Do you remember the moment when you found out that you were expecting? What a rush that feeling of euphoria was, or still is!
However, worries then naturally crept in. Worries about baby’s development in the womb, the delivery, or even about the nursery!
It’s normal to worry, but you really don’t need to – especially when you have the right precautionary measures in place!
So, if you’re a new parent, or even an experienced one…
Here’s how you can manage some of the most common worries of new parents:
1. Is my baby developing well?
Right after you find out that you’re pregnant, you will definitely ask this question! This is a totally valid worry.
Your doctor will usually see you once a month during Weeks 4 to 28. The frequency during Weeks 28 to 36 typically increases to 1 prenatal visit every 2 weeks. Then finally in your last four weeks of pregnancy, you will most likely be seeing your obstetrician every week.
Your obstetrician will ask you to keep track of your baby’s development and movements throughout the pregnancy.
If at any point of time you feel like your baby isn’t developing normally, you can bring it up to your obstetrician.
2. Is my morning sickness affecting my baby?
Mummies, don’t worry! Morning sickness typically does not harm the foetus!
However, if you are vomiting excessively, then you might have ‘hyperemesis gravidarum’ (a pregnancy complication with severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and possibly dehydration) which CAN affect your baby.
Do consult with your obstetrician if you have any concerns. One tip would be to eat small but frequent meals throughout the day to help with the nausea.
3. Am I eating enough to give my baby the right nutrients?
Ah, when it comes to Asian pregnancies, all the pantangs start pouring in. You can’t eat this, you can’t eat that!
The best thing to do is to listen to your obstetrician’s advice. The doctor will give you a list of foods to stay away from during the pregnancy. Follow this list and the rest is up to you!
Just make sure that your diet is healthy and balanced and you can rest assured that your baby is getting the right nutrients he or she needs!
4. Will having sex hurt my baby?
Absolutely not! In fact, you might experience an increased libido in the first and second trimester, as well as increased vaginal lubrication due to extra genital blood flow. Embrace this!
In the third trimester, due to weight gain and back pains, you might notice a decrease in your sex drive. It’s totally okay to avoid sex during this time if you don’t feel like it.
But if your body is craving sex, seize this opportunity to continue bonding with your partner. Your baby is protected by the amniotic sac and the strong muscles of the uterus. Your cervix is also sealed by a thick mucus plug that guards your baby against infections.
So, this is one worry you can cross off your list.
5. Why is my baby kicking so much/not at all?
It can be a little weird to see limbs poking out of your womb and if this happens too often, it might even be a little painful!
But rest assured, this is a normal part of baby’s development and a sign that your baby is healthy.
If your baby seems to be kicking less, it could be that they are asleep.
However, if your baby doesn’t move at all or you experience reduced foetal movement, your best course of action is to check with your obstetrician immediately.
6. What should I do just before my baby is born?
Before your baby is born, there are a few things you need to do. You need to start preparing their nursery, baby proofing the house and packing your hospital bag.
You can also start reading up on breastfeeding and preparing for your baby’s first feed.attending parentCraft lessons on baby bathing or breastfeeding techniques also helps!
At 32 weeks of pregnancy, you should definitely be off your feet. This is when the waiting game starts. It is also the best time for you to book a maternity package and get your newborn insurance ready.
7. What if my baby needs to be hospitalised after birth?
The day is here that your baby is ready to enter the world! But another worry strikes you. What if your baby needs to be hospitalised?
A baby can be hospitalised for many reasons and this can lead to unexpected financial costs, not to mention the emotional stress.
That is why many new parents get newborn insurance, for added peace of mind.
Here’s a tip: AIA Baby Care gives parents peace of mind with comprehensive coverage that starts from day 1 of birth.
AIA Baby Care Insurance covers your baby from the 20 congenital illnesses in the unfortunate event that baby requires neonatal ICU (NICU) admission.
It is absolutely FREE when you sign up for your maternity package at any of the participating Hospitals before week 38 of pregnancy term!
You will also receive the complimentary AIA Family Care plan, which offers a one year personal accident coverage for the whole family.
So, parents, do yourselves a favour and get your peace of mind with AIA Baby Care now. Visit www.babycare.com.sg, WhatsApp 9009 0503, or call 6349 6529 to find out more.
Don’t forget to take part in AIA Baby Care’s Facebook contest now to win a 2D1N garden villa stay, inclusive of a baby shower (worth $2k)!
Brought to you by Grinweiv Alliance Pte Ltd.
