Fluid retention (edema)
It's normal for your body to retain excess water during pregnancy. This can be on average 2 to 3 liters. In the last month, especially, this is very noticeable; symptoms include swollen hands, feet and face. Even in warm weather, you will retain water and may find swelling in your ankles.
Water retention has nothing to do with the temperature. It's important to drink a lot - your body is better able to remove the extra water when you drink enough. Retention of fluid can be benign as long as your blood pressure remains normal, but edema could be a sign of increased blood pressure.
Tips to help prevent edema:
Drink a lot of water. A pillow under your feet or under the foot end of the mattress also helps. This promotes the return of moisture to the cells. This helps you function better. What women sometimes use to prevent edema are diuretics; consult your doctor before doing this!
More tips:
- Alternating hot and cold baths can stimulate circulation.
- When the weather is very hot, a cold foot bath can give you relief.
- Do hand and feet exercises to get blood flowing.
- Take your rings off to help prevent swelling and trapping of them. You may need to use lubricant if they're already stuck.
Contact the obstetrician or gynecologist if you suddenly feel like you're holding a lot of fluid. It can be a sign that your blood pressure has increased, especially if it comes in conjunction with nausea or headaches.
Most read information articles
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1st trimester (Bloodloss)
Many women suffer from some slight bleeding in early pregnancy. Normally, women who have had slight bleeding in the first trimester have no problems during the further pregnancy. A little blood loss can be normal, but it is sometimes a cause for conc......(135549 x) Read more » -
Stomach cramps
Babies get tummy cramps. They come and go many times. It's no fun for parents either; you can see your little one in pain, the crying doesn't seem to stop, and sometimes it seems like there's nothing you can do to help. Bowel cramps oc......(120621 x) Read more » -
Pregnancy symptoms
It is important during pregnancy to know the difference between normal symptoms and those which should be reported to your midwife or doctor. Below is a list of the most common symptoms experienced by pregnant women. Areola around the nipples get ......(85383 x) Read more » -
Mucus plug
During pregnancy, a mucous membrane forms in your uterus. The mucous membrane prevents infections of your uterus. The mucous membrane will remain in place until you give birth. When labour starts, the cervix is stretched and softer. This can c......(65046 x) Read more » -
Empty days (Breastfeeding)
If you are breastfeeding, you will probably wake up early and go to bed late in the early days. Your milk production is not yet set to your baby's demands. Moms often feel uncertain during these "empty" days; baby seems insatiable and y......(63155 x) Read more » -
Feeding
For the first six months, breastfeeding or complete infant formula will usually provide your baby with enough nutrients. The amount of food a baby needs is always different for each child. According to pediatricians, you can use the following guideli......(61416 x) Read more » -
Stillbirth (Loss)
If you lose your child after the 16th week, or your child dies during childbirth, this is officially classed as a "stillbirth". It's a tragic and often traumatic experience for parents. A mix of emotions are involved; anger, guilt, sadn......(57652 x) Read more » -
Development of the foetus
An interactive video of the development of your baby. Slide the sliders to see the growth! The first picture shows the growth from 0 to 8 weeks, the second the growth from 8 to 40 weeks. You may also like this animated gif: ......(57462 x) Read more » -
2nd trimester (Bloodloss)
Occassionaly you may have some blood loss during your second trimester. Common causes include cervical growth or inflammation. Bleeding can pose a threat to both the mother and the unborn child. The most common cause of severe vaginal blood loss duri......(54933 x) Read more » -
Teeth
First teeth Generally, babies get their first teeth between 5 and 9 months. Normally, the first two are bottom incisors, followed by the top two, then the teeth to either side. All eight cutting teeth usually come through when the baby is 8 ......(52278 x) Read more » -
Sleep (Sleep during pregnancy)
During your pregnancy, you may have more difficulty sleeping than usual. A larger abdomen, heartburn, anxiety, back pain and shortness of breath lead to less sleep. You can get frustrated about the lack of good sleep. Yet sleep is very necessary......(51012 x) Read more » -
Checklist baby outfits (Checklists)
When you're pregnant you need to spend a lot of time and money, because the new little addition to your family will need a lot more than you first think! What will you need? Well, print this handy checklist so you don't forget anything! &n......(50430 x) Read more » -
Skin changes
The increase in hormones during pregnancy as well as other factors can result in changes to your skin which can include: "Pregnancy glow" You may get a radiant glow over your face. Your face seems to blush because you have more bl......(49848 x) Read more » -
Pregnancy after 35
Women are increasingly choosing to become pregnany at a later age. This has several reasons; work and career, still busy with study or promotion, no suitable partner, financial worries. The average age at which women have their first child increased ......(45815 x) Read more » -
Reflux in babies
Milk-spitting isn't the same as reflux Many newborns may spit out or dribble a mouthful of milk after they've been fed. They can drink more than they can handle, and some of it comes right back up. This little bit of returned is ......(42308 x) Read more » -
Gender of the baby
Dr. Landrum Shettles was a pioneer in fertility techniques. He was involved very early in experiments in which ova could be fertilized in a laboratory. He has also researched for years to influence the sex of babies. He also wrote a book about it, wh......(41698 x) Read more » -
Coughing and choking
It's well known that babies put "everything" in their mouths. They do this to explore their surroundings. Small objects can be dangerous to children (especially young children), the objects may become clogged in the trachea, res......(41255 x) Read more » -
Fluid retention (edema)
It's normal for your body to retain excess water during pregnancy. This can be on average 2 to 3 liters. In the last month, especially, this is very noticeable; symptoms include swollen hands, feet and face. Even in warm weather, you will retain ......(40362 x) Read more » -
Clustering (Breastfeeding)
Clustering is a common term within the breastfeeding world. In short, it means that a child wants to drink at a certain time of the day, or sometimes even more often, with you. Sometimes a child wants to be at the breast continuously. It is completel......(40344 x) Read more » -
Conceiving 30 tips
If you want to use a lubricant then use PreSeed. When you are dry the sperm have less chance of swimming up, PreSeed provides a comfortable environment for the sperms to swim through. Eat green leafy vegetables with plenty of folic acid, and thi......(40287 x) Read more » -
Breasts
Pregnancy and breast changes: During your pregnancy, your breasts are temporarily a little bigger. The following breast changes are normal: The breasts feel fuller and are more sensitive because pregnancy hormones p......(40005 x) Read more » -
Sex (Safety during pregnancy)
Sex during pregnancy Many people worry that having sex during pregnancy will somehow harm or disturb the baby. Although perhaps the mechanics, especially as you get further on in your pregnancy, may prove challenging, there is no reason couples cann......(38851 x) Read more » -
Pregnancy tests
When can you take a pregnancy test? Urine tests can take place one day before the next period starts. Blood tests can be done at 6 to 8 days after ovulation. Pregnancy tests work by checking your urine for a hormone called human chori......(38079 x) Read more » -
Jaundice
The cause of the yellow color of the skin and mucous membranes is the substance bilirubin. This substance is released by red blood cell degradation. The baby has much more red blood cells than an adult in the womb. The red blood cells also ......(37567 x) Read more » -
Hypotension (Blood pressure)
Your blood pressure depends on age, weight and health. Average blood pressure is 120/80 (120 over 80). The first number is systolic pressure. This indicates how high the arterial pressure is and when the blood is pumped into the arteries every heart ......(37175 x) Read more » -
Pelvic instability
Experiencing pain in your pelvic region is another symptom of pregnancy and quite normal. Research shows that 50 to 60% of women suffer from pelvic pain or low back pain. Early in pregnancy, hormones make the pelvis more flexible. In addition, the......(37054 x) Read more » -
Vaginal infections (Tests before pregnancy)
Normally the vaginal discharge is whitish or slightly transparent in color and feels slimy and sticky. In pregnancy it is normal that the amount and thickness of the secretions vary greatly. Most women have more discharge than normal during pregnancy......(36598 x) Read more » -
Foreskin (Baby care)
The penis primarily consists of what could be called a stem and an acorn. The "acorn" tip is very sensitive and protected by a thin fold of skin. In some boys this covering is complete, while in other boys the covering is only partial. I......(36401 x) Read more » -
During a twin pregnancy (Twins)
Approximately 3 out of every 100 pregnancies is a twin or multiple pregnancy. Normally during your first ultrasound scan it will be determined whether you are having more than one baby although it may take the entire nine months for you to get over t......(34778 x) Read more »
Guide to rashes, bumps and spots
The condition of the skin of your child is often a good signifier of their health, and many symptoms of diseases show themselves upon it. Perhaps that rash is a disease, maybe heat rash or an allergy? In the guide below you will find a descripti......
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Articles with `A` (14)
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A brother or sister
A new member of the family can be a major upheaval, not only for parents but also for older siblings. It can be a frightening and confusing time for your child when they find out a new baby is on the way. While a new brother or sister is a wonderful ......Read more » -
Acupuncture and pregnancy
Pregnancy brings about many changes in your body, not only physically but also mentally. As hormone levels fluctuate and your body grows to accomodate this new baby the resulting symptoms can include: nausea; heartburn; fatigue; pelvic co......Read more » -
Acupuncture (Childbirth)
Preparation for childbirth Acupuncture can help in preparation for childbirth by relaxing tendons and muscles, adding energy and reducing stress. Treatment starts from the 36th week and takes place once a week. Induction Acupuncture can help you......Read more » -
Adoption
Adoption Couples with a need for children can have different reasons for adopting a child. Every year around tens of thousands of children come to the USA with their new adoptive parents. There are strict criteria that the adoptive parents must......Read more » -
After a twin pregnancy (Twins)
Twin births are extra special, they mean more......more children, more feeding, more diapers, more crying and more dirty clothes. But more smiles, more first steps and more first words! Immediately after childbirth you may have many medical issues......Read more » -
After birth problems
The saying "9 months on, 9 months off" is a generalisation about how long it can take to get the excess weight you gained throughout your pregnancy. However, as with all things, each woman is different and some women take less time, others ......Read more » -
Alcohol
Advice The WHO and most national Health Councils recommend that you do not drink alcohol during pregnancy at all. It has never been proven that any amount of alcohol during pregnancy is safe, so it is better to abstain entirely. Recent studies sh......Read more » -
Allergies
Allergy is an immune reaction to common substances. The body responds to these ordinary organisms as if they were germs. There is a connection between the different forms of allergy. Of the children under three who have eczema, 50 - 60% of them have ......Read more » -
Alpha fetal protein
What is anencephaly? Anencephaly is a congenital abnormality. This abnormality develops very early in pregnancy when the embryo develops. The word 'anencephaly' means 'without a brain'. Although this literal translation is not entire......Read more » -
Amniocentesis (Tests during pregnancy)
What is amniocentesis? To perform an amniocentesis test, amniotic fluid is removed from the uterus with the help of a needle. The cells from the amniotic fluid are examined for a possible chromosomal abnormality. Usually the amniocentesis takes plac......Read more » -
Anemia (Tests during pregnancy)
During the first visit to the obstetrician or gynecologist, at the beginning of your pregnancy, blood is usually taken to check for a number of diseases and conditions. An element of this study is the determination of hemoglobin levels in the blood. ......Read more » -
Antibodies (Tests during pregnancy)
At the beginning of your pregnancy you will be asked to provide a blood sample in order to test for the presence of irregular antibodies. While these antibodies are not usually present there are times such as after a blood transfusion or during a pre......Read more » -
Attachment parenting
Attachment Parenting is a school of parenting based entirely on the needs of the child. From the point of view of the child, the relationship between parent and child is determined, rather than vice versa. From this view, in practice, a pattern of bo......Read more » -
Autism
Autism is a developmental disorder that interferes with information processing in the brain. Children with autism have problems in several areas:: Social skills: Some children do not make contact with others at all. Other children do, but often......Read more »
Articles with `B` (30)
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Baby carriers and slings
There is a wonderful choice of baby carriers and slings available on the market however, before you rush out and buy one it is important to know the difference between non-ergonomic baby carriers and ergonomic ones. Non-ergonomic baby carriers oft......Read more » -
Baby feet
Baby and children's feet are vulnerable. In most cases everything goes well and the shaky first steps of a baby will be followed by those of a busy toddler and infant. Once at primary school, toddlers usually develop into pupils who are 'firm......Read more » -
Baby mattresses
One of the many things that needs to be arranged for the birth of your baby is the baby cot. After all, it is best that your baby sleeps in his own bed. Quite a lot of attention and money is spent on the choice of the bedstead. What is often forgotte......Read more » -
Baby movements
Although you wont feel anything at around six weeks your baby will move along the fallopian tubes into the womb. There is no real fixed time as to when you'll first feel your baby moving; some women feel it around the 15 week mark, for o......Read more » -
Baby names
1 - Know your history. Look up the name in a search engine to make sure that you do not give your baby the name of a serial killer, porn star or dictator. 2 - A first name must match the last name. Also choose the first and middle name so tha......Read more » -
Baby weight loss (Weight)
During pregnancy, the natural arrangement is for baby to pile on some fat reserves in case the hard times come. Mother nature has done this because some babies take time to get used to feeding. Many don't drink much the first day or two after bi......Read more » -
Babyhouses
An old tradition is being revived again; the baby houses. A baby house is a wooden house, where babies can sleep safely and healthily outside. Protected against bright sunlight, mosquitoes, wasps and other creatures. Nurseries are at the forefront of......Read more » -
Basal Body Temperature
The basal body temperature (BBT or BPT) is your temperature at its lowest point. Normally this is in the morning, immediately after you get out of bed. Progesterone increases your temperature Charting your body temperature is a standard method of......Read more » -
Bathing (Baby care)
Babies love to go into a bath. You can bathe the baby in a baby bath, or in a tummy tub. It is also possible in the sink. Newborn babies do not have to bathe every day, of course you can - but pay attention to the skin of the baby, especially if it i......Read more » -
Beauty treatments (Safety during pregnancy)
Electrolysis / hair removal Many pregnant women get hair where no hair usually grows, or accelerated hair growth. This is due to pregnancy hormones. After the pregnancy, this hair goes away again. You can epilate safely. It is better not to perform ......Read more » -
Bed rest
Bed rest is prescribed regularly during pregnancies to treat or prevent some complications. Bed rest differs from woman to woman and from pregnancy to pregnancy and some circumstances require more bed rest than others. The amount of bed rest v......Read more » -
Belly button (Baby care)
When baby is born and the cord is cut, a stump will remain. If this umbilical stump is touched immediately after birth, it feels soft and is yellowish. In the first days, the stub will dry out, it gets harder and blacker. The stump will fall off afte......Read more » -
Benefits (Breastfeeding)
Breast milk has never been recalled due to manufacturing problems! The benefits of breastfeeding For the baby ... Breastfeeding is in an attractive package Colostrum (the first milk) facilitates the secretion of meconium to the newborn ......Read more » -
Bicycles (Child safety tips)
Usually your baby can ride on a bicycle in a specialised bicycle seat when it is between 8 and 12 months old. It is important that your child can already sit and can hold herself a little. It is legally required that there is sufficient support ......Read more » -
Birth defects
Birth defects are also commonly called congenital disorders, congenital malformations or congenital anomalies and include Down syndrome, albinism, cystic fibrosis and heart defects. Congenital anomalies can be defined as structural or functional a......Read more » -
Birth positions (Birth)
Once labour begins there are many positions you can adopt in order to birth your baby. While you may have decided before time, once your contractions begin this might not be practical or comfortable and there are a variety of alternatives you can con......Read more » -
Birth traditions
Many countries have different birthing traditions, from eating sugared mice to leaving silver with the parents. Here is a little list of traditions from around the world: Jews Girls receive a blessing in the synagogue. The boys are circumcised on......Read more » -
Blighted Ovum (Loss)
A Blighted Ovum ioccurs at the very first stages of pregnancy, ending in a miscarriage. The sac contains liquid, but no embryo cells when the miscarriage occurs. Usually a miscarriage occurs before the woman knows she is pregnant. You may exper......Read more » -
Blood pressure
Blood pressure is the amount of pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of the blood vessels. The blood pressure shows the arterial blood pressure, for example the pressure in the blood vessels in the arm. The blood pressure in other blood vessels......Read more » -
Bloodloss
Sometimes during pregnancy women may experience a very small blood loss called "spotting" as it forms little spots of blood, usually detectable on your underwear or a liner if you wear one. Heavier bleeding than this is known as breakthroug......Read more » -
Bottle feeding
If you want to give your child (artificially prepared) bottle food, it is best to opt for complete infant formula. This contains all the nutrients that your child needs. Give your child a feed when it asks for it. Every child has its own rhythm. Most......Read more » -
Bottling (Breastfeeding)
In certain circumstances you can't always breastfeed your baby "in the moment". If you are going to work for example. Or if your child is born prematurely and does not yet have a sufficient suction reflex fully drink from the breast. If......Read more » -
Braxton Hicks (Pregnancy)
As early as the sixth week of your pregnancy, your womb, which is in fact a large muscle, can contract regularly. These contractions (also called Braxton-Hicks contractions) are normally irregular and painless. Because they do not dilate the cervix, ......Read more » -
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding, the best feeding. Breastfeeding is the most natural baby food that exists. It is specifically designed to give your baby everything that it needs, at any age and in all circumstances. The composition adjusts itself as the baby grows up......Read more » -
Breastfeeding diapers (Breastfeeding)
Checking the diapers is a good way to see if your child is getting enough food. In addition, it is of course always important to also pay attention to other factors such as growth, weight and behavior. Urine You often read that a baby who is brea......Read more » -
Breasts
Pregnancy and breast changes: During your pregnancy, your breasts are temporarily a little bigger. The following breast changes are normal: The breasts feel fuller and are more sensitive because pregnancy hormones p......Read more » -
Breath Holding Spells
You are in the store with your toddler and the little one wants a bag of sweets. You say, "No, you have had some sweets!". Suddenly your toddler holds their breath. They may turn red and pass out. You get the fright of your life. Breath-......Read more » -
Breech position
A baby is lying in the breech position when it presents bottom down rather than head down in the pelvis. In most cases, it is unknown why babies end up in this position although it does seem to be more common in multiple births where there is less ro......Read more » -
Burping and vomiting
Wind If your baby is drinking, sometimes too much air comes in as it swallows. Coordination problems with breathing, sucking and swallowing may be the cause. By swallowing air the baby has a fuller feeling as the stomach is filled with air, and the ......Read more »
Articles with `C` (39)
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Caesaraean (Caesarean sections)
For many women, it is a disappointment when they hear that a caesarean is necessary. You have to go to the hospital and that can be a let-down if you would like to give birth at home. When a Caesarean section is performed, the baby will enter the wor......Read more » -
Caffeine
Coffee and pregnancy Most doctors recommend limiting caffeine during pregnancy to 300mg per dag. The table below gives a guide to caffeine levels in popular drinks. Coffee and breastfeeding The occasional caffeinated beverage is not harmful to t......Read more » -
Candida infection (Tests before pregnancy)
Candida is a fairly innocent yeast, many people carry it without noticing it. Under certain circumstances, due to an increase in the amount of yeast, complaints can suddenly arise. Women in particular suffer from this. Overgrowth of the yeast can occ......Read more » -
Career (Safety during pregnancy)
For most pregnant women it is completely safe to continue working. However, the work will not get any easier. Your body works non-stop to make and feed a baby, you often have the worries of your work with typical pregnancy discomforts such as nausea,......Read more » -
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a pinched nerve at the wrist. This nerve extends from the forearm to the palm through the carpal tunnel which is a narrow passageway made up of bones and ligament. Nerve congestion is caused by a swelling of connec......Read more » -
Carseats (Child safety tips)
Immediately after the birth you can take your child in the car, but only for short trips and in a safe seat. Always use the reducer as long as necessary. You can always roll up two towels for extra support and place them on the sides of your child. ......Read more » -
Celiac disease
Causes Unfortunately, little is known about Gluten hypersensitivity. It seems that the immune system produces an antibody as soon as someone with this condition eats a gluten-containing cereal product. This substance affects the mucous membrane in t......Read more » -
Changing food (Breastfeeding)
You may find yourself swapping breasts several times during breastfeeding. After one feed, you may swap to your other breast for the next feed. This will continue back and forth. This will continue until your baby is satisfied with just one breast. ......Read more » -
Checklist baby outfits (Checklists)
When you're pregnant you need to spend a lot of time and money, because the new little addition to your family will need a lot more than you first think! What will you need? Well, print this handy checklist so you don't forget anything! &n......Read more » -
Chickenpox (Childhood illness)
Chickenpox is an infectious disease caused by the "varicella-zoster virus". Chicken pox occurs especially in children and usually in a mild form. Almost all children in the West get chickenpox. It occurs especially in children between th......Read more » -
Chickenpox (Tests before pregnancy)
The chickenpox virus is an infection caused by the varicella zoster virus. This disease mainly occurs in young children and usually in a mild form. If an adult gets the chickenpox, then the disease is more intense. Most Westerners get the chicken pox......Read more » -
Childhood illness
Early in life, children can be afflicted by many diseases. Sometimes these are bacterial, for example meningitis or scarlet fever, whooping cough, strep throat and ear infections. Other diseases are viral and these include the common cold, ......Read more » -
Chinese geslachtskalender
This is an old Chinese table, used to determine the sex of your unborn child. The table was buried in a tomb near Beijing for 700 years. The original is preserved in the Institute of Sciences in Beijing. All you need is the month in which the ch......Read more » -
Chinese sex table (Baby gender)
This is an ancient Chinese table that determines the sex of your unborn child. The original was buried in a tomb at Peking for 700 years. It is now in the institute for science in Beijing. You need the month in which your baby was born, and the ag......Read more » -
Chlamydia (Tests before pregnancy)
Chlamydia infection is an STD (sexually transmitted disease) that occurs frequently, especially in (young) women. It is caused by a bacterium, which sites itself in the mucous membranes of the genitals. This can cause inflammation of the urethra, of ......Read more » -
Chorionic testing (Tests during pregnancy)
What is a Chorionic test? During the test, the gynecologist will take a sample of cells, called chorionic villi, from the placenta where it attaches to the uterus. In general, between 20 and 50 milligrams of chorionic tissue are removed. This is ......Read more » -
Chromosomes
Chromosomes are thread-like structures found in the core of all cells (except for red blood cells). The chromosomes contain our genetic map (DNA). Chromosomes come in pairs, a normal human cell contains 46 chromosomes, 22 pairs (autosomes) and one pa......Read more » -
Clubfeet
Where does the term "club foot" come from? Basically exactly from the appearance of the foot: it resembles a golf club. The foot is tilted downwards and inwards. How does a club foot develop? A clubfoot occurs when the tendons in the fo......Read more » -
Clustering (Breastfeeding)
Clustering is a common term within the breastfeeding world. In short, it means that a child wants to drink at a certain time of the day, or sometimes even more often, with you. Sometimes a child wants to be at the breast continuously. It is completel......Read more » -
Colic
The first cries from your baby is a wonderful sound. If after six weeks however your baby is still crying it can cause stress and anxiety. Worries about your baby's health and whether you are a good mother and doing all the right things can ......Read more » -
Combination test (Tests during pregnancy)
The combination test is a study to calculate the probability of having a baby with Down syndrome. The test consists of a combination of 2 studies: A blood test in the pregnant woman between weeks 9 and 14 of the pregnancy. An ultrasound exami......Read more » -
Common colds (Childhood illness)
Catching a cold is something all the babies do. The cold is caused by a virus that affects the nose and throat. There are so many different types of cold viruses that you can not really become immune. All you can do is help your baby with all kinds o......Read more » -
Complications (Twins)
Although you are more at risk of complications, that does not mean that you will have any. The vast majority of twin pregnancies end with healthy twins (and mothers). If you respond quickly when you think something is wrong, and if you regularly go f......Read more » -
Conceiving 30 tips
If you want to use a lubricant then use PreSeed. When you are dry the sperm have less chance of swimming up, PreSeed provides a comfortable environment for the sperms to swim through. Eat green leafy vegetables with plenty of folic acid, and thi......Read more » -
Contraceptives
Safe days in the menstrual cycle Most guidelines for pregnancy assume that a woman is fertile between the 10th and 17th day of the cycle. However, researchers have shown what many women have suspected for a long time, that only 30 percent of ......Read more » -
Cot death
Cot death or SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is the sudden and unexpected death of a baby, without a cause being found for the death. Each year, around 3,500 babies die in the USA from SIDS. Cot death occurs almost exclusively in babies you......Read more » -
Coughing and choking
It's well known that babies put "everything" in their mouths. They do this to explore their surroundings. Small objects can be dangerous to children (especially young children), the objects may become clogged in the trachea, res......Read more » -
Cows milk allergy (Allergy)
Most babies at some point will suffer from one of the many childhood complaints such as colic, skin rash, crying, etc. The explanation for these complaints is usually innocent. But if these complaints persist for a long time and / or are severe, your......Read more » -
CPR for babies and small children
Accidents with babies are children are a horrifying scenario. Anything from choking on a toy to falling into water or pulling something heavy onto themselves, the list of possibilities is endless. Many parents do not know exactly what to do in an eme......Read more » -
Cradle cap
Cradle-cap is a common, non-contagious skin condition which mostly appears on the baby's head as crusty or scaly oily patches. It is quite common. Cradle-cap can already occur in the first week after birth and is very similar to the ski......Read more » -
Crawling
All babies are different and the age at which they start to crawl can be as young as 6 months or as late as 12 months. Generally, the baby starts with the 'worm'. They keep their tummy on the floor and use the arms to slide through the roo......Read more » -
Crohns and pregnancy
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. The inflammations can cause the intestines to become constricted or even closed. In the worst case, a part of the intestine must be removed. Crohn's is diagnosed......Read more » -
CSM Conscious Single Motherhood
CSM is an abbreviation for Conscious Single Maternity. If you still have not found your Prince Charming, but you are aware of your biological clock ticking, and if your desire to have children is so strong that you do not want to wait for the true on......Read more » -
CTG scan
mCTG stands for cardiotocography. During an external CTG scan, two transducers are placed on your body. These detect the baby's heartbeat and nerve activity. Monitoring sessions can go on for half an hour, and give an all-round indication of how ......Read more » -
Curettage (Loss)
Curettage after a pregnancy There are different types of curettage. In this article we will limit ourselves to curettage after a pregnancy. After the spontaneous termination of a pregnancy in a miscarriage, or after an abortion, a curettage is often......Read more » -
Cuts scrapes and bloodloss
Bleeding and wounds sometimes go beyond abrasions. It is therefore good to know what you have to do and what you should pay attention to in order to help your child as well as possible. Internal bleeding Internal bleeding can occur due to rupture......Read more » -
Cycle
Information about your cycle The length of the cycle differs not only from woman to woman but also from cycle to cycle. A variation of 8 days between different periods is still considered a regular cycle. The medical term for periods shorter ......Read more » -
Cycle recognition
In addition to measuring body temperature, there are other ways to find out how your cycle works. For example, you can check your cervix yourself. By placing one or two fingers in your vagina, you can feel at your uterus where in the cycle you are. ......Read more » -
Cystitis
In cases of bladder infection, the mucous membrane of the bladder is inflamed. During pregnancy you have a greater chance of getting a bladder infection. The ever-growing uterus pushes the bladder aside. Because of the pressure on your bladder, you w......Read more »
Articles with `D` (17)
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Day and night
Baby can already tell the differences between light and dark while in the womb, but doesn't yet really have a day-night cycle. A newborn baby isn't really "awake" more than 3 hours per day. The rest of the time they'll sleep ......Read more » -
Deformed head
More and more babies these days suffer from deformed heads. Despite there being several causes for this, the most common is sleeping or lying position. Babies may already have developed their favourite, most comfortable sleeping position while still ......Read more » -
Dental care
During pregnancy it is extra important that you pay a lot of attention to taking care of your teeth and gums. Pregnancy hormones can worsen problems with teeth. During pregnancy, women sometimes have a gum disease called gingivitis. Gingivitis is ......Read more » -
Depression after pregnancy
Maternity tears Maternal tears usually start a day or 3 after delivery and last for about 10 to 14 days. Half of all women who gave birth suffer from them. It is also called the 'baby blues'; poor sleep, feeling vulnerable and insecurity bu......Read more » -
Depression before pregnancy
Many pregnant women find it more difficult to control their emotions during pregnancy and this is mostly blamed on hormones. While it isn't pleasant for anyone in the family, in many cases, this is not simply a matter of being in a bad mood. P......Read more » -
Development
After 9 months your baby is finally here. In 9 months your child has developed from a microscopic collection of cells to the wrinkled pink bundle you can hold in your arms. Further development will turn your child into a fully functioning human being......Read more » -
Development of the fetus II
This beautiful animation was created over at Tabletop Whale. Each week of pregnancy is represented, and there is a handy list of terms below. If your connection is slow, please be patient, as the animation takes up roughly 2MB .........Read more » -
Development of the foetus
An interactive video of the development of your baby. Slide the sliders to see the growth! The first picture shows the growth from 0 to 8 weeks, the second the growth from 8 to 40 weeks. You may also like this animated gif: ......Read more » -
Diaper changing (Baby care)
Aarskog-Scott Syndrome - An inherited disorder that is characterized by wide spaced eyes, front-facing nostrils, a broad upper lip, a malformed scrotum, flat feet, short stature, joint laxity and overly extensible fingers. The disorder is passed to o......Read more » -
Diaper rash (Baby care)
Diaper rash (diaper eczema) is an inflammation of the skin in the diaper area. There are several factors involved in the development of diaper rash. The skin looks inflamed, sometimes the groin and buttocks are fine, certainly not always. Almost a......Read more » -
Diarrhea
In infants and children, diarrhea is very common. Diarrhea is diagnosed if the stool is thin and watery and the child has more frequent bowel movements. How diarrhea develops Usually, a bowel infection is responsible for the onset of diarrhea. Th......Read more » -
Donorship
Having children naturally is not always an option for everyone. One problem many men experience is infertility or a low sperm count. One solution to this problem is the use of donor sperm. A man who wishes to donate his sperm can do so ......Read more » -
Doula (Childbirth)
A doula is also called pregnancy and birth coach. The word doula comes from ancient Greek and means 'serving woman'. She is a skilled, experienced woman who, in addition to medical care, provides practical and emotional support for the birth ......Read more » -
Dreaming during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a very emotional time in a woman's life. It is quite common for pregnant women to experience vivid and frightening dreams which can stay with you after you wake. These lifelike dreams are most likely due to the large increase in h......Read more » -
Drugs and pregnancy
Risks of drug use There is a much greater chance of complications during pregnancy and birth if you use alcohol and / or drugs during that period. Use of alcohol and drugs during pregnancy can seriously disrupt the development of the baby. It can cr......Read more » -
Duration (Breastfeeding)
Up to what age can you and should you breastfeed? Various organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have tried to figure out what age you should breastfeed a baby until. According to the WHO, every child should be allowe......Read more » -
During a twin pregnancy (Twins)
Approximately 3 out of every 100 pregnancies is a twin or multiple pregnancy. Normally during your first ultrasound scan it will be determined whether you are having more than one baby although it may take the entire nine months for you to get over t......Read more »
Articles with `E` (7)
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Ear infection (Earpain)
Earache and ear infections in children are common and can cause pain and swelling and even temporary deafness. It is important to keep a lookout if your child is experiencing any pain in their ears. Ear infection in the outer ear Ear infection in......Read more » -
Ear pain
Causes Ear pain is not always caused by ear disorders. Often it is a consequence of an infection in the nose, mouth or, for example, the throat. In that case the pain radiates to the ear. In children, ear pain is often the result of an accumulati......Read more » -
Ear piercing
What age? There are different opinions about this. Some parents think that it is best to pierce the ears of a baby, other parents prefer to wait until their child comes up with the question. If you are planning to your child's ears pierced, it ......Read more » -
Ectopic pregnancy (Loss)
One of the common causes of miscarriage is when the embryo attaches outside outside the uterus, in the ovary, abdomen or cervix and this is known as an extrauterin or ectopic pregnancy. In 95% of ectopic pregnancies the fertilised egg impla......Read more » -
Empty days (Breastfeeding)
If you are breastfeeding, you will probably wake up early and go to bed late in the early days. Your milk production is not yet set to your baby's demands. Moms often feel uncertain during these "empty" days; baby seems insatiable and y......Read more » -
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that occurs only in women in their fertile life phase. Some women have a few severe complaints with extensive endometriosis, others have a lot of complaints in mild forms. Occasionally, endometriosis is detected by chance......Read more » -
Eye care (Baby care)
Protection The eyes are protected by eyelashes and eyelids. Babies especially have delicate eyes. The tearducts in babies often produce more moisture than those of adults. This is important because the baby's defensive system still has to develo......Read more »
Articles with `F` (14)
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Fathers
Fathers share the joy of pregnancy, birth and bringing up your child. Of course, they also share in the concerns. How might you feel? Excluded - All attention is on the mother, and you may feel that you are not involved. Take an active part ......Read more » -
Fainting
You may faint, or almost faint, during pregnancy, especially if you get up quickly. Feeling dizzy is normal and common. Fainting and dizziness can occur in pregnancy at any time. When standing, more blood goes to the uterus and legs and away from yo......Read more » -
Febrile seizures (Fever)
The temperature can rise quickly in babies and small children. If this happens, your child may have a seizure. Such an incident is called a febrile seizure (fever convulsion). Generally, these febrile seizures occur only in small children, usually in......Read more » -
Feeding
For the first six months, breastfeeding or complete infant formula will usually provide your baby with enough nutrients. The amount of food a baby needs is always different for each child. According to pediatricians, you can use the following guideli......Read more » -
Feet: pain during pregnancy
Pregnant women often walk for too long with sore feet, ankles and knees. They accept this as one of the many ailments that happen to them during pregnancy. Almost everyone has abnormalities of the feet but can go well for years without being ......Read more » -
Fertility problems
You are technically classed as "infertile" if you cannot have children without assistance. 80% to 90% of couples who regularly try should conceive within the first year; each menstrual cycle brings a 10%-15% chance of conception. If it t......Read more » -
Fertility treatments (Fertility problems)
IUI: Intra-uterine insemination ("in utero fertilization"): Fertilization of the egg cell while it is in the uterus. IVF: In Vitro fertilization ("in glass fertilization"): Fertilization of an egg cell outside the body, af......Read more » -
Fever
A child has a fever when the body temperature rises above 38 degrees Celsius. Normal body temperature is between 36.5 and 37.5 ° C. We speak of an increase when the body temperature is between 37.5 and 38 degrees Celsius. When the fever is very h......Read more » -
Fifth disease (Childhood illness)
Fifth disease is generally a mild illness caused by the Parvo B19 virus and occurs mainly in children in the spring. Possible symptoms: small red spots on the face; cheeks may turn red; temperature increase or fever; spots on the body;......Read more » -
Flightbag checklist (Checklists)
Flightbag checklist: what do I need? If you have to be taken to hospital without much notice, it's important that your "flight bag" is already ready. It should contain all the necessary items you need during and after birth. Keep it sto......Read more » -
Fluid retention (edema)
It's normal for your body to retain excess water during pregnancy. This can be on average 2 to 3 liters. In the last month, especially, this is very noticeable; symptoms include swollen hands, feet and face. Even in warm weather, you will retain ......Read more » -
Fontanels
A fontanel is one of six membrane covered soft spots on the skull of an infant at the junction of the cranial bones which allow baby's head to slightly compress in order for it to pass easier through the birth canal during labour. The sma......Read more » -
Food (Foods not to eat during pregnancy)
Food and drink It is important for everyone to eat healthily, but it is essential during pregnancy. Your baby needs certain amounts of nutrients, minerals and vitamins to develop properly. It is important that you know which ones are. Be careful wit......Read more » -
Foreskin (Baby care)
The penis primarily consists of what could be called a stem and an acorn. The "acorn" tip is very sensitive and protected by a thin fold of skin. In some boys this covering is complete, while in other boys the covering is only partial. I......Read more »
Articles with `G` (5)
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Gender of the baby
Dr. Landrum Shettles was a pioneer in fertility techniques. He was involved very early in experiments in which ova could be fertilized in a laboratory. He has also researched for years to influence the sex of babies. He also wrote a book about it, wh......Read more » -
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes means diabetes during pregnancy. This type of diabetes usually starts after week 24 and only occurs during pregnancy. 2% of pregnant women are affected by this form of diabetes. It is because the hormones of your pregnancy slow d......Read more » -
Group B Streptococcus (Tests during pregnancy)
Testing for GBS isn't advisable during pregnancy, as up to 1 in 5 women are carriers. In certain cases it may be advisable to swab for GBS; for example if a woman is admitted to hospital with premature birth markers; a nurse will take a swab f......Read more » -
Growth retardation baby (Weight)
A child who grows slowly and thus remains behind in his growth curve must always be examined. There may be a growth retardation. If the child suddenly stops growing, this is often an indication of a underlying illness. It is characteristic that ch......Read more » -
Guide to rashes, bumps and spots
The condition of the skin of your child is often a good signifier of their health, and many symptoms of diseases show themselves upon it. Perhaps that rash is a disease, maybe heat rash or an allergy? In the guide below you will find a descripti......Read more »
Articles with `H` (16)
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Haircare
Hair care during pregnancy Hair care products such as shampoo, conditioner, or hairdye don't appear to be harmful during pregnancy. This applies to the DIY packages as well as the hairdresser's professional products. There is also no evidenc......Read more » -
Headaches
Headachs are one of the most common symptoms women experience during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. Common causes are: - change in hormones; - tiredness, lack of sleep; - changes in blood circulation; - low blood ......Read more » -
Headlice and nits
How does a child get head lice? It is still often thought that head lice only occurs in children who have dirty hair, due to a lack of hygiene. This is nonsense. Head lice loves clean hair. Usually head lice occur in children, it is transmitted t......Read more » -
Heartburn
Burning sensation and heartburn caused by stomach acid is a common complaint during pregnancy, especially towards the end. this is caused by the displacement of food and gastric acid into the esophagus because the stomach has been moved dur......Read more » -
Hemoglobin (Tests during pregnancy)
Anemia (anaemia) is caused by a shortage of hemoglobin. Such a shortage can be the result of a shortage of red blood cells, but it can also occur when too little hemoglobin is produced. This is often the result of an iron deficiency. Hemoglobin is......Read more » -
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum (rectum) and around the anus. They are closely related to varicose veins, which you see on your legs. If these veins are irritated, the surrounding tissue also swells, burns, infects and bleeds. Hemorrhoids......Read more » -
Hepatitis B (Tests before pregnancy)
Hepatitis B is a serious infectious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. This virus penetrates the liver cells and causes inflammation there. Some people experience few or no symptoms while others can be crippled by pain. This depends on the seve......Read more » -
Hereditary disorders
There is a difference between congenital and hereditary disorders, and sometimes it is confusing what condition is involved. Both are already present at birth. A hereditary predisposition is often only expressed later (eg baldness). A birthmark that ......Read more » -
Hernia
Inguinal hernia during pregnancy Sometimes you may have an inguinal hernia while pregnant. This can be caused by a stretching abdominal wall, in combination with growing weight and a weak spot in the abdominal wall. You may notice a bulge in the gro......Read more » -
Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is often diagnosed when your baby's hips are not well developed. The hip joint is a ball joint and in hip dysplasia the bowl is not deep enough and does not enclose the hip head properly. This allows the hip to easily come out of th......Read more » -
HIV and AIDS (Tests before pregnancy)
HIV is the virus that causes the incurable disease known as AIDS. HIV is also called the 'AIDS virus'. This virus was discovered in 1981 and millions of people have since died worldwide. HIV is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Treatments......Read more » -
Hospital birth (Childbirth)
Around the last month of your delivery you should know where you want to give birth. Perhaps the choice is related to your insurance, the expected difficulties or experiences with a previous birth (for example, a caesarean section). You can choose a ......Read more » -
Hydrocephaly
Hydrocephaly is caused by an excessive amount of cerebrospinal fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) in the brain cavities. The problem is that this cerebrospinal fluid is not absorbed, or that the absorption is slower than usual. The fluid surrounds the brain......Read more » -
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) (Morning sickness)
Hyperemesis Gravidarum is an extreme form of morning sickness and vomiting. Studies from England and America have calculated that HG occurs in 0.5% to 2% of pregnancies. Because of the extreme nausea and vomiting, women with HG are often unable to ab......Read more » -
Hypertension (Blood pressure)
Pregnancy hypertension (or pre-eclampsia, pregnancy poisoning or toxicosis) is a condition that usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. The disorder is due to elevated blood pressure in combination with high protein loss through the urine. T......Read more » -
Hypotension (Blood pressure)
Your blood pressure depends on age, weight and health. Average blood pressure is 120/80 (120 over 80). The first number is systolic pressure. This indicates how high the arterial pressure is and when the blood is pumped into the arteries every heart ......Read more »
Articles with `I` (4)
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IBS and Pregnancy
Irritable bowel syndrome, also called IBS, is a chronic bowel disease. It is a benign but annoying illness. Previously, the disease was also called spastic intestine or spastic colon. Studies show that up to 20% of the population could have IBS......Read more » -
Impetigo (Childhood illness)
Impetigo is a contagious skin infection. The infection usually occurs around the nose or mouth, but can occur on all parts of the body. It is especially common in young children. Cause Impetigo is caused by a bacterium (staphylococci). Infe......Read more » -
Induction (Childbirth)
In an induction, a birth is artificially initiated. An induction always takes place in a hospital under the responsibility of a doctor (gynecologist). The gynecologist advises an induction if it is expected that the situation for the baby is more fav......Read more » -
Insect bites
How do you know when your child has been bitten or stung by an insect? the skin around the mark is swollen and red; the skin around the mark may be painful; a child may have an allergic reaction; In an allergic reaction there is......Read more »
Articles with `J` (1)
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Jaundice
The cause of the yellow color of the skin and mucous membranes is the substance bilirubin. This substance is released by red blood cell degradation. The baby has much more red blood cells than an adult in the womb. The red blood cells also ......Read more »
Articles with `K` (1)
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KISS and KIDD
KISS stands for Head joints Kinetic Imbalances due to Suboccipital Strain. In older children it is also called KIDD. Both KISS and KIDD are considered to be non-existent by regular medical practitioners and despite several investigations into the ......Read more »
Articles with `L` (7)
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Lazy eye
When do babies stop squinting? A baby may occasionally squint until an age of six months. In the first months, the changing eye position is an expression of the growth of the baby's eye and the development of eye movement control. If the baby......Read more » -
Lazy eye (Ambylopia)
Ambylopia is a poor vision in one eye. This is caused by the fact that the eye has not been able to develop normally in early childhood. It's called "lazy eye" when one eye develops good vision while the other eye does not. The eye with......Read more » -
Let down reflex (Breastfeeding)
The let-down reflex combines the milk production and the milk supply system to allow the milk to flow out of the breasts quickly and freely. The reflex begins when the baby sucks nerve endings in the nipple and the areola is stimulated. A sig......Read more » -
Listeriosis
Listeria is a bacterium that can be found in the soil, in groundwater and on plants. Animals and people can carry listeria in their bodies without getting sick. Humans can become very ill if they eat food contaminated with the listeria bacteria. ......Read more » -
Lochia (Bloodloss)
Immediately after your delivery and expulsion of the placenta the muscles in your uterus will contract strongly.In some cases, the uterine muscles are stretched too much and they can not contract enough. As a result, the veins are not pinched enough ......Read more » -
Loss in pregnancy (Loss)
Getting pregnant after you have had a miscarriage or otherwise lost a child can be an anxious and stressful period for many parents. It will be a roller coaster of emotions. It is not uncommon for parents to feel feelings like sadness, guilt, disbeli......Read more »
Articles with `M` (17)
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Male fertility problems (Fertility problems)
Different causes for infertility in men: Chemotherapy Chemotherapy can reduce the number of sperm cells and their mobility. This can lead to temporary or permanent infertility. Discuss possible consequences with your physician. If you want childr......Read more » -
Maternitywear
The day is here: you wake up, go to get dresses, and suddenly nothing fits you anymore! It has finally happened: it is time for real maternity wear. Maternity clothing has become a lot more stylish in recent years. Gone are the days when you had to w......Read more » -
Measles (Child illness)
Measles are caused by a virus. Infection by measles takes place via droplets that are spread with coughing and sneezing. The most contagious days are from 1 to 2 days before the rash starts until about 4 days thereafter. The measles break out about 1......Read more » -
Medication (Fertility problems)
Aspirin Several studies have concluded that a low dose of aspirin during an IVF treatment increases the chance of implantation as a result of a better blood flow of the uterus. However, a Dutch study was also conducted among 169 women in which t......Read more » -
Medicine (Medication during pregnancy)
Fever A slight fever early in the pregnancy is probably not a problem, but a high fever (more than 39 ° C) can be dangerous for the baby. The physiological processes in the early development of the baby, such as the protein activity, are tempera......Read more » -
Meningitis (Childhood illness)
Brain inflammation is also called brain or spinal inflammation. In meningitis, the membrane that protects the brain is inflamed. The inflammation also affects the central nervous system, and can be caused by a bacterium or a virus Bacterial men......Read more » -
Menstruation (Breastfeeding)
If you do not breast-feed your baby, your period will return after about five to eight weeks. In the beginning, menstruation can be irregular, so the second menstruation can take longer than before your pregnancy. Ovulation can return before menstrua......Read more » -
Milk channels and breast inflammation (Breastfeeding)
If the baby does not drink regularly and effectively, or if he does not drink long enough, your milk channels can become clogged. The milk that is produced stays behind in the breast and can, if the blockage does not dissolve quickly, cause inflammat......Read more » -
Milk production (Breastfeeding)
Do I have enough milk? Or maybe too much? Does my baby drink enough? Are there methods to increase my milk production? Etc. Almost all women who are breastfeeding sometimes have such questions and doubts. After all, breasts do not have tick marks li......Read more » -
Miscarriage (Loss)
It's officially classed as a miscarriage if the pregnancy is spontaneously and unintentionally ended before 16 weeks. In some countries, this is set at 20 months. In Germany, there is no time factor; instead, miscarriage is classed when the baby ......Read more » -
Missed miscarriage (Loss)
Missed miscarriage is also called silent abortion or silent miscarriage. Silent miscarriage can only be determined by ultrasound, because bleeding or abdominal cramps, which may indicate a possible miscarriage, are not present. Before a diagnosis ......Read more » -
Molar pregnancy (Loss)
Normally an egg cell is fertilized and starts to divide. An embryo and a placenta develop through cell division. In a molar pregnancy, somewhere in the beginning something does not go well with cell division. The cell will share itself, but no specia......Read more » -
Morning after pill
The morning-after pill is a type of contraceptive pill and is sometimes called the emergency pill (it is not an abortion pill, as is sometimes thought). If you have forgotten the contraceptive pill ('the pill') for 2 consecutive days, if you ......Read more » -
Mothers in law
Everyone has heard jokes about mother-in-law. There are hundreds. What you have to remember is that almost everybody in the world has a mother in law. That also applies to your own mother in law! The most important thing in a mother&#......Read more » -
Mouth to mouth
Mouth to mouth resuscitation is the act of stimulating or assisting respiration. Acute respiratory problems Call the emergency services (911/999/112) Make sure your baby responds by calling its name. Put the baby in a neutral p......Read more » -
Mucus plug
During pregnancy, a mucous membrane forms in your uterus. The mucous membrane prevents infections of your uterus. The mucous membrane will remain in place until you give birth. When labour starts, the cervix is stretched and softer. This can c......Read more » -
Mumps (Childhood illness)
Mumps is a highly contagious disease caused by the mumps virus. The contamination takes place from human to human (for example by sneezing or coughing). The incubation time of the Mumps is 2 to 3 weeks. Starting from 5 days before the illnesses start......Read more »
Articles with `N` (11)
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Nail care (Baby care)
Baby's nails grow fast and because they are constantly touching the world around them, including themselves. Many babies like to have their hands at their face, especially when sleeping and unsightly scratch marks are usually a result of logn nai......Read more » -
Nausea
Nausea is very common and is a normal phenomenon during pregnancy. Almost a third of pregnant women suffer from nausea and vomiting especially in the morning although it can happen at any time of the day. Nausea often starts around the first mon......Read more » -
Navels
Navels during pregnancy As soon as your stomach expands, your navel, the scar of your own umbilical cord, is stretched. Even if you have a deep navel (an "innie") when you are not pregnant, you will see that your navel first flattens a......Read more » -
Neonatal heel prick
All babies receive a heel prick test. Some blood is dripped from the baby's heel onto a card. The heel prick takes place in the first days of life of the baby. The heel prick is very important, because with this research very serious (sometime......Read more » -
Neonatal seizures
In general, epilepsy of newborns (benign ideopathic neonatal epilepsy, or BINE for short) has no adverse effects. BINE is a form of epilepsy that occurs in small children (newborns). It is often also referred to as 'The fifth day fits', be......Read more » -
Neural tube defect (Tests during pregnancy)
The neural tube is a structure in the embryo, from which the spinal cord and the ceres are formed very early in the pregnancy. In case of a defect of the neural tube, the spine or the skull is not formed correctly. This creates an open spine (spins b......Read more » -
Nipples (Breastfeeding)
Nipple gaps are small painful wounds on the transition from your nipple to your areola. You get them from irritation by thrush, by driving, by irritation on clothing or by keeping your nipples moist. How do I recognize nipple gaps? Painful or sen......Read more » -
NIPT test (Tests during pregnancy)
What is NIPT? NIPT is the abbreviation of 'Non-Invasive Prenatal Test'. In this test, the DNA of the unborn child is analyzed by a blood test. This can determine if the baby has Down syndrome, or the less common syndrome of Edwards and Patau......Read more » -
Nosebleeds
Many women suffer from nosebleeds during their pregnancy. This has to do with two factors: First, this is due to the hormone progesterone. Because of this hormone, your blood vessels become thinner and lighter. The second factor that plays is the......Read more » -
Nursery (Child safety tips)
Occasinally but not always, your health or maternity visitor, on one of her visits, will take a look at your nursery to make sure the room is well equipped, safe for baby and convenient for mum. It is important to pay attention to the following sa......Read more » -
Nutrition during pregnancy
It's a well known fact that the baby in the womb is dependent on nutrients that the mother eats. Now that you're pregnant you need extra minerals and vitamins and this can be done by eating healthily. Some people speak about "eating for ......Read more »
Articles with `O` (3)
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Obstipation
Around 12-27% of the population sometimes have complaints of constipation without any known cause (functional constipation). This number increases with age. Obstipation is a more serious type of constipation, characterized by laborious, non-frequent,......Read more » -
Overgang
The menopause is the period in which your ovarian cycle and menstruation gradually stop. Menopause largely determined hereditary The moment that you enter this transition is largely determined by heredity - there is a large correlation between a ......Read more » -
Overweight mothers (Weight)
If you are overweight, you may suffer from fertility problems. This means that it can make it pregnant quite difficult. Both weight and fat distribution affect fertility. When your BMI is too high, your cycle may be disrupted. Overweight women oft......Read more »
Articles with `P` (20)
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Physical consequences (Breastfeeding)
Weight loss During pregnancy you store about five to ten pounds of body fat. This fat is used for breastfeeding during the first three to six months. The other calories must come from your daily diet. How many calories you need depends on the age of......Read more » -
Pacifier sucking
The need to suck is innate in a baby. This innate need is called the 'suction reflex'. Because it can take a while before the suction needs of a baby is over, it is often followed by giving a pacifier or dummy. Some babies are happy to ......Read more » -
Pain (Backache)
Back pain is a common complaint during and shortly after pregnancy. With the advice below you should be able to avoid or mitigate it. If in doubt always consult your doctor. Pay attention to your posture. As your baby grows, your center of grav......Read more » -
Pain (Childbirth)
If you feel a bit nervous before giving birth, you are not alone. Labour and giving birth, unless you have had a baby before is a completely new experience and many women have no idea what to expect. Maybe you've heard some birthing-horror storie......Read more » -
PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a hormonal aberration involving about 5 to 10 percent of women. There are many small follicles (ovules) in the ovaries in these women. On either side of the woman's uterus, a woman ......Read more » -
Pelvic instability
Experiencing pain in your pelvic region is another symptom of pregnancy and quite normal. Research shows that 50 to 60% of women suffer from pelvic pain or low back pain. Early in pregnancy, hormones make the pelvis more flexible. In addition, the......Read more » -
PGD (Hereditary disorders)
PGD is the abbreviation for preimplant genetic diagnostics. This is a method that prevents the birth of children with a serious genetic disorder. PGD is performed in couples who have a high risk of a genetic disease, such as a chromosome ......Read more » -
Positioning (Breastfeeding)
In order to ensure breastfeeding is a comfortable and pleasant experience both for you and your baby, it is important you find the right position. This can help not only with bonding but also posture and save you from backache and shoulder, neck pain......Read more » -
Pouching
Normally, the baby is placed on the mother's belly immediately after birth. Soon after, the father also gets the opportunity to hold the baby for the first time. These are very important moments for both the baby and the parents and contribute to......Read more » -
Preferred side advice
It is known that crooked or flattened skulls occur because babies lay in a favoured position for too long. The baby's skull is still weak, so one side of the head can end up flatter than the other. In addition to a skewed head, a laying prefer......Read more » -
Pregnancies one after another
Your menstrual cycle may return two or three weeks after delivery. Once you ovulate you can also become pregnant again. It is entirely possible to be pregnant very soon after childbirth. Doctors advise you wait six weeks for sex after childbirth. ......Read more » -
Pregnancy after 35
Women are increasingly choosing to become pregnany at a later age. This has several reasons; work and career, still busy with study or promotion, no suitable partner, financial worries. The average age at which women have their first child increased ......Read more » -
Pregnancy checklist (Checklists)
Checklist: what should you arrange during your pregnancy? As soon as you are pregnant, a whole new world opens up for you. It's scary, but also exciting because a lot is going to change. It is important to organize everything well and on time bef......Read more » -
Pregnancy myths
There are always old wives tales and myths which surround fertility and pregnancy. Although many of these are true there are also many which have no basis in fact. Below is a list of the most common. Men should wear loose underwear True; cool......Read more » -
Pregnancy symptoms
It is important during pregnancy to know the difference between normal symptoms and those which should be reported to your midwife or doctor. Below is a list of the most common symptoms experienced by pregnant women. Areola around the nipples get ......Read more » -
Pregnancy tests
When can you take a pregnancy test? Urine tests can take place one day before the next period starts. Blood tests can be done at 6 to 8 days after ovulation. Pregnancy tests work by checking your urine for a hormone called human chori......Read more » -
Premature birth
A pregnancy lasts an average of 40 weeks. A duration of 37 to 42 weeks is considered a normal pregnancy period. Contractions that occur before week 37 are called 'early'. Early labor increases the risk of premature birth. The baby can then be......Read more » -
Premenstrual syndrome(PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) covers all sorts of symptoms that occur in some women just before menstruation. About 1 in 20 women between 15 and 45 years of age suffer from PMS. This number depends on what exactly is considered PMS and what is meant by......Read more » -
Preparations (Childbirth)
it is important to be prepared for the birth of your child and while you may think 9 months is plenty of time, with doctor and clinic appointments, baby shopping and family visits, time can go quickly. Here are some things to consider for when the ti......Read more » -
Pseudo croup
Pseudo-croup (laryngitis subglottica) is a viral inflammation of the larynx and throat (vocal cords, trachea, large airways). It is usually caused by a virus. Children in the age of 3 months to 5 to 6 years are most susceptible to it. Moreover, it is......Read more »
Articles with `Q` (1)
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Quickly stopping (Breastfeeding)
If you want to stop breastfeeding for any reason, you can do this quicky in the following way: Stop the feeding schedule you used to keep. Only use suction if you feel pressure in your breasts, or if you start to leak. Use suction compressors in y......Read more »
Articles with `R` (12)
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Rapley
The method of offering solid food in pieces for baby to try when they are ready is named after the English researcher Gill Rapley. This method of supplementary feeding is increasingly being used. There are also many parents who still opt for the t......Read more » -
Reasons to stop (Breastfeeding)
Breastfeeding will always be the best food for your baby, but there are many reasons you may wish to stop, such as: Feeding problems (nipple cleavage, breast inflammation, production or appetite problems). Little support or help with......Read more » -
Reflux in babies
Milk-spitting isn't the same as reflux Many newborns may spit out or dribble a mouthful of milk after they've been fed. They can drink more than they can handle, and some of it comes right back up. This little bit of returned is ......Read more » -
Repeated miscarriages (Loss)
The terms "repeated miscarriage" or "habitual abortion" apply when a woman has three or more miscarriages in succession without a healthy pregnancy in between. Primary habitual abortion means that a woman has ne......Read more » -
Restless legs
In particular, during the third trimester of pregnancy, about 15% of pregnant women are treated for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). As soon as you lie down and fall asleep, a feeling that is best described can be described as crooked, prickly or tin......Read more » -
Rhesus factor
Our blood has many special qualities. One is that a drop of blood from a rhesus monkey, attached to a drop of blood from a human being, will sometimes join together and sometimes not. Since we know this, we divide people into groups with resusposi......Read more » -
Ringworm
Tinea (ringworm) is a relatively benign superficial infectious disease. This infection can occur on the skin, hair and nails. An annular space is formed with a slightly thickened edge. It is often thought that Tinea has something to do with worms, ......Read more » -
Roseola (Childhood illness)
Roseola (also known as sixth disease) is one of the many spotty diseases in children. The viral cause was only discovered recently. The sixth disease occurs mainly in children between 3 months and 3 years. There is no vaccination for the sixth diseas......Read more » -
Rota Virus
The rotavirus belongs to the family of the 'Reoviridae'. The virus was discovered in 1973, when fluid from the duodenum of children who suffered from a kind of 'winter flu' and had to vomit a lot, was examined under an electron micros......Read more » -
Routines (Twins)
The birth of a baby means your normal routines are in turmoil, this is doubly true when you have had a twin or multiple birth. There is no easy way to overcome this as all babies are different but there are some things you can do to alleviate the dif......Read more » -
Rubella (Childhood illness)
Rubella is an infectious disease and is caused by a virus that occurs mainly in children, but can also occur in adults. Cause The virus is spread through droplets that come into the air through sneezing or coughing. The incubation period is 2 to ......Read more » -
Rubella (Tests before pregnancy)
German measles (rubella) is a contagious disease and is caused by a virus, which occurs mainly in children, but can also occur in adults. Cause The virus is spread through droplets in the air through sneezing or coughing. The incubation period is......Read more »
Articles with `S` (16)
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Scarlet fever (Childhood illness)
Scarlet fever usually occurs in children from three to six years, and to a lesser degree in adults. It is caused by a bacterium (streptococcus). In the past, it cause a lot of suffering and was a serious illness. Nowadays it is less common and is les......Read more » -
Seatbelts (Travel during pregnancy)
Do I have to wear a seatbelt when I'm pregnant Yes! Doctors recommend it. A seatbelt is the best protection in case of an accident, both for you and your child. And if the car has airbags? Then you still have to wear your seatbelt. Airbags a......Read more » -
Sex (Safety during pregnancy)
Sex during pregnancy Many people worry that having sex during pregnancy will somehow harm or disturb the baby. Although perhaps the mechanics, especially as you get further on in your pregnancy, may prove challenging, there is no reason couples cann......Read more » -
Shaken baby syndrome
Babies have a relatively large head, compared to the rest of the body. The neck muscles are not that strong yet, their brains and blood vessels are also very vulnerable. If a baby or a small child is shaken in such a way that the head moves back a......Read more » -
Short cervical neck
Some pregnant women hear from the 20-week scan that there is a possible shortened cervix. A shortened cervical neck is shorter than 30 mm. In many countries, the length of the uterus is not yet routinely measured in pregnant women who do not hav......Read more » -
Skin changes
The increase in hormones during pregnancy as well as other factors can result in changes to your skin which can include: "Pregnancy glow" You may get a radiant glow over your face. Your face seems to blush because you have more bl......Read more » -
Sleep (Sleep during pregnancy)
During your pregnancy, you may have more difficulty sleeping than usual. A larger abdomen, heartburn, anxiety, back pain and shortness of breath lead to less sleep. You can get frustrated about the lack of good sleep. Yet sleep is very necessary......Read more » -
Smear
The Papanicolaou test (abbreviated as Pap test, also known as Pap smear, cervical smear, or smear test) is a method of cervical screening used to detect potentially pre-cancerous and cancerous processes in the ......Read more » -
Smoking
Smoking during pregnancy Scientific research shows that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of spontaneous abortion, low birth weight and sudden deaths and illnesses in babies. Smoking and breastfeeding Nicotine is given to the baby by......Read more » -
Stillbirth (Loss)
If you lose your child after the 16th week, or your child dies during childbirth, this is officially classed as a "stillbirth". It's a tragic and often traumatic experience for parents. A mix of emotions are involved; anger, guilt, sadn......Read more » -
Stomach cramps
Babies get tummy cramps. They come and go many times. It's no fun for parents either; you can see your little one in pain, the crying doesn't seem to stop, and sometimes it seems like there's nothing you can do to help. Bowel cramps oc......Read more » -
Stomach flu
Stomach flu is the most common cause of diarrhea and is almost always caused by a virus infection, which is usually ultimately harmless. Stomach flu is also called gastroenteritis. Diagnosis Diagnosis can be verified with a stool s......Read more » -
Stomach pain
Cause of belly pain At around week 20 of pregnancy, the uterus will grow very quickly. Because of this rapid growth, there is a lot of tension on the muscles. These muscles keep the uterus in place. In particular, the muscles that run along the side......Read more » -
Stretch marks (Pregnancy striations)
What are striae? Striae or stretch marks are linear scars that occur when the subcutaneous connective tissue is pulled apart by rapid growth of the stomach. They can also appear on the breasts and the top of your thighs. With a fast-gr......Read more » -
Sunbathing during pregnancy
There are many misunderstandings about sunbathing during pregnancy. UV rays, which sunlight partly consists of, penetrate the epidermis a little. They do their work in the epidermis, depending on the intensity of the radiation (tanning, skin thickeni......Read more » -
Swaddling
Swaddling has made a comeback in recent years. Swaddling is wrapping your baby from shoulders to toes in cloths to restore the security it had in the womb. All of a sudden your baby comes into the outside world, which can be very difficult for you......Read more »
Articles with `T` (16)
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Tandem feeding (Breastfeeding)
Tandem feeding is breastfeeding two or more children of different ages. If you are breastfeeding, the prolactin level in your body is still very high in the initial period. The hormone prolactin is also called the breastfeeding hormone. It affects......Read more » -
Teeth
First teeth Generally, babies get their first teeth between 5 and 9 months. Normally, the first two are bottom incisors, followed by the top two, then the teeth to either side. All eight cutting teeth usually come through when the baby is 8 ......Read more » -
The 1st night (Recovering)
Many new parents find it a little scary to be alone with the baby for the first time and that is absolutely normal. Follow your maternal instinct and your intuition, and you will see that everything is going well. Many babies are very alert the fi......Read more » -
Therapy helmet (Incorrectly growing head)
Healthy babies with a moderate to severe skull deformation should not be treated with a helmet. The treatment with a so-called redress helmet has little effect, costs a lot of money and leads to side effects. That's what researcher Renske van Wij......Read more » -
Thrush (Breastfeeding)
Thrush is a common but harmless fungal infection (candida albicans). It occurs in both breastfed and bottle-fed children. Nearly everyone carries the fungus, but most people remain symptomless. It only manifests itself when our resistance is low, ......Read more » -
Thumb sucking (Pacifiers)
Sucking on the thumb or pacifier can be a bad habit, but there is a period of time before your child is addicted. If sucking does become a habit, you should start to wean them from it at around 2 or 3 years of age. If your child sucks on his thumb......Read more » -
Thyroid abnormalities and pregnancy
The thyroid is a small organ that lies in front of the trachea. Normally the thyroid gland is not visible or felt. The thyroid gland creates thyroid hormones. These hormones are important for metabolism (the conversion of food into energ......Read more » -
To the chiropractor
Problems with the spinal column also occur in babies and small children. These occur in many cases during pregnancy, at birth or in early childhood. A chiropractor treats adults, but also babies, and works preventively from movement of the spine a......Read more » -
Toilet training
You may hear stories about mother whose children are completely potty-trained after only 2 weeks, but these tend to be exceptional cases. It can take up to half a year for a child to be completely clean, though girls tend to get there a little bit so......Read more » -
Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis (throat inflammation) is a common disorder in children. Causes of Tonsillitis In most cases, tonsillitis is caused by viruses, but a child can also get it by bacteria, for example streptococci. Infection The bacterium or virus is ......Read more » -
Toxoplasmosis (Tests before pregnancy)
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite. This parasite can not be seen with the naked eye. Although it is an infection rather than an illness you will experience symptoms such as fever, a feeling of lethargy and swollen glands. Once you ......Read more » -
Travel during pregnancy
Traveling during pregnancy is not dangerous provided you avoid places where there are no medical facilities or where you do not speak the language in case you need to. In the first trimester, the nausea can also throw a spanner in the works. ......Read more » -
Triple test (Tests during pregnancy)
There are two examinations that can give an idea about the chance of a child with a chromosome abnormality. These are the triple test and the neck fold measurement combination test. The triple-test is not used so often nowadays, the reliability is mu......Read more » -
Twin birth (Twins)
A vaginal delivery or a caesarean section? Whether you can have a natural delivery depends on the position of the babies in the uterus. A vaginal delivery is also possible with twins. In the case of a triple or multiple, it is almost always a caes......Read more » -
Twins
Twins are two individuals who share the same uterus during a single pregnancy, and usually are born on the same day. Due to the limited space in the womb, twins are usually born earlier and smaller than non-twins. On average, a twin pregnancy lasts 3......Read more »
Articles with `U` (4)
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Uitdroging (Misselijkheid)
Dehydration during pregnancy can be caused by many things. For example, by diarrhea during a period of flu. The most common cause of dehydration during pregnancy is morning sickness (emesis gravidarum) or extreme morning sickness (hyperemesis gravida......Read more » -
Umbilical cord (Tests during pregnancy)
If the results of other prenatal examinations are unclear, an umbilical cord test will be performed. This rarely happens and is therefore not a normal test. The umbilical cord is used only in rare blood diseases or rhesus antagonism, or when a scan h......Read more » -
Underweight mother (Weight)
Being an overweight mother is not the only issue; being underweight can cause serious issues, too. Being underweight is less common in Western nations. Being underweight can disturb your menstrual cycle to such a degree that getting pregnant can b......Read more » -
Urinating
Many infections can be detected with a urine test. At your first pregnancy check-up you will be asked for a urine sample. This is tested for urinary tract infections, dehydration, sugar levels, proteins, and it will confirm the pregnancy. A urine sam......Read more »
Articles with `V` (7)
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Vaccinations
All newborn babies receive antibodies from the mother against infectious diseases. Because the mother often has not gone through all the diseases herself (and therefore has not developed any antibodies for all diseases), these antibodies do not offer......Read more » -
Vaginal infections (Tests before pregnancy)
Normally the vaginal discharge is whitish or slightly transparent in color and feels slimy and sticky. In pregnancy it is normal that the amount and thickness of the secretions vary greatly. Most women have more discharge than normal during pregnancy......Read more » -
Vanishing Twin Syndrome (Twins)
In Vanishing Twin Syndrome (VTS) there is a twin pregnancy. However, at an early stage, one of the fetuses stops developing. Sometimes you will not know anything about it but, because scans these days take place at an earlier date, more and more wome......Read more » -
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are bumpy blue veins that usually appear on the legs during pregnancy. There are several reasons for this. The amount of blood in the body becomes greater and this must be pumped around the body. Due to the changing hormone level, the ......Read more » -
Ventriculomegaly
Ventriculomegaly is a brain condition that occurs in the fetus when the lateral ventricles become dilated. In the brain of a healthy fetus, the lateral ventricles are less than 10 mm in diameter. In a fetus with ventriculomegaly, the lateral......Read more » -
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for healthy construction of bones and teeth. Until your child is 4 years old, it needs extra vitamin D. It does not matter if you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Vitamin D is created in the skin under the influence of s......Read more » -
Vitamin K
When is it necessary to supplement baby's vitamin K? If you bottlefeed, it is not necessary to give him extra vitamin K. If you breastfeed, daily drops can be beneficial and necessary to prevent bleeding. It is important to keep using the drops ......Read more »
Articles with `W` (7)
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Waiting for pregnancy
Even once you're ready, looking forward to it, and can barely wait for it, becoming pregnant can sometimes be a bit of a waiting game. When everyone around you is falling pregnant and telling you "your time will come, too" all you can d......Read more » -
Waterbirth (Childbirth)
Birth in water is a very natural and relaxed way of giving birth and has many advantages. Hot water is relaxing. The more you relax, the more endorphins your body produces. This is a kind of natural painkiller and ensures that you can better cope ......Read more » -
Weight after pregnancy (Weight)
Even though getting pregnant and having a baby is a special and amazing experience, you would like to get back to weight as quickly as possible. Preferably a good and healthy weight. Whether you can easily achieve healthy weight is primarily dependen......Read more » -
Weight during pregnancy (Weight)
Pregnancy is a time to pay attention to your weight. But ... do not be happy if you've "only put on ten pounds" Be happy when your weight has increased enough to bring a healthy baby to the world! If your weight does......Read more » -
What does baby sense
What does your baby hear? Babies can already hear while they are still in the womb, think of your heartbeat, the rumble of your intestines. Later in the pregnancy, they also hear sounds from outside the womb. From about 28 weeks they can even respon......Read more » -
Whooping cough (Childhood illness)
Whooping cough is very contagious and is caused by the bacterium 'Bordetella' pertussis. Infection occurs in humans through sneezing or coughing. In general, incubation time is 7 to 10 days. After coughing ends, patients are still contagious ......Read more »
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