What to pack for delivery!

Let’s look at packing your hospital a bag with everything you think you’ll need at the hospital so that you’re ready to go as soon as your baby’s ready to arrive.

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Your hospital bag checklist:

  1. Cell phone and charger. List of names and phone numbers that your partner or family member should call after the birth.
  2. Camera and video camera. Don’t forget the batteries or charger!
  3. Essential Medical Papers and documents.
  4. Cash and change for snacks and things at the hospital.
  5. 2-3 pairs of warm non-skid socks and a pair of slippers to walk around in before and after labor. You may want to bring some flip-flops as well for the shower (remember your feet will likely be swollen).
  6. A warm robe or sweater you don’t mind getting stained and a night suit you don’t care ruining either.
  7. Maternity bras (avoid under-wires) and nursing pads for support and leak protection.
  8. Breast pump if you plan to use one. The nurses will show you how.
  9. Your Babycell – Cord Blood Collection Kit Box. Be sure to handover the cord blood collection kit to the Doctor or Staff Nurse to collect your baby’s cord blood in time
  10. Maternity underwear and sanitary pads.
  11. Toiletries and makeup essentials such as ChapStick or tinted lip balm, hairbrush, barrettes, bobby pins, headband or pony tail holder, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant face wash or makeup wipes. Mascara, blush and eyeliner, concealer, hand held mirror, tweezers, body lotion and face moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, body wash/soap, contacts, lens case and solution, and eye glasses (if you wear them). Travel sized products are the best, so you don’t have a bag that’s too heavy.
  12. Soft, warm, thick, fluffy towels and pillows. Hospital towels are very thin and often uncomfortable. Having your favorite pillow(s) will make a world of difference, too.
  13. A positive book or magazines, an iPod to listen to music and some DVDs and a computer to watch movies on.
  14. Bring pictures of your other kids for your hospital room to inspire you and ward off any jealousy they may have when meeting your newborn for the first time.
  15. Your birth partner should have a bag with basic hygiene products and a change of clothes (or two) as well.
  16. Last, but not least, you’ll want to be comfortable and yet look fabulous in the pictures of you and your baby coming home.Bring some cute and comfy change of “going home” clothes, attractive flat shoes to match and sunglasses. Make sure your partner has something appropriate to wear for the occasion as well. Your new baby will need a cute outfit, too!
  17. Anything else you can’t live without for a couple of days.

What to bring for baby coming home:

  1. Car seat.
  2. A soft carrier for hands-free use when you can’t put your baby down (be warned: this will happen).
  3. A stroller.
  4. An extra bag to bring home what you accumulated in the hospital like diapers, wipes, creams, bottles, formula, papers, etc.
  5. A nursing pillow and bib.
  6. Warm blankets.
  7. An adorable, classic and seasonally appropriate coming home outfit for photographs. If it is a cold time of year, bring a hat, jacket and warm booties for your little one.
  8. Have all the other essentials you need at home ready to go.
  9. A smile, patience, and love!

About Mummy ki Paathshaala

‘Mummy ki Paathshaala’ has been initiated by Babycell for all to-be-parents. The experts can enlighten you with valuable information related to pregnancy diet, pregnancy yoga and exercises, labour and delivery tips. They also hold interesting discussions on Do’s and Don’ts that cover all the pregnancy related questions you may be asking yourselves.

If you have any issues related to pregnancy, make sure to ask the experts and get your doubts cleared. On the overall, ‘Mummy ki Paathshaala’ not only enlightens you with issues related to pregnancy but will also teach you to be an awesome parent.

What better way to enjoy your pregnancy and have some fun with it? Register today and see for yourself how it helps you make good choices for you, your baby and your family!

 

Summer Care for Pregnancy

Summer season is a difficult time of the year. It’s hot, it’s humid, and you’re pregnant. … “Heat and humidity are unpleasant for most people, but they take a greater toll on pregnant women. With the rise in temperatures, dealing with pregnancy issues can be daunting. This article provides useful tips that will ease your life while you make the most of and enjoy this beautiful phase of your life.

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Pregnancy during summer can be difficult, especially for first-time mothers. To-be-moms are constantly  looking for summer care tips that will make pregnancy comfortable. There are a number of reasons that make summers an amazing time to sit back and relax and try your best to beat the heat. Read on about pregnancy summer problems and learn a few tricks that will ease your way through summer.

Fight Dehydration:

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As the temperature rises, you are required to drink more water to keep yourself and the baby hydrated and cool.

Make it a habit to keep a bottle of filtered water with you wherever you go. It also helps in boosting your metabolism and thereby helps you fight the frequent head-aches and hot body rushes you face during pregnancy.

You could also consider going ahead and making this activity tasty by sipping on coconut water, juice, or even electrolytes. This will not only keep you hydrated but also ensure that your electrolyte levels are optimum.

Swelling:

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Swelling during pregnancy can be painful as it can cause your ankles, calves and feet to bloat. Women who face such conditions should be active on their feet. Keep time for walks in gaps for proper blood flow early in the morning when the weather is pleasant . You could also go ahead and try comfortable shoes with ortho- heel soles that are soft and padded with a firm grip. It will definitely help reduce swelling. Avoid resting your body in one position for too long as it may cause cramps.

Beat the sweat:

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Summers are always going to be hot, especially humid in most cities of India, and one easy way to beat the heat is to wear lightweight and comfortable maternity clothes. Light-cotton wear and bright colours are preferable and will make your summers more comfortable and relaxing. Such clothes will help you keep cool and prevent any kind of skin rash.

Have more fruits and vegetables:

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We all know how important nutrients are to a mom and her baby. Consuming fruits and vegetables can provide your body with vitamins and other vital nutrients that are the major building blocks for a healthy baby. These fruits also help you maintain the fluid level in your body which helps you fight the heat in your body and safeguard your baby from it.

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About Mummy ki Paathshaala

‘Mummy ki Paathshaala’ has been initiated by Babycell for all the to-be parents. The experts can enlighten you with valuable information related to pregnancy diet, pregnancy yoga and exercises, labour and delivery tips. They also hold interesting discussions on Do’s and Don’ts that cover all the pregnancy related questions you may be asking yourselves.

If you have any issues related to pregnancy, make sure to ask the experts and get your doubts cleared. On the overall, ‘Mummy ki Paathshaala’ not only enlightens you with issues related to pregnancy, but will also teach you to be an awesome parent.

What better way to enjoy your pregnancy and have some fun with it? Register today and see for yourself how it helps you make good choices for you, your baby and your family!

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Pregnancy exercises and its benefits

Doctors recommend regular exercise during pregnancy for an overall health of the mother and the baby.

The need and importance of exercises during pregnancy

Maintaining a regular exercise regime throughout your pregnancy can help you stay healthy and feel confident. It also improves posture and decreases common physical discomforts. Pregnancy exercise also helps prevent gestational diabetes, improves blood circulation, relieves stress, and builds stamina, which is much needed for labor and delivery. Exercise also helps in a smoother weight loss transition post pregnancy. It is also known to boost the mood and help expecting mothers sleep better.

It is recommended that pregnant woman must exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. A perfect workout is the one that gets your heartbeat going, makes you supple, manages the weight gain as well as prepares your muscles without putting any additional stress on you or the baby.

Even if you have never exercised regularly before, you can safely begin the exercise program during pregnancy after consulting with your gynaecologist. But do not try a new, strenuous activity.

Pregnancy exercises can be broadly classified into two categories:

  • Cardiovascular development exercise
  • Exercises to increase strength and flexibility

Cardiovascular development exercises                       

Walking:

Walking is an ideal exercise for pregnant women. It not only keeps you energized but also provides the necessary fitness without causing too much pressure on the knees or ankles.

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Swimming

Swimming is one of the best pregnancy exercises as it works out both major muscle groups – arms and legs. It also provides the much-needed relief by making expectant mothers feel light and weight-less for some time.

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Dancing

Dancing is a fantastic and fun exercise during pregnancy! Not only do you get the thrill of moving your body to music you love, but it will keep you flexible while toning your muscles.

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Exercises to increase strength and flexibility

Yoga

Yoga helps in maintaining muscle tone as well as increases flexibility. It relieves the tension of lower and upper back, neck and shoulders. Yoga also fine tunes our emotional balance.

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Stretching

Stretching during pregnancy keeps you relaxed and improves flexibility. If rightly combined with deep breathing, also brings more oxygen to your baby to help him grow.

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Squats

Squatting is a perfect exercise to open your pelvic outlet and allow more room for your baby to descend. Practicing squats now will make it easier to squat during labor.

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Babycell is one of the best on stem cell preservation banks in India. Babycell understands needs of expecting mothers; you can consider attending the Mummy ki Paathshaala and Mother Care Forum sessions offered by Babycell. These sessions guide pregnant women on areas like exercise, nutrition tips, parenting tips, and more. Go ahead and register today for a complimentary antenatal care session by Babycell.

What To Pack For Delivery

On the day of your delivery, you have no time to think about what to carry along & the pre-requisites to be packed in the middle of all the excited hustle bustle!

Here’s a compact checklist to your rescue! Keep these items in your bag and you are sorted for your big day!

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A Girl Child Is A Boon!

Daughters are angels! They are delicate, tender, beautiful and most importantly they are innocent. Daughters are inspiring, motivating and a powerful support system! Check out how much fun it is to be a parent of a baby girl.

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Seven things that will excite you about having a baby girl –

1] You can go on a Shopping Spree!

If you have a daughter on your side, all you need to do is grab your wallet and go on a shopping spree! This little fashionista can be your best companion to experiment your fashion vogue.

2] Mommies get a lot of girlie stuff – earrings, accessories, scarfs and handbags and Daddies can get some amazing shopping tips and what to wear ideas.

Your daughter will know your sense of style well and she will be the one gifting you trendy stuff! You come to a stage in life eventually when your daughter will help you dress up for an occasion right from selecting outfits/accessories/ hairstyles, etc. and you won’t need to worry about keeping up with the latest trends!

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3] Who else to try your make- up and hairstyles tutorials with?

Mommies will never get bored or lonely when they have a daughter! Makeup is a fantastic and cost-effective way to add the WOW into any outfit and your little girl will love watching you get all decked up! You can also try those awesome Youtube hair tutorials on her and make her feel included in the fun of getting all dressed up.

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4] Girls love to mimic!

As early as three years of age, girls excel at imitation, a precursor to back-and-forth interaction. Younger babies are best at copying finger moments, and they spend a lot of time observing and processing information before they attempt anything. You can capture videos with your baby girl and share these fun moments with her in future.

5] Enjoy activities you missed out on!

Left out some things on the checklist from your younger day? Now is the time to try out these activities with your daughter! Whether it be something adventurous like skydiving or something as simple as experimenting with make-up and hair, enjoy them with your daughter!

6] Set up a sweet Mother- Daughter or Father- Daughter Photo Shoot

We all know how crazy all ladies are about Selfies and photo shoots! Not just because we like to deck –up but because we love capturing moments that we can keep for a life time!

Father-Daughter relationship is very impactful. You can empower and motivate her to help achieve her goals. So go ahead and make some amazing memories with her!

dshserjryketykteyketyk7] Daughters grow- up into a friend

You get a best friend for life with whom you can share everything and anything! Your ups – downs or be it the much needed emotional support, they will always help to overcome all hurdles in your life :)

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Embrace and be proud of your baby girl! After all, a daughter your daughter really admires you. So go ahead express your love and spend amazing time with your little one!

Weird cravings during pregnancy

As a mom-to-be, you must have experienced the crazy pregnancy cravings! You are feeling emotional and some food/beverage items just feel right! But if you are having an extreme craving that does not seem right as it could mean there is some kind of nutritional deficiency. Here is a list of all food items that one usually craves and the science behind it.

  • Dirt, wall paint, ice

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If you are craving for non-food items like chalk, wall paint, dirt and detergent, you might be suffering from ‘pica’. This means you are a little anemic and need to include iron rich foods in your diet.

  • Chocolate

If you are craving for chocolate then it could mean your body has magnesium deficiency. If you are good at self-control, you could eat sweets in moderation, have just a square or two of dark chocolate at a time. But if you aren’t, you could probably snack on almonds instead.

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  • Pickles

It is very common for all pregnant ladies to crave for pickles at some point or the other. The craving for sour and tarty flavors might mean you want more variety in your daily diet. So go ahead and try out different things to see what makes you happy!

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  • Spicy Food

Yet another common craving among pregnant ladies is spicy food, especially hot curries and red peppers. One of the advantages of spicy foods is makes you sweat, which in turn makes your body to cool-off. You can try adding spices to your meal to combat your craving.

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  • Ice cream

If you are craving it for its creamy, sweet and icy feel then it might just be the weather. But if you are craving it too much, then your body might be in need of calcium. You can eat frozen yogurt instead and ensure there is enough calcium in your daily diet.

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  • Green leafy vegetables

This might be the weirdest craving! But some time you can end up craving for leafy veggies. You would want to eat a giant pile of lettuce, palak, methi, etc. But this is a good craving to have! These are packed with nutrients and are good for your body and your baby!

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All these crazy cravings are just a small part of the great journey that is pregnancy. Just remember to have a well-balanced diet and drink a lot of fluids between your meals.

A special message for all you fathers out there! Make her feel loved and never let the cravings take charge of her.

Pregnancy Nutrient Needs

Here’s a simple illustration of what your body needs during pregnancy.

Make the most of these ingredients in your diet for you to enjoy pregnancy with a power back up!
Here’s all the information on why to include these in your daily diet and how it will benefit your baby during pregnancy.
Share your comments if you find this information helpful! 

Pregnancy Nutrient Needs

Five things you can stop worrying about now that you’re pregnant!

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Hello to be mommies, Congratulations on your pregnancy! We understand that you are curious, excited, sad, frustrated and at times really tired. But we would want to throw some light on five things that you can stop worrying about since you are pregnant. We hope this gives your belly a good laugh!

Sanitary Napkins and Tampons

Yes you heard it right. Its 42 weeks of bliss without your periods. You can get rid of tampons and sanitary napkins. You don’t need them anymore. Enjoy this break from cramps, bleeding and back-aches

Trying to get pregnant

The struggle finally ends. You clearly don’t need to keep checking and monitoring pregnancy tests. Now that you are finally pregnant, go ahead and make the big announcement!!

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Looking Fat

Your tummy will keep growing each week. Enjoy more shopping as per your new sizes. You don’t need to worry about being fat or looking fat. Your husband, girlfriends and sisters cannot question your body weight anymore!!

Birth Control

You don’t need to worry about contraception anymore.

Mood Swings

You will be pampered by your hubby, friends and family members, so you can stop being conscious about your mood and hormonal changes. Enjoy the love and pampering. The best way to burst your pregnancy stress is to spend time with your loved ones.

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Style your comfort in pregnancy trimesters!

In pregnancy the only key factor that your dressing depends upon is comfort. Relying on that completely, often your style goes for a toss. Being pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with fashion trends. Pregnant women too can wear whatever they like, the only key is to modify and adapt it to your new body!

1st trimester: In the 1st trimester the major challenge you face is to keep your pregnancy under wraps. To overcome this challenge you can opt for clothes which are lose and flowy. This will help you cover up those extra kgs you gain in your first months. The best suggested attire would be a lose kurta, an A-line skirt with a lose top or a blouson top with a stretch band at the bottom.

2nd trimester: While you move on to your 2nd trimester you will realize your body is changing with the day. At this time the major challenge that you will face is spending on new clothes every time. But rather than blowing up your budget on buying new clothes every month invest in a few items that will grow with you. Try going for dresses that have details like ruching, tie-backs, buttons or gathering at the sides. They will let you adjust your clothing as your body grows and changes.

3rd trimester: The moment you enter your third trimester you feel huge and uncomfortable. Everything you wear right from zippers to waist bands will be torturous. In this phase try going for comfortable yet stylish ankle length maxi dresses. Maternity leggings along with tunics can also add quite a lot to your style and make you feel comfortable at the same time.

During all the three trimesters make sure you play with colours and don?t just stick to blacks and greys. Whatever you pick make sure it suits your body. If you think you are comfortable in extra lose clothes make sure you pair them with accessories; they are certain to take your look from drab to fab.

Nutrition During Pregnancy

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The first question that most mothers have is ?when should I think about nutrition?? Change in food habits should start long before conceiving your baby- in the planning stage when you decide that you are ready to carry the baby. And you have to ensure that you take care of your diet not only before and during the pregnancy but also after the pregnancy when you breastfeed the baby.

However it is important to remember that even though you are growing a baby inside you it does not mean that you have to eat double. For a single pregnancy you need just 300-500 extra calories per day. This means a simple vegetable sandwich, a fruit and a glass of milk extra per day.

Mother?s nutrition is important right from the planning stage of baby. The right amount of nutrients help in the physical and mental development of the baby. Ideal birth weight is directly proportional to the right amount of nutrients intake by the mother.

Here are few reasons how a healthy diet benefits the mother

  • Healthy and Safe Pregnancy
  • Timely Labor and Delivery
  • Positive Birth Experience
  • Management of Hormones
  • Optimum weight gain

In the planning stage, doctors prescribe Nutraceuticals which help in the development of a healthy baby.

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Now that we have gone through the list of food items once must include in their diet, let us move on to the food items once must avoid.

  1. Raw Meat: Might invite infections due to toxoplasma parasite.
  2. Soft cheese and milk- unpasteurized- Unpasteurized milk carry various disease causing bacteria.
  3. Raw eggs: Raw eggs too can carry salmonella that causes various diseases like mentioned before.
  4. Fish (in excess)- Some types of seafood ? particularly large, predatory fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish ? can contain high levels of mercury. Although the mercury in seafood isn’t a concern for most adults, special precautions apply if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
  5. Caffeine- Since caffeine is a stimulant that increases heart rate, it can cause various discomforts like feeling jittery and insomnia. It can also contribute to heart burn by stimulating the secretion of stomach acids.
  6. Alcohol and other forms of drugs: Alcohol and other forms of drugs, in general are harmful to the human body. So imagine the effect these would have on your baby. These can cause life threatening problems for your baby. Hence stay far away from them.