Each has its own placenta within the uterus. Identical twins come from a single egg, fertilized by a single sperm. The egg divides into two and each develops independently into a genetically identical twin sharing a single placenta.Other multiple pregnancies … Read More
Female fertility facts
The fertility of both men and women reaches its peak at about the age of 24 and then begins to wane. A woman’s entire stock of eggs, or ova, are formed in her two ovaries while she is still in … Read More
Can we start trying for a baby as soon as we stop using contraception?
Barrier methods. If you use the diaphragm or condom they can be dispensed with immediately. The pill. In the case of the pill it’s probably advisable to stop taking the pill at least a month, preferably three, before trying to … Read More
What will my new baby look like?
Your baby will probably be a bluish-white colour at first and may be covered with the greasy fluid vernix caseosa, which protected her skin while it was immersed in the amniotic sac. She will have streaks of blood on her … Read More
Will I be able to hold my baby straightaway?
Gentle stroking movements and the sound of your heartbeat and voice will reassure your baby. Her eyes will be able to focus on your face at a distance of 20-25cm (8-10 inches). Research has shown that you can bond with … Read More
When is the cord cut?
The cord is then cut between the clamps. It is sometimes clamped and cut during delivery if it was looped tightly around the baby’s neck. This is quite common. Some doctors and midwives believe that the baby benefits from the … Read More
When does the milk come in?
Remember, your breasts don’t actually produce milk for the first three days. Instead they produce colostrum, a thin yellow fluid which protects your baby against infection for the first 72 hours. It’s made up of water, protein, sugar, vitamins, minerals … Read More
What checks are made after the birth?
The midwife will check your baby’s general condition and remove any remaining fluid in her mouth, nose or air passages by sucking it out with disposable plastic tubing. If she doesn’t start to breathe immediately, then the midwife will take … Read More
My friend has offered to babysit. Should I take up the offer?
Spending time alone is important for you, giving you the space to recharge you batteries. It’s easy to lose sight of this need once you’re caught up in the never-ending round of feeding and nappy changing. Leave your baby with … Read More
Looking after my baby is so hard – am I doing something wrong?
With any new baby, one job or activity succeeds another throughout the day, and night. It’s difficult to find any respite. Make sure you do the following: Get plenty of rest. You will need time to get over the labour … Read More