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.

Tags : Herbs, Medicine, 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.

Tags : Dehydration, Headache, Physiological Change

Breaking the news of the arrival of another infant to other children is a delicate task. Depending upon the age and maturity level of a child, you have to frame your strategy. Children from toddlers to adolescents comprehend the changes in their mother’s body and the arrival of another young one. It is best to prepare them before-hand so that it is fun for them instead of a distress.

Be candid and informative to the queries of your child. Also remember to furnish answers according to their level of understanding. It is important to satiate their curiosity. It is best to give them a time frame they can relate to like “He will arrive about the time of your birthday”. Do not start sending your child to nursery school, take away the pacifier or change his room in the nick of time.

Such actions send wrong signals. Instead of nurturing feelings of rivalry, place him as a guardian and playmate. Refer to the baby as “ours” so that the child feels involved. Start preparing the room of the baby along with the child and let him feel the honor of being “a big brother”. Involve him in the prenatal sessions so that he can actively sense the baby.

Be extra generous with those warm gestures with the child. Go that extra mile to make him feel reassured of your affection. Many books on reproduction can be read to your child for giving him knowledge and getting over the awkwardness. Above all, remember to make him feel important as your beloved child and as a would-be elder sibling.

Tags : Children, Motherhood, Sibling