February is Pregnancy Month

As we approach Pregnancy Education Week I thought I’d highlight a few things to take, do and enjoy during your pregnancy.

1. ATTEND A PREGNANCY EDUCATION SESSION (PEW 10 – 16 February 2015) So… What is Pregnancy Education Week and how will it benefit you? The Department of Health uses pregnancy awareness week to strengthen pregnancy education and stress important issues that promote healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood. During the month of February Government facilities as well as Private Healthcare institutions offer information / education sessions to expectant Mothers where they discuss topics ranging from childbirth, breastfeeding, exercise, eating healthy, gestational diabetes just to name a few. These are valuable sessions where Moms to be (and Dads) have an opportunity to meet and listen to Specialists in the field, ask questions, watch videos and have fun. Contact a Hospital near you to enquire about information sessions being held during this time or check online (see below) Mediclinic , Netcare and Melomed

2. ATTEND AN ANTENATAL CLASS Generally the ideal time to attend these classes are between 24 – 38 weeks of pregnancy. The main purpose of the course is to discuss pregnancy, childbirth and your newborn baby. Topics which are discussed are: Exercise during pregnancy Healthy eating Natural vs C-Sec Breastfeeding Immunizations Here and there you’ll find a antenatal class which could include Infant CPR, Pain Management during labour, Breathing exercises, Antenatal yoga to name a few.

3. SPOIL YOURSELF AND HAVE A PREGGY MASSAGE If you’re by the means or able to save R50 per month for yourself in order to do this then DO IT. One of the greatest things I could do was take time out and enjoy a professional full body massage while I was pregnant and IT WAS MY FIRST EVER. Nowadays finding someone qualified and competent enough is MUCH easier. Here’s a few names of Spa’s that offer these in Cape Town. Mommy Wellness Day Spa Life Day Spa (Mom to be package) The Twelve Apostles

4. CAPTURE YOUR GROWING BELLY WITH PICTURES I’m a firm believer in having “professional” photo’s taken when your pregnant, for the weekly ones get a loved on or take a selfie. I loved having my pics taken with both my pregnancies. Enquire from others around for a great photographer, google, twoogle (is that a word), ask other Moms, check out the specials via subscription sites. Till Later LT