Life Balance Hub is your guide to a harmonious life. Discover inspiration and practical tips on family, health, fitness, and achieving everyday balance.
Hiccups, also known as hiccoughs, are a common occurrence in both babies and adults. They are caused by involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, a thin muscle located between the chest and abdomen, which leads to a sudden closure of the vocal cords.
When you touch the top of your baby’s head, you’ll notice a ‘soft spot’ between the bones — this is known as a fontanelle. Fontanelles are crucial for the normal growth and development of your baby’s brain and skull. These openings allow flexibility during birth and accommodate rapid brain growth in infancy. Healthcare providers routinely assess fontanelles during check-ups to monitor your baby’s development and ensure everything is progressing as expected.
Umbilical cord care is essential for preventing infection of the small portion of the umbilical cord that remains attached to your baby for a short period after birth, known as the umbilical stump. In the uterus, the umbilical cord provides oxygen and nutrients necessary for your baby’s growth. After birth, the cord is clamped and cut, leaving the umbilical stump, which eventually falls off and heals to form the umbilicus (belly button).
Morning sickness is a common experience for many pregnant individuals, characterized by nausea and vomiting, typically occurring during the first trimester. While it’s often referred to as “morning” sickness, these symptoms can occur at any time of the day. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for morning sickness is important for expectant mothers to navigate this aspect of pregnancy more comfortably.
Varicose veins occur when blood vessels become enlarged and swollen, often appearing blue or purple beneath the skin. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and increased blood volume can lead to varicose veins, affecting up to 4 in 10 pregnant individuals. These veins commonly develop in the first trimester and can cause discomfort or pain.
Vaginal discharge is a natural body fluid that plays a crucial role in maintaining vaginal cleanliness and moisture, preventing infections. Normal vaginal discharge varies throughout the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding. It should typically be clear, white, or cream-colored and odorless. However, an abnormal discharge, often caused by infections, medications, or other health conditions, may indicate an imbalance in vaginal bacteria or irritation.
Bathing your baby can be a joyful and bonding experience, but for new parents, it can also be a bit daunting. Ensuring your baby is clean and comfortable requires gentle care and attention to detail. In this guide, we’ll provide a step-by-step walkthrough on how to bathe your baby safely and confidently, making bath time a relaxed and enjoyable routine for both you and your little one.
Monitoring your baby’s weight during pregnancy is crucial for assessing their growth and development. In this article, we’ll explore the various methods used to measure your baby’s weight in the womb and discuss why tracking fetal weight is essential for ensuring a healthy pregnancy outcome.
Stretch marks are a common concern for many pregnant individuals, appearing as visible streaks on the skin’s surface. While they are a natural part of pregnancy for some, understanding their causes, prevention methods, and treatment options can help manage their appearance and support skin health during this time.
Thrush is an infection caused by a yeast called Candida, which often affects the vagina and vulva. If you’re breastfeeding, it can also affect your breasts or nipples and your baby’s mouth or bottom. Symptoms include itching, soreness, and a thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese. Thrush is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that create a more favorable environment for yeast growth.
Indigestion and heartburn are prevalent symptoms during pregnancy, with about 8 in 10 expectant mothers experiencing them at some point. Indigestion, also known as ‘dyspepsia’, manifests as discomfort or pain in the stomach, typically occurring after eating or drinking.
Headaches are a common experience during pregnancy, often triggered by hormonal changes, especially in the early months. If you usually experience migraines, you might find relief after the first trimester as estrogen levels stabilize, though experiences vary. However, some individuals may find their migraines worsen during pregnancy, and symptoms can differ between pregnancies. It’s essential to note that headaches during pregnancy can stem from various causes beyond hormonal shifts.
