Maternity Blog
 

Packaging checklist for delivery and labor

If you are pregnant and heavy with child for over 36 weeks, then start stuffing the bag that you will bear in your labor room. For suitability, you can prepare a list of handy things that may help you at time of labor so that you have no regret of parting certain important accessories at home. It is not possible to equip yourself properly at time of contraction and crises, so you can do goodwill to yourself by arranging every thing ahead of time.

The most important possession for your packing should be the hospital registration papers and the insurance card, which are necessary for admission in hospital. To feel as comfortable as possible during labor, equip yourself with your favorite pillow. Carry a non-slippery slipper so that you can walk down the aisle as your labor progresses.

Take a wrapper and a pair of socks to keep you warm. Dry mouth is a very common indication during labor, so have lollipops to keep your mouth soggy and apply lip gel for moisturizing your lips. Brushing the teeth before labor can help you feel refreshed and stress-free.

For rubbing your back as counter-pressure during labor, your can carry a pair of tennis balls. If you have specs, then do carry them because doctors do not allow patients to wear contact lenses during delivery. Carry your camera to capture the special souvenirs of your life.

Lastly, keep the phone list of your friends and relatives along with the long distance calling card very near to you, incase of emergency it would be helpful.

Herbs and pregnancy – A word of caution

Natural herbs are known sources of rich nutrients, vitamins and minerals. However, their effectiveness during pregnancy is still being debated. Unlike synthetic medicines, herbal products do not come with specific regulated tests or in particular strengths. Many claim adequate research has not been done to testify the safety of herbal supplements.

It is best for pregnant women to consult their medical practitioners before using any herbal supplement. The same herbal product may come in varying strengths and combinations from different manufacturers. So you never know the right dose for you. Although herbs are great nourishment sources, other components in them may prove detrimental to the health of the mother and the fetus.

Some herbal agents have been known to cause miscarriage, premature delivery, uterine contractions, low birth weight and other complications. It is best to avoid green tea, herbal supplements without consulting the health care provider. Some herbs have been known to be good for use during pregnancy. However, it is unsafe to use any of them without advice from a medical practitioner.

Herbs like alfalfa, chamomile, nettles, oatstaw, red raspberry leaf and rose hips are said to be beneficiary. They are good sources of vitamins, enzymes, iron, calcium and other nutrients. They aid in reducing nausea, increasing milk production and easing the labor pains. On the whole, these herbs provide nourishment to the mother, the fetus and help the process of childbirth. However, be sure to consult your health care provider first.

Headache during pregnancy

Experiencing headaches is common during pregnancy. Headaches during the first trimester are usually the result of increased hormones and blood volumes in the system. During the third trimester, headaches are normally caused by stress due to extra weight and high blood pressure. In general, headaches during pregnancy are aggravated by poor postures, lack of sleep, low blood sugar and dehydration.

A woman’s body undergoes extensive changes during pregnancy. Headaches are caused to a variety of changes. It is not advisable to take pain relieving drugs during pregnancy. However, there are a number of natural, harmless ways to relieve your headaches during pregnancy. First of all, it is important to have a healthy lifestyle. Proper posture, adequate rest, exercise and a balanced diet are immensely significant.

Even if you avoid stress, you might experience headaches due to physiological changes during pregnancy. You could try hot compressing your eyes and nose for sinus headaches. For tension headaches use cold compress at the back of your head. Rubbing mint oil on the temples may also help. Massaging the area around the neck and shoulders is another remedy. Relaxation in a dark room also helps relieve headache.

Calcium supplements and herbal supplements also help maintain the tranquility of nerves. Try eating several small meals frequently to help maintain blood sugar levels. Avoid chocolates, alcohol, cheese and other headache triggers. In case of persistent headaches of unusual intensity, contact your doctor immediately. Also, be wary of accompanied swelling in the face or hands, pain in the upper abdomen and blurry vision.