SMOKING CIGARETTES
Is it odd to see a pregnant woman smoke?
Major effects of cigarette smoking has been linked to heart disease and lung cancer and it is known that women who smoke while pregnant are prone to preterm labour, Preterm birth is also known as a premature birth, this is giving birth to baby fewer than 37weeks.
Cigarette smoking harms nearly every organ of the body, causes many diseases, and reduces the health of smokers in general.
Cigarette smoking causes about 480,000 or more deaths each year, majorly in the United States.
It causes more deaths each year than the following;
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Illegal drug use
Alcohol use
Motor vehicle injuries
Firearm-related incidents
DRINKING DURING PREGNANCY
IS ALCOHOL A PROBLEM DURING PREGNANCY?
As a pregnant woman, when you drink alcohol, it rapidly reaches your baby through the placenta through your bloodstream. Drinking of Alcohol can cause miscarriage and also premature birth. Too much alcohol can even increase the risk of your baby being stillborn.
Too much intake of alcohol during pregnancy can permanently damage your developing baby’s cells. This could affect how your baby’s face, organs and brain grow, It can cause them to have low IQ as well. It can also damage your baby’s nervous system, meaning that your baby develops a fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is at the extreme end of the spectrum of disorders. Babies with FAS tend to have facial defects, be born small, and carry on being small for their age. They also have learning difficulties, poor muscle tone and coordination, and behavioural problems, for the rest of their lives.
EMPOWERING YOUR BIRTH EXPERIENCE: MAKING BIRTH SERVICES WORK FOR YOU.
Empowering Your Birth Experience: Making Birth Services Work for You
Introduction:
Welcoming a new life into the world is a profoundly transformative experience, and ensuring that your birth services align with your preferences and values is crucial. In this blog post, we’ll explore empowering ways to make birth services work for you, fostering a positive and memorable birthing experience.
1. Educate Yourself:
One of the most empowering steps you can take is to educate yourself about different birthing options, procedures, and interventions. Attend childbirth education classes, read informative books, and consider hiring a doula to provide continuous support and guidance.
2. Create a Birth Plan:
Develop a birth plan that clearly outlines your preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Share this plan with your healthcare provider and discuss it thoroughly, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding your desires and expectations.
3. Choose The Right Birth Setting:
Whether it’s a hospital, birthing center, or home birth, select a setting that aligns with your comfort level and birthing preferences. Research and tour potential locations to make an informed decision based on your needs.
4. Build a Supportive Birth Team:
Surround yourself with a supportive birth team that understands and respects your wishes. This may include your partner, family members, friends, and healthcare professionals who are aligned with your birthing philosophy.
5. Utilize Comfort Measures:
Explore various comfort measures to ease the birthing process. This could include relaxation techniques, massage, aromatherapy, or hydrotherapy. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider and include them in your birth plan.
6. Stay Active and Healthy:
Maintain a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy by engaging in regular exercise, practicing good nutrition, and staying well-hydrated. A healthy body can contribute to smoother labor and delivery.
7. Communicate Effectively:
Foster open communication with your healthcare provider. Discuss any concerns, preferences, or fears you may have. Clear communication ensures that everyone involved is working towards the same goal – a safe and positive birthing experience.
8. Be Flexible and Open-Minded:
While it’s essential to have a plan, it’s equally crucial to be flexible. Labor can be unpredictable, and being open-minded about adjustments to your birth plan can reduce stress and contribute to a more positive experience.
9. Prioritize Postpartum Care:
Consider your postpartum needs when planning your birth services. Discuss postpartum care options, including lactation support, mental health resources, and any additional assistance you may require during the early weeks of parenthood.
10. Reflect and Share Your Experience:
After the birth, take time to reflect on your experience. Share your thoughts and feelings with your birth team and consider documenting your journey. Your reflections can be valuable for your own growth
