Pregnancy

Conception, Birth and Motherhood

Fertility & Infertility

Fertility is an important aspect of a woman’s life. When trying for a baby, it is important to be as healthy as possible. Having a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding smoking/ drugs and a large amount of alcohol/ caffeine, taking folic acid and iodine, minimising stress levels and managing medical conditions that may affect fertility will increase your chance of conceiving. Book a pre-conception health check with your doctor to ensure you are as healthy as possible before trying for a baby.

Most healthy, fertile couples become pregnant within the first 12 months of trying. There is about a 20% chance of conceiving every month that a couple tries. Women over 35 can take twice as long to become pregnant. You can increase your chance of becoming pregnant by tracking your ovulation and the timing of sex. See your doctor for advice if you have not become pregnant after 12 months of trying (or six months if you are over 35). Don’t leave it too late.

Antenatal

Antenatal care is essential for the health of both mothers and their unborn children. By attending regular check-ups and appointments, mothers can receive support and be healthy during pregnancy. Additionally, antenatal care can help identify potential problems early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. While it is often said that pregnancy is a natural process, the reality is that it is a time of great physical and emotional upheaval. As such, antenatal care is vital in ensuring that both mothers and babies stay healthy during this period of change.

Postpartum

The postpartum period is a time of transition for new mothers. Their bodies are going through changes, and they are adjusting to the demands of caring for a baby. This can be a challenging time, but some things can be done to help make the transition easier. For example, it is important to get plenty of rest and to eat a healthy diet. Exercise can also help to release tension and improve mood. In addition, it is important to find a support system, whether it is friends, family, or a support group for new mothers. With patience and care, the postpartum period can be a time of healing and growth.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the best source of nutrition for infants. breastmilk is packed with nutrients and antibodies that help protect babies against infection. Additionally, breastfeeding has been linked with a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), obesity, and type 2 diabetes. But breastfeeding isn't just beneficial for babies- it can also have positive effects on the health of mothers. Women who breastfeed tend to have lower rates of ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression. Additionally, breastfeeding can help mothers to lose weight after pregnancy and improve their bone health. So, not only is breastfeeding good for babies- but it's also good for moms!

Unplanned Pregnancy

An unplanned pregnancy can be a stressful time for a woman. For some, the decision to proceed with pregnancy might be a clear one, but for others, this process is more complicated. It is therefore important to have reliable information about all options available. While some women choose to terminate their pregnancies (either medically or surgically), others opt to continue by raising their child with their partner or by themselves or placing the child up for adoption. Whatever decision you make, it must stay as close to your values and beliefs as you are the expert in your own life.

It is important to remember that there is no wrong decision regarding an unplanned pregnancy – each woman must do what is best for her situation. If you feel conflicted about your decision and are having trouble making one, feel free to seek guidance and assistance from your doctor to walk through this journey. You are not alone.