Author: hatcheddesigns

7 Natural Ways To Prepare For Labour

As you get closer to your due date, you’re probably feeling so ready to give birth. 

It’s not unusual for women to start wondering if they can prepare for labour as they get to these last weeks. 

There are so many natural ways to prepare for labour, it’s hard to know which is the best to choose – or should you try them all?

Rest assured, your body was made to give birth and likely has been gently preparing without you realising. 

For some women, not doing anything can really mess with their ability to be patient and wait for labour to unfold in its own time. 

They start looking for ways to ‘get things going’ which can have the opposite effect they want.

Let’s take a look at some natural ways to prepare for labour, allowing the process to unfold as it should. 

How do you know your body is getting ready for labor?

Your body is sent signals from your baby that they’re getting close to being ready for birth. As their lungs reach the final stage of development, able to breathe after birth, certain chemicals interact with your body to begin the process of labour. Long before actual contractions start, your body is getting ready. 

Your cervix must ripen and shift position. This might be felt in slight aching or cramping, but it’s just as likely you won’t notice these sensations because you’re already dealing with back ache and Braxton hicks. 

As your cervix ripens, the mucus plug might start to come away. You might notice an increase in vaginal discharge, which looks like jelly and might be tinged with pink if your cervix has started to dilate slightly. 

You also might be feeling different emotionally. Impatient, restless, teary, obsessed with cleaning the house. Mood swings are a really big indicator you’re making the shift from pregnant to transitioning to motherhood. 

What can I do to prepare for labour?

First, let’s be clear – we encourage women who are having a healthy, normal pregnancy to embrace these last weeks and be patient with their baby and body. 

There is no need to hurry things along. Your baby is putting on the finishing touches and will chose his or her birth day when all is ready. Labour will begin when it is time for you to meet your baby. 

To allow your busy mind to step back and make way for your birthing brain, you might like to try one or any of these tips to prepare for labour:

#1: Practise relaxation techniques

Probably one of the most valuable techniques you can learn through pregnancy is how to release and let go. Relaxation encompasses not just the physical, but also the mental and emotional tensions we place on ourselves. 

Often the unconscious mind has absorbed all the stories about birth, positive and negative. This on top of facing a pandemic that is shifting how birth might look at your chosen birthplace, can increase your feelings of anxiety. 

It’s important to actively support your mental health at this time. Switch off or limit social media and the news, get plenty of sleep so you’re refreshed each day. 

Learning to breathe slowly and deeply helps your body and mind to seer into calm waters, preventing tension in your muscles, reducing stress hormones that might interfere with the hormonal shift needed for labour to begin. 

#2: Massage to prepare for labour

Massage therapy has incredible benefits for women during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. It encourages the production of oxytocin, the love hormone we release when feeling good. Oxytocin promotes contractions of the uterus, so it’s a key ingredient in getting baby from inside to outside!

Massage therapy in late pregnancy has another really important effect. Sometimes babies are tucked up in positions which aren’t ideal for birth. This might change during labour but it can be something that causes worry or anxiety beforehand, increasing stress hormones which work against oxytocin. 

Preparing your body for labour with massage therapy can stimulate acupressure points that assist with cervical dilation and contractions by boosting oxytocin levels too. 

Nurtured Birth offers massage therapy that addresses functional issues preventing your baby from getting into the optimal position for birth. Releasing muscle tension will create the space your baby needs to move into the pelvis, or to rotate from breech, posterior or even tuck their chin in! We also offer Shiatsu massage for labour preparation, which utilises specific acupressure points. 

Get in touch with us to book a massage session to start preparing for labour by contacting us here. 

#3: Nourish your body 

Labour is like running a marathon –  it uses up a lot of energy and you need some key nutrients to keep your reserves well stocked. 

Your uterus is your strongest muscle, with vertical and horizontal muscle fibres intertwining to create a mighty force to birth your baby. Muscles need fuel to keep working, so ensuring your diet is nutrient dense and balanced is of great importance. 

In particular, protein is essential as it’s a building block of oxytocin, so things like bone broth and meat cooked on the bone are excellent sources. 

If you’re a vegetarian, find ways to increase your protein intake during your last weeks of pregnancy. You might like to seek the support from our naturopath at Nurtured Birth for more advice on how to best meet your protein and mineral needs. 

#4: Exercise to prepare for labour

It’s hard when you’re this pregnant to even think about moving. What if we told you exercise is one of the key factors in ensuring a normal birth, with a shorter labour? Research has shown exercise to be one of the best and easiest ways to prepare your body for labour. 

It can be as simple as a walk for half an hour each day. Get your heart rate up a bit, move those muscles and breathe in fresh air – you also up your vitamin D levels and improve your gut health at the same time! 

#5: Raspberry leaf tea

Red raspberry leaf tea is a traditional brew offered to women in their last month of pregnancy. You may have the idea it’s to induce labour but instead it acts as a tonic, preparing the uterus for labour. 

Red raspberry leaves are chock full of nutrients, such as B vitamins, iron, calcium, iron , potassium and magnesium. It’s often referred to as the woman’s herb as it contains a compound called fragarine, which tones and tightens muscles in the pelvic area, including the uterus. 

Some studies have shown women who drink red raspberry leaf tea will have shorter labours and fewer interventions. 

Click here to book a session with Nurtured Birth’s naturopath to find out how herbal medicine can assist in toning and strengthening your uterine muscles before you give birth. 

#6: Eating dates

You may have heard of an old wives’ tale that eating dates can help women to have an easy birth. 

This tradition comes from the Middle East and is mentioned in the Quran as well. Research into this tradition has shown it to be an effective way to prepare for labour. 

Studies show women who ate 6 or more dates every day for 4 weeks before birth were more likely to go into labour naturally, have a shorter labour, and dilate more efficiently than those who hadn’t eaten dates.

Don’t like dates? Blitz some up in a food processor, add in almond meal, coconut and cocoa, abd roll the mixture into balls. These are healthy snacks and there’s any number of recipes to search. 

#7: Boost your oxytocin

In the last stages of pregnancy, your body prepares for labour in a number of ways. Progesterone levels start to decrease, which means your body becomes more sensitive to oxytocin, the hormone responsible for uterine contractions.

Oxytocin receptors in the uterus begin to increase in number and your levels of the hormone begin to build up. This is a wonderful time to boost your oxytocin levels, to ensure the process has every opportunity to progress. Ways to do this include:

  • Laugh – it really is a wonderful tonic to lift your mood and get that love hormone flowing
  • Embrace – hugs and touch with someone you love, snuggle your pet
  • Sex – intimacy is certainly a surefire way of boosting the love hormones, especially with nipple stimulation and orgasm
  • Tune in – listening to our favourite music can increase positivity and feel good feelings that lead to more oxytocin 
  • Share – your thoughts and feelings, your time, your ear or share food. Being kind and positive towards others makes us feel good inside, which sparks off plenty of that love hormone.

The bottom line – you don’t have to do anything to get labour to start but you can be an active participant in smoothing the pathway to a positive and empowering birth. 

Nuchal Cord – What You Should Know

The way your baby is growing inside your body is nothing short of a miracle. 

The umbilical cord and placenta are your baby’s lifeline – they bring in nutrients and oxygen and take away waste products. 

The umbilical cord is a much underrated part of pregnancy and is quickly forgotten once a baby is born.

One of the fears mamas-to-be worry about is the cord being wrapped around their baby’s neck. This is called a nuchal cord and is actually very common. 

Let’s take a look at nuchal cords and what this means if your baby has one. 

What is a nuchal cord?

The umbilical cord is the long tube connecting your baby to you during pregnancy. It contains three blood vessels:

  • One carries food and oxygen from the placenta to baby
  • Two carry waste from baby back to the placenta.

A healthy umbilical cord is filled with a special substance called Wharton’s jelly. This soft, gelatinous goo protects the veins inside the cord against compression and prevents them from kinking. 

As your baby grows, so does the umbilical cord. According to research on the topic, cords can be anything from 19 to 133 centimetres at birth. 

With all that cord, it’s no wonder babies end up getting tangled up in them sometimes! While there’s plenty of space and fluid for the baby to move around in, the cord tends to slip off easily. Babies even play with their umbilical cords and get their hands and feet wrapped up. 

As they get bigger and there’s less room, the cord doesn’t move as easily. So it’s not uncommon for it to be wrapped around their body or neck. When a baby is born with the cord around their neck, this is called a nuchal cord. 

Nuchal cords happen in up to 30% or 1 in 3 births, so they’re not uncommon. The cord is rarely wrapped more than once around the neck. 

What causes nuchal cord?

Mums who have been pregnant before or are in their third trimester will know just how much babies move around! Baby movement is a good sign of their wellbeing and pregnant women are encouraged to get to know their baby’s movement patterns.

So it won’t surprise you to know baby movement is one of the main causes of why they can be born with a nuchal cord. 

But there are some other causes of nuchal cords, such as:

  • Insufficient Wharton’s jelly 
  • Being pregnant with twins or more babies
  • The cord is very long
  • You have excessive amniotic fluid, known as polyhydramnios.

How is nuchal cord diagnosed?

You might be surprised to know many nuchal cords aren’t diagnosed before birth. A nuchal cord can be picked up on ultrasound during one of your regular scans. But it’s important to remember the cord can untangle, especially if you’re still in early pregnancy. 

If a nuchal cord is diagnosed before birth, this will be noted in case your health care providers want to monitor baby during labour. 

What are the risks?

Complications happening with nuchal cords are extremely rare. Research into this area actually shows 

The main concern with nuchal cords is compression during labour. However, it’s important to remember that compression of the umbilical cord happens naturally during contractions. 

Babies usually cope incredibly well with this temporary lack of oxygen but any signs of distress will show up in their heart rate during monitoring. Your midwife will check your baby’s heart rate during labour to watch for this and make sure it’s not impacting on your baby’s well being. 

It’s a normal part of labour for a baby’s heart rate to drop during contractions, then recover. Research has shown this is often due to baby’s head or cord being compressed during a contraction or when mothers are pushing.

Studies also show a cord around the neck is unlikely to be the main reason for adverse outcomes. It’s likely those events happen in babies born with other complications as well. 

Is normal birth possible with nuchal cord?

It’s absolutely possible to have a normal labour and birth with a nuchal cord. Your care providers may suggest more frequent monitoring to ensure your baby is coping fine. To avoid increasing the chances of fetal distress, you can ask to have monitoring while you’re upright, such as sitting on a birth ball or standing. 

C-sections as a ‘just in case’ measure aren’t recommended by leading maternity care experts such as the UK’s College Of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Instead, care providers should support women to give birth with as few interventions as possible, to reduce any small risk of complications with nuchal cords. 

How do I prevent complications?

Unless you have had a late ultrasound just before giving birth, there’s no way to know if your baby has a nuchal cord. Which is why it’s so important for pregnant women to be informed about how to achieve a positive birth experience with as few interventions as possible.

Interventions are often suggested to women without them understanding the ripple effect of those procedures. From breaking the bag of waters to the more invasive induction of labour, these interventions have the increased risk of causing a complication that was very unlikely to happen without it.

Even though nuchal cords rarely cause any complications, no woman wishes to put her baby in danger if there was something she could do to avoid it. 

Supporting women to have a normal, active birth is the first and most important step we can take to reduce complications and interventions that might lead to further issues.

This starts with women being informed and aware of what normal birth is. From there, offering pregnancy and birth care that supports women in achieving a normal birth, without rushing the process that must unfold for birth without complications. 

Finally, respecting a woman’s right to choose what is right for her and her baby. Care providers work in a system that encourages intervention as action. Instead, women should be informed about the way an intervention can create more problems. 

Can a nuchal cord be prevented? 

Nuchal cords are very much a normal occurrence of birth. There is an extremely small risk of anything going wrong but nuchal cords can’t be prevented. Being told your baby has a nuchal cord can cause a lot of anxiety and stress, but it isn’t anything you have or haven’t done. 

The best thing you can do to avoid complications is to work towards having a normal birth. You’re aiming for an active, upright labour, with the type of support and environment that promotes oxytocin. Caring, supportive birth team who will actively help you to achieve your birth wishes. 

Things to think about:

  • Avoid induction: this increases the strength of contractions which can increase the risk of fetal distress
  • Avoid having an epidural: these are common with inductions and tend to mean you are confined to the bed, lying down
  • Don’t have your membranes ruptured as this can increase cord compression which is more of a risk than nuchal cord
  • Monitoring should be done only as necessary and avoid being trapped lying down on a bed for long periods. 

Is nuchal cord an emergency?

Remember, your baby is getting oxygen through the cord and placenta while in labour and even in the first minutes after birth – which is why delayed cord clamping is SO important. You can read more about that in Delayed Cord Clamping And The Umbilical Cord. 

If your healthcare provider is not seeing signs of distress, then a nuchal cord is not an emergency. 

Nurtured Birth can support you to become informed about your birth choices and choose the right care provider for you. Please contact us to discuss how we can nurture you through this incredible journey.

Christmas Gift Ideas For New Mums

Christmas gift ideas for new mums or pregnant mamas can be tricky to figure out.

Usually it’s the baby getting all the attention – so it’s time to make sure mum gets some support too.

Becoming a mum is both the most rewarding and exhausting thing a woman will ever do. Whether you’re pregnant or had a baby during the coronavirus pandemic, you’re probably finding things tougher right now. 

There’s been a lot of media reports that the stress and worry of the pandemic has impacted the mental and physical health of parents, especially women who are pregnant, birthing, or parenting in these uncertain times. 

So over this Christmas period, let’s show the new and expecting mums how much we value them.

Whether it’s a practical present to make life that much easier, or something special and personal as a treat, we’ve rounded up our favourite Christmas gift ideas for new mums. 

Massage gift voucher

We talk a lot about self care but it’s not always a simple thing to squeeze into a busy mama’s life at the best of times. And when restrictions have made it hard to leave home, it can be even trickier to find the space and energy to look after yourself. 

At Nurtured Birth, we believe body therapy in the form of massage to be one of the most luscious ways for expecting and new mamas to take care of their own needs. A massage nourishes and soothes the body and mind. 

A gift voucher for self care is a beautiful way to say thank you for all you do. And partners can learn to do massage, to keep the nurture going through the holidays. 

Click here to purchase a gift voucher for massage therapy.

Breastfeeding support

If you’re expecting or your baby is born around Christmas time, having plenty of support to ensure breastfeeding goes well can ensure happy holidays. 

For the mama planning to breastfeed, Nurtured Birth has a range of products to support her choice. From nipple cups to breast pads, and delicious Franjos Kitchen lactation cookies, we have everything a breastfeeding mama needs. 

And while pumping breast milk can be a little onerous, Haakaa have created a 100% eco friendly breast pump with accessories to collect let down milk and colostrum! Not a drop of that precious liquid gets wasted. 

Click on the links above to go to our shop to purchase any of these products. 

Pregnancy pillow

Sleep is so important during pregnancy but it becomes hard to rest well as the weight of the baby puts pressure on the spine. And after birth, a new mama’s body takes time to adjust back to sleeping positions other than on her side! Add in the weather heating up over the Christmas holidays which can make sleep even more difficult to get. 

What better way to prove some support to an expecting or new mama and gift her a pregnancy pillow, designed to offer the most comfortable support for a beautiful night’s sleep. 

Nurtured Birth stocks Dentons Pregnancy Pillow because we believe it’s the best produce available for pregnancy and postnatal support. You can purchase the pillow in our online shop here. 

Birth support

Mamas who are pregnant may be feeling a little uncertain in the current coronavirus situation, especially if they haven’t been able to access the birth support they’d hoped to. 

Nurtured Birth offers online birth education and other birth workshops to help women and partners feel confident about their birth journey. Please follow this link to see the workshops on offer for expecting and new parents and book online. 

We also offer Rhea Dempsey’s wonderful books Birth With Confidence and Beyond The Birth Plan, highly recommended for all expecting parents. You can purchase these as a bundle by clicking this link. 

Connection

For many families, Christmas is a time to connect with loved ones and share good food, company and gifts. Many of us haven’t been able to see family or friends for many weeks, months or even years since the pandemic has impacted our ability to travel or visit. 

And while restrictions have been in place, there hasn’t been access to parent groups, playgroups or other activities that connect new parents into their local community.

So organising ways for a new mum to hang out with other mums is a wonderful opportunity for her to feel connected and supported. 

 Nurtured Birth runs online pregnancy and postnatal mother’s group sessions, please contact us for more information. 

And for some suggestions about other Christmas gift ideas to go along with these, how about…

  • A voucher to a streaming service mama uses, for those late night breastfeeding sessions
  • A gift membership to an audio book service, so she can keep up with the latest bestsellers 
  • A gorgeous scarf, that not only looks great with anything she wears but can double as a sunshield, pram cover or play mat
  • Find out what her favourite beauty brand is and organise a pamper pack that includes luxurious scented candles, essential oils, bath goodies…the works!
  • Silky, luxe summer pjs and robe, so she’s comfy and cool at night
  • A big but beautiful bag that doesn’t scream ‘nappies’ but fits everything she needs for a day out with bub
  • Gift mama some time off, with a babysitting voucher.

Hopefully these Christmas gift ideas have helped you get sorted for the pregnant or new mama in your life. And from all of us at Nurtured Birth, we wish you happy holidays.

Best Valentine’s Day Gifts Ideas For Pregnant Mums

Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year we go above and beyond to show our special someone how much we care about them. For many couples, it’s really special – and even more so when you’re expecting a baby! 

It’s easy for all the focus to be on the baby during pregnancy, so it’s important to show your partner you cherish her for the amazing person she is and remember why you fell in love with her in the first place. 

There are many questions about the origins of Valentine’s Day. Some suggest a festival of Ancient Rome called Lupercalia celebrating the coming of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Others believe it’s named after a number of Christian martyrs.

It wasn’t until the 14th century that Valentine’s Day was celebrated as a day for romance and lovers. And the angst of what to surprise your beloved with as a gift has probably not changed!

To help out, we’ve put together this list of best Valentine’s Day gifts for pregnant mums, to surprise and delight your partner. 

Maternity pillow

Getting a good night’s sleep is so important for everyone, whether you’re pregnant or not. But it’s not that easy for your pregnant partner to get proper rest because finding a comfortable position is challenging. 

A pregnancy or maternity pillow is giving her the gift of restful nights, which will help her to feel good during the days too. The pillow can be used long after she’s pregnant too, which shows how much you care. 

Nurtured Birth knows exactly how important a restful sleep is to pregnant women, which is why we stock the Dentons Pregnancy Pillow as we believe it’s the best in supporting a good night’s sleep. 

Prenatal massage

There’s something very special about spoiling your partner with some time on the massage table. 

Pregnancy is exciting, but all those changes can mean she’s not as comfortable, both physically and emotionally.

Massage therapy provides a nurturing space where your partner is the focus – and all the tension in her muscles and any stresses melt away. Massage during pregnancy enhances mood, reduces pain and swelling, and can have a positive impact on her birth experience. 

Surprise your pregnant partner with a luxurious Valentine’s Day massage by booking a session with Nurtured Birth’s certified prenatal massage therapists, who are specially trained to address pregnancy needs. 

Maternity photoshoot

Memorialise this special time in your lives and organise a professional maternity photoshoot for your partner. 

Not only will you look back and remember this Valentine’s Day forever, your partner will remember feeling beautiful and special, which she is! 

If the photographer you hire doesn’t organise this, book a hair and make up stylist too, to really make your partner feel pampered and amazing. 

Maternity underwear

As your partner’s body changes, you might notice she starts to feel unattractive, frumpy and ugly. It really is a challenge at times to feel that pregnancy glow. 

Make your pregnant partner feel as beautiful as you see her with a gift of gorgeous maternity underwear. Choose colours and fabrics that will make her feel special when she wears them. 

If lingerie isn’t her thing, maybe pajamas or a robe that she can wear after she gives birth as well. Look for luxe, breathable fabrics that will feel good next to her skin. 

Hire a cleaner 

Perhaps this seems like a very unromantic idea but we promise, giving your pregnant partner the gift of a clean home she hasn’t had to lift a finger to tidy herself will make her day! 

Make it special by organising the cleaner to come while you whisk your partner off and spoil her with delicious food, a movie or even a night away. 

Imagine her surprise and joy when she gets home to a clean house! Top it off with a vase of beautiful flowers and a gift certificate for another clean in the future when she needs some me-time. 

Spa day 

Go all out and surprise your pregnant partner with a day spa package, including pregnancy safe treatments such as a facial, manicure and pedicure.

Remember to tell the spa company your partner is pregnant, so avoid treatments that could raise her body temperature with excess heat such as saunas or body wraps. 

At home spa day

If your pregnant partner isn’t up for leaving the house, why not bring a day spa to her. There’s nothing like getting a personally curated gift pack of your favourite things, such as bath salts, gorgeous candles and some yummy nibbles. 

Transform your bathroom into a beautiful relaxing space, with scented candles and lush towels ready. Include a bath caddy brimming with her favourite nibbles and reading material, salts and dried flower petals to be added to the bath water.

Afterwards, continue the at home spa treatment with a loving massage using pregnancy friendly essential oils, and a mini pedi. 

A pamper pack can include whatever your partner loves, such as essential oils or candles for burning, salts for a foot soak or bath, a gorgeous heat pack, her favourite brand of moisturiser and some lovely chocolates. Include a gift voucher for a facial or pedicure and make her feel pampered and special.

Heat pack

There’s no denying pregnancy brings with it many types of aches, pains and muscle spasms as the body changes in order to grow another human being! One of the best ways to ease these aches and pains is to use heat on the area.

Heat therapy increases blood flow which brings oxygen and nutrients to the areas that are sore and painful. It’s a soothing way to ease pain and bring comfort to joints, muscles and ligaments in areas of your partner’s body that need it. 

There are some absolutely beautifully designed and scented heat packs on the market these days. Not only does a heat pack help ease those sore muscles and joints your pregnant partner feels at the end of the day, if it’s gorgeous as well, it will lift her mood thinking about how you care for her wellbeing. 

Gestational Diabetes – Everything You Need To Know

It’s natural to worry if you’re diagnosed with gestational diabetes or told you’re at risk of developing the condition during pregnancy. 

You may feel anxious gestational diabetes will change your birth plans or cause you to need interventions during labour.

Remember, being informed about your pregnancy care and health means you can make the best decisions for you and your baby. 

Most women who develop gestational diabetes will have healthy pregnancies, normal births and beautifully healthy babies. 

Let’s take a dive into the topic of gestational diabetes, what causes it and how it’s treated. 

What is gestational diabetes?

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that only occurs during pregnancy. It’s diagnosed when your blood sugar levels are too high, usually between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy.

According to health data from 2017, 1 in 7 or 15% of pregnant women in Australia develop gestational diabetes, and this number is growing each year.

The increase in number is potentially due to more women having babies later, as the incidence of GDM increases as women age. 

What causes gestational diabetes?

During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones to support your baby’s growth and development. These hormones have an effect on your insulin, which is the hormone that regulates your blood sugar or blood glucose levels. It moves glucose from your blood to your cells to be used for energy. 

In pregnancy, your body becomes slightly insulin resistant, so there’s more glucose in your bloodstream and this is passed onto your baby. But if the resistance to insulin increases, this causes blood glucose levels to become very high, leading to GDM. 

Usually once you’ve given birth, your blood sugar levels will return to normal. However, having gestational diabetes increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. 

Who is at risk of developing gestational diabetes?

There are some women who are more likely to develop GDM than others. These women have risk factors such as:

  • Had GDM in previous pregnancy
  • Have a family history of type 2 diabetes
  • Mother or sister had GDM
  • Are older, especially over 40 years of age
  • Before pregnancy above healthy weight range
  • Have had elevated blood glucose levels before 
  • First Nations women
  • Women from African, South Asian, Polynesian, Middle Eastern, Melanesian, Chinese, Southeast Asian, Hispanic and South American backgrounds 
  • Have polycystic ovarian syndrome
  • Have had a large baby (>4.5kg)
  • Taking certain medications, such as steroids. 

Bear in mind, women with no known risk factors can also develop gestational diabetes.

What are the warning signs of GDM?

It’s actually not very common for gestational diabetes to cause symptoms. Most women who have symptoms find they’re mild, and include:

  • Excessive thirst
  • Extreme hunger
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision.

Most often women don’t realise they have GDM until they have routine screening at 24-28 weeks pregnant. 

How do you diagnose gestational diabetes?

It’s recommended all pregnant women are screened for gestational diabetes between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. 

Screening involves having an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). You need to fast for 8-12 hours (usually overnight) and then have a blood sample collected. After the blood test, you will drink 75mg of sugar and then have your blood sugar levels tested 2 hours later. 

If the blood test shows glucose levels above normal, you’re then diagnosed with gestational diabetes. 

What’s the treatment for gestational diabetes?

The good news is, most women with gestational diabetes can have a healthy pregnancy, normal birth and a healthy baby. Much of this will depend on two things:

  • How you manage your gestational diabetes
  • Your care provider’s attitude and support.

Nutrition is so important during pregnancy, but a diagnosis of GDM can mean extra focus on the quality of food you’re eating.

It’s recommended you include plenty of nutrient dense vegetables, high quality protein, healthy fats, legumes and pulses, and wholegrain carbohydrates.

Strive to include a variety of foods and stay away from foods high in sugar and highly processed. They provide little in terms of nutrients and are likely to cause your blood sugar levels to spike. 

Exercise not only helps to keep blood glucose levels stable, there are other benefits too! Did you know pregnant women who exercise are likely to have shorter labours and easier births? Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days, which can be as simple as a brisk walk or swimming laps. 

Managing gestational diabetes means having the support of those around you – family, friends and your healthcare providers.

It’s not uncommon for women to be told they will need interventions due to having gestational diabetes when it comes time to give birth. Having a supportive care provider who works with you to achieve a normal and positive birth experience is important.

It also means being informed about the best options for you, when you get close to full term.

Some women are fortunate and can manage their GDM with lifestyle changes alone. Others will need to take medication.

Metformin is a medication that helps your body to respond better to insulin, as well as keeping your weight and blood pressure down. There are some side effects, which include an upset stomach and diarrhea. 

Insulin may be needed, which is given via injection, if Metformin isn’t working or can’t be taken. Your healthcare team will show you how to use the insulin injections, where to store them and so on.

What happens if GDM is untreated?

If GDM isn’t managed, it can lead to high blood sugar levels that cause problems for you and your baby. 

Gestational diabetes can cause you to:

  • Develop high blood pressure and preeclampsia
  • Have interventions such as a c-section
  • Develop diabetes in the future. 

Gestational diabetes increases the risk your baby will:

  • Grow larger than usual due to the increased blood glucose. The main concern is the baby will be too big and need interventions to be born, such as c-section
  • Be born prematurely, either unplanned or due to induction 
  • Have breathing problems at birth and need special care
  • Have low blood sugars which can cause seizures. This needs monitoring, early feeding and sometimes IV fluids
  • Be stillborn (very rare)
  • Develop obesity/type 2 diabetes later in life. 

What should I avoid eating with gestational diabetes?

As we mentioned earlier, the best diet you can have while pregnant is one that takes in as much variety of nutrient dense foods as possible. There’s no need to remove any food group, but there’s certainly a case for watching how much you eat of certain foods, such as simple carbohydrates. 

Simple carbs are the type which cause your blood sugar to rise quickly after eating. The best way to avoid this is to swap them out with more complex carbohydrates, such as wholefood grain options, more vegetables and lean protein.

Definitely assess the amount of sugar you’re eating, and limit sugary foods like sweets, chocolate and biscuits. If you’re craving sugar, opt for healthier options like berries with yoghurt or chia pudding. Try to include protein with your meals and snacks to encourage blood glucose levels to stay stable. 

Can drinking water help gestational diabetes?

It’s important to think about what you’re drinking, not just your food intake.

Sugary drinks or beverages like chai lattes are likely to drive your blood glucose levels up so try to avoid them. Even fruit juices and smoothies can be high in sugar so keep that in mind as well. A smoothie made at home with almond milk, berries and yoghurt with a dash of cacao is a much better option. 

But the main fluid you should be drinking is water. Water has no calories or carbohydrates so it’s perfect as it won’t raise blood glucose levels. 

Can you get rid of GDM while pregnant?

Many women want to know if they can prevent or reverse gestational diabetes, especially if they’re concerned having the condition will impact their birth choices. 

Nearly 50 years ago a study looked at the effects of vitamin B6 on gestational diabetes. The study size was small but the results indicated a deficiency of B6 was linked to gestational diabetes. Further research has been conducted since then which suggests there is definitely a link between vitamin B6 and gestational diabetes. 

Ensuring your diet has plenty of vitamin B6 when pregnant is important for your developing baby too. It’s vital for their brain and nervous system development, and helps their body to metabolize carbohydrates and protein. Fish, lean meat, and nuts are excellent sources of vitamin B6, as well as chickpeas. 

If you’re worried about your nutritional profile, ask your healthcare provider to organise blood tests. Supplements are useful only if you are deficient in nutrients.

Does gestational diabetes go away after birth?

Normally, GDM disappears after you give birth. It’s usual for your doctor or midwife to test your glucose levels 6-12 weeks and it’s recommended to have testing every year for type 2 diabetes if you’re planning another baby. 

Breastfeeding after birth is especially beneficial for mothers who had gestational diabetes as it helps to regulate both your weight and your baby’s. 

To reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes after GDM, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight range, eat a wonderfully nutritious diet and be physically active whenever possible. 

If you need support for the prevention or management of gestational diabetes, you may like to see Nurtured Birth’s naturopath who can work with you to create a holistic pregnancy care plan.

Please contact us for more information or to book an appointment. 

Human Rights In Childbirth – What You Need To Know

Having a baby is one of the most amazing and exciting times for a woman and her family. There is so much to look forward to, and surprisingly a lot of planning! 

With the vast majority of women giving birth in hospitals in Australia, it’s easy to believe there’ll be no issues with how your pregnancy and birth will go. 

And for many women, they have a positive and successful birth experience and never question why.

There is a framework of laws that protects the human rights of women in childbirth, which works to reduce abuse, disrespect and unsafe practices in maternity care. 

Based on these laws, all women are entitled to access safe and quality care which recognises their right to make decisions without fear of being discriminated against or disadvantaged in any way. 

While this might not seem like something that you need to worry about, it’s important to have an awareness and knowledge about human rights in childbirth. That way, you can recognise if you’re not being centred in your care and know how to deal with it. 

What are human rights?

The term human rights has evolved out of the idea every person in the world has the same basic rights, which are based on values such as dignity, respect and independence. 

We tend to think of human rights being about such situations as slavery or lack of access to basic health care. But they also apply to specific experiences, such as pregnancy and maternity care. 

Human Rights In Childbirth, a leading charity organisation focused on protecting women’s human rights in maternity care, says there are four main areas of basic human rights:

  • Life
  • Health
  • Privacy 
  • Equality.

The World Health Organization says international human rights frameworks are important to ensuring health systems provide respectful and quality maternity care. 

What are my rights when I am pregnant and giving birth?

There are human rights laws which give all women the right to receive safe, quality maternity care and to make your own choices about the care or treatment you are offered. 

These laws also mean maternity healthcare professionals and hospitals must treat you with respect and dignity at all times, including your autonomy to make decisions about yourself. 

Where do our human rights come from?

The idea that humans have basic rights probably steam from way back in 1215 in Britain  with the Magna Carta Libertatum or the Great Charter of Freedoms. From that time, a number of laws were developed that developed further the idea that all humans deserved the same rights and freedoms. 

The Second World War and the atrocities that happened as a result increased the pressure to make the protection of human rights a priority for all countries around the world.

In 1945, the United Nations was formed and 50 Member States worked to contribute to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948. 

Australian rights are decided based on international law, laws made by our courts, and laws enacted by our parliament. In 2008 The Australian Charter Of Healthcare Rights was adopted by federal and state health ministers. It was developed by the Healthcare Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare, in consultation with the Australian government, health sector and health consumer groups. 

The Australian Charter Of Healthcare Rights outlines the rights of patients, consumers and anyone using the Australian healthcare system. These rights ensure the safest and highest quality healthcare is provided to all people. 

How do human rights apply to maternity care?

Human rights laws extend to how women can expect to be treated during pregnancy and birth. 

The four key areas of human rights mean women should be respected to choose the care and treatment they wish for. 

Care providers must provide maternity care that respects human rights, particularly with regards to informed consent and the right to autonomy. 

What rights do I have in maternity care?

When you’re first pregnant, it’s difficult to know what the ‘right’ thing is to do. Often we look for guidance from others, whether that’s to do with which care provider and birth place to choose, and information about pregnancy and birth. 

Almost all women in Australia go through the public or private hospital system to give birth. In this setting, it can be really easy to defer to the authority of healthcare professionals. 

While care providers all have the same end goal in mind, which is the safe birth of your baby and you being safe too, it’s important to know you have autonomy over decisions about this process. 

Human rights in childbirth include:

  • Privacy and confidentiality
  • Information and the right to give informed consent or refusal of consent
  • Respect for their choices and preferences 
  • To be treated with dignity and respect
  • Access care that is free from discrimination based on race, sex or religion
  • Autonomy and the right to self determination without coercion
  • Be free of harm and poor treatment
  • Access to the highest level of care.

Your rights in maternity care should centre around you as the key decision maker in all aspects of pregnancy and birth care. This is what is known as informed consent. 

Informed consent is the process by which your healthcare provider (doctor or midwife) is legally obliged to tell you the risks/benefits of treatments or procedures they’re recommending.

You have the right to be informed of the risks and benefits of any treatments or procedures so you can decide if you consent to them.

This means your care provider should:

  • Offer a description/diagnosis of the situation
  • Discuss the treatment or procedure
  • Go through the risks and benefits of these actions
  • Offer alternatives available (with risks/benefits)
  • The risks and benefits of refusing treatment. 

If your care provider doesn’t cover these points with you and goes ahead with a procedure without your consent, or demands you agree to one without full information, then it’s not informed consent. 

If you’re refused treatment that you ask for, such as pain relief, to prevent suffering, this would be considered inhumane or degrading treatment and not respecting your human rights. 

You have the right to refuse medical treatment if you believe it’s not right for you.

Do human rights protect an unborn child?

In Australia, an unborn baby doesn’t have separate rights to their mother. As such, until birth the mother is free to make choices about her care that affect her baby. She can’t be forced to accept treatment even if it’s said to be in the best interest of her baby.

This may be something as simple as your doctor wanting to induce labour at 41 weeks before the small risk of stillbirth increases. 

After having all the risks and benefits of both the induction procedure and the risk of stillbirth discussed, you may choose to refuse the induction. This is your right. 

If your care provider believes you or your baby is at significant risk of harm or death and you refuse treatment, they may ask a court of law to force treatment.

Are there any circumstances in which treatment can be given without consent?

It’s very rare that you will not be able to give consent to treatment during your pregnancy and birth.

The only time your care provider may treat you without consent is if you’re unable to make a decision in an emergency and you can’t make your wishes known. This may be if you’re losing consciousness due to severe blood loss and your doctor needs to provide urgent life saving treatment. 

Being informed about pregnancy and birth helps you to prepare for the unexpected and have your preferences already known to your care providers.

Building a relationship with them during your pregnancy creates a mutual understanding of how you envisage your birth and your expectations should things change. It’s important you choose the right maternity care provider for you for this reason. 

What can I do if my rights have not been respected?

It can feel really challenging when you realise you’re unhappy with how you’ve been treated, especially at such a vulnerable time as when pregnant or giving birth. 

You may want to talk to a trusted friend, family member or even another healthcare professional, such as a midwife or doctor. You can also speak to a birth doula to debrief your experience and help you understand what has happened.

This can help you to have clarity about the situation and work through the best process for you to move forwards. 

If your human rights in childbirth haven’t been respected, you can make a complaint against either the person or service such as a hospital. 

The first step is usually to approach the healthcare provider or service directly. You can either speak to them in person, with an advocate present, or make a complaint in writing. Write down what happened, who was involved and the solution you are hoping for. It’s important to ask for a written response and the healthcare provider or service should acknowledge they’ve received your complaint. 

If you’re unhappy with their response, or you’re not comfortable with this approach, you can take your complain to either the following organisations:

They will work with you to deal with your complaint and work out a resolution you’re satisfied with. If you don’t want to make a formal complaint, you can call AHPRA on 1300 582 113 and discuss what options might are available to resolve your concerns.

Nurtured Birth offers workshops and services to support you choosing a maternity care provider, becoming birth informed, or even be there for you on the day. Please get in touch with us to find out more.

Postnatal Depression – What Every New Mama Should Know

The transition to motherhood is exciting but also very challenging, and it can be even harder if you’re dealing with postnatal depression as well.

Postnatal depression, also called postpartum depression, affects almost 15% of women after giving birth.

It occurs in first time mothers as well women who have given birth before.

In this blog, we take a look into what postnatal depression is, the signs to look for and the ways it can be treated.

What is postnatal depression?

Most new mothers expect to experience the baby blues in the first week or so after giving birth. Up to 80% of new mums feel sad, tired or emotional for a few days in those first weeks.

Dealing with sleep deprivation, getting breastfeeding going, and all the hormone shifts that are happening contribute to these wobbly baby blues moments.

It’s absolutely normal and will usually pass in a few weeks.

While the symptoms are very similar, postnatal depression is different from the baby blues in that it’s a lot more intense and lasts far longer. Postnatal depression causes severe mood swings, a sense of hopelessness and even thoughts of self harm.

The intensity of these feelings can make it very hard for you to care for yourself, let alone your baby.

What causes postnatal depression?

We don’t know what causes postnatal depression in women but it’s thought there are both physical and emotional triggers.

After birth, your body experiences a dramatic hormonal drop, such as progesterone, estrogen and thyroid hormones. Lack of sleep and poor nutrition can also contribute to physically triggers that lead to postnatal depression.

Becoming a mother is a huge emotional change in itself! Challenges with breastfeeding, feeling isolated, being overwhelmed for the responsibility for this tiny human. These contribute to feeling incapable of coping with even small setbacks.

It’s not unusual for new mothers to feel anxious and worried they can’t take care of their newborn, or to struggle with their identity in the first weeks and months after birth. There is also a lot of external pressure on new mums to bounce back after birth and this definitely doesn’t help.

Research from around the world has found women with the following risk factors increase the chances they’ll experience PND:

  • A personal or family history of either depression or anxiety

  • A traumatic birth experience, such as an unexpected c-section, premature birth, prolonged labour, lack of support during labour

  • Having relationship problems, either with your partner or extended family

  • Domestic and family violence, including physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse

  • Past history of any type of abuse

  • Stressful life events such as divorce, death of loved ones, moving house, job loss

  • Complications during pregnancy, such as severe morning sickness, concerns about baby’s development

  • Previous fertility issues or pregnancy loss or stillbirth

  • Social isolation, not having family or friends available for support

  • Financial difficulties.

When do you get PND?

Usually a new mum will experience signs of postnatal depression within the first three months after giving birth. Some will develop PND earlier and others can later, up to 12 months after giving birth.

If you have any of the symptoms outlined below that last for longer than 2 weeks, please see your trusted healthcare professional.

What are the signs of PND?

The baby blues tend to arrive a few days after you give birth and often are described as having wobbly emotions, going from sad and irritated to being overwhelmed and unfocused all in the space of an hour.

It’s normal to have these mood swings as your body adjusts to hormonal changes. It’s also normal to not have the baby blues!

But if your symptoms are intense, last longer and start to interfere with your daily life and ability to care for your baby, then you could have developed postnatal depression.

Symptoms include:

  • Low or depressed mood

  • Severe mood swings, irritability and anger

  • Excessive crying or sadness

  • Withdrawing from family and friends

  • A loss of appetite or eating more than usual

  • Sleeping too much or not enough

  • Difficulty bonding with your baby (feeling you can’t take care of them, they should be with another carer)

  • Overwhelming fatigue

  • No interest in any of the activities you previously enjoyed

  • Feeling worthless, guilty or ashamed

  • Panic attacks or severe anxiety

  • Brain fog, unable to concentrate or make decisions

  • Restlessness

  • Feeling afraid to go out or be alone

  • Not caring for yourself

  • Thinking of harming yourself or your baby

  • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Untreated postnatal depression can continue to get worse over time. So it’s very important you seek support and help as soon as possible.

How do you treat PND?

Seeking support as soon as possible is the first and vital step to treating postnatal depression. Often new mums feel embarrassed or ashamed because they’re afraid of being judged for not coping.

Postnatal depression has nothing to do with how you are coping with new motherhood.

It’s a mental health condition which you have no control over. There are many people you can ask for help if you suspect you have postnatal depression. These include:

Recognising postnatal depression is your lived reality is the first step towards treating it. Your doctor will work with you to come up with a treatment plan specific to your situation, age, as well as how severe your depression is.

Some treatment options include:

  • Psychological therapy, involving therapies to help you manage feelings of depression and coping strategies

  • Antidepressant medication, safe to use while breastfeeding, and can help in combination with other strategies

  • Hospital admission, if thoughts of self harm, suicide or harming your baby occur. Seek immediate help at your nearest emergency hospital department if you feel this way.

Natural remedies for PND

Treating postnatal depression holistically is an option many women prefer, as it can enhance the effects of all treatment options, rather than relying on just one.

Don’t underestimate the benefits of exercise as a mood enhancer. Regular exercise increases endorphins – feel good hormones that lift your mood and energy levels. It can also help you to sleep better at night.

Yoga is also an amazing way to cherish your mind and body, allowing space to centre yourself, to manage any stresses and anxieties.

Nutrition is incredibly important in the postnatal period as your body recovers from the workload of growing your baby and giving birth. But it can feel like a big ask to prepare fresh food every day, and much easier to opt for quick, packaged snacks or meals.

Try planning ahead and having healthy snacks prepped, such as fresh vegetables cut up, dips or nut butters, fruit and yoghurts. Your partner can take on meal preparation or check out meal delivery services to take the pain out of trying to decide what to have for dinner.

The days can really start to drag when you’re home alone all the time with a new baby. Stay connected to family and friends or find a community you can be a part of. Having others to lean on when things are hard is vitally important and we know social isolation increases the challenges of motherhood. Having others to talk to can really make a big difference in how you cope with PND.

You can meet up in person or find a suitable mothers group online. Nurtured Birth offers online mothers’ group sessions to support and nurture new mamas. Be sure to read 5 Reasons To Join A Mums & Bubs Group too.

Self care is a much used phrase these days and often the burden of creating that time is placed on mothers, who sacrifice their own emotional wellbeing in favour of family.

But looking after yourself is an important tool in treating postnatal depression. It doesn’t have to be a day spa (although go for it if you can!). You can choose to leave the baby with a trusted person for an hour or so and go for a walk or coffee catch-up with a friend, or even a weekly massage appointment. However you choose to focus just on you, make sure you do!

Practical support with household chores or taking care of the baby is another option that gives you space and time to recharge and rest. It’s hard to relax when the baby is sleeping and you often spend that time feeling guilty about all the things you ‘should’ be doing instead.

Organise to have some help with those chores so you can rest when you need to. If you have trusted family or friends to help, reach out – or look into hiring a postnatal doula to help for a while.

Postnatal depression is treatable and most women who seek support will see their symptoms improve within six months. Treatment benefits you, your baby and your family.

Nurtured Birth offers a range of services that can support you and your family through postnatal depression. Please contact us for more information.

Antenatal Anxiety And Depression

We expect pregnancy to bring about change to our bodies but you might be surprised to also be dealing with antenatal anxiety and depression.

Every pregnancy is different – from one pregnancy to the next, and from woman to woman.

It’s actually very normal to experience mood swings and a certain amount of anxiety when you’re expecting a baby. But some women develop a more severe form of anxiety or depression during pregnancy which affects their daily life. 

When this happens, it’s called antenatal anxiety and depression. While both these conditions are separate, they can overlap so we’re going to look at the causes, signs and treatment for both antenatal anxiety and depression. 

What is antenatal anxiety and depression?

Antenatal refers to the time during pregnancy, up to the birth of your baby.

Anxiety and depression are changes to your mood that are ongoing, overwhelming feelings which interfere with your daily life, and can’t be easily controlled.

Anxiety usually refers to a high energy, aroused mood, with feelings of restlessness, agitation or stress. Often anxiety is related to a concern that something terrible is going to happen.  

Depression is a low energy mood, with feelings of sadness, withdrawal or despair. Often those experiencing depression can’t see the point in looking forward to anything, let alone the birth of their baby. 

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health people experience today. PANDA reports every year in Australia anxiety occurs in around 1 in every 5 pregnant women and up to half also experience depression. 

While they’re not the same, anxiety and depression often occur at the same time and sometimes you can experience the symptoms of one and not the other. 

Everyone experiences antenatal anxiety and depression differently, depending on their personal situation. And yes, even dads-to-be can experience both anxiety and depression during their partner’s pregnancy. 

What causes antenatal anxiety and depression?

We don’t really understand what causes anxiety and depression in pregnancy to become such a problem. It’s thought hormonal changes during pregnancy may affect the chemicals in the brain. 

Pregnancy brings a lot of change with it and while this can be welcome to many women, for some it is scary and overwhelming. 

Having a pregnancy with complications or previous negative experiences can also mean you are more worried and concerned than you might normally be. You’re more at risk of developing either anxiety or depression if you have any of the following risk factors:

  • A previous personal or family history of anxiety or depression
  • Difficulties in your personal relationship, including your partner or immediate family
  • Stressful life events, sucu as a death in the family, divorce or employment loss
  • Pregnancy complications, such as severe morning sickness or previous premature birth
  • Fertility issues or pregnancy loss in a previous pregnancy
  • Domestic violence, including emotional and financial abuse
  • Past history of sexual, emotional or verbal abuse
  • Isolation, either living remotely or a lack of social support
  • Financial difficulties.

It’s important to let your midwife or doctor know if you tick any of these boxes, so they can help you access support early on. 

What are the signs of antenatal anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression often goes unnoticed as the signs are put down to being a normal part of the hormonal fluctuations that happen during pregnancy. 

Symptoms can be different for each person, but some signs to watch out for include:

  • Feeling stressed, worried or on edge most of the time, often focused on fears around the baby
  • Panic attacks (heart palpitations, feeling of not being able to breathe, shaking or feeling detached)
  • Recurring thoughts that don’t go away
  • Developing obsessive or compulsive behaviours, such as hand washing or needing things to be a certain way
  • Muscle tension 
  • Feeling agitated and finding it hard to be calm
  • Being sad, low or numb constantly, crying for no obvious reason
  • Trouble getting to sleep or sleeping too much
  • Being tired constantly and having no energy
  • Changes to appetite, losing or gaining weight
  • No interest in connection with friends of family, or activities that used to make you happy
  • Mood swings
  • Being easily irritated and annoyed 
  • Finding it hard to concentrate or remember things (brain fog)
  • Risky behaviour, such as drinking too much alcohol or abusing drugs
  • Having thoughts of self harm, suicide or death.

The signs can develop slowly over time or they can begin quite suddenly. If left untreated, the symptoms of antenatal anxiety and depression can get worse over time. 

What happens if antenatal anxiety and depression isn’t treated? 

Living with anxiety and depression is exhausting. Lack of sleep, feeling restless all the time, or having a sense of something terrible is about to happen – these symptoms affect us both physically and mentally. 

Over time, if antenatal anxiety and depression isn’t treated, these feelings can affect how you live your life, as you try to avoid triggers to manage intrusive and anxious thoughts. 

It can lead to panic attacks or not being able to function, or feeling unable to bond with your unborn baby. 

Anxiety and depression can have a devastating impact on your health, relationships and quality of life, and in severe situations lead to self harm and suicide. 

Does anxiety cause miscarriage?

Health experts agree – too much stress and anxiety isn’t good for you and can have a severe impact on your mental wellbeing as well as your physical health. This is a concern during pregnancy, as the wellbeing of your baby depends on you. 

However, there is no evidence which shows there’s a link between anxiety and miscarriage.

Can anxiety affect my unborn baby?

A little bit of stress is normal and our bodies have a wonderful coping mechanism that protects us from harm if there’s danger or potential danger. 

But ongoing stress and anxiety isn’t healthy, for you or your baby. Your own health can be impacted, and it can affect your ability to bond with your baby. 

Ongoing anxiety and depression can affect your baby’s growth and put you at risk for giving birth prematurely. 

Your baby is also at risk of problems with physical, mental and behavioural issues in the future as well.

How to cope with anxiety and depression during pregnancy?

Everyone who goes through antenatal anxiety and depression has their own experience and how it affects them depends on many factors. 

Some people have mild symptoms, while others experience quite severe symptoms, which means there is no single perfect treatment for antenatal anxiety and depression. Every person responds in different ways and what works for one person may not for another. 

It’s important to know you’re not alone and there is support available to help you get through. 

The first step is to talk to your trusted healthcare provider, whether that’s your doctor or midwife, to understand how anxiety or depression is affecting you during pregnancy, and to rule out any medical condition that might make you feel this way. 

The most common ways to treat anxiety and depression focus on increasing support around you. You may choose to use one or more of the tools:

  • Counselling – this can provide a safe space to talk through how you’re feeling and thinking with a therapist who will listen without judgement. Your therapist can work with you to develop strategies to deal with your challenges. 
  • Self care – massage, relaxation therapy such as meditation, and yoga are excellent ways to bring the mind-body connection into play in coping with anxiety and depression. During these activities, endorphins are released, which are hormones that make us feel good and enhance our feeling of wellbeing, triggering a positive feeling in our body. 
  • Medication – in severe cases of anxiety and depression, antidepressants may be prescribed to help you manage your symptoms to put your energy and inner resources into recovery.

Remember, if you’re suffering from antenatal anxiety and depression, you’re not alone.

Nurtured Birth offers pregnancy massage, prenatal yoga and meditation sessions to support you through these challenging times and get you back to feeling yourself. Please get in touch with us to discuss your needs.

If you or someone you are close to is struggling with anxiety and/or depression, please call the PANDA National Helpline (Mon – Fri, 9am to 7.30pm) on 1300 726 306.

Baby Wearing – 6 Benefits You Need To Know

Baby wearing might seem like a recently new thing but parents have been carrying their babies for millenia. 

It’s a beautiful thing to have your tiny baby snuggled up close and safe to you, but there’s more to carrying your baby than the sweetness and comfort. 

Babies and parents benefit from baby wearing, in terms of bonding, convenience, sleep, as well as emotional and physical health. 

Let’s explore the benefits of baby wearing and how it has profound positive effects on both parents and babies wellbeing. 

What are the benefits of baby wearing?

Aside from the cuddle factor, there are a number of really amazing benefits from wearing your baby.

#1: Baby wearing promotes bonding

You may have heard the term the fourth trimester, describing the early months of life after your baby is born. It takes babies around 3 months to adjust to life outside the womb and we often refer to this time as the fourth trimester.

Your baby’s biggest need during this time is to be as close to you as possible, to be nourished and nurtured. In this snuggled up position, they feel safe and secure. They are close to your heartbeat, a sound they’ve heard constantly for many months. They are warm and snug, which mimics the sensation of being in the womb. 

When you’re wearing your baby, you adapt to their cues and are able to respond to them with confidence. Your baby learns to feel more secure as their needs are met. 

When you’re wearing your baby, you interact with them more and they with you. Even a tiny newborn can benefit from this close contact with you. As you go about your day, you talk and move and your baby is soaking in this exposure to the bigger world. 

#2: Baby wearing promotes health

Skin to skin after birth is more commonly promoted now, thanks to research recognising the benefits it has for babies, especially those babies born prematurely. Their skin and digestive system are colonised with beneficial bacteria from you, which lowers their risk of disease and illness in the future. 

But this closeness continues to have health benefits long after birth. 

Wearing your baby allows them to be in a more upright position, promoting digestion and alleviating reflux or colic. It also means your baby’s head can reshape after birth, preventing flat head syndrome – common in babies who are placed on their backs to sleep as is recommended. 

Being carried in this upright position helps babies develop physically and emotionally. The stimulation of their mother’s movements trigger their own physical responses, exercising the vestibular system that controls balance. Being held close to their mother’s body gives a baby the space to explore the world safely so they can become independent when they’re ready. 

Baby being in a carrier or sling also stops people from touching them, potentially passing on nasty viruses or germs. This cocoons your baby from the chances of getting sick, especially during a pandemic. 

#3: Supports and promotes breastfeeding

Most women in Australia initiate breastfeeding after giving birth but according to the statistics, only 1 in 7 babies are still exclusively breastfed by 5 months of age. 

Breastfeeding experts around the world agree – breastmilk is the optimal source of nutrition for babies until they’re 6 months old. After that age, solid food can be introduced and breastfeeding can continue until one year, or beyond if it suits the mother-child pair. 

Breastmilk is nature’s miracle food – it protects babies from illnesses such as respiratory and ear infections, diarrhoea, and helps to ease discomfort from teething and emotional distress. It also reduces the risk of chronic diseases and obesity in your child’s later life. 

Baby wearing can promote breastfeeding through close bonding – a mother wearing her baby is more likely to recognise her baby’s hunger cues, so will feed on demand.

This boosts her milk supply and encourages healthy weight gain in her baby. It’s also much easier to breastfeed ‘on the go’ if you’re out and about. 

#4: Baby wearing reduces crying

Maybe this benefit should be at the top! Parents of a young baby know how intense it is to cope with bouts of crying – especially when they’re doing everything they can to figure out what is causing the distress! 

Science has shown the more babies are held, the less they cry and the better they settle. But let’s look to indigenous cultures who didn’t need research studies to tell them this – in cultures where baby wearing is the norm, babies will usually only cry for a few minutes a day. 

Crying is exhausting for babies and their parents and it can cause long-term damage to baby’s brain if it’s continually flooded with the stress hormones released due ongoing distress.

Babies who are carried and feel safe and content during the day are also less likely to have crying jags of an evening. Babies who feel safer more continuously are less likely to have stress hormones promoting a fight or flight response that causes them to cry for seemingly no reason. 

#5: Baby wearing is convenient

Ideally, the first month after birth is a time for new mamas and babies to cocoon and spend that time just getting to know each other and transitioning as a family. 

But there are times when you do need to have your hands free and this is when baby wearing is really amazing.

Some babies want to be held all the time but it makes it tricky to get your lunch or give your toddler some quality time together. Pop baby in a sling or carrier and you can get on with your day. 

#6: Boosts parent confidence

Baby wearing mums and dads feel more confident as parents. The closeness of wearing their baby means they can respond to baby’s needs more effectively. This beautiful feedback loop means their baby feels safe and connects and responds to her happy parents. 

New mums often feel quite isolated when in the trenches of new motherhood so it’s important to support her ability to connect with the wider world. Baby wearing can help you to go for a walk, meet friends or even make friends with a local babywearing group. 

Just as importantly, baby wearing increases the time you spend doing skin to skin with your bub and research has shown this leads to decreased rates of postpartum mood disorders. 

Is baby wearing safe?

Like anything, there’s a right and a wrong way to wear your baby. If you want the benefits of baby wearing, you do need to make sure you’re doing it correctly. 

It’s important you choose the carrier that suits you and your baby, not just because your best friend swears by this particular brand. Do your research and join a baby wearing group to get feedback and see if you can try different styles and brands. You can even contact a baby wearing consultant for support in choosing and wearing your baby carrier. 

Make yourself familiar with the TICK rules for babywearing safety:

  • Tight: The carrier or sling should be tight with baby held high and upright, with head support. Loose material can cause babies to slump and restrict their breathing, and they can potentially fall out. 
  • In view at all times: You should always be able to see your baby’s face by simply looking down, ensuring their mouth and nose aren’t covered and you can monitor their breathing. 
  • Close enough to kiss. Your baby should be close enough that you can lower your chin and kiss your baby’s head. Regularly check your bab, as they can in distress without making any noise or movement.
  • Keep chin off chest: Your baby should be in a good upright position with head support, so their chin doesn’t drop down, as this can restrict breathing. 
  • Supported: Your baby’s tummy and chest should be against your chest, and their back supported so they’re not slumping or curled. Their legs should be squatting (frog legs) not bunched up to their body. The carrier should be tight enough they can’t fall out, but you can slide your hand into the carrier so breathing isn’t restricted. Support your baby with one hand behind their back when you bend over, doing so at the knees not the waist. 

Always check your carrier or sling for signs of wear and tear, including any buckles and straps, and fabric seams. And make sure the carrier is comfortable for you too, as poorly positioned carriers can lead to back issues or injury.

New mamas wanting to connect with other mums in a safe, nurturing way can become part of the Nurtured Birth Postnatal Mothers Group, held over a month online. Please click here to register for the upcoming sessions.

Signs, Causes and Prevention of Stillbirth

Stillbirth is an extremely distressing experience for parents and families. The loss of a baby you have planned a future around causes pain, grief and shock. 

Often the cause of stillbirth is unknown, but there are things that can lower the risk of losing a baby. 

The content in this article may be distressing for some people. Please reach out if you need support in coping with stillbirth. 

What is a stillbirth?

When a baby dies any time after 20 weeks pregnancy up to the date of birth, this is referred to as a stillbirth.

The baby may have died during pregnancy or during labour. 

Sometimes, the birth is considered to be a stillbirth if the baby weighs 400 grams or more and the length of the pregnancy isn’t known. 

Stillbirth is different to a miscarriage, which happens when a pregnany loss occurs before 20 weeks of pregnancy. 

How common is stillbirth in Australia?

Australia is one of the safest places in the world to give birth. Yet sadly every day 6 babies are stillborn in this country. 

The risk of having a stillbirth is higher for certain groups of women, such as Aboriginal and Torres Islander women. 

What is the main cause of stillbirth?

There are some known causes of stillbirth but unfortunately why a stillbirth occurs isn’t always known. 

The most common reasons for stillbirth are:

  • Congenital anomalies, which are conditions that affect the structure or function of the baby’s body
  • Maternal conditions such as diabetes, preeclampsia or heart disease
  • Problems with the placenta or umbilical cord
  • Infections 
  • Premature labour that can’t be stopped and the baby is too immature to survive. 

Some risk factors can increase the chances of a woman having a stillbirth. These are:

  • Smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol or using recreational drugs
  • Being overweight or obese before becoming pregnant
  • Sleeping on your back in late pregnancy
  • Not having regular prenatal check ups
  • Infections 
  • Trauma to abdomen
  • Family violence during pregnancy. 

What are the signs of stillbirth?

The most common sign of a pregnancy loss is when you stop feeling your baby’s movements and kicks. 

Fetal movements are an important indication of your baby’s wellbeing. Most women feel their baby’s movements from around 20 weeks pregnant (sometimes earlier, sometimes a few weeks later).

The number of movements you feel increases until you’re around 32 weeks, then stays the same. The type of movement might change as your pregnancy progresses and baby gets bigger, but the amount of movement should stay the same. 

If you haven’t felt movement by 24 weeks pregnant, talk to your midwife or doctor and they can check your baby’s heartbeat and possibly refer you for an ultrasound. 

If you’re between 24 and 28 weeks pregnant and can’t feel any movement, speak to your maternity care provider immediately – don’t wait until the next day or your next appointment. You will have a full check up and monitoring of the baby.

If you’re over 28 weeks pregnant, again if you can’t feel any movement or your baby’s movements have slowed down, speak to your maternity care provider immediately. Fewer movements can mean baby’s not well but in most cases, check ups reveal everything is fine. 

If you have any of the following symptoms, please contact your maternity care provider or go to your nearest hospital emergency department:

  • Strong pain or cramping in your lower belly or back
  • Any bleeding or discharge that is more than normal for your gestation
  • You’ve had a hard blow to the belly
  • You feel dizzy, have severe headaches and changes to your vision
  • Any sudden swelling in hands, feet or face, or painful swollen legs
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
  • Fever or high temperature.

Listen to your intuition – if something doesn’t feel right, get it checked out. Maternity care providers would much rather you came in and had checks and find nothing is wrong than to wait. 

How is a stillbirth diagnosed?

If you or your care provider suspects there is something wrong, you will need to have some tests and checks.

The most common is to check for the baby’s heartbeat, which your midwife or doctor may do with a stethoscope or Doppler, or via ultrasound.

If no movement or heartbeat is seen on ultrasound, this is a definite diagnosis of the baby having died. 

What happens when a baby is stillborn?

It’s very traumatic to hear your baby has died. You will be supported by many people as you make difficult decisions in the coming hours. 

Your midwife or doctor will talk with you about the best way to give birth to your baby. In most situations, it’s recommended to have a vaginal birth rather than a c-section.  

The reason a vaginal birth is recommended is because you will recover quicker and better than from a c-section and are less at risk of complications. 

Some women choose to wait for labour to begin on its own, which usually happens within two weeks of the baby dying. Many women don’t wish to wait that long and choose to have labor started with medications. 

You will be given support and time to decide who will be with you in the room, any special things you want to have, if you want photos taken afterwards and so on. 

During labour, you can have pain relief if you want it. The midwives looking after you will support you and your partner in every way and you shouldn’t be worried about asking for anything that you need during this time. 

What happens after a stillbirth?

Once your baby is born, you’ll be supported to spend as much time with him or her as you wish. We know spending this precious time with your baby can help support you through your grief in the time ahead. 

If you’re scared or worried about being upset seeing your baby, talk to your healthcare team. They’ll be able to answer any questions you have about what your baby will look like and manage the process with you.

Many parents are surprised how this concern disappears once their baby is born. 

Your midwife will help you to get comfortable after the birth, and you and your partner can hold, bathe and dress your baby. Many parents create keepsakes or mementos of this time, such as a lock of their baby’s hair, hand or foot prints, photos and videos. Some parents have a naming ceremony and invite family and friends to visit. 

It’s up to you how you want to remember your baby and the hospital staff will support your wishes. They will also organise the necessary paperwork to register your baby’s birth. 

When you’re ready, your baby will be taken care of by the funeral home you have chosen. You will be able to visit your baby during this time until the funeral takes place. The funeral home will treat your baby with respect and support you through this time. 

Finding out why your baby died

Most parents want to know if there was a specific cause of death. In some cases, this might already be known, but it may be suggested to have some tests to see if the reason for the stillbirth can be discovered. 

These tests can involve:

  • Blood taken from the mother
  • Autopsy of the baby
  • Examination of the placenta.

You don’t have to agree to any of these tests, or only some, but it may be helpful to know any information these tests can discover. 

It’s important to know these tests may not give you a definite answer as to why your baby was stillborn. This can be very distressing and your healthcare team will support you as much as possible. 

The grief experienced after stillbirth can be very isolating and consuming. You can access grief counselling services or contact Sands Australia for 24 hours support on 1300 072 637. Still Aware is a stillbirth awareness organisation which offers support to parents and health professionals. 

Having another baby after stillbirth

It takes time for your body to return to a pre-pregnant state after stillbirth. Shortly after birth, your breasts will be sore and your milk will come in. This can be a very distressing reminder of your loss and many women feel incredibly emotional at this time. Some mothers chose to dry their milk up quickly, others wish to donate their milk to babies in need. The choice you make is the right one for you and your situation. 

In time, you may begin to think about having another baby. It’s normal to feel conflicted about this and even guilty. It doesn’t mean you have moved on from your baby or have forgotten them.

Make sure you have support and guidance from your midwife or doctor about being prepared for another pregnancy. 

Nurtured Birth offers support during pregnancy and birth for parents experiencing stillbirth or want to explore options for care during a pregnancy after stillbirth. Please contact us for more information.