By Barbara Hanrahan – Registered nurse and midwife, DnEd, MCur There are well known milestones for development from birth to 2 years. New parents need to be aware that these milestones are a guide to an infant’s development, rather than a rigid checklist. When new mothers...
By Anchen Verster - Registered nurse, midwife, SA Certified Perinatal Educator – SACPE, wife, mother to 4 children including a set of twins As a childbirth educator I’m often asked by expectant moms how they will know if their doctor is recommending a caesarean that is...
By Barbara Hanrahan – Registered nurse and midwife, masters in midwifery A caesarean is more than just surgery – It is the birth of a baby. A caesarean can be more than surgery! Gentle caesareans facilitate the mother’s participation in the first moments of her baby’s life Seeing...
By Merlyn Glass – Genetic nurse counsellor – NHLS University of Witwatersrand Genetic Counsellors attend to people who either have an inherited or genetic condition themselves, or have had a baby with an inherited condition, or who are at risk to have a baby with such...
Whether you are having a natural birth or caesar – you need to be educated and informed It is so important to have a good birth mind set – “Everyone deserves a confident, empowered birth. Prepare for yours!” “Birth is nor only about making babies. Birth is about...
By Anchen Verster- Nursing sister and midwife, SA certified perinatal educator (SACPE) I often think a birthing day is much like a wedding day. It is anticipated for months; it marks a pivotal moment in relationship (between parents and new baby); a baby shower marks the...
If your pregnancy is healthy, it is best to stay pregnant for at least 39 weeks. Staying pregnant to full term, or 40 weeks, is one of the best ways to give babies enough time in the womb to grow and develop. What is considered a full...
What is constipation? Constipation is when a baby or child has very hard stools, and has fewer bowel movements than he normally does. All babies are different - and baby bowel patterns are no exception. Because of this, it’s sometimes hard to tell if your baby...
A childbirth educator is a professional who you can trust to give you a balanced view on the reality of pregnancy and labour. Her teaching philosophy should be “freedom of choice based on the knowledge of alternatives” – telling you the facts, pros and cons...
Often people think a hospital is a hospital and that they are all the same – this is not the case. Have a look around and tour different hospitals and see which hospital offers you what you are looking for, for your birthing experience. The...