ParentsCanada expecting - Fall 2017

ParentsCanada

13

laST Minute Tasks

SWEET SLumber Getting your ZZZ’s

TodaY’s BaBY

Names What’s popular across Canada MOThEr’S Milk

Why iT’S SO gOOd

Yours

fall 2017

to take home

EXP_CoverFINAL_F17.indd 1

17-10-10 10:48 AM

Designed for healthy feeding.

Conçu pour un allaitement sain.

Dedicated to sounder sleeping.

Dédié au sommeil plus profond.

Recommended by feeding and sleeping experts. ultra-flexible andet fléchit MC LaLATCH™’s tétine ultra flexible dunipple LATCHstretches s’allonge flexes just like the assurant breast, enabling an continue effortless sans tout comme le sein, une prise and continuous latch every time, promoting both effort à tout coup, et favorisant ainsi un allaitement et a healthy feeding and sleep cycle. un cycle de sommeil sains.

Stretches

S’étire

Pumps

Pompe

Flexes

Fléchit

PRODUCT AND DESIGN ARE TM & ©2017 MUNCHKIN, INC. MUNCHKIN, IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS, THE HEART LOGO AND LATCH ARE TRADEMARKS OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MUNCHKIN, INC. LE PRODUIT ET LE DESIGN SONT DES MC DE MUNCHKIN, INC. QUI DÉTIENT LES © 2017.

MUNCHKIN, IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS, LE LOGO EN FORME DE COEUR ET LATCH SONT DES MARQUES DE COMMERCE OU DÉPOSÉES DE MUNCHKIN, INC.

Munchkin_EXP_F17.indd 2

10/11/17 9:30 AM

vol. 32, issue 2 Fall 2017

in this issue 4

editor’s note

6

Fast Facts Tidbits about twins and how the circulatory system adapts to pregnancy.

Shutterstock/© wong sze yuen

8

10

how you’ve grown!

Your baby’s development in the womb, step-by-step. woman at work How to manage your pregnancy at work.

14

sweet slumber Chasing the elusive good night’s sleep.

27

the Final countdown Those last-minute tasks?

Get ’er done!

16

sti’s Yup, we’re going to talk about sexually transmitted infections...

28

mother’s milk Good reasons to breastfeed.

29

need it, want it, gotta have it!

Stylish – and adorable – products for baby and you.

30

what’s your name?

The most popular names in Canada these days.

18

Q&a A doctor explains why you shouldn’t feel self-conscious during labour, and more.

parentscanada.com 3

EXP_Contents_F17.indd 3

17-10-10 10:45 AM

ParentsCanada Vol. 32, Issue 2 Fall 2017

EDITOR Tracy Cooper ART DIRECTOR S. Dale Vokey

editor’s message

gROup VICE pREsIDEnT Jane Bradley nATIOnAL ACCOunT MAnAgER Lori Dickson

“Don’t it always seem to go,” sang Joni Mitchell, “that you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone?” You probably wonder when you’ll achieve that precious thing you once took for granted: a good night’s sleep. Even early in pregnancy, you might have to go to the bathroom during the night because of hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the kidneys. Later, it’ll be the compression of your bladder as it gets crowded in your abdomen and your baby gets heavier. You’ll find tips on page 14 that can help make more shuteye more likely.

And because it’ll be birth day before you know it, check off the key tasks on page 27. Be mindful of your due date – but don’t count on it! My first child was born two weeks early. Everything was only half ready, and it made those first foggy, exhausted postpartum days more confusing. There are many things you’ll have no control over as a parent. Having the diapers on the change table and the crib sheet on the mattress is something you can control – so get ’er done!

Then you can sleep.

Tracy Cooper – E d i t o r ED I TOR IAL B OAR D OF A DV I SO R S Donna Brown Wilson Clinical Nurse Specialist Perinatal Program, Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre, Toronto Eric Goldszmidt, MD, FRCPC Deputy Anesthesiologist-in-chief, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto Andrea Skorenki, MD University of Alberta Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Allison Tannis BSc, MSc, RHN, Nutritional Consultant, Whitby, Ont. P U B LIS H IN G IN FOR M AT I O N: Expecting is a controlled circulation publication edited for pregnant mothers. It is distributed semi-annually, in April and October. More than 200,000 women receive Expecting annually, through more than 1,700 distribution outlets across Canada – doctors’ offices, hospitals, prenatal classes and public health clinics.

sALEs CO-ORDInATOR /AssIsTAnT TO THE puBLIsHER/pREsIDEnT Starlene Courts-Hedd COnTROLLER Carol Fagan V.p., DIRECTOR OF MARkETIng AnD InTERnET DEVELOpMEnT David Baker sEnIOR wEB sTRATEgIsT Matt Doris OnLInE COnTEnT MAnAgER Angela Rotundo V.p., DIRECTOR OF pRODuCTIOn Patrick McCormick VICE pREsIDEnT, OpERATIOns Trevor Baker puBLIsHER/pREsIDEnT Donald G. Swinburne sEnIOR VICE pREsIDEnT/ CORpORATE EDITOR Bettie Bradley DIRECTOR OF CORpORATE DEVELOpMEnT Brian Baker

published by: Family Communications Inc. 65 The East Mall, Toronto, On M8Z 5w3 Telephone: 416-537-2604 no part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. ©2017

The information in Expecting is not a substitute for your doctor’s care.

4 expecting

EXP_Masthead _F17.indd 4

17-10-05 10:21 AM

Sym p

Medela can help

Medela knows that every mom's breastfeeding experience is unique, so we provide a full range of solutions that will help you meet your own breastfeeding goals. Our research based, high performance, quality products are efcient, safe, easy to use and loved by moms and healthcare professionals world wide.

Pump-In-Style

Freestyle e

nt Re

Breastfeeding?

LUS: Available yP for n ho

Hospital Grade Pump in the comfort of your home

Swing

Your Medela Essentials

Exprress.

Express.

E Save.

S Save e. Disinfect.

Sha Share are th the e Feedings.

Fe ee edings s.

The b best in in breast care. breas st car re e. e

Hands-free pumping made Easy!

• Pum Pumping/feeding mping/feeding bottles • Brea Breast ast milk storage bags • Mic Micro ro Steam Quick Clean bags

Th The he Calma a nip nipple pple is scientically proven allow pr rovven to allo ow parents to seamlessly alternate se eam mlesslyy alt ternate between br rea astfeed ding g & bottle feeding. breastfeeding

• Tend Tender der Care Carre e Lanolin cream • Soot Soothing thing Hydrogel Hydrogel pads Hy • Ultra Ultra-absorbent a-absorrb bent bra pads • Cont Contact tact nipple nip pple shields & more p

Pair your breast pump with the Easy Expression bustier so you can pump hands-free anytime, anywhere.

Questions? 1-800-435-8316 | info@medela.ca www.medela.ca © 2017 Medela Inc.

Medela_EXP_F17.indd 5

10/5/17 10:55 AM

fast facts Quick Questions About twins Do twins run in families?

Fraternal twins may run in families (on the mother’s side), due to a gene that can be passed on. The gene may predispose women to release two or more eggs in a single menstrual cycle (hyperovulation). When two eggs are fertilized, the twins are fraternal (non-identical).

Identical twins (when a single egg is fertilized, then splits into two) do not run in families.

Do twins always skip a generation?

No.

Your body makes more blood when you’re pregnant – a lot more. Plasma volume goes up by 50 per cent! And your red blood cell volume increases by about 20 per cent.

Plasma: The liquid component of blood made up of water, sugar, fat, protein and salts. What it does: transports blood cells throughout the body, (as well as other things such as nutrients, proteins and hormones. ) Red blood cells: They carry hemoglobin – a protein which helps bring oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body – and return carbon dioxide to the lungs so it can be exhaled.

6

Change of

Heart

You consume more oxygen during pregnancy, plus your heart rate increases slightly.

To meet the demand, your cardiac output increases by 40 per cent. And the heart does what’s needed during labour, too – typically increasing 15 per cent above pre-labour levels.

Cardiac output: The amount of blood the heart pumps with each beat (litres per minute.)

Shutterstock/© Oksana Kuzmina, © Jolygon

Lifeblood

EXP_Fast Facts_SS17.indd 6

17-10-05 11:42 AM

Get Your FREE Digital Edition of

REAL TALK

85,000 parents are receiving the digital edition of ParentsCanada in their inbox – absolutely free.

REAL CHOI CES

REAL LIFE

The

FA L L 2 0 1 7

PERFECT

STORM ARE YOUR CHILD’S

STANDARDS

TOO HIGH?

WANNA BE ONE OF THEM?

CL ASS IS IN SESSION!

❯ MIDDLE SCHOOL PREP ❯ LATE LEARNERS ❯ STAGE FRIGHT

ADVENTUR in BABYSITTIES NG USE YOUR VILLA GE TO HELP

RAISE YOUR KIDS

DO YOU KISS YOU PUCKER UP! KID R S ON THE LIPS?

ABSOLUTELY

FREE

PC_COVER_FW17_F_.ind

d 1

8/9/17 3:01 PM

VISIT: ParentsCanada.com/digitalmagazine and you’ll be sent the digit al edition of ParentsCanada right to your inbox. No apps, no money, just your e-mail and you will receive ParentsCanada’s trusted and entertaining content four times a year.

LET’S GET STARTED ALSO You’ll be automatically entered in our fabulous sweepstakes and recieve our bi-weekly digital newsletter.

UNSUBSCRIBE AT ANY TIME.

Real talk

SPRING 2017 $4.95

REAL TALK

REAL CHOICES REAL LIFE

150

THINGS TO DO IN

Canada

the

nap guide

SUMMER 2017

LEGALIZING MARIJUANA It’s time to have “THE TALK” again

SUMMER

4

SPRING RecIPeS to tRy Now!

fomo? you’re not alone

6 er

GROSS HABITS AND HOW TO BREAK THEM

TALKING THROUGH TRAGEDY

THE RULES KEEP CHANGING

FROM PARIS TO LA LOCHE

DOCTORGUIDE

How comfortable are you witH nudity at Home?

ARE YOU ON YOUR PHONE DURING YOUR CHILD’S ACTIVITIES?

ComfortFOOD

4 CHEESE RECIPES & A MEAL TO HEAL

COVER_FEBMAR_16_F.indd 1

2/13/17 2:42 PM

PC_COVER_SUM17_F_.indd 1

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 $4.95

ISSUE

WHO’S INVITED TO YOUR KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY?

STARTING SOLID FOODS

are you suffering from

REAL CHOICES REAL LIFE

FAMILY

Little kid HYGIENE

insid

FIRST CRUSHES TO FIRST BREAKUPS

Go GReen

REAL TALK

Check-up tips from a doctor

Better sleep for the whole family

PC_COVER_SPR17_2.indd 1

PC_DIGEST_DIGITAL17.indd 7

Real choices Real life

Winning isn’t everything

or is it?

2/4/16 3:37 PM

5/16/17 9:30 AM

17-10-10 1:04 PM

M y, h o w y o u ’ v e

G ·r· o ·w·n !

FETAL DEVELOPMENT by Karon West, RN

A guide to your baby’s development in utero

4 weeks The embryo is just visible. › Development of the chorionic villi, from which the placenta is formed. › Production of the hCG hormone (human chorionic gonadotropin), which stops menstruation from occuring.

› The embryo will now make slight movements and is approximately two cm (3/5-inches) long. › The amniotic sac fills about two-thirds of the uterus, sealing in the amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects the fetus.

5 weeks The beginning of the embryo’s nervous system becomes evident as a ridge of tissue that will develop into the brain and spinal cord. › Initial formation of the heart with faint beats. The nose and cheeks begin to show under the eyes.

12 weeks The rapidly developing embryo is now called a fetus.

6 weeks The embryo grows to less than 1 cm in size (1/3-inch). › The spinal cord, brain, ears and eyes have started to develop. › The internal organs (lungs, digestive system, kidneys) begin to appear. › Tiny buds of arms and legs take shape.

7 weeks The major organs develop. › Distinct facial features appear with skin covering the eyes. › Definable arms and legs are visible, with the emergence of developing fingers and toes. › The muscles, bones and blood vessels begin to develop. The heart of the tiny embryo beats rapidly, at about 160 beats per minute.

8 weeks All of the major organs are nearly formed. › The head is very large in proportion to the body as rapid brain growth occurs.

8

9 to 13 weeks By 12 weeks, the fetus is a recognizable human being. › Gender was determined at conception, but now the sex organs begin to differentiate into male or female organs. The fetus starts exercising its muscles. › By the end of this trimester, the fetus is a tiny, fully formed human being, seven-anda-half centimetres (three inches) long, weighing one ounce.

16 weeks The fetus is very active. › Fine, downy hair begins to grow over the delicate, semitransparent skin. › Bone and circulatory growth continues rapidly. Finger- and toenails are present at this stage. › External genital organs are fully formed, and gender can be clearly distinguished.

20 weeks Fetus swallows amniotic fluid. › Kidneys produce fairly large quantities of urine, which is excreted into the amniotic fluid. › Hair appears on the scalp.

24 weeks At this stage, the fetus is termed viable (able to survive) and weighs about one- to one-and-a-half pounds. › There is very little body fat. › The skin is wrinkled and covered with a white, cheesy substance called vernix – this protects and lubricates the delicate skin. › You may now feel the baby’s vigorous movements.

28 weeks Your unborn child will spend the next few weeks laying down fat under the skin. ›The body undergoes rapid growth; size becomes more proportionate to the head. › Hiccupping is common; you experience this as a gentle, rhythmic sensation. › The baby’s lungs are beginning to function.

32 weeks A baby born at this stage in the pregnancy has a good chance of survival with intensive neonatal care. › The baby weighs about fourto four-and-a-half pounds.

36 to 40 weeks A great deal of fat continues to be laid down under the skin. › Your infant’s lungs have matured significantly in preparation for survival outside the womb. › The vernix is shed – although some might still be there at birth. › At this stage, your child is fully developed, with the characteristic features of the newborn infant.

EXP_Fetal_Dev_F17.indd 8

17-10-05 11:24 AM

Your babY will begin to grow and change from the moment of conception.

Here’s what is happening inside your uterus, from the first day of pregnancy to the last.

3rd Trimester

1st Trimester

seven to nine months

First Day

one to three months

2nd Trimester four to six months

parentscanada.com 9

EXP_Fetal_Dev_F17.indd 9

17-10-05 11:24 AM

SHE WORKS HARD FOR

the Money

Here’s how to get through the workday with baby on board.

BY LISA EVANS; Interview with DR. MARJORIE GREENFIELD

Morning sickness

Shutterstock/ © ivector

Tossing up your breakfast is one of the telltale signs of pregnancy. “One of the biggest challenges is wanting to keep things secret,” says Dr. Marjorie Greenfield, MD and author of The Working Woman’s Pregnancy Book. She says the key to managing morning sickness is to never be too full or too empty. Keep a stash of crackers or dry breakfast cereal at your desk so you have something to munch on at all times. Many women find ginger snaps or lemon wedges helpful. Scaling back meals, and eating several smaller snacks throughout the day, rather than three large meals, can also help.

If your desk is near the lunchroom, you may find certain odours trigger your nausea. You may have to request a temporary relocation.

“Sometimes you just can’t hide your pregnancy because you need certain accommodations at work,” says Dr. Greenfield.

Keep a bottle of mouthwash in your purse, which can help you feel better after throwing up.

Bring a change of clothes – an extra blouse or jacket – in case of emergency.

If your nausea is severe, consider talking to your doctor about medication.

Bathroom breaks “Combine going to the bathroom with some other task, such as a trip to the mail room, so it’s not completely obvious that you’re making a dent in the carpet between your office and the bathroom,” says Dr. Greenfield. Grab a seat by the door during meetings so you can make a quick, inconspicuous exit if the need to urinate – or vomit – arises.

Raging hormones Thanks to the hormone progesterone, which is the culprit of PMS symptoms – and which remains elevated during pregnancy, you may find yourself bursting into tears for no reason, or being easily irritated. “Women who are very sensitive to progesterone may be super emotional in early pregnancy,” says Dr. Greenfield.

To avoid coming across as unprofessional, tap into stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing.

Pregnancy brain Although Dr. Greenfield says

there’s no scientific evidence that cognitive functioning is affected during pregnancy, many women do report increased forgetfulness and difficulty focussing during pregnancy. Dr. Greenfield says this may have more to do with psychology than a physiological change. “A lot of women who have been super-focussed on their work before pregnancy get drawn inwards as the image of themselves changes from being a worker to a mom.” If you find your brain becoming increasingly forgetful, take a few minutes at the end of each workday to make a to-do list to help you stay focussed the next day.

Pregnancy fatigue Sneaking in naps at your desk probably isn’t the best option, but if adjusting your working hours to the part of the day when you feel the most energized is possible, this may be the best way to avoid fatigue. When you feel your energy waning, try taking a walk outdoors or chewing mint-flavoured gum. Getting enough sleep is also key, even if it means zonking out the minute you step through your front door.

10

EXP_Working9-5_FW16.indd 10

17-10-04 12:11 PM

The baby news is still a secret!

FROM MORNING SICKNESS TO FOOD AVERSIONS, HORMONES AND FATIGUE, PREGNANCY IS RIDDLED WITH PROFESSIONALISM KILLERS. KEEPING UP APPEARANCES CAN BE ESPECIALLY TRYING DURING THE FIRST THREE MONTHS WHEN ‘MUM’S THE WORD’.

PLANNING AHEAD CAN HELP YOU MANAGE PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS.

parentscanada.com 11

EXP_Working9-5_FW16.indd 11

17-10-03 3:22 PM

Parenting is hard work and you deserve a reward!

enter to

win! s w e e P s ta k e s

ParentsCanada.com/sweeps

FA L L 2 0 1 7

REAL TALK

REAL CHOICE S

REAL LIFE

The

PERFECT STORM ’S ARE YOUR CHILD

plus

STANDARDS

TOO HIGH? CLASS IS IN SESSION! ❯ MIDDLE SCHOOL ❯ LATE LEARNERS ❯ STAGE FRIGHT

PREP

RES ADVENTUTTI NGYOUR KIDS in BABYSI E TO HELP RAISE

USE YOUR VILLAG

DO YOU KISS YOUR

THE LIPS? PUCKER UP! KIDS ON

8/9/17 3:01 PM

everyone will receive a free digital edition of ParentsCanada magazine in your inbox – just for entering!

_F_.indd 1

PC_COVER_FW17

For prize details, rules and regulations and to e

12

on your pregnancy

EXP_SWEEPS Digest.indd 12

17-10-03 10:50 AM

GRAND PRIZE

A one-week, all-inclusive vacation for a family of four at the Riu Palace Punta Cana (1 vacation awarded annually)

CHEEKY CHOMPERS ULTIMATE PRIZE PACK (Awarded monthly, each prize pack includes a Neckerchew, Comfortchew, Chewy Teether & Cheeky blanket)

A COMPLETE NURSERY (1 prize awarded annually *) *Prize not as shown

DIONO RADIAN RXT ALL-IN-ONE CONVERTIBLE CAR SEAT (1 car seat awarded monthly)

and to enter go to Pa ren t s Ca n a d a.c o m /swe e ps

parentscanada.com 13

EXP_SWEEPS Digest.indd 13

17-10-03 10:50 AM

SweetSlumber Back and muscle pain During pregnancy, the ligaments in your body become looser so that your uterus can expand and eventually allow your baby to fit through your pelvis during delivery. This causes achy joints.

Once you add the weight of the baby to the mix, your back is begging for a break.

Frequent stretching can relieve some of this pain; round your back around your bump with your chin and knees tucked in, hold for a few seconds, then

release. Finish by placing your hands on your lower back and arch slowly.

Body pillows that support your bump and upper leg can take the pressure off your lower back at night. Acetaminophen, as opposed to ibuprofen, is safe to take for pain.

Leg cramps The physiological reason for leg cramps is complicated and not well understood, but can involve low calcium and high phosphate levels. The added

weight of pregnancy and inadequate potassium intake may also play a part. If you drink a lot of milk, try cutting back. Although milk contains high levels of calcium, it is also rich in phosphates. Try eating potassium-rich foods such as baked potatoes, avocados, spinach or bananas. Also, keep well-hydrated – and stretch your legs before bed and when you wake up. Do not take any vitamin supplements, unless on the reommendation of your physician.

Shutterstock/ © And-One

EVERYONE WILL TELL YOU THE SAME THING: ‘ SLEEP NOW, WHILE YOU CAN’

14

EXP_SleepingN_FW17.indd 14

17-10-04 12:13 PM

For most pregnant women, a great sleep is easier said than done. Find out what’s going on inside your body and what you can do to make peace with your pillow.

BY D R . CO U R T N E Y M A N S E R

Shutterstock/ © And-One

Shortness of breath At night, you may become short of breath when lying flat on your back or even on your right side. This is because a large vein called the inferior vena cava runs up the right side of your abdomen to your heart.

Lying on your back or right side can sometimes obstruct this vesicle, leading to diminished blood flow back to your heart, causing shortness of breath.

Try lying on your left side with your back extended. Always tell your physician if you experience

shortness of breath; this may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Frequent urination You may have noticed you’re urinating more frequently. Even in early pregnancy, the blood flow to your kidneys increases, resulting in frequent urination.

Decrease the amount of drinks that act as a diuretic, such as coffee and tea. Also, lean forward when you pee to ensure you have completely voided at each bathroom visit.

Heartburn Your enlarged uterus places pressure on your stomach and increases the time it takes for your stomach to empty.

Also, the valve between your stomach and esophagus becomes more lax, allowing food and acid to travel up into your esophagus. Try not to eat at least two hours before bed. Avoid caffeine (including chocolate), spicy foods and greasy/fatty foods as much as possible. Seep with two pillows instead of one. parentscanada.com 15

EXP_SleepingN_FW17.indd 15

17-10-03 2:02 PM

STIs in Pregnancy They’re common – and important to treat

BY CO U R T N E Y M A N S E R , M D

Sexually transmitted infections are relatively common. During pregnancy, they can have detrimental effects on the developing fetus if they are not caught early. Unfortunately, the negative stigma surrounding STIs leave many women reluctant to get tested.

Some women believe STIs could never happen to them. Keep reading to discover the prevalence, potential complications, symptoms and treatment for a few common STIs in pregnancy.

Genital Herpes Genital herpes is not only extremely common, but an astounding number of women are undiagnosed. One New York study found that 88 per cent of affected individuals were unaware they had it. About 17 per cent of adults in the U.S. have HSV-2 (the type that only causes genital lesions), and 58 per cent have HSV-1 (the type that can cause cold sores OR genital lesions). There is no cure for genital herpes, but there is treatment. Symptoms range from painful ulcers, itching, painful urination, discharge, and fever, to small cuts in the vagina which are barely detectable. If you have, or have ever had any cuts, blisters or sores in the vagina, please speak to your doctor about it. There is treatment that can be given in the third trimester to help protect against possible complications that include infection of baby’s skin, eyes, mouth, and central nervous system (and can cause permanent disability).

16

EXP_STIs_FW17.indd 16

17-10-05 11:40 AM

Chlamydia Chlamydia is the most common STI, with a prevalence between three and 29 per cent in pregnant women in the developing world. Vaginal discharge, pelvic discomfort, and painful urination are common symptoms. Most affected women, however, don’t have symptoms. Since women can be asymptomatic, it is possible to carry the disease for quite some time without knowing it. Luckily, the treatment is a quick course of antibiotics.

All women in their first trimester should be tested for Chlamydia, either through a cervical swab or a urine sample. Young women under the age of 25, or those with other risk factors, may also be tested in the third trimester. If untreated, Chlamydia can cause low birth weight, premature delivery, stillbirth, eye infections and pneumonia in the baby.

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer (as well as a wide range of other cancers) and genital warts. Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in pregnancy, with an incidence of 0.8 to 1.5 cases per 1,000 births. If possible, make sure that you are up-todate on your Pap smear prior to getting pregnant so that any abnormal results can be followed appropriately. Genital warts only become an issue in pregnancy if they are large enough to cause obstruction of the vagina during delivery.

If you are not yet pregnant, talk to your physician about the HPV vaccine for protection.

Shutterstock/Š Alena Root

Syphilis, Hepatitis B and HIV These three STIs are grouped together, because they are less common, but can be very serious.

They are routinely tested for in the first trimester through bloodwork. If you have known chronic Hepatitis B or HIV, please speak with your physician prior to getting pregnant to discuss the risks and possible treatment to minimize the risk of transmission to the fetus. If you do have chronic Hep B, a vaccine, along with treatment may be given to your baby at birth. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics. If syphilis is left untreated, however, it can cause stillbirth, low birth weight, premature delivery and multiple other complications. Please talk to your physician before getting pregnant if you feel you are at risk for one of these infections.

Gonorrhea Gonorrhea is not as common as Chlamydia, but it is still a concern, with a prevalence in pregnant women of between two and seven per cent. If there are symptoms at all, they are similar to Chlamydial. Testing for Gonorrhea occurs at the same time and through the same method as Chlamydia. Left untreated, Gonorrhea can cause low birth weight, premature delivery, and a severe eye infection known as gonococcal opthalmia neonatorum in baby. Mothers can also get an infection of the uterus after delivery, which can lead to severe complications.

parentscanada.com 17

EXP_STIs_FW17.indd 17

17-10-05 11:40 AM

Q A &

There are no silly questions when it comes to pregnancy

By Dr. AMAnDA Selk

Pre-eclampsia is a very serious condition in which high blood pressure develops or worsens during pregnancy. It can affect the body’s organs, such as the kidneys or the liver. It can also prevent blood from clotting properly. Pre-eclampsia can affect the brain and nerves, possibly leading to a seizure or stroke.

And it can affect a baby’s growth.

Pre-eclampsia is more common in women who have experienced it in a previous pregnancy, who are younger than 18 years or older than 40, who have diabetes, who are carrying multiples, or who have a BMI (body mass index) greater than 35. It is most common in the third trimester, which is one of the reasons that visits to the health care provider become more frequent later in pregnancy.

I know this sounds silly, but I’m nervous about being splayed out on a table in front of a bunch of doctors and nurses during labour and birth. I picture them secretly laughing at what I look like ‘down there’.

Modesty pretty much goes out the window at this time – you’ll learn that quickly. Don’t stress; doctors, nurses and midwives are trained medical professionals.

They really aren’t thinking about what you look like ‘down there’, and they certainly don’t talk about it. They are focussed on making sure you and your baby are healthy. Think instead about the wonderful baby you are going to hold soon.

Celebrities seem to lose their baby weight within weeks. Is that common?

It typically takes much longer to lose the baby weight (unless you have a personal trainer and chef). The more extra weight you gain during pregnancy, the more challenging it will be to lose.

Diet and exercise are the keys to returning to your pre-pregnancy weight. Breastfeeding mothers burn 500 calories per day, just by breastfeeding, so that can help.

Healthy eating is very important, as is not eating more than your body needs. Walk with the baby, and if you are a runner, invest in a jogging stroller. Or try a mom and baby fitness class or home workout videos and apps.

ConCerns or worries? never be afraid to speak up or ask questions!

Shutterstock/© sirtravelalot

What is pre-eclampsia?

18

EXP_Q&A_F17.indd 18

17-10-05 1:28 PM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 19

10/5/17 10:57 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 20

10/5/17 10:58 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 21

10/5/17 10:58 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 22

10/5/17 10:58 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 23

10/5/17 10:58 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 24

10/5/17 10:58 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 25

10/5/17 10:58 AM

Thyme_EXP_F17.indd 26

10/5/17 10:59 AM

The Final Countdown You’re in the final weeks, anticipating your baby’s birth.

Try tackling these tasks a few weeks before the due date – or at least before labour begins!

by Dale Alleyne-Ho, ECE, CCBE, LE

There’s lots to do before the big day!

› Register Pre-register at the hospital. It saves time and avoids chaos when labour day arrives.

› Plan a route Schedule a tour of the labour and birth department at the hospital. Plan your route for getting there, timing how long it takes, and learning alternate routes in case of traffic problems. The entrance you use at the hospital often depends on the time of day; the emergency entrance is typically used during the night. If you are planning a home birth, arrange a tour of the nearest hospital should you need to go there.

› Charge your

battery

necessities

Nothing really prepares you for life with a new baby, but you can get the essentials ready before the birth. Set up the baby’s room and stock up on blankets, diapers and toiletries.

› Learn about breastfeeding

Make sure your partner can be reached at all times.

Have a ‘plan B’ – especially if your partner travels for work. Arrange for someone else to be available as a back-up for getting to the hospital.

Speak to your prenatal instructor or to other breastfeeding mothers. Get tips on feeding positions and address any concerns you might have about the process.

› Dig

› Pack your

out those notes

Review what you’ve learned during childbirth classes, and make sure you can access information you might want to refer to on your big day.

› get All Hands

Shutterstock/© Mariana Aabb

› Purchase

on Deck

If you might want additional support during labour, now is the time to arrange it. This could be a close friend or family member. You could also consider hiring a doula – a support worker trained to help the labouring mother and her partner – physically and emotionally – through labour and birth.

› find

Happy helpers

Help back at home, whether it’s with baby care, housework or care for other children, can make a big difference – especially with a caesarean birth.

bags

Pack one bag for the labour and birth, and another for your postpartum stay. This way, you’re not lugging around everything but the kitchen sink as you leave for the hospital.

› Simplify life Stock the kitchen with nutritious foods that are easy to prepare. Cooking and freezing meals ahead of time is a great idea.

› Review your

birth plan together

A birth plan outlines how you would like to be cared for during the labour and birth, and postpartum.

Remember to keep it short and concise. Be open and willing to accept any change in plans should it become medically necessary. parentscanada.com 27

Exp_FinalCountdown.indd 27

17-10-03 1:56 PM

REASONS to breastfeed

1

Breast milk is ready-made, no preparation needed. It is available for Baby whenever, wherever, and is always the right temperature.

2

Breast milk is easily digested, which means it causes less gas and is easier on Baby’s gut.

3

Breast milk contains immunoglobulin. In simple terms, these are antibodies that protect against viruses and bacteria by passive immunity from mother to baby.

4

Breast milk contains stem cells. The presence of stem cells is a quality of breast milk that can’t be duplicated. Stem cells are made to heal and regenerate. It keeps baby healthy and happy.

8

BY JANET M. LANG RN, IBCLC, RLC

Go green! Breastfeeding is an environmentally friendly option to explore.

9

Allergies are less likely in breastfed babies.

10

Breastfeeding benefits Mom, too. It reduces the rates of breast cancer and ovarian cancer, and helps Mom return to her pre-pregnancy weight faster.

11

Breastfeeding will pay for a family vacation! By using your own milk, you can actually save $1,500 – $2,000 (or more!) each year.

Shutterstock/© Hibrida

11

5

Breast milk research has shown that breastfed babies tend to have higher IQs and faster brain development than babies who aren’t breastfed.

6

The closeness and comfort of breastfeeding strengthens the bond with your baby. You can help build a secure, loving relationship.

7

Contrary to rumours, breastfeeding doesn’t hurt. You may feel pulling as the baby suckles, but if it is painful, work to correct the latch.

28

EXP_Breastfeeding_F17.indd 28

17-10-04 1:54 PM

Henley & Heart Even very young babies can rock cool clothes.

This online store showcases apparel such as these pink splatter leggings from No Biggie and sweatpants from Lulu and Roo. › splatter leggings: $32.43 › sweatpants: $36.17 Buy them at: henleyandheart. com. Click to see Canadian prices as you browse!

NEED IT

WAN T IT

gotta have it!

Skip Hop Pacifier Pocket Keep that precious pacifier close – and clean – while out and about with your babe(s). Pop one or two pacifiers inside the pocket’s antimicrobialprotected lining, zip it up and attach to your stroller or diaper bag. › $11.99 Buy it at: specialty stores across Canada

Mally Designs Ltd. Honour the great Canadian family camping trip with this two-sided leather bib from home-grown Mally Designs.

All manner of food washes off the leather and heavy duty nylon thread. Features a magnet closure and pocket.

Can be personalized. › $45.00 Buy it at: specialty stores or mallydesigns.com

Lulla Doll This handmade doll plays a recording of the heartbeat of a real mother at rest for up to eight hours. Soft, washable natural cotton outer layer. Suitable for newborns – but remember loose items shouldn’t be left in a crib with a baby under one.

Sound level is safe for babies’ hearing. › $99.99 Buy it at: specialty stores or lulladoll.com

parentscanada.com 29

EXP_NiWi_F17.indd 29

17-10-04 1:24 PM

1. Olivia

canada’s top five

1. Liam

Choosing your child’s name is fun – and kinda important! Here’s the latest Canadian data to help you decide.*

Latin – ‘olive branch’.

First in seven out of 10 provinces; in every province’s top five

What’s your

Name?

irish – uilliam – from Wilhelm (German). in nine provinces’ top fives; number one in half

on the move within the top 100:

2. Emma

Girls’ names evoking nature: • isLa • ivy • Jade • rose and the cosmos: • aurora • Luna

2. William

Boys’ names ending in -er, -or and -ar: • asher • connor • Jasper • xavier • oscar – a name used in many languages: danish, dutch, english, irish, italian, norwegian, portuguese and swedish

3. Charlotte

‘la belle province’

3. Lucas

as expected, the list in Quebec is different: • Emma is number one, • Olivia is number three, • William is first, • liam is third...

4. Sophia

...but filling out the rest of Quebec’s top five are names not in the national list: • Léa • aLice • FLorence (girls) • thomas • nathan • FéLix (boys)

4. Benjamin

French names were predictably wellrepresented in the province’s top 50, including • adèLe • anaïs • noémie (girls) • Léo • henri • Laurent (boys)

5. Ava

*From 2016 data for all provinces except ontario and the territories (data from 2015).

5. Oliver

30

EXP_Baby Names_F17.indd 30

17-10-10 11:36 AM

An intelligent choice.

In more ways than one.

Your baby’s brain growth will be 85% complete by the age of three.

Nourish him today with DHA-enriched Enfamil A+®.

Your baby’s brain will never grow this fast again, so it’s an important time to support that growth with Enfamil A+. It has a clinically proven level of brain-nourishing DHA, a type of Omega-3 fat. Enfamil A+ is easy to digest and is our closest formula to breast milk. All reasons that help make it the #1 pediatrician-recommended formula brand.

whydha.ca enfamil.ca/whyenfamil Nourishing milestones at every stage stage.™

Enfamil_EXP_F17.indd 32

Breastfeeding is best for babies © 2017 Mead Johnson & Company, LLC

10/5/17 10:54 AM

5298_BioOil_ParentsCanadaHaley_5.375x7.5_Preg_E.pdf

1

Sep-28-2017

11:09 AM

Stretch mark product most recommended by doctors and pharmacists.*

“I was already using Bio-Oil before my pregnancy because it was so dry where I was living and I found it was just really convenient for me. So when I got pregnant I thought that’s the best way to deal with stretch marks. And it was.

I used to put it on after my shower. And I thought I’m big, my tummy’s in the way, it’s harder to bend... but I was thrilled because it just kinda went in.”

Hayley with Zoe

Bio-Oil® helps reduce the possibility of pregnancy stretch marks forming by increasing the skin’s elasticity. It should be applied twice daily from the start of the second trimester.

For comprehensive product information, and details of clinical trials, please visit bio-oil.com. Bio-Oil is available at drugstores and selected retailers. Individual results will vary. *The Medical Post, Profession Santé and Pharmacy Practice + 2017 Survey on OTC Counselling & Recommendations New Packaging Same Formulation

Advanced Innovations

BioOil_EXP_F17.indd 5298 - Bio31 Oil - Pregnancy – Haley & Zoe

10/5/17 10:51 AM