Yes! We use a mix of cloth and disposable nappies for her. I took some of our new newborn-sized cloth nappies to the hospital when I went in for my Caesarean section, but in hindsight, that was very optimistic of me. When Maddie was about two weeks old, I started introducing one newborn-size cloth nappy a day, and we’ve built up from there. At about three months old she moved up to the “one size fits most” nappy. Right now we’re using cloth during the day and a disposable at night. I’ll probably give the cloth-overnight a go when she’s a bit older (and I get a bit more sleep).

What’s your advice for parentsto-be considering cloth nappies?

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Sometimes, the more information you seek out, the more overwhelmed you become.

It doesn’t matter what brand you choose; just buy a few and give them a go. There are some great Facebook communities where you’ll find others trying to get the hang of cloth nappies too. Remember, you don’t have to be exclusive with cloth nappies – just do whatever works for your baby and your lifestyle. Even using just one cloth nappy will save you money and save another nappy going to landfill. You’ve got this!

INTERVIEW PAMELA MCINTOSH; PHOTOGRAPHY BLACK ROBIN, SHOOT & SWOON

Congratulations on the birth of beautiful Maddie! How are you all doing?

New store, new website.

NZ we are here!

1 Pompallier Terrace, Ponsonby Auckland 1011 aucklandstore@silvercross.com.au

Visit us online at silvercross.co.nz

THULE URBAN GLIDE $1,150, FORAY.NZ Now this is the ultimate multi-tasking stroller!

An all-terrain stroller with a sleek, lightweight design, making it perfect for urban exploration or walking/jogging your favourite path.

Comfortable for children and ergonomic for parents.

Nuna MIXX Next, $1,199, from dimples.co.nz

PUSH

Four-wheeled strollers theoretically give more stability and ease-of-pushing (think shopping trolley vs. wheelbarrow). Generally the wheels on a four-wheeled model are smaller, which can be advantageous, and the unit may be slimmer, enabling easier pushing through narrow shopping aisles and the like. Often, a three-wheeler features a sturdy frame and large, robust tyres (one in the front and two at the rear) to allow for your baby’s comfort not only at speed but also over rough terrain.

CARRYCOT & TODDLER SEAT BABY JOGGER CITY MINI GT2 BARRE $899, BABYJOGGER.CO.NZ Wander off the beaten path with City Mini GT2 Barre. This limited-edition collection mixes luxury fabrics and leatherette features with uncompromised agility on multi-terrains. Fully featured including all-wheel suspension, signature onehand compact fold, and travel-system compatibility, giving you the ultimate convenience while providing the most comfortable ride for your child.

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Carrying twins? Have a toddler in tow? Or already know you’ll have another baby soon after this one? You might want to think about future-proofing your purchase at the outset. Inline strollers, for example, accommodate your little one in a carriage underneath, while an older child sits above in a toddler seat. There are now many available versions of a stroller system that takes your child from birth to toddlerhood or to accommodate multiple little people.

FACING IN, FACING OUT?

A reversable seat allows parents the flexibility to fix the baby seat inwards to face the parent, or fix it outwards/forwardfacing. It’s preferable to have a newborn or small infant facing you (so you can see what they are doing and they can see you), but when they’re a little older, children might prefer to face outward and take in the big wide world.

PRACTICALIT Y

It goes without saying that a simple set-up and fold-down stroller system can make life a lot easier. This piece of equipment gets lugged in and out of the car repeatedly, so you’ll want to make sure it’s easy enough for you to fold or break down, and light enough to lift in and out of the boot with ease.

COMPILED BY PAMELA MCINTOSH

WHEELS

play

What style of stroller is for you?

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BUGABOO CAMELEON3 PLUS, $1,469, from babycity.co.nz

VISTA V2 BY UPPA , $2,199, from hatch.co.nz

function of See another page 13! this pram on

Phil&Teds Sport Verso, $999, from babycity.co.nz

SILVER CROSS PIONEER ECLIPSE $1,399 (NORMALLY $1,999), SILVERCROSS.CO.NZ Dare to shine with the Silver Cross Pioneer Eclipse – a striking new special-edition design with unique, sculpted black fabrics and stunning rose gold highlights.

The 'Eclipse' combines innovative style with all the functionality of the original Pioneer System, making it the standout choice for all your family adventures.

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InfaSecure's flagship car seats taken to the next level. With Active Bamboo™ covers, dozens of convenient features & at the forefront of safety, the More Range offers a refreshing new look, with the style you know and love.

ACHIEVE MORE allows for extended rearward facing up to a large 30-month-old & forward facing with a harness to a large 8-year-old. It's the only car seat you'll ever need.

Achieve More features Active Bamboo™ al covers - a premium quality bamboo charcoal fabric, which keeps your child cool while travelling. Plus Air Cocoon Technology™ (A.C.T.) & Secur-air™, which dramatically reduces crash energy to your child in the event of an accident.

ACCOMPLISH MORE E

SUITABILITY: Birth to 8 Years RRP: $869.99

ATTAIN MORE allows for extended rearward facing up to a large 30-month-old & forward facing with a harness to a large 4-year-old. Attain More is incredibly narrow, measuring 42cm across at its widest point.

Features Active Bamboo™ covers, an ISOFix compatible installation. Plus Air Cocoon Technology ™ (A.C.T.) & Secur-air™, which dramatically reduces crash energy to your child in the event of an accident.

SUITABILITY: Birth to 4 Years RRP: $779.99

provides an unparalleled level of comfort for larger toddlers and children. Your child will travel in comfort and style right ht through their Forward Facing years.

Features Active Bamboo™ covers - a premium quality bamboo charcoal fabric, which keeps your child cool while travelling. Plus Air Cocoon Technology™ (A.C.T.) T) & Secur-air™, whichh dramatically reduces crash energy to your child in the event of an accident.

SUITABILITY: Entry Marker to 8 Years RRP: $649.99

LEARN MORE BY VISITING https://infa.link/morerange-nz

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Honey, did you read the instructions?

Tiffany Brown breaks down car seat installation.

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ou’re going to face many challenges along the childrearing journey. Selecting your baby’s car seat won’t be the first, but it might be the most daunting. New Zealand law states children must be fitted for appropriate child restraints until age seven, so it pays to bear this in mind when you begin shopping around for a car seat.

There are two types of car seats suitable for infants: A detachable infant capsule suitable only for the early months, or a convertible (or all-in-one) car seat,

which starts out life as a capsule and later converts to a seat for your growing child. A convertible seat can last longer, depending on the model, so it could be more cost-effective. However, these seats can’t be moved easily with a baby inside, so if your baby is sleeping, you’ll need to disturb them to get out of the car and put them into a carrier or stroller. With a capsule, you can remove the whole unit, slumbering infant and all, fairly easily. Prams, strollers, and frames also work in conjunction with capsules, which is another advantage.

However, upgrading from capsule to seat may mean you can’t rear-face your baby for as long, and may cost more in the long run. Depending on the size of your baby, a capsule may only be suitable until around 6-8 months. A regular car seat doesn’t have the capacity to rear-face, but a convertible capsule-to-seat style can usually rear-face until around 12 months of age.

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Baby City Doona Car Seat & Base, $979, babycity.co.nz

Infasecure Round Mirror, $44.99, infasecure.co.nz

Common

CAR SEAT MISTAKES

Infasecure Attain More Child Restraint, $799, infasecure.co.nz

by the use of metal anchor points connected to the body of the car.

Kids are kind of bobble-headed, meaning they have large noggins in proportion to the rest of their body, making both head and neck more vulnerable to injury. You should rear-face your infant as long as is practicable.

Seats should always be firmly fitted and not wobbly, and the best position for an infant capsule is behind the passenger seat, as long as there is no frontal airbag.

VITAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Will your child’s seat need to move between cars? Vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, and you’ll need to be sure the one you choose works everywhere it may be used.

• Too much time in the slightly propped-up position of the car seat can reduce airflow to your baby’s lungs, as well as put a lot of pressure on their developing spine, so make sure you keep car journeys down to less than two hours at a time. If a long trip is just unavoidable, schedule stops and breaks along the way. You’ll need to stop for regular feeding, changing, and playing stops, and overnight stops may be necessary to avoid really long stretches in the car seat. Resign yourself to the fact that life on the road with an infant means getting anywhere at a snail’s pace.

• Secondhand seats may seem like a great idea to save on a pricey seat, or well-intentioned family or friends may gift you a seat. Each car seat has an expiry date which represents an estimate of how much useful life the seat has before issues like age, sun damage, plastic deterioration, and obsolescence come into play. Use a sensible approach when

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considering using a secondhand seat. A seat which has, for whatever reason, not been used and stored in a cupboard somewhere may be suitable to use past its expiry, while a hand-me-down displaying all the sun fade of a lifetime in an uncovered driveway may be less so. Check with your registered Child Restraint Technician to get secondhand seat approval before taking any chances.

CALL THE EXPERTS

Good, correctly fitting car seats are so important in minimising injury to children in the event of road accidents, there are even specially trained people called Child Restraint Technicians whose job it is to help you fit your car seat properly. These magical car seat wizards can also help move your seat between vehicles, or adjust it as your child grows. To know when you need to move to the next phase of your car seat’s lifespan, refer to the manufacturer’s height and weight guide for that particular seat.

Find your nearest technician: nzta.govt. nz/safety/what-waka-kotahi-is-doing/ education-initiatives/child-restraints/finda-child-restraint-technician/

Strap management: Always put blankets or coverings over the straps, not underneath. Make sure straps are always flat and not twisted, and do a pinch test to ensure straps are tight enough.

Off-kilter: An infant seat needs to be in a semi-reclined position to ensure baby’s head doesn’t flop forward when rear-facing. This allows their airways to stay open. Some seats have indicators or adjusters to ensure the correct position.

A snug fit for the right stage: Chest clips should always be at armpit level and the seat belt harness should fit snugly over baby’s shoulders. As your baby gets bigger, you’ll be able to remove any newborn inserts or padding that came with the seat. Check the manufacturer’s guide for the right time to adjust straps according to baby’s height and weight.

Steer clear of airbags: Active airbags risk injury by inflating and hurting baby’s head when infants are rear-facing.

Deactivate any airbags or position the car seat away from them.

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You will need to have a capsule or car seat (and know how to correctly install it) when you leave hospital after giving birth.

Keep your pēpē safe We know that installing a child restraint isn’t the easiest thing to do, so we have a range of free and helpful videos, which are available in English and Te Reo at www.nzta.govt.nz/childrestraints

Home or Hospital?

Where would you like to give birth – hospital, home, or a birthing centre? The team at Nest Pregnancy and Parenting (nestpregnancyandparenting.co.nz) give insight into all your options.

F

irst things first – start looking into an LMC now as they are in hot demand. What is an LMC? It's your Lead Maternity Carer. In other words, the person who is going to care for you during pregnancy, labour and birth and postpartum. For most people this will be an independent midwife, but there are other options.

An independent midwife provides care for standard pregnancies and births. They will care for you throughout your entire pregnancy, during labour and birth, and for up to six weeks after the baby is born.

If any concerns arise, they will discuss options and refer you to an obstetrician if necessary. There is no charge.

A private obstetrician specialises in higher-risk pregnancies and births, as well as providing normal maternity care. You would usually see them for most checks in pregnancy and they generally attend part of labour and will be there for the birth.

They will see you postnatally, but often operate a “shared care” arrangement with a midwife or team of midwives, who will look after you in labour and provide most of the postnatal care for you and your baby.

The cost for a private obstetrician varies in Aotearoa, but generally costs around $5000.

Some General Practitioners (GPs) hold a Diploma in Obstetrics and can provide LMC services. However, currently very

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few GPs in New Zealand offer this service Core midwives often work in collaboration and those who do usually prioritise their with LMCs or core obstetricians during enrolled patients. As with obstetricians, labour and birth, and also provide 24-hour GPs care for you during pregnancy, but care for mum and baby during postnatal only attend part of your labour and birth, stays at hospital or in a birth centre. and so you will also need midwifery care.

Whoever you choose to care for you, it is This can be from an independent really important that you feel comfortable midwife or hospital midwifery team. with them and trust them. If you feel that Alternatively, your antenatal care can you have made the wrong choice, know be provided by that it is your a community right to change to An independent midwife will midwifery team care for you during pregnancy, a new LMC at any within a hospital time and for any labour, and birth, and for six or maternity clinic. reason. Realistically, weeks postpartum.

During labour and however, this can birth, you would be be tricky with the supported by core midwives at the facility. current shortage of midwives, so rather This is a great option if you are unable to than randomly selecting an LMC to enrol register with an independent midwife, or with, do take the time to ask around for sometimes community and core midwives recommendations, consider your own needs, may provide the midwifery aspect of and ask questions of several Lead Maternity your care if you have opted for a private Carers to identify the best fit for you and obstetrician or GP as your LMC. your whānau.

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Where to give birth?

OK, now you’ve enrolled with an Lead Maternity Carer (LMC), it’s time to consider where you might like to give birth. Most New Zealand mums – around 86 percent – choose to give birth in a hospital. If you don’t have complications, birthing at home or in a birthing centre are safe choices, too, and offer many advantages. In 2018, 3.6 percent of Kiwi mums birthed at home and 10.5 percent birthed at a birthing centre. We’ll briefly outline the main differences, and some of the pros and cons of the options below:

WHO WILL CARE FOR ME? Your LMC (midwife), plus a second midwife to help at the birth. Your LMC will arrange the support midwife.

WHAT PAIN RELIEF IS AVAILABLE? You may be able to arrange for your LMC to bring gas and air (at a cost). You can also use natural pain relief methods, of course.

If you decide you’d like stronger pain relief, you’ll need to transfer to a hospital.

CAN I HAVE A WATER BIRTH? If you would like to birth in the water, birth pools can be hired or purchased to use at home.

WHAT IF I NEED MEDICAL HELP?

Birth in your own home (or venue of your choice), supported by your LMC and a second midwife during labour, birth, and for around 2 hours after birth.

Your midwife will bring emergency equipment to the birth just in case there are any problems.

If necessary, you will transfer to the hospital. Your midwife will come with you.

IS IT SAFE? Home birth is safe for low-risk, healthy women and babies.

You are less likely to require medical interventions or catch an infection when birthing at home.

Advantages

•F amiliar surroundings, where you may feel more relaxed.

• No interruption to labour to travel to hospital or a birth centre.

• Don’t need to leave your other children (if applicable).

• No separation from your partner after the birth.

• Lower likelihood of having an intervention (such as C-section, forceps, ventouse) than if giving birth in hospital.

• Often feel more in control of your labour, being in your own environment.

Considerations

• You may need to transfer to a hospital if there are complications.

•E pidurals are not available, but you can use gas and air, a warm bath, a birth pool, TENS machine, and any relaxation techniques .

• You’re responsible for the clean-up after birth.

• Your LMC may recommend you give birth in hospital if they feel it is safer for you or your baby.

• Not all LMCs are experienced or comfortable with home birth – if home birth is on your birth plan, check that your LMC is too.

• You won't have 24/7 midwifery care in the days post-birth.

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BIRTHING CENTRE Usually more homely than hospitals, they are midwife-led with a focus on natural, unmedicated birth and are designed for well women who have no complications during pregnancy.

They may be sited alongside a hospital or freestanding in a separate location.

Some women opt to birth elsewhere and then transfer to a birthing centre for postnatal support.

WHO WILL CARE FOR ME?

IS IT SAFE?

Usually your midwife will be required to have an access agreement with the birth centre. Sometimes core midwives work in collaboration with your LMC.

Birthing in a birth centre is safe for low-risk, healthy women and babies.

You are less likely to require medical interventions when birthing at a birthing centre.

WHAT PAIN RELIEF IS AVAILABLE? Gas and air will be available and, in some facilities, opioid drugs such as pethidine. You can also use natural pain relief methods, of course. If you decide you would like stronger pain relief, you’ll need to transfer to a nearby hospital.

CAN I HAVE A WATER BIRTH? Birth pools are usually available.

WHAT IF I NEED MEDICAL HELP? The birth centre has emergency equipment on site just in case there are any problems. If necessary, you will transfer to the hospital.

Your midwife will come with you.

Advantages

• Lower likelihood of having an intervention (such as C-section, forceps, ventouse) than giving birth in hospital.

• You partner/support person can sometimes stay overnight after our baby is born.

• Often described as a “home away from home”, they provide 24/7 breastfeeding support and help for mum and baby, encourage minimal visitors (meaning you can concentrate on bonding with and getting to know your new baby).

• Staff members take care of cleaning up after the birth.

• A welcoming environment.

Considerations

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• You may need to transfer to a hospital if there are any complications.

• In a freestanding birth centre, you won’t be able to have certain kinds of pain relief, such as an epidural.

• Your LMC may recommend you give birth in hospital if they feel it is safer for you or your baby.

• You need to register in advance, and rooms are subject to availability – if they are full, you’ll need to birth at a hospital or home.

• Your LMC will need an access agreement.

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Birth in the hospital’s maternity unit supported by your LMC, with medical facilities and doctors on hand if you need them.

While hospitals are primarily designed for women and babies who experience complications and may require specialist care, well women may also choose to birth there.

WHO WILL CARE FOR ME? Your LMC (midwife or obstetrician) or the hospital’s core midwives if you don’t have an LMC. Sometimes core midwifery staff work in collaboration with your LMC.

WHAT PAIN RELIEF IS AVAILABLE? All medical pain relief options are available, including epidurals, opioids, and gas and air. Talk to your LMC about using self-help methods such as hypnobirthing, massage, TENS machine, etc.

CAN I HAVE A WATER BIRTH? Birth pools might be available – ask your LMC about your local hospital’s facilities.

WHAT IF I NEED MEDICAL HELP? Doctors and neonatal specialists are available onsite if necessary.

IS IT SAFE? Birthing in a hospital is safe.

Statistically there is an increased chance of medical interventions when birthing in hospital. If you have complications, you will be encouraged to give birth in hospital.

Advantages

• Obstetricians are onsite if your labour becomes complicated.

• Anaesthetists are onsite, if you want an epidural or if a C-section is required.

• Specialists in newborn care and SCBU (Special Care Baby Unit) are onsite if there are any problems with your baby.

• Many mothers feel safest when labouring at hospital.

• Avoids the rush of a last-minute transfer to the hospital if medical problems arise.

• Staff members take care of cleaning up after birth and provide roundthe-clock help for mum and baby during postnatal stays.

Considerations

• You’re more likely to have interventions (such as epidural, episiotomy, forceps, C-section) if you birth in hospital.

• The environment is more clinical and less private. You might feel less in control than when in a familiar environment.

• Often bound by hospital routines, protocols, and time frames which are often quite rigid and less accommodating to the usual variations in labour.

• If you don’t transfer home or to a birth centre after birth, you would usually be moved to a postnatal ward, where you may need to share a room and often partners aren’t able to stay.

Ultimately, it is every birthing person’s choice where they want to give birth. There is no right or wrong, and what is best for one might not be for another. For birth hormones to work well, Mum needs to feel safe. Some women will feel safest birthing in hospital, with specialist medical assistance close by if need be. Others will feel safest and more relaxed in a birthing centre specifically designed to facilitate physiological birth, or at home in their own familiar environment. Birth hormones also require dim light levels, peace, and privacy – wherever you choose to birth your baby, it is worthwhile thinking about how you can adapt the environment to ensure these conditions. Finally, it is worth remembering that sometimes, things don’t go to plan.

For example, maybe you’d hoped for a home or birth centre birth, but on the day find that it is necessary to transfer to hospital.

It would be very beneficial in this case if you’d thought in advance about what you would like a hospital birth to look like, interventions you would or wouldn’t consent to under different circumstances, and how you could optimise the hospital environment. Whatever your ideal birth might look like, considering your Plan B (and C and D) can help increase your chances of experiencing a positive birth, however your birth may pan out.

Book your antenatal class or postnatal workshop now at nestpregnancyandparenting.co.nz

And be sure to check out our Introductor y To Antenatal Online Course by scanning this QR code, or visiting bumpandbaby.co.nz.

(More information on page 10.)

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In transition, experiencing a strong contraction and riding the waves of labour. I was emotional and overwhelmed because I knew birth was imminent.

EarthsideJourneys

Award-winning photographer Hallie Campbell (nzbirthstories.com) believes birth is one of the most transformational events parents experience. “The beautifully raw, emotion-filled moments I capture are a part of each family’s unique birth story, and I believe every story deserves to be told, however it unfolds.”

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The birth of Mila

Mila's umbilical cord was short, so we got out of the pool to deliver the placenta and Sione tied Mila's cord/ pito with a traditional Māori muka tie.

At just over 40 weeks gestation, Lia gave birth to her 4480g baby girl at home after spontaneous labour, with support from partner Sione, her mum, sister, Nan, Lia's two older children (Lauryn and Jarrod) and two midwives.

Our Ipu Whenua was made by my children and their aunty. (See page 98 for more about Ipu Whenua)

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Making our way into theatre to meet our wee man.

Lachlan's head emerging from my tummy during the ceasarean.

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Saying hello for the first time.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HALLIE CAMPBELL NZBIRTHSTORIES.COM

The birth ofLachlan On the 10th August 2021, just before her due date, Becki and partner Max welcomed a 3320g baby boy to their family via C-section in hospital.

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Focusing on the view outside, controlling my breath, and using the TENS machine as I await the next contraction.

Three days after her due date, on 12th April 2021, Caitlin went into spontaneous labour and led her 3945g baby boy earthside, supported by her husband Corey and midwife Margie.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY HALLIE CAMPBELL NZBIRTHSTORIES.COM

The birth of Taj

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A wave of emotion came over me as Margie hugged me with pride.

We did it together, guiding Taj earthside into my arms.

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S tand by me Mum’s job during labour is pretty obvious, but what’s a partner or support person to do?

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It takes a village

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hile mamas-to-be are undoubtedly the stars of the show when a baby is on the way, dads, partners and family members are integral to labour and birth as well. Not only do they provide support to labouring mums, they also serve as advocates – the person (or people) who knows you best and can speak on your behalf, because they have your (and your baby’s) best interests at heart. But many partners feel lost and superfluous when their loved one begins labour, and aren’t really sure what to do. The best defence is a good offence – here are some ways they can ensure they’re confidently contributing to the birth of their bundle of joy.

TIME THE CONTRACTIONS

Either write it down on a piece of paper or download an app for your phone, but one of the things you can do in early labour particularly is to keep track of the contractions. This way your partner doesn’t have to do anything but focus on what’s happening with her body. This is also a great way to know when things are getting more intense, and to help your partner decide if it’s time to go to hospital.

THANKS TO BARBARA, PHOTOGRAPHED BY HALLIE OF NZBIRTHSTORIES.COM

BE PREPARED FOR THE LONG HAUL

Labour is a marathon, not a race – and a first labour can take 10 to 20 hours, or more.

While it’s exciting when things finally get started, it’s important that you conserve your energy as much as possible, and, more importantly, encourage your partner to conserve her energy and rest up. Break out some games or a movie, play trivia, do crosswords together, take her for walks, give massages… Whatever it takes. While it may feel like labour is dragging on for ages, you need to be ready to stick it out no matter how long things go on for.

PROTECT HER PRIVACY

If she wants to stay covered while she’s being examined by the midwife, help hold blankets or sheets in place. If she doesn’t want any of the grandparents-to-be in the room while she’s giving birth, that is her call, not yours. Or if she decides midway through labour that she wants everyone else out of the room except you and the midwife, act to make it happen without apologising or delay. And following the birth, wait until

Some great reads (or gift ideas) for new parents, partners and grandparents.

The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read..., $26, Penguin Books.

With a specific pregnancy and parenting chapter, this bestselling book by a leading psychotherapist reveals the impact on upbringing and instills vital relationship tips to be better partners and great parents.

Grandparenting Grandchildren, $32.99, Exisle Publishing.

With people staying healthier for longer, grandparents are increasingly involved in raising their grandchildren.

By explaining the latest neuro-developmental and neuro-educational research in accessible, applicable ways, it provides new tools to build their grandchild’s imagination, creativity and curiosity, as well as key influences on healthy development in the early years.

she is ready before ushering visitors in to view the new arrival – she might not want to see anyone for several hours or even days after your baby is born. If someone barges in without her permission, it’s your job to be the polite but firm bouncer.

KEEP YOUR COOL

Labour and delivery can get pretty intense – after all, a person is going to come out of your partner, one way or another. And while she’s in the throes of labour, emotions will be running high. Stay calm, cool, and collected as much as possible. If big decisions have to be made and your partner isn’t able to advocate for herself, this job will fall to you, so it’s important you keep your wits about you. Also, you are the best person to know how to help your partner focus on the task and to support and comfort her if she feels like she isn’t handling things, so you need to be in a good headspace to do this.

BE HER CHIEF ADVOCATE

As mentioned, if big decisions need making and your partner is in the middle of contractions and unable to speak up for herself, this will be your job. Talk to her ahead of time to ensure you understand her wishes pertaining to pain relief and interventions, and have her birth plan handy during labour so you can refer to it

The Montessori Baby, $39.99, Workman Publishing.

Drawing on the childled principles of the Montessori method to foster a first year of love, respect, understanding, and a surprising sense of calm. The parent’s role is to prepare the environment, not be the entertainer. There are tips on how to set clear and kind boundaries, how to create a secure sense of attachment, how best to "see" your baby through the Montessori lens.

if need be. While she’s labouring, give her your undivided attention, and fulfil her wishes as best you can – even if they seem confusing (she may want to be touched, but then change her mind once you are actually touching her, then want to be touched again… just go with it).

CAPTURE THE MOMENT

We’re not talking about spending the entire time with your phone in your hand snapping photos and videos. Instead, pay attention to the details of what’s going on so you can commit it to memory and tell your partner about it later if she asks (because when women are in labour, it’s hard to keep track of time or focus on anything other than what’s going on in her body). Keep track of unforgettable moments, like when your partner feels like she’s ready to push, when the baby’s head crowns, the look on her face when she first sees her new baby. And all the potentially funny ones to talk over with her later, when she says, “Did I say anything embarrassing when I was in labour?” Get your baby’s first photos: with Mummy, with the midwife, with both parents, on the scale for his or her first weight (make sure to get the weight reading in the photo) etc. But choose your moments carefully. If she doesn’t want a photo of the baby being born, then for goodness’ sake, don’t take it.

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Vaginal or Caesarean Section births are both common in Aotearoa. Birth doula Gabrielle Nancarrow helps us understand what to expect.

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own the ‘shoot’ or out the ‘sunroof’? Oh, if only it was that simple! In all seriousness, there’s lots to know about how your baby could enter this world – and being informed about what happens during vaginal and caesarean section births is important preparation for parents-to-be.

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WHAT HAPPENS IN A Vaginal birt h In a vaginal birth, you’ll either go into labour spontaneously or you’ll be induced.

The two experiences are quite different.

Let’s start with spontaneous labour and some natural induction techniques that may help get you there.

NATURAL INDUCTION TECHNIQUES

body using either fine needles or manual pressure. Massage works in much the same way and while none of these techniques have been medically proven to induce labour, they are all very relaxing and will at the very least help to settle your nervous system in preparation for birth.

Always check with your care provider before trying any natural induction techniques to make sure they are safe for your particular circumstances. Also know that babies come when they are ready. These techniques may help encourage labour if you are already close to it happening spontaneously, but if your baby is snug in there, they probably won’t have much effect.

Clary sage Clary sage is a powerful essential oil that is known to stimulate the uterus and kick-start contractions, so it should not be used before your due date or without your care provider’s approval. You can add a few drops to a warm bath or use it as a massage oil. It’s also a good idea to pack some in your hospital/birth centre bag to use throughout labour.

Sex (or, more appealingly, orgasm) Sex might be the last thing you feel like but it can be an effective technique to induce labour naturally. Semen contains prostaglandins which can help the cervix soften, while orgasms release oxytocin which help stimulate contractions. Masturbation can also be successful. Don’t have sex if your waters have broken as it can increase the chance of infection.

Letting your oxytocin flow Feeling safe, supported and warm will allow you to emotionally and physically surrender to the process. Try not to overthink it.

Cuddle up, laugh, give and receive touch and work to release any remaining fear.

Nipple stimulation Nipple stimulation has been shown to be an effective induction technique for women with a ‘favourable cervix’ (those close to going into labour spontaneously).

You can stimulate your breasts using hand massage or a breast pump or have your partner do it either prior to labour starting or if labour slows down at any point. Some trials have shown that nipple stimulation can potentially overstimulate the uterus, leading to issues with the fetal heart rate, so always be sure to check with your doctor or midwife before attempting it.

Acupressure, acupuncture and massage Acupressure and acupuncture have been used for centuries in China and Japan to ripen the cervix and prepare the body for labour by stimulating specific points on the

HOW WILL I KNOW I’M IN LABOUR?

Well . . . it probably won’t be anything like what you have seen in the movies: your waters breaking dramatically on a busy street and intense contractions starting seconds later. In fact, only about 10 percent of women experience their waters

Every woman is different and every labour will be different, so go with what feels right to you and keep in touch with your lead maternity carer along the way, so they can guide you.

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(amniotic fluid) breaking as the first sign of labour and for many of those women, it takes a while – sometimes days – for contractions to begin on their own.

If your waters do break first, it’s important to take note of the following and call your doctor or midwife to let them know: • The time your waters broke • The amount of fluid: was it a trickle or a gush? This indicates if your waters have fully broken or if it’s just a small tear.

• Its odour – it should be odourless. If it smells, it could be a sign of infection.

• If the water is clear or murky. (If murky/ brownish, your baby has passed meconium – their first poo – inside the womb and may be in distress) Other signs that labour is imminent include: • Your urge to nest increases, sometimes with a surge of energy to help you finish preparing for baby’s arrival • Restless back pain that may come and go • Mild to moderate period-like cramps that come and go • Frequent loose bowel motions • You lose your mucus plug, a thick substance that seals the opening of the cervix during pregnancy. If it’s clear then labour may still be a week or so away. If it’s blood-stained – called a bloody show – it’s a sign that labour is closer.

WHEN SHOULD I LEAVE FOR THE HOSPITAL OR BIRTH CENTRE?

When to leave is entirely up to you and depends on a few things, including whether or not you’d like medical pain relief such as an epidural if you are birthing in a hospital.

If you are coping well at home and your baby is moving around as usual, you might feel best staying in your familiar space for as long as possible. If you get to hospital and your care providers think you still have a long way to go, you may be sent home, which can further interrupt your labour and leave you feeling pretty disheartened. It’s also important to be aware that as soon as you are admitted to hospital, the progress of your labour will be monitored and the longer you are there, the more likely it is you’ll be faced with interventions including synthetic hormones to speed up your labour, which in turn can lead to more interventions. If you are birthing in a birth centre, the space is usually much more home-like than a hospital, so you may feel comfortable getting there earlier and setting yourself up.

If you can, stay home until your contractions are consistent and you’re having to really focus and breathe through them. This is a good indication that you are moving towards active, established labour.

Of course, every woman is different and every labour will be different, so go with what feels right to you and keep in touch with your care providers and/or doula along the way so they can guide you.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A

Caesarean birt h

Caesareans (also called C-sections) can be very empowering births. They can also be incredibly challenging. Like vaginal birth, the difference between the two often lies in how the birthing person is treated leading up to and during their birth experience, and how much control over their experience they have.

We’ll cover the main reasons caesareans are performed and what happens during them. I’ll also share some ideas on how you can drive the experience and make it an empowering and truly positive one. If

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caesarean birth turns out to be your birth experience, I hope you feel supported, seen and heard through every minute.

Caesareans are generally performed because they are deemed medically necessary either before or during labour, or because the birthing person has elected to have one.

ELECTIVE CAESAREAN

An elective caesarean is a planned caesarean and there are a few scenarios in which you might choose this path or why it may be recommended to you, including:

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• Breech presentation • Birthing multiples • Placenta previa, where the placenta is positioned at the bottom of the uterus covering the cervix • An infection such as HIV or genital herpes • High blood pressure and pre-eclampsia • Macrosomia (a larger than average baby) • Placental abruption, where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall As with everything, if your doctor is recommending a caesarean, you have the right to understand the reasons why, the short- and long-term risks to you and your baby, the benefits and the alternatives. You need to feel as though you have been fully informed and nothing is being kept from you. If you’re not getting the answers you need or are feeling pressured, it is never too late to change care provider. Be savvy and do your research.

Occasionally, women choose an elective caesarean because it is the right choice for them. If you make this decision, we hope your choice is honoured without judgement.

I have supported many women who have chosen a caesarean birth and who have felt constant and unwarranted judgement throughout their pregnancy. These women are smart, educated and did their research.

It was not an easy decision for them, but it was the right one.

EMERGENCY CAESAREAN

An emergency caesarean describes every caesarean that happens after labour has begun. Occasionally these are true emergencies, but often there is time to ask questions, make an informed decision and for your birth to not feel rushed and out of your control. The most common reason for an emergency caesarean is fetal or maternal distress during labour, which could occur due to a prolapsed umbilical cord, if preeclampsia develops in the birthing person or if the baby is not coping .

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a range of emotions, from deep fear to great relief. If they share with me feelings of failure, I remind them of their strength and their power and that we can and will ensure the birth of their baby is positive and empowered. We take a moment to close our eyes, hold hands and visualise the birth and their hopes for it. I hold space for them to share any fears they have and together we prepare for what is to come.

If you find yourself here during your birth, please know you have not failed. You are about to birth your baby and there is no greater act of love or sacrifice in this world.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A C-SECTION?

A caesarean birth is a surgical birth, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel clinical.

Family-centred or gentle caesareans, as they have become known, are becoming more common in hospitals and include the options of a clear drape so you can watch your baby being born, delayed cord clamping and immediate skin-to-skin. You can also have your choice of music playing if you wish and bring your own essential oils in to help calm your nervous system. You also have the right to have professional support and your partner during your caesarean, which is particularly important for the moments when your partner may be holding your baby so you still have someone completely present with you.

At the beginning of your caesarean, you should be introduced to all the people in the room so you feel calm and at ease with them. Next, the anaesthetist will insert a cannula for IV fluids and medications and then perform an epidural or a spinal block. In rare circumstances – usually when there is no time to administer the spinal block or if the block fails and you can still feel everything – a general anaesthetic will be necessary. It’s a good idea to ask the anaesthetist what medications they are using and to request that they be non-drowsy so you can be completely awake and aware during your child’s birth. You may also feel quite nauseous at points so talk to them about anti-nausea medication. Once you are completely numb, an obstetrician will make a transverse incision in your lower belly, your waters will be broken (if they haven’t already) and amniotic fluid will be suctioned out. After that, you’ll feel pressure as the doctor moves your baby down and out through your incision.

As soon as your baby is born and they are checked to make sure they are well, they will be placed on your chest if that is what you would like to happen. If for whatever reason

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this feels too much in the moment, your partner can do skin-to-skin as your placenta is delivered and your uterus and incision are being stitched.

After your baby’s birth, remain together as a family as you move into recovery. This is important for your emotional health and to give you a chance to bond with your baby and establish breastfeeding, if that is what you choose to do.

RECOVERING FROM A CAESAREAN

Just like vaginal birth, recovery from a caesarean should be gentle and slow. You’ll initially be bed-bound for at least a day with a catheter and will need support from your partner and/or midwives to bring your baby to you for feeds and cuddles. You’ll be given strong painkillers at the hospital and maybe also to take home. Try not to be a hero and take what you need to manage your pain.

Keep a close eye on your scar and if you see any signs of infection or feel unwell, let your doctor or midwife know immediately.

Move your body slowly and consciously and ask for help when you’re picking your baby up for a feed. Most care providers will advise you not to lift anything heavier than your baby or drive a car for the first four to six weeks, so you will need your partner, family and friends to rally around you and support your recovery during this time. Drink lots of water and nourishing tea to help with the gas and constipation that often follows a caesarean and rest as much as you can.

This is an edited extract from The Birth Space by Gabrielle Nancarrow (Hardie Grant Books).

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FOR OUR RESOURCE PAGE, “A NEW L ANGUAGE: OUR LESSON IN PREGNANCY LINGO”.

A CALM BIRTH BEGINS HERE Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth (hats off!), the feeling of apprehension about an impending due date is a very natural emotion – one that most mums-to-be (and their partners) will experience. While how your child enters the world is often out of your control, the way in which you approach the experience certainly is.

Taking a holistic approach to education with a critical mind-body-birth connection, childbirth education programme Calmbirth (calmbirth.nz) believe that when a mother and her support are relaxed and calm, everything goes a lot easier however it unfolds. Calmbirth teaches unique techniques, visualisation, guided relaxations, acupressure, breathing techniques and emotional therapeutic preparation to reframe fear around birthing your baby.

Because an open mind is an open body. “We don’t advocate for a certain way to give birth,” says founder and internationally-recognised midwife and childbirth educator Peter Jackson. “It’s about helping couples create a positive birth experience.”

Mothers have the power (via their inner resources) to understand the process of birth, and in turn help their baby into the world in a calm, positive way. The tools Calmbirth teaches are lessons for life and go on to extend beyond birth to parenting, relationships and everyday life.

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newborn+postpartum

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Down to eart h Pamela McIntosh digs deep into whenua (placenta) burial.

T

here’s a lot of decisions to make as parents, many before you even give birth! Making a choice about things that are likely complete unknowns is difficult – which is why it’s really important to do your own research and talk about your options with your loved ones. One of the things you’ll need to consider prior to your due date is…

What to do with the placenta?

(remember, your placenta is joined to your baby via the umbilical cord). These contractions aren’t nearly as gnarly as birth contractions (thank goodness!); your midwife or LMC may ask you to continue to push, or they may press on your stomach firmly but gently as a means to help the placenta emerge from your body. It can take between 5 to 30 minutes for the placenta to be delivered, after you’ve had your baby.

DELIVERING THE PLACENTA

CORD CONVERSATIONS

Your placenta (also called whenua, or the “afterbirth”) does a miraculous job in pregnancy nourishing your baby. In a vaginal delivery, your uterus will continue to contract after your baby is born in order to move the placenta forward for delivery

The fate of the whenua will be discussed in the “birth plan” chat with your midwife, but it pays to do your research and decide what you’d like to do before that discussion, so you can ask any further questions then.

It’s also a great time to discuss delayed (umbilical) cord clamping, cord blood banking, and who will cut the umbilical cord. This is also the perfect time to inform your midwife if you’d like to use a Muka Pito (umbilical) tie.

RETURNED TO THE LAND

In Aotearoa, the placenta is either handed over to the hospital to be disposed of (incinerated) or taken home with the parents and child. Placentas can be dried and turned into jewellery keepsakes or edible capsules; however, many parents choose to bury their placenta. In Māori tradition, the placenta is placed in a special vessel, often made from clay (see page 85), flax, or more modernly, a biodegradable paper case, and buried in earth at a significant and special location.

Returning it to the land is a physical and spiritual link to the birth place. This practice reinforces the relationship between the newborn child and the land.

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PRECIOUS VESSELS

Originally made from gourds (hard-shelled ornamental fruit), placenta vessels – or ipu whenua – are now made in a variety of materials and easily accessible.

• Ipu Whenua Flax Placenta Basket (xoxobaby.nz) We love this beautiful biodegradable flax-woven basket with cornstarch bag liner.

• Rau Whenua Placenta Package (ukaipo.co.nz) Honour your placenta with this beautiful, contemporary “home” between your uterus and the land.

The biodegradable, leak-proof lotus-like vessel comes in a keepsake box with a Muka Pito tie, dedication card and your choice of seeds (Kowhai or Pohutukawa) to plant on top of the buried placenta.

• Placenta Planting Pack from Birth To Earth (birthtoearth.com) Packed at birth by your LMC, this biodegradable pouch goes straight from your freezer to the ground. It includes a keepsake book and copper tree tag to permanently record your child’s name and details if you choose to plant it with a tree.

If you do not have a biodegradable vessel to bury your placenta in, National Women’s Health (nationalwomenshealth.adhb. govt.nz) suggests wearing gloves when handling your placenta and washing your hands well after burial. If you do need to store your placenta for some time before you bury it and are unable to refrigerate it (clearly labelled, of course!), you could temporarily bury it in a large pot plant.

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Hush,

little baby...

I

Baby sleep and early development specialist Kenna Zachinsky (babysleep.nz) explains newborn nap requirements.

t may seem that newborn babies sleep almost all the time during the first week, both day and night. Generally, they’ll wake every 1 to 3 hours to eat, then go back to sleep. The newborn's stomach is tiny – only between 80-150 ml, which doesn’t allow a baby to function without food for a long time. On average, a breastfed baby wakes up every 1.5 to 3 hours. The duration of sleep for formula-fed infants is slightly different; they can sleep without a top-up for about 2 to 3 hours.

One of the reasons is the absorption rate of breastmilk – it is higher than infant formula, so breastmilk is usually digested in a shorter time. Also, the portion size can affect the length of sleep.

These first weeks are critical, because while they are sleeping, babies adapt to life outside of the womb. During the first weeks, babies are almost insensitive to signals from the outside world. They may not respond to loud and sharp noises, bright lights, and movements. They are going through an adaptation period, and sleep is their body's protective function. In these early days, it's essential to recreate a familiar environment for the baby, similar to the womb.

Swaddling, rocking, white noise all soothe the newborn and give them a sense of comfort, helping them to fall asleep.

BABY’S SLEEP PHA SES

Active or REM sleep: Just a few days after birth, active sleep is transformed into REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. During active sleep or REM sleep, a baby can be seen making small movements; their eyes move around (while closed), their limbs and fingers might twitch or jerk, breathing might speed up, and they might move their mouths. REM sleep provides psychological protection, relieves psycho-emotional stress, filters information, reboots the brain, and ensures brain growth.

Quiet or NREM sleep: Another phase of infant sleep is quiet sleep or NREM (Non Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, where the child will hardly react to sound, light, touch and temperature. This stage of sleep in young children only lasts about 20 minutes, and is responsible for restoring energy, letting the body repair and regrow tissues, build

bone and muscle, as well as strengthen the immune system. For complete physical recovery and strengthening of the immune system, children need sufficient deep sleep.

Due to circadian rhythms, we spend the most time in deep sleep during the first half of the night (from about 7pm to 1am).

NREM stages get shorter as the night continues, and more time gets spent in REM sleep instead.

THE MONTH MILESTONE

At one month old, a baby will sleep for 15 to 18 hours a day – of that, 6 to 8 hours are day naps, and 8 to 10 hours are through the night. But no, not in one stretch!

The optimal awake-time for a four- to six-month-old tot is only about 50 to 70 minutes (and this awake-time includes feeding, getting ready for bed, and the process of falling asleep).

Average awake time Newborn 45 - 60 mins 1 month 50 - 60 mins

4 months 90 - 105 mins

2 months 60 - 80 mins 3 months 80 - 90 mins

5 months 105 - 120 mins

6 months 120 - 150 mins

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Average sleep patterns* AGE ( MONTHS ) Newborn

LITTLE “LEAPS”

Around the fifth week of your baby's life, you may notice some changes, because a baby's sleep and behaviour during the day can be affected by the first developmental leap (growth spurt). It is the time of rapid maturation of their little body. New sensations confuse the baby, and during this period they may refuse to sleep alone in their bed. Or may want to rest on a parent's belly, even if it has never happened before.

They often ask for Mum's breast, looking for comfort. This is how they show you that they need you. It usually takes from one day to a week to go back to normal. Don't be afraid of growth spurts; it's how children grow, develop, and learn. Give your baby as much love and comfort as you can – it calms them down and provides a sense of assurance. Carry your baby in your arms because to them, everything matters: Your voice, smell, rhythmic movements, warmth...

TIP: From 6 to 8 weeks, try giving your baby a chance to fall asleep on their own.

When the little one gets tired after being actively awake, put them to bed when they’re sleepy, calm, and still awake. Try to avoid exhaustion (the baby’s, that is; unfortunately yours is a given) and put your baby in bed at the very first signs of tiredness. Give your baby a chance to fall asleep on their own, and be nearby if they need you.

SLEEP SUPPORT Sleepdrops for Babies, $39.90, sleepdrops.co.nz A soothing, natural formula to support sleepless 0-3-year-olds to get to sleep faster during the day or night. These great-tasting drops are an effective way to settle a distressed or overtired infant with wind or digestive issues which may disrupt their sleep.

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HOW MANY NAPS

DAY NAPS ( HOURS )

NIGHT SLEEP ( HOURS )

TOTAL SLEEP ( HOURS )

6-8

16 - 19

1 - 2 hours every hour

1

4

6-8

8 - 10

15 - 18

2

4

6-7

10 - 11

15 - 17

3

3-4

5-6

10 - 11

15 - 16

4

3-4

4-5

10 - 11

14 - 16

5

2-4

3-4

10 - 11

14 - 15

6

2-3

3-4

10 - 11

14 - 15

*Average sleep patterns are based on statistical data and numerous studies on the effect of sleep on human health. To understand how much sleep your child needs, keep a sleep diary for 5-10 days: Record the total nighttime and daytime naps and monitor the child's mood and reactions.

COMMON EXPERIENCES “My baby seems to sleep well during the day, but is awake and active at night...”

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The thing is, babies don't have a "biological clock" yet. To avoid this issue, you need to show your baby the difference between day and night from birth: • During the day, while awake, "flood" the baby with light.

Turn on bright lights, open the curtains, play by the window, go for a walk. At night, avoid turning the lights on or use a night light, if necessary.

• Keep track of not only awake time but also nap duration. It is better if, during the first month, children don't nap longer than 3 hours and more than 2-2.5 hours during their second month.

Aotearoad Sleepy Time Baby Moisturiser, $14.99, aotearoad.com With carefully blended oils like chamomile and lavender, this natural formulation uses plantbased ingredients to help improve skin hydration and to calm little ones with moisture and a gentle massage before bedtime.

“My baby doesn’t seem to like being swaddled...”

- --

Often the reason for swaddleresistance is that the baby is already tired or overwhelmed, and the swaddling bothers them even more. Try not to miss the early signs of tiredness and swaddle the baby before they get upset, as a standard bedtime ritual.

“My baby falls asleep while breastfeeding...”

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Many newborns fall asleep during feeding, and it is natural. To prevent falling asleep on your breast, try these methods: •O ffer different relaxation options: Patting, stroking, white noise, singing a soft lullaby.

•C reate healthy sleep conditions: The optimal room temperature is 18-22°C, the humidity is 40-60%, darkness, white noise is on to muffle household noises during the day.

Safe T Sleep Sleepwrap Baby Wrap, $119.99, safetsleep.com A practical and versatile sleep wrap for home and away, the Safe T Sleep Sleepwrap fits over the bassinet or cot mattress and goes over top of your baby’s swaddle or sleepwear, to ensure a safe, comfortable sleep.

New Zealand

Breastfeeding takes a village. Join the community of māmā and get free support whenever you need it.

JOIN US

BreastfeedingNZ

first The

Lucia from Breastfeeding NZ talks us through what to expect in the first week.

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feeds

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K

ia ora, beautiful hapu māmā, we know how eager you must be to finally meet your pēpi (baby). You will soon begin your own very unique journey together.

If you choose to breastfeed pēpi, breastfeeding will soon become one of your main focuses. As you welcome your little one to this world, you will discover that breastfeeding can be very fulfilling and sometimes challenging.

So before you start reading this article, remember these few words: • Every mother and baby’s journey will be different.

• Breastfeeding is a skill, and sometimes needs a lot of practice.

• Whatever you feed your pēpi, breastmilk or formula, they will be nourished!

• All women deserve lots of support, especially when breastfeeding.

Surround yourself with whānau and professional help.

• You. Are. Amazing. Māmā!

THANKS TO CHRISTINA & BABY TE REINGA, PHOTOGRAPH BY @PHOTOGRAPHY_BY_RIA_

THE FIRST 72 HOURS

After you give birth, your midwife should be able to place pēpi on you. Skin-to-skin is extremely valuable for bonding with your pēpi. They will feel the warmth and rhythm of your body, recognise your voice, and should start to push upwards towards your breast. Trust your body and your pēpi.

Your midwife will be there to guide your movements, and to make sure that baby latches well to the breast. You might not be able to have baby placed on you after birth, and that’s okay! If this happens, skinto-skin can be performed with the other parent or whānau.

WHAT IF THE FIRST FEED DOESN’T HAPPEN AT BIRTH?

For some māmā, the first feed doesn’t happen at birth and establishing breastfeeding may be tough, but it's still very valuable for the baby to be placed at the breast. It might take a while for you and pēpi to settle into it, but try not to worry about it. Remember, everybody is different. Relax, trust your body, and ask for support as soon as possible.

COLOSTRUM & CLUSTER FEEDING

Colostrum is the baby’s first food, until milk (thinner, whiter, and more abundant) comes in. Usually milk comes in 2-3 days, but it can take longer, and the wait can be frustrating for both māmā and pēpi. Expressing, using the expressed colostrum, and support from those around you can save your sanity. When the milk is coming in, your breasts may feel rock hard and tender. This sensation should only last a day or two. If the baby finds it difficult to latch on a too-full breast, you can help by hand-expressing a little bit. Try to allow the baby enough time to breastfeed, to remove enough milk from the breast.

WHAT IF MY MILK DOESN’T COME? If your milk volume doesn’t seem to be increasing after three to five days, don’t stress. There are plenty of reasons for delay (premature birth, pre-existing medical conditions, C-section delivery, etc). Breast milk production depends on demand, so try to stimulate your breasts frequently, to get out as much colostrum and milk as you can.

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LATCH ON, LITTLE ONE! HELPFUL HINTS • • • • • •

M assage your breasts T ake warm showers L isten to relaxing music O ffer the breast to pēpi E xpress manually and/or with a pump D rink lots of water and try to get some sleep (tricky, we know!)

Ask for support and guidance from professionals right away if it’s challenging.

You’ll see that it can feel very frustrating to wait for the milk to finally come, but be gentle on yourself and your body.

RESPONSIVE FEEDING

The next phase is called “demand and supply” or responsive feeding. Your body will work to replace what baby (or a pump) takes out. The more you breastfeed, the more milk you’ll produce. If you feel that pēpi does not have enough milk, it is better to offer the breast often. This will tell your body to produce more milk. If you give a baby a bottle of formula, your body won’t receive the signal that more milk is needed, and you might start to produce less milk.

Expressing might be helpful to keep your supply up, but feeding the baby at the breast is the best way to increase and establish your milk supply. If you’re not sure, remember to seek support. You don’t have to do this alone, and it is normal to have questions and doubts, especially in the early stage of breastfeeding.

COMMON QUESTIONS

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tips for a lovely latch

1. Get comfortable! This will help, especially in the beginning when it takes longer to settle and latching can be challenging. This can sound unrealistic, especially at the beginning, but breastfeeding can become a moment for you to relax and bond with pēpi.

2. Hold and cuddle pēpi, ideally skin to skin. Check that their neck, shoulders, and back are supported. Baby’s head and body should be in a straight line so they can swallow easily. Check that pēpi can tilt their head back easily, and doesn’t need to reach out to feed.

3. Give the baby time to set up. It can be frustrating, especially in the beginning, but try to be patient, and let him take the lead. You can do this, māmā!

How often does a newborn feed?

Feeding on demand means that pēpi is satisfied, and your milk production is stimulated. If you have low milk supply, feeding every two hours is recommended. Try to breastfeed, and breastfeed again; the more you do this,

4. Once pēpi has opened his mouth wide and has brought his tongue over his bottom gum, bring him on to your breast, aiming your nipple towards the top of his mouth.

Your baby’s chin should be the first thing that touches your breast. He should take a large portion of your areola into his mouth, with his bottom lip and jaw covering more of the underneath of the areola.

As your little one feeds, your nipple will be against the roof of his mouth, cupped gently by his tongue underneath.

If it’s painful, relatch again.

Be patient, especially if your baby gets frustrated and upset.

While it may not seem very complicated, the emotions and the tiredness may make it harder than it is. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

the more milk you will produce. Make sure pēpi is latching properly, seek support if it doesn't feel right and baby is not removing milk effectively.

How long does a feed take?

On average, māmā breastfeed their newborn eight to

twelve times a day, 20-30 minutes per session. This is at least four hours per day dedicated to breastfeeding.

In such circumstances, it is important that your environment is as comfortable as possible for yourself and your little one.

Consider a space, or spaces, in your home

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fact

2-3

The amount of days on average it takes for milk to “come in”.

Before then, your baby will be nourished with colostrum.

A SSUME POSITION

There are multiple recommended breastfeeding positions. But remember, every māmā/pēpi journey is unique.

Have a go at testing various positions and use whatever feels good for you and pēpi. You will most probably use different positions for different circumstances, places and times of the day.

TIP: before you start, set up your space, and try to relax. Make sure you are both comfortable and that you have close by all that you need and want: Water, snacks, phone, TV remote, book, or magazine.

It can be quite disappointing when the baby finally has latched well and the milk has started to flow, and your phone, two metres away, starts ringing...

LAID-BACK BREA STFEEDING

THANKS TO CHRISTINA & BABY TE REINGA, PHOTOGRAPH BY @PHOTOGRAPHY_BY_RIA_

This position can be beneficial for those with a baby who has reflux or colic.

Sit back and recline a little. Lay your pēpi on you, tummy-to-tummy, with their whole front touching you. Position your baby’s cheek near your breast and let them use their natural feeding reflexes to find he nipple and self-latch.

with good back and arm support, with shelves or a small table nearby to have water, snacks, books, magazines, mobile phone, remote, with nice views and/or close to the TV. A rocking chair may be a good investment, particularly for unsettled nights. As pēpi grows and you both feel more confident, you might

even be able to “wear” your baby in a carrier and breastfeed while walking around and multi-tasking.

I’m breastfeeding all the time...

Indeed, it may feel that way, particularly during growth spurts, when babies feed a lot. There are a few growth spurts in babies' first weeks of life,

allowing them to thrive and to stimulate milk production to cover the baby's increasing needs.

It's hard to believe, but a time will come soon enough when you may miss this deep bonding.

How do I know when my baby is hungry?

We can’t measure how much milk a baby drinks

at the breast, but if pēpi is putting on weight well, has enough wet nappies per day (6-7), and is happy and content, that means that s(he) has enough nutrients and is hydrated. During the first month, pēpi should have at least one bowel motion every 24 hours. If it's less frequent, it might mean that pēpi is not taking in enough milk.

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Join the BreastfeedingNZ Facebook page facebook.com/breastfeedingnz

Access free support from lactation experts and a lovely community of māmā.

Cradle hold

What Kiwi mums say: “So much knowledge and useful information for firsttime mums. I'm so glad I found this page.”

Rugby ball hold Cross - cradle hold

Koala hold Side-lying position

SIDE-LYING POSITION

This position is comfortable for māmā who've had a Caesarean section (C-section) because pēpi doesn't put pressure on the mother’s abdomen. This is also a great way for you to get some rest while nursing your little one. Start by lying on your side with your baby on his or her side, facing you.

Your pēpi should be positioned so his or her nose is opposite your nipple. Use your lower arm to cradle your baby’s back, or you can tuck a rolled-up receiving blanket behind your baby to help nestle your little one close to you while you use your arm to support your own head. You can support your breast with your other hand.

CRADLE HOLD

This is the most common way to hold your pēpi, but other holds may be easier for latching a newborn baby. To start, cradle your baby’s head on your forearm with your little one’s nose opposite your nipple. It can be helpful to place pillows underneath your baby to bring them up to nipple height and support your elbows.

Use that hand to support your baby’s bottom. Make sure your baby’s head and bottom are level. Turn pēpi on his or her side, so that your baby is tummy to tummy to you. Then, bring your baby to your breast.

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CROSS-CRADLE HOLD

Cross-cradle hold allows you to have more control over how your baby latches on. Many māmā find that they are able to get their pēpi latched more easily with this hold. Instead of supporting your baby’s head on your forearm (cradle hold), use the hand of that arm to support your breast.

Bring the opposite arm around the back of your pēpi. Support your baby’s head, neck, and shoulder by placing your hand at the base of your baby’s head with your thumb and index finger at your baby’s ear level. Like the cradle hold, your baby will be tummy to tummy to you.

RUGBY BALL HOLD

This is a good position to try if you have had a C-section, have generous breasts, or for forceful let-down. Place your little one at your side, with their legs and feet tucked under your arm. You may like to rest your arm and body on a pillow for support. Your baby’s head is held in your hand closest to them and your other hand can be used to support your breast.

Your pēpi should be facing you, with their mouth at nipple height. This position is also recommended for tandem feeding, where you can breastfeed both babies at once.

“As a new mum I found this page to be informative, honest, and a safe place to ask questions! I love the helpful links and videos too!”

“The BreastfeedingNZ page helps you connect with other māmā sharing the same thoughts and experiences.

Reaching out for help with others with zero judgement whether you choose to post anonymously or not. I’ve been on both ends asking for help and sharing advice.

Since joining the page I have felt a sense of empowerment and mana wahine.”

KOALA HOLD

The koala hold (upright breastfeeding) makes breastfeeding comfortable for babies who suffer from reflux or ear infections.

Pēpi is sitting upright, while facing you and straddling your thigh. Support pēpi with the arm on the same side that they are feeding, and support your breast with your opposite hand. This position is great for both a baby who needs head support or for an older baby who can sit upright on their own.

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Splish, splash,

taking a bath!

Tips for bathing a slippery little babe

B

abies love to be bathed, as the warm water reminds them of the womb. Many newborns will have their first bath at the hospital or birthing centre if you didn’t birth at home. While the nurse, midwife, or LMC will show you the best techniques and perhaps even encourage you to take over, repeating the occasion at home for the first time can be nerve-wracking. For the first week or so, consider a sponge-bath rather than trying to wrestle the baby bathtub or crouching over the tub in the bathroom.

It’ll be far less stressful for everyone and you’ll feel more in control as you learn to handle your baby.

HOW TO BATHE YOUR BABE

While your newborn is very small, it is usually easiest to bathe them in a baby-sized bath placed on a towel on the table or on the floor (where you can easily reach them and where the baby bath will be safe). If you have to use a standard size bath, there are ergonomically-designed infant bath supports that help hold the baby securely above the water line (along with your support, of course).

You can bathe your baby every day if you wish, but until they’re crawling and/or eating solid foods at six months of age, you really only need to bathe them about three times a week. Bathing your baby too often can dry out their skin.

Just five minutes is long enough to get your baby clean before the water cools down too much for them.

• Gather everything you will need for bathtime, including a clean nappy and clean clothing for after the bath.

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• Prepare your baby’s towel – lay it on the floor unfolded, so you can place your baby straight into it.

• Fill the tub with only about 8-10cm of water – your baby should not be submerged or immersed. Check the temperature.

• Put your baby into the bath feet-first, so he can get used to the sensation. Gradually lay him in the tub, using one hand to support his head and neck. If you have an infant bath support which holds your baby in a slightly angled position, be aware that he can gradually slip down, so keep repositioning him as needed.

• Use a cup or small pitcher to pour warm water over your baby’s skin.

• Wash your baby from top to bottom and from front to back. Start with mild baby shampoo to wash his hair, then use baby soap or baby body wash to clean the rest of his body. It may be easier to wash your baby’s hair with a wet, soapy face cloth rather than trying to lather with shampoo like an adult.

Also, you only need the tiniest amount of shampoo or soap – about the size of a 10cent piece.

• Rinse your baby with cupfuls of water to ensure all the soap bubbles are washed off.

• Carefully lift your baby from the bath – babies are slippery, so ensure you have a good grip – and place him on the towel which you laid out ahead of time. It may be easier if another adult has the towel ready in their arms to wrap them up straightaway.

• Pat your baby’s skin dry with a soft towel (do not rub). Then put a nappy on him and dress him.

sqeaky clean touch with a gentle

Chicco Natural Sensation Bath Shampoo, $9.95, chicco.co.nz Gently cleans your baby's delicate hair and scalp with balanced concentrations for sensitive skin.

Cetaphil Baby Wash and Shampoo, $13.99, cetaphil.co.nz Effectively nourish the hair, scalp and skin without drying.

Only Good Baby Shampoo, $8.99, onlygood.co.nz With organic coconut water, calendula and chamomile, to cleanse baby’s hair leaving it feeling soft, shiny and moisturised.

SOOTHING MA SSAGE

Baby massage after a bath is a lovely way to bond with your little one. Make sure the room is warm and gently rub their legs and tummy with a special baby massage oil or lotion. There are tons of great baby massage techniques online to check out.

safety first

• Never, ever leave your baby unattended in the bath, not even for a moment. If you must step away to answer the door or phone, wrap your baby in a towel and take him with you.

• Don’t put your baby in the bath while the water is still running, as it can quickly get too hot and too deep – wait until the tub is filled to the right level.

• Only use infant-formulated products. Adult shampoos and soaps are too strong and sometimes too astringent.

• One hand should be on your baby at all times, supporting their head and neck.

Adairs Kids Stegosaurus Aqua Towel, for quick drying and instant absorbency, $32.99, adairs.co.nz

Scullys Baby Soap, $7.50, scullysnz.com Designed especially for delicate and sensitive skin, this natural cleansing bar made from the goodness of goats milk and avocado oil will leave your babies skin soft, smooth and moisturised.

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The whale-shaped Moby tub grows with the baby through three stages and offers Smart Sling support. The sling locks into two ergonomic positions: higher for full-body support and lower for seated support.

re

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Skip Hop Moby Bath Tub, $89.99, babycity.co.nz

bath helpers A versatile and transformable solution for baby baths that allows parents to have the baby under control and at the right height.

The cosy bath seat fits in the shower, and the removable seat shell and the four suction cups means it can also be used in the bathtub.

Water

Bubble Nest Bath and Shower, $209.95, chicco.co.nz

BA BY!

Good finds to make bath time safe and fun.

gentle soaps, s soaks & balm This digital thermometer allows you to conveniently determine the ideal temperature of your baby's bath or room.

Your baby will feel most comfortable in the bath if the water is between 36.5 °C and 38 °C. Philips Avent Bath and Room

QV Baby Gentle Wash, $11.99 , qvskincare.com.au Formulated with organic beeswax, natural moisturising oils and soothing herbs to soothe baby’s skin, Tui Balms Baby Balm - in its new compostable packaging – is an ideal post-bath all-over baby massage balm, barrier balm, and is also great for nappy rash and nipple care. A true multi-tasker.

Tui Balms Baby Balm, $18.95, tuibalms.co.nz

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Little Charlie Coconut & Oat Bath Soak, $24.99, bathorium.co.nz

This all-natural, hypoallergenic soap has the moisturising goodness of goats milk with bacteria-fighting Manuka Honey Extract, which is proven to relieve dry and itchy skin. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and free from chemicals like Sodium Lauryl Sulfates. It also contains lavender and chamomile oils, which helps baby sleep.

Queen Bee Pure Bee Baby Goats Milk Soap with Manuka Honey, $4.50, queenbeepure.com

Thermometer, $39.99, philips.co.nz

Saving you time and water, the Baby Dam is a plastic barrier that will fit inside straight sided bathtubs to create a small bathtub within a larger bath.

Baby Dam, $59.95, babydam.co.nz

SOME BUNNY'S BACK IN TOWN!

A new look and feel from an iconic Kiwi nappy brand.

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From higher-quality materials with better absorbency and softness, to a redesign of the nappy and its fit, every material has been upgraded and each functional aspect improved.

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U L TR A A B

ong-loved New Zealand brand Treasures is now owned and operated by a group of Kiwi parents who – with 15 children between them – seized an opportunity to take nappies to the next level! After working with families to ensure modern nappy needs are covered, and months of research, development and care, the NEW Treasures Comfort Dry & Snug Nappies were “born”.

With higher-quality materials with better absorbency and softness, and a considered redesign of the nappy and its fit, every material has been upgraded and each functional aspect improved.

But althrough the quality is premium, the price is isn’t.

New Zealand basketball export Kirk Penney and his wife are one of the couples behind Treasures' comeback; recently welcoming a fourth child to their family. “It's a no-brainer to be a part of Treasures,” says Kirk. “We are literally knee-deep in nappies – and have a good idea about what’s good and what’s not. And nappies are just the beginning! Stay tuned for more innovative products and exciting sustainability improvements”.

EV

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NEW Treasures Nappies and Nappy Pants are available exclusively at Countdown nationwide in Newborn, Infant, Crawler, Toddler, Walker and Junior sizes.

treasures.co.nz

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You are my

sunshine

While we love a Kiwi summer, it’s important to keep your baby’s delicate skin out of the sun, explains Tiffany Brown.

W

THE IMPORTANCE OF VITAMIN D

Because I’ve been a vitamin D advocate for decades, I was delighted to see public advice recently catching up with the huge body of evidence for this vital nutrient. Vitamin D is, in fact, a hormone, primarily made in the skin in response to UV light. Excessive use of sunscreen blocks the ability to

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manufacture vitamin D, and is partly to blame for a global vitamin D deficiency epidemic. While NZ public health advice identifies only high-risk breastfed infants as potentially needing vitamin D supplementation (which you can dab on nipples or drop into baby’s mouth), it’s interesting to note American, UK and Australian advice is now routine supplementation for newborns.

BURN, BABY, BURN. ER, NO. DON’T DO THAT.

Babies’ skin is super delicate, and lacks the essential melanin pigment we develop later to provide a measure of natural protection in the sun. For the first six months at least, you should keep your baby out of the direct sun, especially in the middle of the day, when the sun is strongest. Light cotton wraps or squares can be helpful to create shade and cover, as well as wide-brimmed hats, stroller and car window shades. In unavoidably sunny environments such as camping trips or the beach, make use of long-sleeved,

lightweight, UV-protective clothing, or invest in a sun shade or easy-to-erect tent to create shade for your family. If your baby accidentally gets too much sun and their skin reddens or comes up in a rash, treat it by applying breast milk, a cool, damp cloth, or gentle aloe vera-based lotion.

DARKER-SKINNED BABIES

Despite a wide range of naturally-occurring pigment in our various skins, sun safety advice tends to be one-size-fits-all, erring on the side of lighter-skinned individuals.

While specific advice about sun-safe behaviours for your darker-skinned tamariki (children) will become more important as they grow older, for now, it’s important to know that although your darker-skinned pēpi (baby) is less likely to burn, it is still possible for them to suffer from too much sun exposure, sunburn and discomfort.

That said, darker-skinned babies are also at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, so talk to your healthcare professional about supplementation options.

COMPILED BY PAMELA MCINTOSH.

hen my babies were tiny, I had an instinctive urge to bundle them up, no doubt encouraged by the stream of handmade woollens arriving from indulgent grandmothers. Daughter #1 was born in a heatwave, and has always been more comfortable slightly under-dressed.

(She gets this from her dad, rarely seen out of shorts and t-shirt in July; not me, often woolly-blanketed in January.) Infants are not equipped to regulate their own body temperature. We kept a constant vigilance in the early days by feeling the nape of the neck, back or tummy for warmth or dampness, and watched for flushing, redness or rashes, all signs of overheating. The layers usually peeled off as each hot day wore on, and despite sceptical looks from the bootie-knitters, she was never happier that summer than languishing in our arms wearing nothing but a scant onesie. Every baby is unique, so use your instincts and sense of touch to check for comfort, always keep them out of direct sunlight, and find a breeze or a shady corner when the mercury rises.

remember

STYLING AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAMELA MCINTOSH

Young babies under six months have very sensitive skin, and may react to sunscreen.

Sunny DAYS

Protection and relief for the freshest of skin Happy Little Poppets Protecting Cooling Lotion, $26.90, happylittlepoppets.co.nz; My Sunshine SPF30 Natural Sunscreen (50ml), $29.90, mysunshine.co.nz; Baby SebaMed SPF50 Multi Protect Sun Cream, $19.99, sebamed.com; Invisible Zinc Junior Clip-On Mineral Sunscreen SPF50, $14.99, invisiblezinc.com.au; Oasis Sun Kids Healthy Sunscreen SPF40 PA++++, $39.99, oasisbeauty.com; Badger Baby Broad Spectrum SPF30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream, $29.30, huckleberry.co.nz; Cetaphil Sun Ultra-light Lotion SPF50+, $35.99, cetaphil.co.nz

Prickly situation

Seeing your tiny tot getting their jab for a prick-test or vaccine is tough, but you can help to soothe their discomfort...

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A

ll babies undergo procedures, including injections of medications, vaccinations and heel pricks to collect blood for routine tests. These procedures occur shortly after birth, during the first few days after birth and throughout a baby’s first year.

Thanks to research, we know that there are highly effective strategies to help reduce babies’ discomfort when they have to undergo procedures: breastfeeding and parent-infant skin-to-skin contact.

These strategies are safe, accessible,

supported by science and recommended by paedeatric organisations. They are also parent-led – meaning that you are the source of comfort for your newborn.

However, despite the benefit of using these strategies, they are not always used to manage infant discomfort. In fact, studies show that less than 50 percent of newborns receive any form of relief during routine medical procedures. Unnecessary discomfort or unmanaged pain in early life can be associated with negative consequences, such as feeling increased

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THIS ARTICLE IS REPUBLISHED WITH PERMISSION FROM THECONVERSATION.COM

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anxiety or pain during later procedures.

Nurse scientists and experts in infant pain management, Britney Benoit and Marsha Campbell-Yeo give us some key tips and tricks to help you use these parent-led strategies (as well as a few additional ways to reduce your baby’s pain) during their next little prick or procedure.

BOOBS FOR THE WIN

Direct breastfeeding should be considered the preferred treatment for full-term infants undergoing injections and blood draws in

the first year of life. Breastfeeding babies only a nappy and hold them facing inward have lower pain responses, including less with their chest against your bare chest. You crying, less change in their heart rate and can use a blanket over you both for comfort, lower scores on tools developed to measure warmth and privacy. infant pain. Consider the following when • Hold your baby skin-to-skin for at least using breastfeeding as a pain-management 10 minutes before the procedure (up to 15 strategy for your infant. minutes is ideal). Your baby should be calm • Work with your healthcare provider to and relaxed before the procedure begins. find a place where you can comfortably • Keep your baby in skin-to-skin contact breastfeed your baby while they complete during and afterwards to help them stay the appointment. calm and relaxed.

• There is no recommended breastfeeding Research shows that infants who are in positioning that is best for pain skin-to-skin contact with mothers during management, simply what works best procedures have lower pain responses. for you and your baby to achieve Partners, adoptive parents, an optimal latch so your baby Parents play co-parents and other family is able to suck effectively. It is members such as grandparents an important can also provide skin-to-skin also important that the role in healthcare provider is able contact to help reduce pain or to conduct the procedure. reducing pain discomfort during procedures.

• Ideally, you want to breastfeed during routine MORE WAYS TO your baby for a minimum of needles two minutes prior to the prick.

COMFORT YOUR BABY They should be latched to the and pricks; If you are not breastfeeding your breast and actively sucking and baby or cuddling your baby in science swallowing before beginning. skin-to-skin contact, having shows they them suck on a pacifier or your • Continue breastfeeding your baby throughout the procedure can provide clean finger during the procedure and for as long as your baby wants can give them comfort as well. ideal comfort You can also use a sweet-tasting to breastfeed afterwards. and support solution, such as a small amount SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT in managing of sugar water on your baby’s Skin-to-skin contact involves tongue, prior to the procedure pain or holding a baby wearing only a or add a numbing cream about discomfort. an hour before the procedure nappy, against your bare chest.

Studies show that babies who are to help numb the skin where in skin-to-skin contact during procedures a needle is to be injected. experience less pain and they recover Always remember to keep your baby faster – meaning that if they do experience upright and close to you. Babies become some pain or distress, it is for less time than more distressed if they are lying flat during if they were not in skin-to-skin contact. injections or procedures.

While breastfeeding is the best treatment Many parents do not realise what an for full-term babies, skin-to-skin contact important role they can play in reducing is recommended for babies who are born their baby’s pain during routine needles and prematurely or infants unable to breastfeed. pricks. Parents are the most important Using skin-to-skin contact for pain relief person to their baby and science shows they is simple and easy. can provide the ideal pain management and • Work with your health-care provider to comfort during procedures. Parents also find a comfortable place to sit, where you know their baby best, so are in the best can cuddle your baby for 10-15 minutes. position to advocate for the use of strategies • Undress your baby so they are wearing that work for managing their baby’s pain.

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What

is colic?

Specialist Neonatologist, Kirsten Thompson, helps us understand colic in newborn babies.

THANKS TO WIKITORIA WITH HER BUB TAANIKO, PHOTOGRAPH BY @PHOTOGRAPHY_BY_RIA_

C

olic is a term used to describe a baby who is well, but who cries an excessive amount of the time. Formal definitions describe it as a well-fed and otherwise well infant less than three months old, who cries for more than three hours per day, for more than three days per week, for at least three weeks. Babies are affected from around three weeks of age, and usually improve by around three months. Colic is often worse in the early evening and can affect up to 20 percent of babies. Caring for babies with excessive crying or colic is very difficult, worrying, tiring and frustrating for parents.

Working out what is causing the crying and how to make a difference is not easy.

Multiple factors are likely at play. As a result, treatment options are not very well understood – works for one baby may not work for another.

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COLIC SUPPORT One popular explanation is that there is an increase of gas or other irritation in the gut causing windy pain and discomfort. The type of feeding doesn’t seem to influence whether a baby gets colic, but it does affect treatment suggestions. Adjusting a baby’s diet or gut bacteria to try to reduce any gas build up is often tried. If a baby is breastfed, some suggest adjusting mum’s diet to reduce any allergens (in particular dairy food), which may irritate the baby’s gut. There is no clear evidence these changes make any significant difference. The risk of following these dietary changes is reducing nutrition for mum, and hence baby. Changing from breastfeeding to formula feeding to treat colic is not advised.

If a baby is exclusively formula-fed, a trial of an alternative formula may be given. In particular, trying a formula where the milk proteins have been broken down to improve absorption (hydrolysed) may be helpful.

Different types of bacteria are found in the gut of a colicky baby compared to a baby without colic. To try to rectify this, probiotic supplements have been trialled in babies with colic. Although studies show no effect, there is generally a trend toward reduced duration of crying time in babies treated with probiotics. Probiotics are safe for use in babies, and may help reduce the features of colic.

OVERSTIMULATION?

Another explanation is that by the end of the day, the baby (used to the peace and quiet of the uterus for so many months) has “had enough”. Supporters of this theory advise parents to reduce stimulation of their baby to improve crying.

In practical terms, this means keeping the baby away from bright lights and loud noises (and loud relatives!) and lightly wrapping the baby. Some studies show a reduction in crying. Provided a caregiver is still nearby or with the baby, there is little harm in this intervention, and it may be of benefit.

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Seek support. Caring for a baby with colic is hard. There is a higher rate of dangerous actions such as shaking, smothering and slapping in crying colicky babies. Talk to your healthcare professional or midwife to find support in your local area.

Remember, crying can be caused by many things, not just colic. If you are worried about your baby, it is very important to have your baby checked by a doctor or nurse before assuming this is colic.

did you know?

Colic can affect up to 20% of babies.

BE MINDFUL OF MEDS...

The only medication which has proven benefit in the treatment of colic comes with several serious side-effects including breathing difficulties, seizures and coma.

It is unlicensed for use in babies in several countries. Tea containing fennel may make some improvement, but the associated sideeffects such as vomiting and loss of appetite may have negative effects on baby.

...AND CHIROPRACTIC THERAPY COULD IT BE A MIGRAINE?

Migraines are often inherited. Mums with migraines are more likely to have babies with colic, and colicky babies are more likely to have childhood migraines. It makes sense that some babies with colic may have a form of migraine.

Children with migraines often improve with reducing external stimuli, including turning down noise and lights, avoiding strong smells and going to sleep. Similar management can be applied to babies. This correlates well with the management of the “overstimulated baby” described previously.

Medications can be of use in migraines, but in general they are avoided in babies due to safety concerns, and the potential for the medication to worsen the migraine.

Although chiropractic care may be promoted as a treatment for colic, multiple reviews demonstrate any studies showing any benefit are not well designed.

Well-designed studies show no benefit of chiropractic treatment over being held by a nurse. Worrying possible side effects such as rupture of arteries in the neck add to the advice that chiropractic treatment is not recommended in the treatment of colic.

Kirsten Thompson completed undergraduate and general medical training in the United Kingdom before then specialising in Paediatrics and then in Neonatology in New Zealand and Australia. She has interests in medical education along with newborn care, high risk deliveries, and neonatal resuscitation.

THIS ARTICLE IS REPUBLISHED FROM THECONVERSATION.COM UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE.

GUT FEELING?

Time cures colic. But in the meantime, probiotics are a safe treatment, reducing stimulation may help a baby settle or a trial of hydrolysed formula may help (but don’t change to formula if you are breastfeeding).

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Pregnancy BUMP & 28/09/21 baby 125 1:44 PM

helpful resources

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Birthing ba g

It’s a good idea to pack a bag in case of an emergency – or simply to have all the essentials together in one place when you give birth.

MUM

Books/magazines

HOME COMFORTS

Pyjamas or night shirt, preferably one that buttons up in front (at least 2 pairs)

Cash/credit cards/wallet

Take your own pillow and pillowcase to the hospital or your birthing centre. It’ll bring you comfort and might even make it easier to drift off to sleep in the minimal moments you’ll get to.

Dressing gown Nursing bras x 3 Bikini/tank top (water birth option) Cotton knickers x 10 Socks Slippers Drink bottle Portable speakers, earpods (hypnobirth, music) Jandals (for the shower) Clothes to wear home (alas, still your pregnancy clothes, because even after the baby’s out, your tummy will be still be swollen) Toiletries (your usual overnight stuff)

A few pairs of big granny undies (high waist) because if you have a C-section you don’t want the elastic to rub the stitches.

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BABY Car capsule or car seat (already installed and ready for the baby) Blankets x 2 Muslin wraps x 2 Baby bodysuits x 4 Socks/booties x2 Beanie

Make-up (to be honest, you probably won’t bother with it, but just in case)

Going home outfit

Breast pads and nipple cream

Nappies and baby wipes

Any medications or vitamins you are taking

Bottles/formula/steriliser if you plan to bottle feed

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Copy of your birth plan

PARTNER

List of people and numbers to call after birth (store them in your phone)

A change of clothes, toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant), water bottle, some snacks and water, something to read, money for the parking meter (and for the vending machine!). Phone/camera.

Snacks and bottles of water Camera (with extra batteries or charger) Mobile phone and charger

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Maternity pads (these should be supplied by the hospital, but you’ll feel better knowing you have them available)

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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REFRESHMENTS If you "run hot", take a mini fan, face cloth or face mist to keep you feeling refreshed during contractions, in labour, and in the days following.

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handy tips

Toiletries: Free up room in your bag with miniature toiletries or decanting what you have into smaller containers.

Clothing: Don’t assume your little bundle will fit "newborn" baby clothing. If they’re overdue or simply on the larger size, they might already be ready for the next size up!

(See the size-guide below).

NEWBORN

0-3 MTHS

SIZE: 0000 WEIGHT (CM) up to 4kg

SIZE: 000 WEIGHT (CM) up to 6kg

APPS BreastfedNZ Māmā Aroha

introduction to

WOMEN’S HEALTH Women’s Health Action womens-health.org.nz

ULTRASOUND

National Womens Health nationalwomenshealth.adhb. govt.nz PREGNANCY Kellymom Parenting & Breastfeeding kellymom.com Pregnancy Health NZ pregnancyhelp.org.nz Pregnancy Counselling Services pregnancycounselling.org.nz

Support

C-SECTIONS Your Caesarean Section Birth yourcsection.co.nz/home/ electivesections GENERAL HEALTH Ministry of Health health.govt.nz Health Navigator healthnavigator.org.nz

se rvices

Mental Health Foundation mentalhealth.org.nz

Healthline 0800 611 116

MISCARRIAGE Sands sands.org.nz

IMMUNISATION Immunisation Advisory immune.org.nz

Miscarriage Support NZ miscarriagesupport.org.nz

Covid-19 health.govt.nz

Skylight NZ skylight.org.nz

MIDWIFERY Find Your Midwife findyourmidwife.co.nz

CHILD’S HEALTH PlunketLine 0800 933 922 plunket.org.nz

YOUR RIGHTS Maternity Rights NZ maternity.org.nz

Kids Health kidshealth.org.nz

PARENTAL LEAVE & BENEFITS New Zealand Government govt.nz/browse/work/ parental-leave/ Work and Income NZ workandincome.govt.nz/ eligibility/children/having-ababy.html

CAR SEAT SAFETY Car Restraint Technician nzta.govt.nz New Zealand Transport Agency nzta.govt.nz Sit Tight Education sittight.co.nz

DEPRESSION Depression Helpline 0800 111 757 depression.org.nz

ANTENATAL CLASSES College of Midwives auckland.midwife.org.nz/ for-birthing-women/antenatalclasses/

Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Aotearoa pada.nz

Nest Parenting & Education nestpregnancyandparenting. co.nz

DOULAS New Zealand Doulas nzdoulas.nz Bespoke Births bespokebirths.co.nz

BREASTFEEDING Women’s Health Action infantfeedingsupport.org.nz BreastfeedingNZ Facebook page facebook.com/ breastfeedingnz BreastFed NZ breastfednz.co.nz LaLeche League lalecheleague.org.nz/ get-help Plunket plunket.org.nz Feeding and Work womens-health.org.nz Lactation Consultants nzlca.org.nz/find-a-lactationconsultant ULTRASOUND SUPPORT SERVICES Ministry of Health health.govt.nz/publication/ new-zealand-obstetricultrasound-guidelines

As explained by midwives.co.nz, an ultrasound scan uses sound waves to create a picture of your baby in the uterus.

"Scans" are carried out by trained professionals (sonographers) and the main purpose of a pregnancy ultrasound scan is to check your baby’s anatomy, growth and development – and to check for other things such as the placenta placement.

Each pregnancy is different, and depending on your own personal circumstances you may have additional tests and scans, however Wellington Ultrasound list these as the four most common scans for New Zealand mums-to-be: FIRST TRIMESTER SCREENING OR NUCHAL TRANSLUCENCY (NT) WHEN 11-13 weeks WHAT Nuchal translucency is a measurement of fluid behind a baby’s neck. It’s a non-invasive screening tool to see how likely it is that your unborn baby could have a chromosomal abnormality.

ANATOMY SCAN WHEN 19-21 Weeks WHAT A thorough check of your little one’s anatomy and growth/development.

Some birth defects cannot be diagnosed early in pregnancy, but most can be picked up at this scan.

Fortunately, these defects are rare.

GROWTH SCAN WHEN Closer to your baby's due date WHY To track your baby’s growth to ensure that the baby is born at the optimum time for their wellbeing. The placental function, placement and the level of amniotic fluid - among other things - are checked at this time. ​

Pregnancy BUMP & baby

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helpful resources

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A new

language

A super-quick lesson in pregnancy lingo. You’re welcome!

amniotic fluid – the liquid that surrounds a baby in the uterus (commontly called "waters") amniotic sac – the sac that surrounds the baby, inside your uterus anaesthetic – an administered drug that gives total or partial loss of sensation of a part or the whole of the body anaesthetist – a doctor who specialises in giving the anaesthetic to a patient antenatal – meaning "before birth" (also called "prenatal" and "antepartum") APGAR score – a test given one minute after a baby is born, then again five minutes later, that assesses a baby’s appearance, pulse, grimace (reflex), activity (muscle tone) and respiration.

A perfect APGAR score is 10; typical Apgar scores are seven, eight or nine.

A score lower than seven means that the baby might need help breathing birth canal – the cervix and the vagina. the route that the baby travels through to be born birth plan – a written document describing a woman’s preferences for her care during labour and birth Braxton Hicks contractions – a tightening of the uterus that feels like a labour contraction. Braxton Hicks contractions are not painful and do not get stronger and closer together like true contractions

breaking of water – when a healthcare practitioner bursts the sac holding the amniotic fluid using an instrument with a pointy tip. Often used to speed up a labour that has slowed breech – when the baby is positioned inside the uterus with its bottom or feet down (instead of its head) caesarean section – a surgical procedure where a baby is delivered through a cut in the abdomen and uterus (also called C-section) cervix – the narrow, lower end of the uterus that softens during labour to allow the baby to come out contraction – strong and often painful tightening of the uterus, indicating that the cervix is dilating as well as helping the baby make its way out crowning – a point in labour when the baby’s head has reached the external vaginal opening and can be seen from the outside dilation – the opening of the cervix, usually measured in diameter from 1 to 10 centimeters embryo – a fertilised egg from the time of conception until week eight of pregnancy epidural – an anaesthetic that can be used in labour where drugs are used to numb the lower half of the body for birth pain relief first-degree tear – a tear involving only the perineal skin (adjacent to the vaginal opening) that occurs at the time of delivery

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

first trimester – weeks one to 14 of pregnancy fontanelles – soft spots on a baby’s head that allow its skull to compress during birth so it can pass through the birth canal forceps – instruments shaped like a large tong that is placed around the baby’s head to encourage the baby through the birth canal during childbirth full term – 37 to 42 weeks gestation/ pregnant gestation – the length of time that a baby is in the uterus home birth – labour and birth that takes place in someone's home, under the supervision of a midwife induced – when a professional tries to artificially ‘kick-start’ a woman’s labour jaundice – when a baby's skin and the whites of their eyes appear yellowish, caused by an excess of a chemical called bilirubin in the blood labour – the process a woman’s body goes through when her baby is born lactation consultant – a professional trained to give advice and support about breastfeeding and breastmilk meconium – a black tar-like substance.

Baby's first poo midwife – someone who has been specially-trained to care for women physically and mentally during pregnancy, labour, birth and the postpartum period

Nappy morning sickness – nausea, vomiting and aversions to certain foods and smells. Symptoms are not restricted to morning only. multiple pregnancy – when a woman is carrying more than one baby Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) – an area in hospitals for babies who need high-level medical care post-birth obstetrician – a specialist doctor who has training in pregnancy and childbirth paediatrician – a specialist doctor who has undertaken training in treating children perineum – the area of skin between the anus and vagina placenta – an organ that connects to the wall of the uterus and nourishes the baby during pregnancy, through the umbilical cord postnatal – after the baby is born premature – when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy

chat

You’ll be changing up to 10 nappies a day in the first month, so it pays to get down with the vocab.

scented or unscented, in travel packs or in big bulk packs you can put into refillable containers.

CLOTH NAPPY Often made of cotton or bamboo, cloth nappies are reusable fabric nappies.

BARRIER CREAM AND NAPPY RASH PRODUCTS Powders, lotions, and creams to help treat and prevent nappy rash and chafing of delicate bottoms and legs.

DISPOSABLE NAPPY A one-use nappy that is thrown out after use. Compostable options available.

NAPPY BIN This can be a simple lidded bucket, a pedal-bin with a lid, or even nappy disposal systems where you open a lid, put the dirty nappy in, and turn the top to seal the nappy tidily into its own nappy bag.

BABY WIPES You can make your own reusable wipes from terry cloth, or purchase disposable baby wipes which are

SWIM NAPPY Nappies that can be worn in the swimming pool or at the beach, which hold in poo but allow wee to soak through (regular nappies can’t be worn in water because their absorbency would make them too heavy and bulky).

NAPPY BAG Totes and backpacks, some with special adapters to hang on the pram, with lots of convenient pockets to hold nappies and

supplies for when you’re out and about.

CHANGE MAT Disposable, wipeable, or even washable, these are great for nappy changes on the go, for travelling, and for public restrooms.

CHANGE TABLE Special waist-height furniture that makes changing your baby’s nappy more convenient and saves you bending over and straining your back.

Caution: Never leave a baby unattended on a change table.

WET BAGS Waterproof fabric bags to hold dirty clothing, swimwear or used cloth nappies.

NAPPY WALLET A compact bag to hold one or two nappies and a travel pack of wipes. Great for your handbag or in the car.

second trimester – 14 weeks to 26 weeks of pregnancy special care nursery (SCN) – an area in hospital for babies who need special medical care stretch marks – lines or patterns that can appear on the tummy, breasts or legs during pregnancy. This happens because the skin stretches TENS machine – Trans-Electrical Nerve Stimulation, a machine used for pain management during labour third- or fourth-degree tear – a tear of the perineum involving the skin, muscles and anus. Classed as more severe than a first-degree tear

third trimester – From 26 weeks to 40 weeks of pregnancy trimester – a time-span of certain months during pregnancy with different phases of fetal development. See 'first trimester', 'second trimester' and 'third trimester on the previous page/s ultrasound – a scan of the uterus (womb) and baby during pregnancy umbilical cord – a cord-like structure that connects the baby to the placenta, allowing nutrients and oxygen to be carried from the woman to the baby

uterus – a woman’s womb vacuum cap/ventouse – a suction device that can be used during the end of labour to help to pull the baby down the birth canal water birth – when a baby is born submerged in a birthing pool – either at home or at a birthing centre waters – the amniotic fluid that surrounds an unborn baby inside the uterus

newborn+postpartum

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Highly recommended These wonderful new māmās share their newborn and postpartum must-haves

C a r o l y n Ta y l o r, (@carolyntaylor_ ) p r e s e n t e r, M C .

s newborn cuddle

“The one thing I couldn’t have lived without in the newborn phase was my hired hospital-grade breast pump machine. I needed to increase my milk supply and keep my milk around for as long as possible, because I wasn’t producing enough milk for Jasper. It was a lifesaver, quite literally!

I still had to top-up each feed with formula, but it was great to know he was also getting some breast milk benefits for the first four months of his life. It was a lot of time and work and effort, but it taught me quite quickly what a mother will do for her child - which is anything and everything for them to be ok!”

Megan Hutchison, (@meghutchison _ ) founder of Forget Me Not Journals "As a new māmā, the most valuable thing is sleep, closely followed by pre-prepared meals. My sister actually helped me to make 48 frozen meals prior to our second baby's arrival, and they were worth their weight in gold – especially when it came to feeding our toddler too. For a second-time māmā, having the Stokke Tripp Trapp Newborn Set (from dimples.co.nz) was also incredibly useful, allowing me to be hands-free while also having baby close by and safe. I also lived in my Ergo Embrace carrier most of the day for the same reasons. "

Jessica Whiting, (@foxesblog) designer and

Simone Anderson,

founder of Foxes Knits "Our little boy loves a swaddle, but folding them in the middle of the night is madness. The Love To Dream swaddles were a game-changer and gave us much better sleep stretches.

The Moses Basket and Rocker is also my must-have; being able to have your baby close is great and the light basket is easy to move. The rocking stand is great when you accidentally make a noise (dropping a second coffee, for example), and they rock back to sleep."

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Pregnancy BUMP & baby

(@simone_ anderson) Katrina Rore (Grant), (@katrina _ rore) Silver Fern "I was supplementing Lily from very early on and found the Milkbar UV Steriliser so helpful; it saved me heaps of time as it sterilised bottles as well as dried them. Also, the AWWA period undies were awesome and meant I didn’t have to wear pads for postpartum bleeding."

co-founder of Embrace Active "I think everyone focuses on bub in those early stages, but in reality it’s mum who needs to recover and to be super-gentle with herself, and in turn to be able to show up for her baby. In practical terms, it was the large, high-waisted Kmart undies that were high on my appreciation list; they held everything in, fit my maxi-pad while bleeding, and just made me feel secure and comfortable."

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