One of the most exciting areas of research at the moment is on the microbiome! The human body consists of trillions of human cells as well as trillions of microorganisms. These microorganisms living in and on us include bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, archaea as well as...
By Anchen Verster – registered nurse and midwife, SA certified perinatal educator, mother of 4, including twins A Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) stay might be furthest from your mind when you’re pregnant but it’s a reality that faces many new parents. Roughly 15 million babies...
Challenging your mindset for better coping By Anchen Verster – BNursing, nursing sister and midwife, SA certified perinatal educator, mother of 4 including twins Labour pain is probably one of the most feared forms of pain and yet so many women at some point in their life...
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...