Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 164 / #4-2025 i Your Pregnancy & Baby

I’ve written more than 100 of these editor’s letters over nearly 20 years and, as usual, I’m running late. My husband just brought me coffee in a beautiful mug, because you know what they say about journalism… coffee turned to copy. And you know what they say about coffee… Hebrew, because the man in your life is supposed to make it. My husband’s coffee is great. The second best coffee on earth. When I caught a whiff of the perculator a little earlier, my thoughts turned to the best coffee on earth and the person who makes it. We recently got back from visiting her: my mother-in-law in Germany. Suddenly I really missed her. I have so many blessings in life, and having her as a mother-in-law is one of…

E-mail your letter to sharing@ypbmagazine.com and you could win. WIN A PURITY & ELIZABETH ANNE’S HAMPER WORTH R2500! When it comes to your baby’s delicate skin, you want to feel confident that you’re using the gentlest, most trusted care. That is why so many South African families turn to Purity & Elizabeth Anne’s, a brand with generations of expertise in looking after little ones, from top to tiny toes. From bathtime cleansers to everyday moisturisers, the Purity & Elizabeth Anne’s range is designed to care for sensitive skin, offering mild, gentle and dermatologically tested products that give your baby the comfort and protection they deserve.…

Dear Your Pregnancy & Baby magazine team. I’m thrilled to share an update on my son, Danelo Moavero, who was featured on the cover of your 2008 issue at 11 months old. It is now 17 years later, and Danelo has blossomed into a kind-hearted and easy-going 17-year-old young man. He excels in tennis, soccer and hockey, and is a prefect at his school. His amiable personality, empathy and compassion make a positive impact on those around him. Danelo brings vibrancy to our home and has a calming presence. I have two boys. They’ve been my greatest awakeners, inspiring me to become a conscious parent coach. I’ve learnt the importance of mindful parenting, empathy and compassion through my journey with Danelo and his brother, Alessio.…

WIN A BABIESRUS VOUCHER VALUED AT R350 Send a clear, good-quality, high-resolution photo to sharing@ypbmagazine.com. Each photo published receives a R350 Babies R Us Voucher.…

This really makes us cross. And worried. Measles is back. Twenty-five years ago, measles was considered eradicated in the USA, but in July this year, cases have hit a record high. Closer to home, the City of Ekurhuleni issued a warning in August that the area was experiencing a surge in measles cases – 80 at that point. Your child’s school should’ve contacted you for consent to get vaccinated during the roll-out of a new measles and rubella vaccination campaign. Sign those forms and send your child’s Road to Health Card along on the day. It’s the right thing to do.…

Between 4.3 million and 5.6 million South Africans live with diabetes. Go Barbie! There are estimated to be between 4.3 million and 5.6 million South Africans living with diabetes, and now a particular Barbie fashionista doll is one of them. Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions such as type 1 diabetes, more children can recognise themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the pancreas to make very little insulin or none at all, leading to dependence on insulin therapy and the risk of short and or long-term complications. Barbie wears a continuous glucose monitor on her arm: a small device that continuously measures blood-sugar levels. To keep it in place, she uses…

New analysis, done by Climate Central, has shown that climate change poses a severe threat to maternal health and birth outcomes. Climate change has raised global average temperatures and made extreme heat events more common. Pregnant women are now experiencing at least twice the number of dangerously hot days than before. Why is this bad? Because high temperatures during pregnancy are linked to increased risks of complications such as hypertension, gestational diabetes, hospitalisation, severe maternal morbidity, still- and pre-term birth. Protect yourself and your baby on extremely hot days by staying hydrated and in the shade or airconditioned spaces where possible, avoiding physical activity during the hottest part of the day and wearing loose, breathable clothing. Be aware of overheating symptoms such as increased sweating, dizziness, fatigue and muscle cramps.…

Thank you, Pharma Dynamics! Hearty is an award-winning digital heart-healthy recipe collection, featuring recipes by SA’s top chefs who have crafted indulgent, gourmet twists to challenge the notion that heart-healthy eating is bland and restrictive. Hearty is freely accessible via heartyfood.co.za. Pharma Dynamics’ Cooking from the Heart series is already in its eighth edition, with all eight titles endorsed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation SA. We thank them for the extract we have published in these pages. PREP/COOK 1 HOUR SERVES 4 Crispy sesame seed fish Ditch store-bought crumbed fish, and make this easy, wholesome version from scratch. The sesame seeds form a crispy coating. Lemon rind and herbs go perfectly with the fish, with no need for any added salt. INGREDIENTS 300 ml raw sesame seeds About 1…

Most married couples recognise that their relationship goes through stages, from the “can’t keep their hands off each other” early years, and the trials and stresses of new jobs and babies, through the often troublesome times of teenagers, and (ideally) on into the less turbulent waters of later life. Indeed, change is inevitable in every marriage, and these changes include the really big ones like the arrival of children, health concerns, money matters and career issues. It’s the way couples handle these changes that can mean the difference between make or break. There are a few recognisable phases to a marriage (or long-term relationship), says clinical psychologist Thandazile Mtetwa, who practises at Ngezwi Psychological Services in Gauteng. “There’s no timeframe for these stages. Some couples stay longer on one or…

While a woman’s fertility starts to decline from 30 onwards, a man’s fertility remains viable until well into his later years, only beginning to very gradually decline after the age of 40. But this is not to say that fertility issues don’t affect men. In fact, a number of factors can affect male fertility. It’s a topic that can be hard to broach, because male infertility is so often seen as a blow to a man’s sexual prowess or manliness, but when a couple is struggling to conceive, it should be investigated. Research shows that up to 20 percent of South African couples struggle with infertility, which affects both men and women almost equally, says Dr Frances Paterson, a urogynaecologist at Netcare Parklane Hospital in Johannesburg. The average fertility rate…

Fifteen minutes once a month – that’s all it takes. If you aren’t in the habit yet, commit to making this self-exam part of your life, for the rest of your life. HANDS ON HIPS Stand in front of the mirror with your hands on your hips, and take a good look at your breasts. Note the size and shape. Look for changes in the skin and texture. Look at your nipples and areola. HANDS ABOVE THE HEAD Do your breasts move in the same way when you lift your arms? Look at the size and shape again, and if your breasts are symmetrical. Are there any pits or bumps on the areola or nipples? Have a look at your armpits too to see if there is any swelling at…

MANGOES They’re yellow like the summer sun, juicy and packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C. Mango also contains folic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, selenium and zinc, which all play an important role in pregnancy. It’s rich in fibre, which can help prevent constipation. You can enjoy mangoes in a variety of ways. MAKE YOUR OWN MANGO SMOOTHIE Put a cup of mango chunks in a liquidiser. Cover with cold water. Puree and add a half cup of yoghurt and a little more water. (It should be a cup of liquid in total.) Mix until smooth and drink it cold. Golden rule Wash all fruit and vegetables before eating them! WATERMELON Thought watermelon was just a sweet summer pleasure? Think again! This refreshing pink fruit increases your…

Puffiness of the wrists and ankles during pregnancy is caused by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. This is probably due to the changes in the cardiovascular system, causing the blood vessels close to the surface of the skin to become more dilated in response to the increased blood volume. Even though a certain amount of fluid retention is normal, too much can become uncomfortable and could lead to certain health problems, like high blood pressure. Each woman retains fluid according to her individual needs. If you’re overweight during pregnancy, you will retain more fluid than a woman who’s underweight. Even if you show no signs of swelling, you’re carrying an increased amount of fluid in your body during pregnancy. WHY SO WATERY? There are a number of reasons…

There actually is such a thing as a right time to try to become pregnant with your next baby. But listen to your body, not to the busybodies in your life, to figure out when that right time is for you. Here’s how. Your chances of a healthy, happy second pregnancy are best if you can answer yes to the following questions: 1 IS IT 18 TO 23 MONTHS SINCE YOU LAST GAVE BIRTH? In pre-technological societies where mothers breastfed constantly, children were naturally spaced about two years apart, says Sylvia Brown in her book The Post-Pregnancy Handbook, and research shows this could be best for mothers and babies. A US Centers for Disease Control study found that babies conceived less than six months after the birth of the older sibling…

After nine months of carefully considering what you can eat, you may have the desire to relinquish some control and eat what you feel like now that your baby is here. However, you should still try to follow a healthy, varied and balanced diet to ensure your milk supply is sufficient, not lacking in any essential nutrients, as well as helping you gradually return to your pre-baby body. You may wish to add foods with lactation-promoting properties – known as lactogenic foods or galactagogues – to your diet, along with frequent nursing or pumping to boost your milk supply. good buy Vitaforce Schlehen is a revitalising tonic for pregnant and breastfeeding moms. It functions as a convalescence tonic and helps to stimulate lactation. It also acts as a blood-cleanser and…

The period from conception to 2 years of age is a period of 1 001 days – often spoken of as the 1 001 critical days thar provide the platform for all future development, health and relationships. Pregnancy provides the platform for the development of the 100 billion brain cells your baby is born with that are largely unconnected at birth. These brain cells need to be connected to other brain cells (through synapses) in order to make sense of the world, and it is sensory input that creates the connections and pathways in the brain. Interestingly, these are all the brain cells your child will have – it’s the connections between them that make all the difference in his healthy development. Did you know? The amazing thing about real…

FOR BUDDING BUG LOVERS Earth needs bees! (And other bugs too, of course.) Start creating a positive attitude towards bugs in general with a minibeast search-and-find mirror book by Sharon King-Chai. In Hello Bee!, there are things to spot on every shiny page. For added fun, use the QR codes linking to audio. Perfect for baby brain development and sensory play. R250, Pan Macmillan. Buy it at Amazon, Exclusive Books, Reader’s Warehouse and Takealot. CALLING ALL CREATIVES! Heard of Book Dash? On a single day, volunteer creatives work fast to make beautiful, original African children’s books that anybody can access, print and distribute. Each team consists of a writer, an illustrator, a designer and an editor. Expert Book Dash facilitators keep the teams on track. Since 2014, 211 books have…

EXPECTATIONS TO MANAGE It can take up to six weeks for you and your baby to get the hang of breastfeeding and for breastfeeding to become established. The best way to do this is to let your baby lead the way – it’s called baby-led feeding or demand feeding. GOOD BUY Purity & Elizabeth Anne’s Nipple Cream soothes cracked, chafed and sore nipples and keeps them soft and supple. A mother and her baby are a finely tuned team, and as feeds increase, mom’s body responds to the cues that her baby is giving by producing exactly the right amount of milk. Using a dummy to delay feeds at this time will slow the production of milk and may cause problems for both mother and baby. Supply needs to meet…

Your baby’s immune system is still developing, leaving him vulnerable to germs and illness. Nowhere is exposure to germs easier than through your baby’s digestive system. Recent studies by an international forum on home hygiene found that the kitchen often harbours more germs than the bathroom. NEWBORN If you are bottle-feeding, your baby’s bottles and teats will need to be sterilised. Sterilisation reduces the risk of your baby getting any bacterial, viral or parasitic infections. Before sterilising, wash the bottles thoroughly in warm soapy water to get rid of any milk residue. Also run water through each teat and ensure that there are no cracks in the teats or bottles where bacteria can settle. An electric steam sterilising unit offers effective sterilisation and takes up to 12 minutes inclusive of…

If, at around six weeks, your baby has no head control when held upright, you should let your doctor know. “I wouldn’t worry too much if your baby can’t lift her head up to 45 degrees when placed on her tummy at the three-month mark – you can just give her more tummy time to achieve this – but a baby who demonstrates no head support whatsoever by six to 10 weeks needs to be assessed,” cautions occupational therapist Meg Faure. Again, if your baby isn’t smiling by about six weeks, you need to watch her closely to make sure that she’s engaging. If, after a few weeks, you still haven’t had a smile from your baby, and she’s also not making eye contact with you or turning her head…

Keep the room comfortably warm. Remember, newborns cannot maintain their body temperature as well as you can. Place baby on a clean, soft surface. Do this at a time when your baby is lying quietly with her eyes open and her limbs relaxed. Use a good-quality baby oil when you massage. (See right.) Make sure that you have no chance of being distracted for at least 10 minutes. Ensure that you are relaxed and comfortable during the massage. Keep the movements you use slow and firm. Make sure you have your oil, a spare nappy and towel and anything else you may need before you start.…

Latest research tells us your baby should sleep on her back and never on her stomach, as this increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It’s always best to use pure cotton blankets and sheets that must be securely tucked in. Avoid duvets, quilts and pillows. Look for a dry, firm mattress. Be sure to keep it clean and well aired. Many doctors advise that placing your baby on her side during the day can help avoid flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly), which can occur when your baby lies on her back a lot. Because her skull is still soft, it can create a flat spot. Try not to leave your baby in the car seat for longer than needed. If your baby falls asleep, take her out of…

Avoid toys with cords long enough to wrap around a child’s neck. Avoid loud toys. They could damage your child’s sensitive hearing. Supervise play and show her how to use toys safely. Remove and discard toy packaging (plastic bags or wrapping, foam etc). Check toys often for hazards like loose parts or sharp edges. Children should never be allowed to handle batteries. Ride-on toys should suit your child’s age. Use a toy box without a lid or one that is light enough not to fall on your child or trap fingers. Make sure your child can breathe inside a toy box in case she climbs inside. Check squeaky toys for loose or removable squeakers. Check toy cars and trucks for loose or removable wheels, tires or other small parts. Check…

Wind your baby to get rid of any trapped air. There are many positions you can try, so experiment to find which works best for baby. Give your baby a little time – she may need a few minutes before she’s able to burp properly. Other activities that encourage a burp include tummy time and cycling baby’s legs (lie her on her back and gently pump her legs as if she were riding a bike). 1. OVER THE SHOULDER Place your baby over your shoulder, with her bottom supported by your arm. Pat or rub her back gently but firmly with your other hand. This is often the easiest position to use. 2. FACE DOWN ON YOUR LAP Place your baby face down on your lap. Hold her firmly with…

■ CLOSE CONTACT COUNTS. In the first three months, skin-on-skin bonding – with both Mom and Dad – is very beneficial. Making eye contact and regularly speaking to your baby is important for language development. “As you go throughout your day, talk about what is going to happen. Touch and name things you encounter,” recommends Dr Melodie Jager, author of Play Learn Grow. ■ GIVE THEM SENSORY STIMULATION. Constantly expose your baby to new textures, colours, sounds and foods. ■ KEEP THEM MOVING. Encourage your baby to use his arms and legs while you play with him, and allow them the space and time to try out their new skills. ■ KEEP IT REAL. Dr de Jager recommends no TV time for babies. Rather let them spend time looking at…

Ihad high hopes for a natural birth, even a water birth, but as the weeks passed, I didn’t feel much movement in my womb, and at each scan we saw that our little boy was in the breech position. His head was near my ribs. I started exercising to try and turn him in the womb. At 36 weeks, our gynae told us we needed to try an external cephalic version (ECV), where a baby is manipulated from a breech position to a headdown position. After 30 minutes of painful manoeuvring, we heard “it isn’t working. You need to book a c-section.” We weren’t devastated, but we were disappointed. Proverbs 16:9 was our comfort: The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps! The day finally…

BEFORE ADMISSION Don’t leave packing to the last minute. From 36 weeks onwards, be ready to go to the hospital. Do things like bulk shopping and filling up the deep freeze with some ready-made meals. Preparation is key to a less stressful labour. Pay all accounts ahead of time. Make sure there’s enough money to pay debit orders and rent. Have cash available for emergencies. Make a file with all your important medical documents and make copies of all of them to store elsewhere. Remember to make arrangements for where older siblings will go when you go to hospital. Make sure their bags are also ready to go. ON ADMISSION Have your documents ready – your medical aid card, hospital card, ID card, booking forms, stem cell kit (if you’re…

Whether you choose needles, drugs, water, hypnotism, massage or acupuncture to make labour and birth easier, be prepared for some degree of pain or discomfort. By tuning your brain to deal with pain through breathing, moving, or using distraction techniques, you can help yourself to feel in control of your labour and pain. You also have a built-in hormonal pain control centre that releases endorphins and relaxins – these are as effective as potent painkillers. However, these hormones can be blocked in a stressful situation (such as your first contraction). For some women it’s just the smell of the hospital, the thought of needles, fear of the unknown or remembering what it was like the last time, that stresses them out. “YOU OWE IT TO YOURSELF AND YOUR UNBORN BABY…

The last category of the year, girls up to 48 months, is now closed! Two more winners will be chosen from the entries, one for our next cover, and one for the cover of our sister magazine, Baba & Kleuter. The two little girl winners will be on the last covers of 2025. The 2026 competition will start a little later this year. Keep an eye on our social media for the call to enter. A huge thank you to our sponsors: Chela-Preg, Epi-Max, Panado and Safeway Babies. Each winner receives prizes worth more than R4 000 from the sponsors. Turn to page 11 to see what you can win and to the back of this magazine for the full terms and conditions. Use #CoverStarSearch on social media, so you…

I’ll still have a peek… Over three years ago, I was soaking up your Your Pregnancy & Baby advice sections for breakfast. My son is now 6, and my twin girls are now 3, chatty, chaotic and suspiciously skilled at negotiating snacks. And just like that, it feels like I’ve reached the end of this baby chapter. But before I close the baby section in the magazine for good (okay, maybe I’ll still peek), I wanted to say thank you – for the advice, the inspiration and the bizarre comfort of knowing someone else was also googling “can you survive on three hours of sleep forever?” To all the twin mamas out there: you are superheroes. And here’s my one golden nugget of advice – share the wipes. Seriously. One…

SEND US YOUR PICS: WINNING PHOTO WIN A VOUCHER! Send a high-resolution photo of you pregnant, you and your babies or your family, and you could win a Babies R Us voucher worth R500. Email your entry to sharing@ypbmagazine.com with the subject ”BabiesRUs”. Include your ID number, contact details and nearest Babies R Us store. We are absolutely thrilled to experience a whole new dynamic with a little girl joining our family soon! We can’t wait to see how Tommy will react and just how much he will love his little sister.…

enter now! Send a good-quality photo to sharing@ypbmagazine.com or WhatsApp us on 076 433 4384 win WIN ONE OF EIGHT COOL STOOL HAMPERS WORTH R590 EACH! Cool Stool is a tasty, nutritionally diverse 100 percent raw, high-fibre daily super-seed mix that enhances natural bowel movements and gut health. Scientifically tested, it’s perfect for those dealing with constipation, and to optimise general well-being. Suitable for the whole family from 2 years old, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. Available from coolstool.co.za at selected Dis-Chem stores, Checkers Western Cape, faithful-to-nature.co.za; Takealot, Wellness Warehouse and AlphaPharm pharmacies.…

Amber Jade de Beer from Cape Town began donating breast milk after the birth of her first child when she joined a regular mothers’ group at the Stork’s Nest Clinic at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital. When she had her second baby, she donated again. “Between her first set of donations in 2022 and now this year, Amber has provided more than 150 litres of breast milk – and counting. Her selfless gift is benefiting not only the recipients at our hospital but also other Netcare facilities. To us, Amber is a supermom,” says Candice Willemse, milk handler for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital. “Donor breast milk is given to medically vulnerable infants when their own mom can’t help. This ensures the babies receive the nutrients and antibodies…

Have you heard yourself say this? For SA women, that statement is really true. Nearly half of us are single, and therefore the primary decision makers for our families. And we’re under intense pressure to make ends meet. We support our biological children, but also bear financial responsibility for extended family members. Up to 40% of us are doing this alone: no partner or co-parent in sight. So where does the money go? Groceries and essentials: 32% Rent: 17% School fees or child-related expenses are in the top 3 monthly expenses: 17% Yet, only 26% of women have life cover, 5% have dread disease cover and those with income protection count: 3% Source: 1Life Insurance…

Infertility is a global health challenge affecting millions, yet is often misunderstood or shrouded in silence. Definition: Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, or after 6 months for women over the age of 35. Despite persistent misconceptions, infertility is not solely a women’s issue. See our article on page 40. Understanding fertility means understanding the potential causes of infertility. Men may experience fertility challenges due to low sperm count, poor motility, hormonal issues or external factors such as alcohol, marijuana use, certain medications or environmental toxins. Testosterone supplementation, often prescribed for fatigue or low libido, can also impair natural sperm production, and men are often unaware of the risks to their fertility. Female infertility can be caused by ovulatory disorders, blocked…

DICTIONARY Nulliparous /nəˈlɪp.ər.əs/ This medical term describes a woman who has never given birth to a live baby. Just watch this, okay? It will warm the cockles of your heart. Playing Dad is a short film (the seventh in the Fathers Matter anthology) that recently launched on the Fathers Matter website and on the NPO HeartlinesZA YouTube channel. Aside from the Fathers Matter website, which includes various helpful and free resources, Heartlines offers the Fathers Matter Coach, a free WhatsApp-based platform that provides South African men with real-time support and motivation in their fatherhood journeys. Join by visiting fathersmatter.org.za or WhatsApp “hi” to 060 058 2107.…

“CHANGE IS INEVITABLE IN EVERY MARRIAGE.” 1. LACK OF COMMUNICATION The single biggest cause of divorce. 2. ABUSE Financial, emotional, physical, or psychological abuse. 3. INFIDELITY 4. ADDICTIONS An addiction to anything (including, these days, pornography, because it’s so accessible). 5. SOCIAL NETWORKS Social media such as Facebook and X blur the line between public and private, and online flirting can quickly turn into a form of infidelity. 6. FINANCES Money, often coupled with other issues, can cause serious problems in a marriage. 7. SEXUAL INCOMPATIBILITY The wild desire of the honeymoon phase should deepen into a bond that fulfils both partners emotionally and sexually. If this doesn’t happen, a spouse may look elsewhere to have those needs filled. 8. PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES Co-parenting is a team sport, and differences in…

OUR EXPERT IT’S JUST NOT GOING THAT GREAT Q I suspect my wife has postnatal depression. Our baby is a month old, and things are so hard. I’m back at work, and when I get home, she hasn’t done a thing all day – and is tired and haggard. Parenting isn’t how we thought it would be. It just feels joyless and relentless. Or maybe I’m the one with postnatal depression. Can dads get it? Please help us. A KIARA ANSWERS: I am holding two feelings in response to your question: grateful that you have been vulnerable and brought up dads and their mental health during this time, and empathy for this very common experience you have just experienced. Yes, partners do experience postnatal depression (PND); up to 10 percent…

Your levels of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone skyrocket when you’re pregnant, and this storm of hormones leads to many physical changes in your body, which include the oral cavity. So, visiting your dentist should be on your to-do list. Your saliva changes in pregnancy, which makes you more likely to get cavities. “The main salivary changes in pregnancy involve its flow (there’s more of it), composition, and pH and hormone levels,” explains Dr Eshaam Abdurahman from Paarl in the Western Cape. Progesterone decreases the pH of saliva, and the increased acidity speeds up the dissolving of the (already compromised) tooth. Other changes alter the natural defence mechanisms of the teeth and create conditions that allow bacteria to flourish. Plaque control is crucial in pregnancy. Plaque formation can lead to…

You know about the morning sickness, swollen ankles and the bizarre food cravings, but there are loads of other – slightly grosser and more embarrassing – things that take place during your pregnancy. Remember, in most cases it’s perfectly normal and no cause for concern, but if certain ailments persist, you should speak to your gynae. good buy Dermikelp relieves itching, redness and irritation associated with eczema, dermatitis, dry skin, heat rash, cradle cap and even chickenpox thanks to a marine extract called CEM K, derived from sea kelp, with anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Free from cortisone, parabens, artificial fragrances and colourants and can be used daily, even from birth. Itch Relief Shampoo (100ml) R165, (200ml) R249, Scalp Tonic (100ml) R195, Clicks, Dis-Chem, Takealot and selected pharmacies. SPIDER VEINS According…

Not all babies who cry incessantly and struggle to sleep are necessarily colicky – they could in fact be struggling with reflux. Mild reflux is often missed because most babies outgrow it by their first birthday, but severe reflux can interfere with a baby’s health, growth and development and turn early parenthood into a nightmare. WHAT IS IT? Reflux happens when partially digested milk is moved back up from the stomach into the mouth through the oesophagus (the food pipe or gullet). Over time, the gastric acids that help to digest the milk can cause inflammation of the oesophagus. This leads to a burning sensation in the chest that we all know as heartburn. While it’s normal for babies to spit up small amounts of milk when being winded, ongoing…

Q My baby is 2 months old and has oral thrush. Why does this happen? I’d never even heard of it before this. Nystacid has been prescribed for both of us. I’ve also heard that I should use coconut oil for hygiene twice a day, wiped on my nipples. Does this sound correct? A CAREY ANSWERS: It can be really unsettling to see white patches in your baby’s mouth and hear the word “thrush” for the first time. You’re not alone, and it’s more common than you might think. Oral thrush is a type of yeast infection caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. This yeast lives naturally in our bodies – including in the mouth and gut – and usually doesn’t cause any problems. But in babies, their immune systems are…

OUR EXPERT Meet Sister Claire A midwife with more than 34 years of experience, Sister Claire is the host of the Babies R Us virtual antenatal courses, which are offered on a monthly basis. There are two sessions: Session 1 covers birth preparation, and Session 2 covers labour and going home with Baby. They are both two-hour sessions presented on a Wednesday or a Saturday morning. Bookings can be made online. “AN UNDERSTANDING OF WHY YOUR BABY IS WAKING UP AT NIGHT CAN HELP GUIDE YOUR RESPONSE. SOME COMMON REASONS INCLUDE RECENT CHANGES INCLUDING TRAVEL, MOVING HOUSE OR BABY FROM YOUR ROOM INTO HER OWN.”…

The ability to cross the body’s midline and a well-developed body awareness play an important role in overall body coordination, the foundation of many important developmental milestones and everyday activities. It is critical that parents and caregivers help to develop these skills from an early age. The good news is that there are a number of ways to develop these skills in children, and most are a lot of fun! BABIES Encourage your baby to use both hands when touching and exploring objects. Clapping hands and banging blocks together are fun bilateral games. TODDLERS Creeping, climbing and crawling games promote the coordination of the body sides. All ball games! Ball and foam pits give children full pressure around their body as they swim around and try to make their way…

Q My toddler only wants to eat white food, and I worry that he isn’t getting the necessary nutrition that a 2-year-old needs. Here’s a list of what he eats: white toast, pasta, bananas, smooth vanilla yoghurt, oven chips, rice, pap, mash and drumsticks. Literally nothing green. He just refuses. A KATH ANSWERS: As a paediatric dietitian (and mom myself!), I want to reassure you that many toddlers go through a “white food” phase. You’re certainly not alone in this. It’s a common stage in toddler development where foods with bland colours and predictable textures feel safe and familiar. Looking at your toddler’s list, white toast, pasta, bananas, smooth vanilla yoghurt, oven chips, rice, pap, mash and drumsticks, there is a fair bit of variety in terms of carbohydrates, protein and…

Getting into a routine is not about watching the clock and waking your baby for a feed, it’s about learning to recognise your baby’s feeding cues – this will soon become second nature. Your baby will make movements and sounds when he’s hungry, such as: Sucking on tongue or lips during sleep times. Sucking on fingers. Moving his fist, hand and arms toward his mouth. Lots of fussing or fidgeting while he is sleeping. Turning his head from side to side. Turning his head toward your breast and chest (this motion is called rooting). Crying – this is a late sign of hunger.…

When is it safe to give your child at least some exposure to germs? 0 TO 6 MONTHS Your baby’s immune system is immature at this stage. Sterilise bottles, dummies and everything else that your baby might put in her mouth. Wash your hands frequently, especially after contact with foreign objects or other people. Keep her away from sick people. 6 TO 12 MONTHS Your baby’s immune system is starting to mature. Begin controlled exposure to different environments such as grass, shopping malls and other children. Ensure that all food is stored, frozen and defrosted properly. Bottles can be washed safely in the dishwater or with dish-washing liquid, water and a bottle brush. 12 TO 24 MONTHS Your child is well on the road to building her immune system. If…

Parenting is a wonderful thing. Your instinct is to protect and cherish, which means putting your baby’s needs first. Nothing is as important as this little person’s comfort and well-being. Before you have your own baby, it’s difficult to imagine what nappy changing will be like. Rest assured: all you’ll care about is that your baby is clean and comfortable. Also, prepare to feel deeply satisfied when you realise you can and do provide for your vulnerable little baby’s needs. Even the most terrible nappy experience will quickly fade and become a story from the trenches to chuckle over later. Here’s some advice to help you survive and flourish during this part of your parenting journey… ESSENTIAL TIPS Hospitals don’t provide nappies, so take along enough nappies when you go…

You don’t have to bath your baby every day, especially if he doesn’t enjoy it. However, his head and bottom need to be cleaned properly twice a day. Prepare a small bowl of cool boiled water and some cotton wool. Start with your baby’s face. Use a damp cotton wool ball for each eye and wipe from the inner corner to the outside. Wipe the rest of the face. Pay special attention to the area under the chin and the neck, and also behind the ears as milk can collect in these folds. Wipe behind the neck too. Next up is the bottom. Remove the nappy. Wipe your baby’s genital area, being thorough in all the groin folds.  If you have a baby girl, wipe from front to back. You…

1. RUB HER CARES AWAY Massage is an incredibly comforting tool across all ages, and your newborn is no different. Because she loves being touched, this could just do the trick to banish those tears. 2. GONE WITH THE WIND Your baby could be in a bit of pain caused by a wind. To get the wind out, try bicycling her legs while she’s lying on her back, or lay her on her stomach across your knees and gently rub her back. 3. MAKE A MOVE A change of scenery and a bit of movement could make the world of difference. Pop your baby in her car seat and go for a drive – the constant movement and soothing white noise of the engine provide a double calming effect. Gentle…

GOOD BUY Karvol has been offering moms and families gentle and effective relief from everyday health-related problems, like blocked noses, sinusitis, and cough and cold symptoms for over 50 years. TIPS TO DECONGEST YOUR BABY ■ BREASTMILK TO THE RESCUE Breastmilk contains amazing immune boosting properties, as well as leucocytes that fight germs and inhibit bacterial growth. Your antibodies are also passed through breastmilk, giving your baby disease-specific immunity. A drop or two of breastmilk in the nose can even help ease congestion by loosening the mucus in the nasal passages. ■ SUCK IT OUT Sometimes that bunged up nose needs a little extra help getting clean – there are many handy mucus sucking devices on the market these days. They are completely safe to use and very easy too.…

It’s normal for young children to have six to eight upper respiratory tract infections and two or three gastrointestinal infections each year. The average normal child is sick, usually with minor illnesses such as colds and stomach ailments, eight to twelve times during the first year of life and six to eight times during the second year. Children in school and daycare can be ill more often and this is known as “daycare syndrome”. GOOD BUY Vi-Daylin Daily Multivitamin Supplement Syrup is formulated for children aged 1-5 and supplies them with all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for physical and mental development. Sugar- and tartrazine-free with no artificial colourants. HOW CHILDREN GET ILL Your child is constantly exposed to bacteria and viruses that can lead to colds, flu,…

GOOD BUY Telament Paediatric Colic Drops relieve discomfort associated with wind, colic and stomach aches. Suitable for babies from birth. Sugar-free and no colourants or artificial flavourants and the convenient dropper bottle helps with easy administration. While she’s feeding, either on the breast or bottle, your baby swallows a bit of air that then gets trapped and causes discomfort, burping, flatulence, bloating, cramps and even crying. This happens to all babies, but you may be surprised at exactly how niggly a wind can make your little one! If your baby is suffering with a wind, she will probably stop suckling. This is because the trapped air is making her feel full before she has had enough milk. She could even cry, have a pained expression on her face, or squirm…

If you are reading this guide then I am so excited for you! There is nothing as amazing as bringing new life into this world. Each and every birth is unique. You will have a story to tell, whether it went according to plan or not! This is what we’re celebrating in Birth Your Way. Our hope is that you find inspiration in the stories we’ve shared here, that could be just like yours or not at all like yours. We’re all different, but the one constant is the strength we show when becoming mothers. Do not let fear cloud your judgement. Seek out the right information in order to drive the right attitude, starting with this guide. You’re a woman – a biological marvel who can grow and birth…

Women are often not sure if they’re in true labour or not. While you don’t want to birth your baby in the car, you don’t want to walk the hospital corridors for two days either. It’s quite safe to say that when contractions are regular, painful and coming every five minutes, then it’s time to go to the hospital. If, however, your contractions are irregular and tend to disappear when you lie down or walk around, then this is probably not true labour. WHAT IS FALSE LABOUR? There’s nothing false about Braxton Hicks (practice contractions) – they can be quite uncomfortable. False labour is “false” in the sense that it doesn’t dilate the cervix or result in the birth of your baby. Being told that you’re in false labour can…

My beautiful, healthy baby girl was born on 18 June 2025. I was in labour for about 28 hours. The day before, I had gone in for my normal 38-week check-up and was told, during the non-stress test, that I was 1cm dilated and having contractions (which I didn’t feel). The nurse said that it is possible that I won’t go into active labour for a few more days so I went home to take a nap, only to be woken by more intense contractions 2 hours later. I called my partner at work and told him he needed to come home because I was in labour. For some reason, I felt like I needed to have clean, styled hair when I went into hospital. So, that night, I made…

Connect with us on social media for regular updates. @ypbmagazine | @babaenkleuter_tydskrif | @ypbplanner | @coverstarsearch @momwithyou Focus on the step in front of you, not the whole staircase. @mommunited You ever look at your child and realise their face is changing and your heart breaks just a little? @dailymotherlythoughts Motherhood means never going to bed with an empty heart (or an empty laundry basket). @momquotesinspire To anyone who says, “You don’t have a real job – you just stay home with your kids.” You’re right. I don’t check in. I don’t get paid. But I do get called every hour of the night. I do get followed to the bathroom like I’m a celebrity with no security. I do get touched, pulled, questioned, needed – before I even finish…

enter now! Send a good-quality photo to sharing@ypbmagazine.com or WhatsApp us on 076 433 4384 WIN A GIFT FROM CARRIWELL WORTH R2 200! Carriwell’s adjustable maternity and nursing bra is comfortable, soft, and light. It moulds to your changing body shape. Made from ultra-soft and flexible seamless microfibre fabric, this nursing bra is also highly functional with adjustable straps, fully openable drop cups allowing for maximum skin-to-skin contact, and convenient one handed open-and-close nursing clasps. R499,99 from Baby City, Babies R Us at Toys R Us, Dis-Chem, Takealot, Loot, Woolworths, Clicks Baby stores, Checkers Little Me, leading baby and maternity stores, and selected pharmacies. winner…

1 301 508 Six out of 10 SA children live below the poverty line, and don’t always have access to the basics like a toothbrush, soap or wash cloth. You can help by pledging a virtual Santa Shoebox. You purchase it online, any time of the year. You pick online what extras go in the box, which is then packed by the Santa Shoebox Team (elves?), and delivered to children in far-flung rural spots. The virtual box contains eight specified items, as well as additional items, such as a lunchbox and books, and costs R500 plus an optional delivery fee of R30. Go to santashoebox.org.za/virtual-santa-shoebox.…

You need to register your baby’s birth within 30 days, but yoh, a trip to Home Affairs with a newborn in tow can feel like an odyssey. And if you miss that 30-day mark, you’re in for a world of pain. The Children’s Institute calls it administrative abuse. The organisation has taken the DOHA to court about it. DOHA officials sometimes even instruct mothers to go back to the province where their children were born to collect and confirm their documents. All this, while there is a backlog of more than 258 000 children and young adults not registered by Home Affairs. Some moms aren’t even allowed in the door to talk to an official to try and sort their child’s registration out! While we wait for things to improve,…

Two-year-old Oyintando has WiskottAldrich Syndrome, a rare, lifethreatening genetic disorder that compromises the immune system and affects blood clotting. In 2023, he developed painful boils on his head and throat and began vomiting blood. He was in hospital for a month, with no improvement, before further testing revealed cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common, usually harmless virus that causes problems in babies and people with a weakened immune system. After six weeks of treatment, Oyintando was discharged. But it was only during a follow-up referral that doctors finally diagnosed him with Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome. His family are desperate to find a donor so that Oyintando can get the stem cell treatment he needs. The more people who register, the better the chance of finding a match. DKMS Africa is urgently calling on South…

THE FACTS The average South African adult spends more than nine hours and 37 minutes a day on smartphones, with nearly a third of waking hours dedicated to scrolling, swiping and tapping. And our children do as we do. The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) warns of a growing mental health crisis among children. Prof. Renata Schoeman, psychiatrist and member of SASOP, says excessive screentime can lead to: Increased risk of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem Disrupted sleep Declining academic performance due to reduced concentration, lack of motivation to learn and overexposure to unregulated content Social withdrawal Exposure to harmful online content, including cyberbullying, pornography and messages promoting disordered eating Obesity, headaches, eye strain and poor posture. WHAT TO DO? Prof. Schoeman recommends limiting screentime by age: no screens…

#1. ADULT ZONE STORAGE Keep baskets and boxes in grown-up spaces to store items to which you need quick access. This keeps essential supplies and toys within reach while maintaining a clutter-free environment. #2. PICTURE PERFECT LABELS Use tags with pictures so little ones can “read” where things belong. Visual labels help children learn independence and make tidying up a fun learning activity. #3. BUDGET-FRIENDLY MAKEOVERS Give second-hand furniture new life with a splash of colourful paint. Transform thrift store finds into vibrant storage pieces that perfectly match your nursery theme. #4. UP HIGH & OUT OF REACH Install floating shelves to store items away from curious hands. Perfect for displaying night lights, decor items and precious keepsakes while maximising floor space. #5. DIVIDE & ORGANISE Invest in drawer compartments…

1. Keep the windows to your home closed on windy days, and close your car windows when travelling. 2. For house dust mite allergies, avoid having carpets and heavy drapes in the home. 3. Make sure the house is properly cleaned and dusted regularly. 4. If you have dogs or cats, bathe them regularly (yes, even the cats) to remove the dander that triggers allergies. 5. Use impermeable dust mite covers on pillows and mattresses, and remove stuffed toys from the bed. 6. Reduce the humidity in the home to prevent mould, and ensure rooms get enough sunlight.…

1 DON’T FORGET YOUR RELATIONSHIP AS A COUPLE Remember that the child isn’t part of the marriage but its product – the couple also needs time apart from the baby, to reconnect with each other. 2 KEEP COMMUNICATION GOING Talk about it. Don’t scream or use the silent treatment. Discuss options (such as Mom going back to work), as well as what each partner is prepared to give up to make things work. 3 TEAMWORK This is not parent versus parent. Both partners need to work to resolve the problem – don’t leave it all up to one person to do. These guidelines apply as your children grow older, too. “Children as young as 6 months are able to drive a wedge between parents, and the more they grow, the…

Breast health is something you should aim to stay aware of throughout your life, not just during October when it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As a new mom, it can be easy to neglect the all-important self-checks, as you are so focused on your baby. We’re here to remind you to make the time to take care of yourself too. Professor Justus Apffelstaedt – a Cape Town based surgeon with an interest in breast, thyroid and parathyroid health as well as soft tissue surgical oncology – says that breast cancer occurs in 1 out of 3 000 pregnant women, mostly between the ages of 32 and 38. More and more women are delaying pregnancy until their middle or late thirties, when breast cancer is more common. While it is…

Q Can my tooth be extracted? It is infected. A CHILDBIRTH EDUCATOR AND MIDWIFE TINA OTTE ANSWERS If you have an infected tooth that is affecting your tonsils, it has to be dealt with and indeed may have to be extracted. Consult with your dentist as soon as possible, so that a course of action can be decided upon. Pregnancy is one time when you must not put off going to the dentist, even if it seems that there is no problem – but especially if there is a problem. It is better to wait until after your baby has been born to have any elective dental treatment, but if you suffer any dental trauma such as a broken tooth or an abscess or an infected tooth, get it sorted…

Whether you’re having a planned caesarean or a vaginal birth, this is what you can expect once you walk into the maternity ward. Caesarean birth If you know that you are having a c-section delivery, your doctor will give you set instructions on what to do at home in the 24 hours before admission. You will be told to stop eating and drinking between 10 and 12 midnight the night before – if you are being done in the first part of the morning. However, if you are due to have your baby in the afternoon of the following day, then you will be allowed to have tea and toast between six and eight in the morning that you are due to have your baby. Most hospitals will give you…

The newborn stage is an overwhelming one, and you may feel pressure to “do stuff” with your new little bundle from day one. This seems like an impossible task when you are adjusting to your baby – whether it is your first or fifth. The first few weeks of your baby’s life is a time of bonding and nurturing, with all other stimulation being of secondary importance. This is the time to just be with your baby. There is no spoiling a newborn and there is no such thing as holding her for too long, cuddling too much at night instead of forcing her to sleep on her own or being too involved in her days. Spend time chatting to your baby, being together and enjoying each other’s company during…

Q I’min two minds about whether or not to try sleep training. My husband and I both work full time at demanding jobs, and the lack of sleep is really getting to us. Our baby is 5 months old and wakes up two to three times every night, and it takes a lot to get her back to sleep. Mostly she then ends up in the bed with us, and then we don’t sleep very well after that. Is there a method that is not cruel? A SR CLAIRE ANSWERS: Let us talk about your 5-month-old baby’s sleep pattern. At this age, sleep disruptions are common, and it can feel exhausting for us. There are some practical steps you can take to help your baby and yourself get better rest. Let us look…

In his book The Happiest Toddler on the Block, paediatrician Dr Harvey Karp compares toddlers to cavemen. “They pee in the living room. They pick their nose. They put food in their hair… When they get upset, they spit and scream and scratch and throw things.” And, as parents, we have the privileged (yet unenviable) task of civilising them. Toddlers live in the right side of their brains, Dr Karp says. This is the part of the brain that is controlled by feelings, which explains why they are so emotional and impulsive. The left side of your toddler’s brain (which helps control emotion) will only mature at around age 4. As a parent it becomes hard to distinguish between a normal developmental phase, naughtiness and bad habits. Luckily, there are…

TALK ABOUT MONEY Use the opportunity when you buy something to talk to your child about the meaning and value of money. You can make her understand that you have income and expenses, and that your money is limited. In this way, she can learn the difference between stuff that’s necessary (fixed expenses) and stuff she’d like to have. Explain to her what it means when something is cheap or expensive and why you prefer a certain product above another. By showing her two of the same items that have different prices, you can make her understand that things have different values. SHOW WHAT MONEY LOOKS LIKE Show your child what the different coins and bills look like. If she can’t count or read yet, she’ll be able to recognise…

OUR EXPERTS Q I was raised by a frazzled mom and an emotionally absent dad. I really want to do better as a parent, but I have little example to follow. Sometimes I feel as if I’m trying too hard and overdoing things. How can I get the balance right, as currently I feel more guilt than joy? A JODY ANSWERS: Parenting is one of the most fulfilling yet demanding roles in life. From sleepless nights with newborns to navigating the emotional ups and downs of teenagers – raising children requires patience, resilience and an endless amount of love. But while caring for our children, many of us forget to take care of the most important person in our children’s lives – ourselves. Self-care often carries a stigma of being indulgent,…

Once you’ve given birth, you will be put into the recovery room, which is usually attached to the labour ward. You (and usually your baby) will be closely monitored for about an hour. Vital signs such as pulse, temperature, blood pressure and vaginal bleeding are checked. Pain management depends on the type of delivery you had. You may feel a bit weak and even nauseous. If you have had a caesarean section or an epidural, you will still be numb from the waist down. However your baby was delivered, your body has been through something incredible and is also totally flooded with hormones. It’s an emotional time – you might feel absolute elation or deep love, you might cry, you might feel shock and disbelief at having your baby in…

It’s natural to worry about your new baby’s health, but try not to make yourself too anxious. Your antibodies are still giving her protection at this stage. If you are breastfeeding, she will continue to benefit from them via your milk. Take care of the basics, such as washing your hands before feeding, and practicing good hygiene in your home. GOOD BUY Purity & Elizabeth Anne’s Special Baby Shampoo is formulated without soap so that it is gentle on the eyes and skin and can double up as a head-to-toe wash. Most importantly, have your baby vaccinated according to the recommended schedule and attend scheduled clinic visits with your Road to Health card. TUMMY TROUBLES MECONIUM The first bowel movement your baby will have after, or even during, delivery is…

The first six weeks you may be learning all sorts of things about your new baby, but at the same time she’s ploughing ahead developmentally. Her body’s life system, although appropriately formed, still has some way to go. Her nervous system needs to mature, and the sequence of motor, social, emotional and cognitive development is pretty much the same for all children. THE SENSES WHAT BABY CAN SEE Baby’s sight develops gradually, and although she can see at birth, it’s a little fuzzy for her. At birth, she can only see objects that are about 20cm to 30.5cm away, like your face when you’re holding her in your arms. She’s not sure how to use her eyes together at first, so they may seem to wander randomly. Your baby may…

NEWBORN Your new baby’s first poo is called meconium. It’s black, sticky and difficult to clean, also because you’re uncertain about handling your baby. Very soon it will be second nature. Beware of pushing your baby’s legs up to the chest too vigorously, as this can lead to a poo explosion. NURSING BABY Good news! Breastfed babies’ poo really doesn’t smell bad, and the slight smell bothers parents even less than others. Yip, someone researched it! Their poo is also easy to wipe away. But be warned… When your baby begins to cut teeth, you’re in for some spectacularly bad nappies. Change your baby immediately to avoid nappy rash. OLDER BABY Once your baby starts eating solid food, his poo will change quite dramatically. The good news is that the…

Of all the senses, touch is the most developed at birth, and babies need plenty of tactile stimulation in order to learn about the world around them. Touch may be one of the main inter-sensory integrators, and one of the “cementors” of development. When you touch your child, you are not only growing a healthy baby, but a healthy brain as well. Deep, slow stroking over her body is extremely relaxing and soothing, while light, faster touching is more stimulating. Touch your baby with a variety of different textures – soft or furry gloves, stroking with a feather or using a soft new paintbrush to brush her skin. Stroking hands and feet and playing games like “This little piggy…” will encourage fun and laughter. Enrol for a baby exercise and…

Babies need to learn good sleep habits, and it takes patience and consistency on your part to get them into a happy sleeping routine. You may find your baby sleeps much better – or worse – than someone else’s. Just like adults, babies are individuals with different personalities and needs. So the more you learn about sleep the better prepared you’ll be. Remember not to listen to everyone’s advice. What our mothers and grandmothers did to get us to sleep may be quite different from what experts recommend today. However, do consult with a parenting expert or medical professional to get the best possible advice for you and your baby. UNDERSTANDING YOUR BABY’S SLEEP Your baby goes through the following states of alertness several times during a 24-hour period: AWAKE…

Before crawling your baby will likely start cruising and then combine cruising and crawling. Cruising is the term given to the stage at which your baby starts to walk independently while holding onto furniture and other objects – generally in a sideways fashion. You can look for this from about 9 or 10 months onwards. Precursors to this stage are when she is able to move in and out of a sitting position easily (at about 9 months) and when she can pull herself up into a standing position using support, at about 9 or 10 months. Let your baby practise walking with bare feet so she’s confident about the surface underneath her and won’t slip. If it’s too cold for bare feet, soft shoes with a non-slippery sole will…

The best nutrition for the immune system is love and attention. Children need to be held, hugged, massaged, touched and kissed regularly. Many studies show that laughter and positive feelings stimulate the cells of the immune system. The more your child laughs and enjoys life, the stronger his immune system will be. Conversely, emotional stress and unhappiness may deplete his immune system and lower his resistance to disease. HERE ARE WAYS TO INCREASE WELL-BEING ■ PLENTY OF SLEEP Your child’s body renews itself while he sleeps. In addition, it’s vital to include “quiet time” as part of his day. ■ PLENTY OF FRESH AIR Go for walks and let your child climb, jump, run, and dance. Mother Nature can be an excellent immune booster. ■ EXTENDED BREASTFEEDING While you breastfeed…

Developing the brain is similar to building a house, explains Dr Melodie de Jager, developmental specialist and founder of Mind Moves Institute. The house comes with a plan: the genes your baby inherits that provide the initial connections in the brain, and a map of how the brain should develop. Your baby may be born with good “building material” if they inherit your brainy tendencies, but it’s the experiences and relationships that the child is exposed to that make – or break – the quality of that “house”. It literally shapes the growth of their brain. It’s a balance between biology and their environment. You can do a whole lot to boost their brainpower! Did you know? BY AGE THREE YOUR BABY’S BRAIN HAS REACHED 80 % OF ITS ADULT…

Labour can begin any time from 37 weeks onwards. A baby born before 37 weeks is considered premature, and after 40 weeks is overdue. Appointments with your doctor or midwife may occur every two to three weeks until eight months. After that you’ll visit your doctor weekly to detect problems that can happen very quickly (such as pre-eclampsia). In the last few weeks, hormones are adjusting to prepare your body for labour and your breasts for feeding. Your baby is fully developed, growing and maturing vital organs for survival. Although your baby isn’t breathing, his lungs are already getting ready to do their job and show breathing movements. Your baby is contributing to changes in the amniotic fluid – swallowing it and peeing it back into circulation. His brain has…

On 4 November 2023, I had my first experience of giving birth naturally. It was a terrible, heart-wrenching ordeal, as my baby was a stillborn, due to a blood clot that I had. Fast forward to December 2024. God decided to bless me and my husband, Patrick (42), with our beautiful rainbow baby girl, Lethabo Lehakoe Molaba. We couldn’t be happier. To ensure what happened to me the first time didn’t happen again, I consistently and without fail took aspirin and an anticoagulant called Clexane, as the gynaecologists at Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital prescribed. I also attended my antenatal classes there. It’s safe to say it was a great success because here we are! My whole second pregnancy was a breeze. I showed little to no symptoms at all and…

On 31 May 2025, in a special birthing suite at Parklane Hospital, I experienced a birth that changed me – not only as a mother but as a woman. This was my ninth pregnancy, and second successful birth. After years of loss (two ectopic pregnancies and five miscarriages), I walked into this experience with intention, knowledge, and a deep desire to be fully present. I had spent years learning – not just from books and professionals, but also from other mothers. I had opened a mom-and-baby studio with my best friend, an early childhood educator, and surrounded myself with experts in pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding. I wasn’t just preparing for my own birth; I was learning how to support others through theirs. This time, I was determined to do things…

IF THE THOUGHT of giving birth is giving you sleepless nights, just remember that when the time comes, you’ll only be too happy to get the birth over and done with. And when it’s over, the pain will (somehow) be forgotten too. Childbirth is no longer thought of as a lifethreatening event. Although there’s still the risk of complications, these are mostly prevented by good antenatal care. Women no longer have to give birth lying on their backs like stranded beetles. You’re free to move about during labour and can choose a position that’s comfortable to birth in. Also, delivery beds at the hospital are more accommodating than before. DURING LABOUR When you have a contraction, focus on a specific object and sway, rock, or use repetitive words that can…