FACTS:
Your baby’s skull has formed in several separate plates that remain soft and pliable so that the head can compress during labour to pass through the birth canal. At birth, there will be two soft spots called fontanelles, one at the front of the head and one at the back. The one at the back hardens within six to eight weeks after birth. The other will not harden until your baby is about 18 months. The Aborigines apply the Australian Bush Flower Essence Fringed Violet to this area immediately after the birth to encourage healing and psychic protection.
Fluid passes through the baby’s kidneys and contributes to the amniotic fluid though it is not like adult urine, as the baby’s waste products are dealt with by the placenta.
TIPS:
Your skin is almost stretched to its limit and may feel dry and itchy. Try to eat foods rich in vitamin E that will not only benefit your skin but also your and your baby’s heart and lungs. Vitamin E rich foods include avocado, blackberries, cereals, wheatgerm and nuts. Watch for itchy extremities as this may signal a rare liver-related condition called obstetric cholestasis. If this occurs, contact your health professional to rule out this possibility.
If indigestion persists try drinking peppermint or ginger tea. You can make your on infusion by pouring boiling water on mint leaves from the garden or onto thinly sliced or grated ginger.
Start practising the self-help acupressure points helpful during labour. Click here to see them
Treat yourself to a few movies, finish that book you’ve started or have a few sleep-ins. This may be your last chance for a while.
Listen to your body. If you are really worried call your doctor, no matter how trivial your concern may seem.