The post Sterilising baby bottles: To steam or cold water sterilise? appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>Bacteria that can be extremely harmful for babies are known to grow rapidly in milk. For this reason, moms are advised to sterilise breast pumps and bottles, and also cups, feeding plates, spoons and forks until baby is at least a year old.
A steriliser helps moms to achieve this quickly and without fuss, which is why it is such an important item on a new mother’s must-have list.
Many mothers do query, however, the benefits of steam versus cold water sterilising. We uncover which method is best suited to the special needs of both moms and their babies.
A sterilising liquid or tablet, as well as a sturdy plastic container and lid, is all that is needed for the cold water sterilising method. After washing baby’s equipment, it is submerged in the sterilising solution for a period of 30 minutes and remains sterile for up to 24 hours if left in this liquid.
Rinsing the sterilised bottles, dummies and feeding utensils with boiled water is necessary prior to use.
The benefit of the cold water sterilising option is that the solution can be used as often as necessary within a 24 hour period. One drawback, however, is that the sterilising solution can give off a strange smell, which may be off-putting for baby when it comes to drinking or eating from the sterilised equipment.
Steam sterilisers, on the other hand, use steam created from the heat of the microwave to disinfect baby’s equipment. The contents of a microwavable steam steriliser also remain sterile for up to 24 hours if the lid is kept closed. Sterilising generally takes between three and eight minutes depending on the brand of steriliser moms choose.
The advantage of steam sterilising is without a doubt the speed at which bottles can be sterilised, but the fact that metal utensils cannot be placed in the microwave does count against this method.
It is important to consider the size of steriliser required before making a purchasing decision. Firstly, it is essential to make sure baby’s feeding equipment will fit in the steriliser of choice.
Wide-necked bottles, by way of example, won’t fit in a steriliser designed for narrow-necked bottles.
Furthermore, bottle-fed babies require more bottles than those who are breastfed and so it is a good idea to buy a larger steriliser for infants on formula.
While both sterilising options offer significant benefits, it seems the ultimate purchasing decision is reliant on the unique needs of both moms and their babies. In this case, mother does indeed know best.
About the Author: The Philips AVENT Microwave Steam Steriliser is a good example of a convenient sterilising system for moms. Its compact and lightweight design means that six bottles can be sterilised in two minutes making it an ideal option both in and out of the home. The steriliser can be found at BabyCity, Baby Boom, Toys R Us and selected Dischem stores at a retail price of R605.29.
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]]>The post The early bird catches an education appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>Eunice Sibiya, Head of Consumer Education at FNB says, “It used to be that everyone worried about the cost of university, but nowadays you have to consider the costs of your child’s pre, primary and high school education. The reality is that you need to make decisions around your child’s schooling career as soon as possible, while you’re still pregnant. Once you’ve decided on the type of education you want your child to receive and where your child will be attending school, there are a number of financial plans and considerations to put into place.”
Firstly, you need to add this expense to your budget as soon as you possibly can, so that you can add a meaningful contribution toward your child’s education. It might be tough in the beginning to stretch your budget, but this will allow for adequate savings in the future.
“Depending on the child’s age, consider opening a savings account, or approach your bank or financial institution to ask about savings or investment plans specifically geared towards saving for an education. Many people do this for university tuition, but these savings plans can be for any level of your child’s education,” says Sibiya.
There are also a few things you can do while your child is at school to soften the blow to your pocket.
If you’re sending your child to pre-school or crèche, find out if your employer offers this facility on the premises. There are usually staff discounts and you won’t have to change your driving routine. You’ll also be close to your child during the day.
Throughout your child’s schooling career, find out what other expenses you’ll have to take care of besides tuition. You might need to buy sports gear or equipment. Extra-curricular activities might not be included in the tuition fee and will be an extra cost.
“Find out if your child’s school offers any sort of discount for early payment. It’s a good idea to use your bonus to pay for your child’s annual tuition, as you might get a discount if you do this,” says Sibiya.
She adds that, during enrolment, if you have two or more children at the same school, it might be worth asking if there are discounts for the second and third child. There might also be school or university bursaries on offer that could be relevant and slash costs.
Sibiya says another good tip is to consider buying your child’s school uniform from friends or school leavers to save money, or buy blazers, dresses a size bigger. Your child will grow into them and you won’t have to buy a new uniform every year.
“It’s very competitive out there and the rising cost of education means that you have to start planning as soon as possible so that you can lessen the effect it has on your finances in the future. The sooner parents start putting money aside, the longer their money can work for them,” concludes Sibiya.
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]]>The post What is the cost of having a baby? appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>There will be more expenses to deal with and more pressure on a budget that will now have to accommodate three and not two people, but there is hope. There are a number of financial plans you can put into place before the baby arrives to ease the pressure on your bank account.
Eunice Sibiya, head of Consumer Education at FNB says, “Having a baby in today’s age requires careful financial planning. Everyone wants the best for their child, and first-time parents are very conscious about getting everything right whether it’s the pram they buy, or the school they send their children to. Of course everything won’t be perfect, but you can put financial plans in place before and after the baby is born to give your child the best start in life.”
A lot of financial preparation can be done before a baby arrives to ease the transition of a two-person household to that of three people. Ideally, it makes more financial sense to start saving as soon as you start planning to have a baby. Sibiya suggests the following:
Your current budget might not have a lot of wiggle room for extra expenses, so see where you can cut down. “Identify the luxuries and cut them out.. Pay off your credit card and clothing accounts and try and start your maternity leave with as little debt as possible,” says Sibiya
Now that you’ve freed up some room in your current budget, shop, shop, shop!
You can use the extra money while you’re pregnant to stock up on nappies, creams, wet wipes and anything else that is not perishable.
When the baby arrives, you might find it difficult to run out to the shops every day or two for supplies. Sibiya says that it’s also a good idea to stock up on non-perishable food, easy to cook meals and cleaning products while you’re expecting. And keep an eye out for sales and bargains!
There will be a few once-off and large expenses you’ll have to take care of before baby arrives, such as travel systems, sterilizers, cots, compactums, baby baths etc. These will set you back in the region of R10 000 to R15 000.
“The best thing you can do for yourself is to make lists and tackle a few items each month before the baby arrives so that the financial load isn’t too much. There are a number of websites, magazines and apps that will help you compile your lists. First time parents are sometimes skittish of looking at second hand baby goods, but if you have family or friends who want to offload a cot or pram, consider taking them up on their offer,” says Sibiya.
Go through all your loyalty programmes and rewards and “cash them in”. Use them before they expire and investigate how best to use them before and after baby arrives.
FNB’s eBucks rewards programme is rated the best loyalty programme in South Africa and is affiliated with a number of retail partners such as Dischem and Makro, where you can earn or spend eBucks when buying products for baby.
Contact your medical aid to make sure what they pay for and what not. Some medical aids have a baby programme that will help you with this. There will be a number of doctors visits, blood tests and scans. There are also a number of birthing options like natural versus C-Section, which carry different costs. Your medical aid will be able to confirm whether there will be co-payments that you are responsible for. It all depends what kind of plan you’re on and what rates your doctors charge.
Sibiya says, “You will also have to add the baby to your medical aid as soon as he or she is born and evaluate your current plan. Some plans are better than others when you have dependents, so do your homework.”
“Most importantly, know whether you will be on paid or unpaid maternity leave. When you inform your employer of your pregnancy, make sure you’re well versed on their maternity policy. Understand what your income will be and plan accordingly,” says Sibiya.
If you’re going to be on unpaid maternity leave, you’re entitled to UIF benefits.* Sibiya says it’s important to start the UIF process as early as possible, whether you tackle the process yourself or decide to make use of an agency.
“There are a number of forms that you’ll need to complete, and your plate will be quite full preparing for the baby, so do what you can before the baby arrives,” she says.
If you’re sending your child to a crèche or hiring a nanny to help out when the baby arrives, do your homework. Some employers have on-site crèches that offer discounts to employees. You’ll have the advantage of not having to drive out of the way to drop your little one off and you’ll have him or her close by if you want to visit during the day.
“Deciding to have a child is one of the biggest life decisions you can make, and the costs start way before baby arrives. The best thing you can do is plan ahead and be prepared,” concludes Sibiya.
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]]>The post The 2013 most popular baby names for girls plus their meanings! appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>Sophia, pronounced so-fee-ah is of Greek origin, meaning “wisdom”. The name has been used in English-speaking countries since the 17th century.
As a girl’s name, Emma is pronounced em-ah. It is of Old French and German origin, meaning “entire” or “universal”.
Pronounced oh-liv-ee-ah, Olivia is of Latin origin, and means olive tree.
Isabella is a very popular girl’s name that means “God’s promise” or “God is my oath”. Isabella is a variant of Elizabeth.
Ava can be used as a girls or a boy’s name and is pronounced ay-vah. The origin of Ava is uncertain, but is thought to be German. Other possible sources are the Hebrew name Chava meaning “life” or “serpent”, or from Latin “avis” meaning “bird”.
The name Mia is pronounced mee-ah. In Italian the meaning of the name Mia is: my, wished for child, rebellion.
Pronounced em-i-lee, Emily is of Latin origin, and means “rival; laborious; eager”. It is derived from the Latin name Aemilia, feminine form of the old Roman surname Aemilia.
Abigail is pronounced ab-ih-gayl. It is of Hebrew origin and means “father of exaltation”.
Madison is used as a girl and a boys name and is pronounced mad-a-son. It is derived from old English origin and means “son of the mighty warrior”.
Pronounced ee-liz-a-beth, Elizabeth is of Hebrew origin and means “God’s promise or “God is my oath”.
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]]>The post Study: Turning off the TV during pregnancy could prevent childhood obesity appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>“Reinforcing healthy media habits during pregnancy may help reduce infants’ mealtime media exposure and impact long-term media habits in children,” said lead author Mary Jo Messito.
For their study, researchers analyzed data from an early childhood obesity prevention program conducted for low-income Hispanic families at Bellevue Hospital Center/NYU School of Medicine in New York.
Mothers were followed until the babies were three years old. During their third trimester, 71 percent of the 189 participants reported watching TV during “some” meal times (compared to options like “never,” “often” and “always”) while 33 percent of mothers said their three-month-olds were also exposed to TV during feedings.
“Identifying specific maternal behaviors and characteristics associated with child TV viewing during meals will help early childhood obesity prevention efforts seeking to promote responsive feeding and limit TV exposure during infancy.”
The latest research builds on a body of work that has shown a link between increased screen time, poor eating habits and obesity.
Likewise, a major study that looked at 41,133 women in Arkansas found that those who gained excessive weight during pregnancy also predisposed their babies to childhood obesity. The research was published in PLoS last October.
(AFP Relaxnews)
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]]>The post Scientists unlock how sperm meets egg appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>When a sperm meets an egg, they fuse to form a single-cell entity called a zygote, which divides to produce an embryo.
In 2005, Japanese researchers reported they had found a molecule jutting from the membrane of mammalian sperm that docks onto the surface of the egg.
They called it Izumo, after a Japanese marriage shrine.
That unleashed the search for the receptor on the surface of the egg, which has been elusive, until now.
Reporting in the journal Nature, researchers at Britain’s Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute said the mechanism is contained in a protein on the egg’s membrane, under a thin external coat called the zona pellucida.
The protein has been dubbed Juno, after the Roman goddess of fertility and marriage.
“We have solved a long-standing mystery in biology by identifying the molecules displayed on all sperm and egg,” said lead researcher Gavin Wright.
“Without this essential interaction, fertilisation just cannot happen. We may be able to use this discovery to improve fertility treatments and develop new contraceptives.”
If defects in Juno prove to be a cause of infertility, a simple genetic test could advise couples seeking to have a baby, the researchers hope.
Instead of going through long, costly and stressful attempts at assisted fertility treatment in which sperm try to fuse with an egg in a lab dish, they could then try a single-sperm injection directly into the egg.
The team made the breakthrough using clues provided by Izumo itself.
They created an artificial version of Izumo and used it to scan for a counterpart molecule on the membrane of a mouse egg, so identifying Juno.
The scientists then genetically engineered mice whose eggs had no Juno. The mice were infertile, and in lab dishes, Juno-deficient eggs did not fuse with normal sperm.
Further studies found that Juno was also present on the eggs of humans, possums and pigs.
“The Izumo-Juno pairing is the first known essential interaction for sperm-egg recognition in any organism,” said Wright’s colleague, Enrica Bianchi.
About 30 to 40 minutes after Juno and Izumo meet up, the surface of the egg undergoes a remarkable biochemical change.
Juno is ejected from the membrane, thus preventing additional sperm from binding and creating a zygote with too many chromosomes, which would lead to dangerous defects in the offspring.
In a commentary also carried by Nature, biologist Paul Wassarman of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, said it was unclear whether the Izumo-Juno interaction was the only factor in the fusion of egg and sperm.
Allan Pacey, a fertility researcher at Britain’s University of Sheffield, who was not involved in the research, said he suspected a dysfunctioning Juno, or lack of it, was unlikely to be a major cause of infertility in couples.
“Perhaps the most likely application is whether scientists could devise drugs or vaccines that could block the way this protein works or how the sperm protein Izumo interacts with it,” he said in remarks carried by the Science Media Centre.
“This could lead to a new and novel non-hormonal contraceptive for both humans and other species of mammals.”
(AFP – Relaxnews)
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]]>The post What you eat before conception can alter your baby’s genes appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>For their research, scientists from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine took blood samples in 167 pregnant women from rural Gambia, measuring nutrient concentrations in their blood.
They then analyzed blood and hair follicle samples from their infants, ages two to eight months.
About half of the group (84 women) conceived at the peak of the rainy season, while 83 women conceived at the peak of the dry season.
Women who conceived during the rainy season consumed a more vitamin-rich diet of vegetables compared to their counterparts.
The combination of markedly different seasons, the population’s dependence on foods grown literally in their own backyard, and subsequent swings in nutrient availability offered researchers the ideal conditions for their research.
And what they found was that what women ate affected the process of gene expression in their babies — specifically in a process called methylation, which is known for locking genes in the ‘off’ position.
The process of methylation — which plays a crucial role in silencing gene expression — is essential for cell differentiation and embryonic development.
A separate animal study, for instance, has shown that a female mouse’s diet can change her offspring’s coat color when DNA methylation is modified.
“Our ongoing research is yielding strong indications that the methylation machinery can be disrupted by nutrient deficiencies and that this can lead to disease,” explained co-author Andrew Prentice.
“Our ultimate goal is to define an optimal diet for mothers-to-be that would prevent defects in the methylation process. Pre-conceptional folic acid is already used to prevent defects in embryos. Now our research is pointing towards the need for a cocktail of nutrients, which could come from the diet or from supplements.”
(Relaxnews)
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]]>The post Guidelines to a healthy pregnancy appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>There are few human processes that carry with them as many associated emotions as falling pregnant.
A pregnancy is divided into three trimester periods that are used to describe prenatal development. Pregnancy is different for every woman. Knowing what to expect will help you get ready for the months ahead.
Some women glow with good health and vitality during the first three months; others feel nauseous and exhausted.
The first trimester is often associated with the onset of morning sickness (usually from six weeks) and carries the highest risk of miscarriage (the natural death of the embryo or foetus).
As you enter your second trimester, the morning sickness and fatigue of the first three months should fade, leaving you feeling more energetic and like yourself again. The second trimester is when many women feel their best. Take advantage of this time to start planning for baby’s arrival. The baby’s development is rapid in the second trimester.
The third trimester comes with the challenges of carrying around the extra weight of your baby. Make sure you get enough rest and good quality nutrition. You’ll start thinking about your birth options at this time too.
All mothers desire the best for their children. Start before your baby is born by making wise lifestyle choices…
Check in with your gynaecologist or obstetrician early in your pregnancy for a risk assessment (at about seven to eight weeks).
This allows for a personalised approach and identification of any risk factors or early concerns.
Blood tests will be done at your first visit with your doctor or midwife. They are a routine part of antenatal care. Among these will be tests for checking your blood group, whether you are rhesus positive or negative, your immunity to rubella (German measles), for syphilis and hepatitis B, and for HIV. These tests are important as they allow for early intervention once abnormalities or presence of disease is picked up. Mothers-to-be who test HIV positive should start antiretroviral treatment straight away so they can reduce their chances of passing the virus to their babies.
Improve your diet by eating twice as well, not twice as much. Right from conception your baby is in a critical period of growth, where he or she is largely dependent on your nutrition. Eat a wide variety of foods and eat regularly, without skipping meals, especially breakfast – morning sickness is often worse when your tummy is empty.
Smoking is hazardous to an unborn baby as it decreases oxygen and blood supply to the foetus, and puts the baby at risk for growth restriction, low birth weight and respiratory problems. Plus, heavy smoking (more than 10 cigarettes a day) is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy loss, confirms a study in the New England Journal of Medicine.
It’s best to avoid alcohol altogether since it’s known to be an agent that causes malformation of an embryo. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a birth defect caused by heavy alcohol consumption (usually in a binge pattern) during pregnancy. It is characterised by growth retardation, facial and neural abnormalities as well as malformation of other organ systems. The prevalence of FAS in certain areas of South Africa is the highest in the world.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being – especially while preparing to be a parent. Rest as much as you can, particularly in the third trimester.
Regular exercise can give you the strength and endurance you’ll need to carry the baby weight and help you handle the physical stress of labour. It boosts the circulation of blood and oxygen, and it will also make it much easier to get back into shape after your baby is born. Exercise boosts mood and can help to ward off depression.
You can usually continue to do the exercise you did before pregnancy, but check with your doctor, and avoid high-risk activities or contact sports.
Your pelvic floor is one of the key areas of focus during pregnancy as this is one of the muscle networks most impacted by the baby’s weight and childbirth. Pilates, aqua aerobics, low-impact walking or swimming are great choices.
Be sure to choose a qualified instructor with training specifically for pregnant women.
About the Author:Dr Noluthando Nematswerani is a Discovery Health Clinical Specialist. For more information on Discovery, visit www.discovery.co.za.
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]]>The post Stock up on these vitamin rich foods during pregnancy appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>Also known as folate or vitamin B9, this is essential during the conception phase of pregnancy and during the first trimester. When trying to conceive, a folic acid supplement of 400-600mg should be consumed as it helps prevent neural birth defects such as spina bifida.
It is also essential for blood and protein production and effective enzyme function.
To increase folic acid in the diet, consume foods such as beans and legumes, spinach, broccoli and oranges.
Although we think we may get enough vitamin D from sun exposure, research is now showing that vitamin D is an essential vitamin for people worldwide.
In pregnancy terms it is essential for the regulation of calcium and phosphate in the body.
The vitamin D consumed during pregnancy is essential as it provides your baby with enough vitamin D for the first few months of life. A supplement containing 5-10 micrograms daily is sufficient to ensure your baby develops strong bones and teeth.
The following foods will also increase vitamin D intake: oily fish, eggs, fortified margarines and dairy products.
This is essential for red cell production and if not consumed in sufficient amounts can lead to low haemoglobin levels or even anaemia.
Symptoms of low iron include weakness, fatigue, lack of energy, dull and tired looking eyes, cold hands and feet, headaches and slow wound healing.
During the second and third trimesters, supplementation with 27 milligrams of iron is essential.
Also consume iron rich foods such as beef, broccoli, spinach, beans and grains. Although liver contains a high iron concentration, it is best to be avoided during pregnancy as it is also high in vitamin A which can be toxic to your baby if consumed in high amounts.
This increases the absorption of iron as well as acts as an antioxidant protecting the mother against infections. A dose of 85 milligrams ensures healthy gum, teeth and bone formation.
Citrus fruits, broccoli and tomatoes are great sources of vitamin C
This is important for the formation of healthy bones and teeth.
Dairy products and fish with edible bones such as sardines are great sources of calcium. An intake of 1000mg per day is recommended.
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]]>The post Follow this checklist when buying your baby’s first set of wheels appeared first on All4Baby.
]]>There are a number of factors to consider when purchasing a pram for the first time and below is a comprehensive checklist to help you choose your baby’s new set of wheels!
The main priority for all parent’s-to-be is the safety of their child. When purchasing a pram, make sure of the following:
You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you purchase a pram that is perfect for a baby, but way too small for a toddler.
Look for a pram that is versatile and comfortable for your child from newborn up to four years of age. One that is compatible with both the infant car seat and toddler stroller seat will ensure that you only have to buy once.
You need to remember that the pram you choose now will probably be used for a second and maybe even third child. The initial investment that you make in purchasing a top quality pram will be worth it when you are using it over the duration of five or more years.
Look out for the following:
At the end of the day, you need to purchase a pram that makes your life easier when out and about with your baby – not harder!
These are key points to think about:
It is a good idea to have a few ‘non-negotiable’ requirements that you have listed prior to comparing the different pram options, as this will help you eliminate certain models straight away and hopefully make your choice easier.
Last tip – never buy a pram without physically putting it into the car boot! You may be doing this a few times a day (sometimes with a screaming baby on your hip!) and you want to be 100% sure it fits.
About the Author: Double Trouble is a Cape Town based company that specialises in baby products for Twins and Singletons. For more information, visit www.double-trouble.co.za.
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