But Jennifer’s so determined to have a baby with her husband, singer Marc Anthony, that she’s going to undergo the grueling procedure again, says a source close to the star.

“She’s tried everything else without success, and though IVF has failed once, she knows it’s the only hope left for her to get pregnant,” said the source.

“Marc is supporting Jennifer all the way. He knows how much she wants to be a mother.”

Ectopic pregnancy

In rare cases, the fertilized egg is not implanted in the uterus, but beyond. In most such cases, the egg is implanted in the fallopian (uterine) tubes, rarely in the ovary, and sometimes in the abdominal cavity. Ectopic or tubal pregnancy is the most serious gynecological disease that requires urgent medical intervention.

If the embryo is implanted outside the uterine cavity, there is not enough space, nor necessary means of nutrition for its growth and development. Fallopian tubes are too narrow for a rapidly growing fetus, so there is a risk of damage and rupture. The rapid growth of the embryo can rupture the organ in which it is implanted, which causes profuse bleeding. This endangers a pregnant woman’s life.

The probability of tubal ectopic pregnancy

Women that were taking means to improve fertility and stimulate ovulation have a higher risk of ectopic tubal pregnancy. Pelvic inflammatory disease in the past also increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy, because of inflammation there may appear adhesions on fallopian tubes, and passing through them can be difficult. This may prevent a fertilized egg from moving to the uterus. Any surgery on the fallopian tubes or pregnancy after tubal ligation increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Endometriosis is another risk factor for ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy

It is often difficult to recognize ectopic pregnancy symptoms at an early stage. Sharp stabbing pain in the abdomen or pelvis - this is the first sign of probable ectopic pregnancy. Other symptoms: low blood pressure, dizziness or fainting.

Vaginal bleeding - another common symptom of ectopic pregnancy. If you notice one or more of the above symptoms, you should immediately contact a doctor, because internal bleeding is possible. Fallopian tubes rupture may be accompanied by bleeding, causing unbearable pain and scar tissue formation. This can affect a woman’s reproductive health and complicate a future pregnancy.

Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is usually diagnosed on 8 - 10 weeks of pregnancy. Future placenta, from the first day of its existence, secretes a specific chorionic hormone that blocks function of ovaries to develop the next egg, thus preventing a secondary pregnancy. Often ectopic pregnancy can be diagnosed through chorionic hormone and progesterone content in blood. As a rule, in case of tubal pregnancy, chorionic hormone level in blood decreases. Ultrasonography of the pelvis will show the exact location of fetus and presence of ectopic pregnancy.

Laparoscopy also helps to determine the precise location of tubal pregnancy. If ectopic pregnancy does not end with an arbitrary miscarriage, they use certain drugs to remove placenta, for example, methotrexate. This treatment should be applied only when ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed at an early period. Surgical intervention is used when ectopic pregnancy has already gone far enough.

Here are 10 basic tips for bathing infants and infant bath temperature:

1. Never leave your baby alone in the bath. This is of particular importance. There should be no fuss and make sure you are not distracted. Even if someone calls you in the door or by phone, do not leave the bathroom, just do not pay any attention to it. If necessary, wrap a child in a thick towel and take with you, but never leave him unattended.

2. Infant bath temperature should be around 36-38 degrees Celsius. Most infants prefer cooler water than adults, so it is best to use a thermometer to make sure the water temperature is suitable for your baby. If you use automatic water heater, check the temperature setting twice. Maximum infant bath temperature can be 45 degrees Celsius. Also, if you mix hot and cold water, make sure the result is a desired water temperature.

3. Fill the tub for baby bathing no more than 10 cm deep. Although the amount of water will seem too small, it is quite enough to bathe a baby. Remember that too much water can be dangerous for a baby, so do not risk.

4. Remember that it is very slippery in the bath, so you will need to prevent baby sliding inside of it in advance. This can be achieved due to a special mat on the bottom of the tub. At the same time, your hands will be free, and you will not have to always hold a baby.

5. Prepare everything you need in advance, namely:

- Two dry and warm towels;

- A soft sponge;

- Ph-neutral soap for babies;

- Clean clothes;

6. Pay attention to the metal drain hole. It is best to put on a special coating on it. You can purchase it at any children’s store.

7. Do not overdo with the use of soap and shampoo. It is important to use soap and shampoo, designed for infants, and in some cases it is better not to use neither one nor the other. Also, never wash a baby’s face with soap - it is enough to wash it simply with warm water.

8. Make sure your baby is unable to reach the faucet. Sometimes, it might seem it is difficult enough to open the valve with water, but it may be quite different, and this may lead to unintended consequences.

9. It is always better to bathe a baby with a partner, relative or friend. This helps expediting the process of bathing and make it more secure.

10. Remember, there is no need to bath your baby too often. Newborn babies should be bathed about once every three days.

Godparents

Who are godparents?

Sacrament of christening is a special ceremony. This is cleansing of the soul and spiritual birth of man. By tradition, the church should baptize a baby on the eighth or fortieth day of life. Clearly, in this age requiring faith and repentance - the two main conditions for union with God is impossible. Therefore, there are godparents appointed, who are committed to educate godchild in the spirit of Orthodoxy. So the choice of godparents should be treated with great responsibility. After all, in theory they should be your child’s second mother and father.

How to choose godparents?

Choosing a godfather for your child, find the person you completely trust. It might be your close friends or relatives with whom you have always enjoyed good relations. According to church tradition, if something happens to parents, godparents are required to replace their godson.

Actually, a boy needs only godfather, and a girl - only godmother.

According to the Orthodox Church laws:

* parents cannot be godparents of their child;
* husband and wife cannot be godparents of one child;
* children cannot be godparents (under the decree of the Holy Synod, 1836-1837 gg. godfather must be at least 15 years, and godmother of not less than 13 years), because they are not able to vouch for faith, and do not know the laws of the Orthodox Church;
* immoral and insane people cannot be godparents: first, because they do not deserve to be godparents, and second - because of illness cannot vouch for their faith, or teach faith;

What are the duties of godparents

Unfortunately, not every godparent imagine why this is the name of his new “job”. Visits to a godson and making gifts for angel day or a birthday are, of course, good. However, this is far from being the most important thing. Caring for a younger godson includes a lot.

First, it is a prayer for him. Learn praying God every day - before going to bed. It really is not so difficult. Ask the Lord health, rescue, assistance in raising your own children, godchild and relatives welfare. It would be good to arrange developing games with a baby, read him books. For example, many adults love reading children’s Bible.

In addition, godparents can greatly facilitate young mums’ life, who find it difficult to find time to rehearse with a child.

Godparents appearance

At the ceremony godparents should wear crosses consecrated by church. Do not wear high-heeled shoes, as christening lasts from 30 minutes to 2 hours and most of the time you will have to stand with a child in your arms. As for men, there are no clothing requirements for them, but shorts and t-shirts should be better abstained.

Preparations for the ceremony

Now ritual is performed mainly in temples. Only in exceptional cases, if, say, a child is very sick, the sacrament may be performed at home or in hospital.

In order to baptize a baby, we must first choose a church. Walk around the temples, listen to your feelings. But keep in mind that christening is not always done directly in the church. In large churches christening is usually splendid and solemn. But perhaps someone will prefer solitude and tranquility of small churches.

How to choose the day of christening?

In ancient times the sacrament often coincided with the greatest Christian holidays, such as Easter. But gradually christening turned into a family holiday. And now, on the contrary, the ritual is held almost every day, except for such great religious holidays, like Christmas, Easter, Trinity. In those days the church is usually crowded and the priests advise to postpone the ritual. You can come without an appointment in most churches. Typically, the sacrament of christening begins at 10 AM, immediately after the service. In addition, choosing the day of christening, try to avoid godmother’s critical days. The fact is that during this period a woman cannot be applied to the shrines: to kiss the cross, icons, and it is better not to enter the temple.

Preparation to christening

If you want to observe all the rules - begin preparations for the ceremony in advance. Godparents need to go to church to confess, repent of their sins and take communion. It is desirable (but not necessarily) to fast three or four days before the ceremony. But on the day of baptism, as well as before the communion, godparents cannot eat and have sex. At least one parent must know by heart the prayer “Creed”.

And one more thing: on an unwritten rule, godparents assume all costs for christening.

As we already mentioned, christening is the birth in a new sinless life. Taking a baby from the holy font, godparents take an absolutely pure being having no sins. White clothing is a symbol of purity, it is brought into the temple with a cross on a chain or thread.

The priest, godparents and a child are key players in the sacrament. According to the ancient customs, mother and father of a child should not be present during the commission of the sacrament. Although recently church became more loyal to the ban, and lets a child’s father, and sometimes mother, observing a ceremony with guests after reciting special prayers.

Questions and answers are repeated three times. After that godparents should read the “Symbol of Faith” - a summary of the foundations of Christian faith, which all Orthodox should know by heart. Then there comes anointing.

Then the priest cuts off a lock from a child’s head and commits the rite of christening - triple immersion in the font. If the baptismal room is warm, it is likely that your baby will be naked. It is believed that by adopting a baby in their arms after the ceremony, parents commit themselves to life to educate their godson in the Orthodox spirit, and answer for this education at the Last Court. If they cannot often see their godson, they should at least mention him in their daily prayers.

Prayer Creed

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only-begotten of the Father before all ages: Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one essence with the Father before all worlds.

For us men and for our salvation came down from heaven, and who took flesh from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became a man.

Crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered and buried. And resurrected on the third day, according to the Scriptures. And ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of the Father.

And come again with glory to judge the living and the dead, His kingdom will have no end.

And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of Life, proceeds from the Father, the Father and the Son sopoklanyaemogo, and glorified, who spoke through the vices.

A single, holy, catholic and apostolic church.

I acknowledge one christening for forgiveness of sins.

I expect resurrection of dead and life of the next century.

Amen.

Unfortunately, kids cannot say exactly what they are concerned - the intestines, pancreas, or something else, so parents should carefully examine problems in new born babies  and respond quickly to the situation.

Problems in new born babies

Colic

After two or three weeks after discharge from the hospital, in addition to all existing concerns, you may receive another one - baby colic.

They display themselves as follows - during feeding or shortly after it a baby suddenly starts shrinking feet to the tummy, worries, and then abruptly turns red and screams.

Do not be strongly frustrated, in most cases, colic is not a disease, just your baby’s gastrointestinal tract adapts to new circumstances and learns working independently.

To avoid such problems, remember that during breastfeeding you should pay attention to what you eat, and renounce the use of products that enhance gas formation, such as cabbage and grapes.

Be sure to latch a baby to breast the right way and let him sucking as long as he wants, because “front” milk (first portions) is over-saturated with carbohydrates, which can contribute to gas formation.

If your baby still suffers from colic, put something warm to baby’s tummy or simply change his position in the crib to ease pain.

Food poisoning

Your baby is asking for a pot all the time and complains he has a stomach ache? One of possible causes - food poisoning. It occurs after eating low-quality products and causes sporadic general malaise, nausea, vomiting, spasmodic pain in the abdomen, frequent (more than 6-7 times a day) loose stool with undigested food particles or mucus, with greenish veins. In this case child’s pulse becomes more frequent, skin grows pale, temperature rises.

In this case you should wash a baby’s stomach: give him to drink several glasses of warm water and irritate the tongue’s root until vomiting. In case if diarrhea lasts for several hours, immediately call your doctor.

Infectious diarrhea

Any stool disorder is called diarrhea. It can be simple and infectious. Simple diarrhea in children is caused by overeating, violations of terms or rules of complementary foods introduction, often a reaction to unfamiliar products. Infectious diarrhea appears due to toxins or microbes in gastrointestinal tract. Poisons that give birth to organisms and damages of digestive tract cause the disease. Infectious diarrhea begins 6-48 hours after microbes getting in the body.

Intestinal poisoning can occur if you drink water from the tap or fresh unboiled milk. Poor quality kefir or yogurt, stale eggs, cakes and sausages, poorly cleaned or washed vegetables and greens - all these products are dangerous.

Pay attention to the symptoms that accompany diarrhea. First, your child may become listless, he no longer sits or lies, refuses to eat, then his temperature can raise and a few hours later diarrhea or vomiting begins.

When you notice such problems in new born babies, you should call a pediatrician as quickly as possible, so that he would appreciate the condition. A baby with a slight poisoning is left at home and prescribed a treatment. The most important thing in the acute period of illness - replenishment of fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea. The main thing - in any case do not give a lot of fluid at once (it can cause vomiting). Give a teaspoonful every 5-10 minutes.

“Acute abdomen”

Often pain in stomach is a sign of the disease requiring immediate diagnosis and emergency intervention. This state is called “acute abdomen”. It is accompanied by bouts of severe pain, which can be either constant or spasmodic, “spilled” or local. The cause may be ileus, acute appendicitis, peritonitis, perforated ulcers of stomach and intestines. “Acute abdomen” requires immediate hospitalization and surgery, as it represents a danger to a child’s life.

Acute abdominal disease also causes dizziness, growing abdominal distension, marked weakness, lethargy, pallor, cold sweat. In case of “acute abdomen” it is absolutely contraindicated to give your child pain relievers, because it “erases” clinical symptoms and complicates the diagnosis, massaging the abdomen, applying heat to the abdomen, force-feed a child, do an enema.

To avoid problems in new born babies associated with tummy diseases, observe the following rules: - Children under 3 years should not stay long in the sun - food must be neutral, that is, excluding exotic food and ethnic dishes. Fruits and vegetables should be washed well before use, use only bottled water.

Abdominal pain - a symptom of various diseases of the abdominal cavity. The causes of many unpleasant sensations are numerous. Some of the most frequent: food poisoning, acute gastritis, parasitic infestation, dysentery, biliary dyskinesia, acute appendicitis. Unfortunately, young children cannot precisely determine the place of pain, and it is difficult to diagnose it. In acute abdominal pain one should not be given painkillers, because when arresting unpleasant sensations further differential diagnosis is hampered. Thermal procedures (hot-water bottles, baths, etc.) are strictly forbidden.

Maternity leave. Motherhood business

Length of maternity leave depends on culture of the country. Namely - religion, traditions, social policy and changing demographics of jobs. For example, in Scandinavian countries, the result of social policies aimed at increasing birth rate, was a 96-week (in Sweden) paid maternity leave.

“Length of maternity leave depends on socio-economic conditions in the country. Sweden is one of the few countries with a government budget surplus, allowing the Swedes paying the highest taxes in the EU - 50,5% of GDP. The money goes to social needs, including children’s benefit “.

In Norway, parents have a choice - 44 weeks of maternity leave, during which they are paid an allowance of 100% of salary, or 54 weeks with payment of 80% salary.

Japanese women can go to a paid maternity leave for a year. To support families with children, many companies provide their female employees with additional benefits. For example, “Fuji Xerox”, in addition to a legitimate child care year, pays also another six months of maternity leave to young mothers.

In Iceland, according to statistics, there is the highest fertility in Europe. You bet! At the birth of a child a family receives 25 thousand euros, plus 36 weeks of paid maternity leave (80% of salary).

Brazilian mothers also may be called lucky. They are given 24 weeks to care for a child with pay.

Maternity leave. The right to be a mom

We must consider not only financial opportunities of states, but also race, especially genetics and habitat. Legal factor is closely linked with these indicators. On the basis of geneticists and biologists findings, lawyers determine a reasonable time for both parties - employers and employees.

Maternity leave. There is no limit to perfection

One hundred years ago France was the first country in Europe that faced the problem of population reduction. Since then, almost every government enacted laws that improve conditions for birth of children and guarantee mothers preservation of jobs at the time of care for a newborn. Now France has something to be proud of.

Sociologists have called French women “European champions” by number of children: every woman has on average 2 children. This is despite the fact that in France 87% of women of working age are employed. There is no question of choice between children and career. Maternity leave is 16 weeks with pay. After 16 weeks a mother has the right to go to work or take a maternity leave for three years, but without pay. However, she will receive a monthly child allowance of 390 euros for 3 years. It is expected that shortly after the birth of third child they will pay 1000 euros a month during a year. There are additional benefits: benefits for leave to prepare a child for school. Kindergartens for children older than 3 years are working for free. French women have an opportunity to choose whether to work all day or just a few hours. It is not surprising that France has become an international benchmark in the fight against zero-fertility.

Each country has its own legal system developed in different ways. Some organizations can afford senbding a staff member to maternity leave for a long time and then pay for her further training. Durability of maternity leave and benefits are set by law. While, for example, in the United States there is no paid maternity leave. Employers find it unprofitable to let employees go. And often while hiring women they ask: when are you going to give birth?

In Taiwan, a woman can go to a paid maternity leave only for 8 weeks. So many women go to the hospital straight from work.

An American mother can only rely on medical insurance, which guarantees her 6-8 weeks of compensation for a “short-term loss of efficiency.” The further fate of a woman is completely dependent on her employer, the company’s traditions and relationships in it. Even the receipt of unpaid annual leave in America is rare. So much for emancipation!

Mothers in Germany are a little more lucky than American. A pregnant woman is forbidden to work during 6 weeks before birth and 8 after, while all this time she gets a full salary. Child allowances differ on the level of the land. For example, in Bavaria and Saxony allowance is unchanged for three years, in remaining lands it is reduced by the 3rd year of leave.

Maternity leave. Born by revolution

Duration of maternity leave is affected by overall political literacy of population. We are talking not only of those who make the law, but also about those who make their claims in respect of the law.

For example, in Israel, MPs from the filing of women’s public organizations have increased paid maternity leave from 14 to 16 weeks. The law was adopted unanimously, despite objections of Ministry of Finance. And if a woman gives birth to twins, leave is extended by 17 weeks!

Maternity leave. Father’s work

The struggle for equal rights for women and men in the EU countries will provide fathers with an opportunity to go on maternity leave possibly within a year. After giving birth, women often have to put an end to their career. And today, many business women are much more successful their their male counterparts. Maternity leave for fathers is a good chance for climbers.

In a Japanese city of Ota newly made fathers are sent to maternity leave compulsively! A Japanese man is taking care of a child during 40 days, while receiving 100 per cent salary. Moreover, after returning to work an employee must write a report about how he cared about his child and how he feels in the father’s role. Thus, city authorities are struggling with low birth rates - just 1.29 children per couple.

A father from Norway was the first to receive a parental leave. Norwegian law gives men the right to take a 6-week maternity leave. In addition, parents may choose to distribute maternity leave among themselves. This feature gives equal rights to both parents in terms of their own careers. Israel recently passed a law allowing fathers to go on maternity leave for 16 weeks, as well as women.

Fetus and its relationship with the mother’s body

Fetus is a growing organism, beginning with the ninth week of fetal development until birth. Before the ninth week this organism is called a fetus or embryo. A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks plus or minus two weeks. Gynecologists divide these 40 weeks into three terms: I trimester - up to 12 weeks, II - 12-24 weeks, III - from 24 weeks before birth.

Fetus is inextricably linked to the mother’s body, throughout pregnancy there is a system of mother - placenta - fetus operating. Mother’s body provides optimal conditions for fetal development. Mother and fetus collaboration involves nervous, endocrine, immune and other mechanisms. Mother’s body and fetus begin interacting most fully after placenta development, which allows fetus adapting to changing conditions in maternal organism.

Fetal development in the first trimester of pregnancy (up to 12 weeks)

In the end of the fourth week of pregnancy an embryo is implanted in uterus mucous membrane, where primordia of organs and membranes is formed. In the end of the eighth week of pregnancy length of an embryo reaches approximately 3 cm, it is already possible to distinguish head, torso (it is equal to the length of head), rudiments of limbs, eyes, nose, mouth. Microscopic structure of sex glands allows determining sex of the fetus.

In the end of the 12th week fetus reaches a length of 9 cm, weight - 40 g. Limbs are clearly defined, formation of external genitalia begins, x-rays allow seeing the points of ossification in a cartilage skeleton.

Fetal development in the second trimester (12-24 weeks)

During 16th week, the length of fetus reaches about 16 cm, weight - approximately 120 g, sex is clearly visible, skin is thin, smooth, reddish, without subcutaneous fat, face is almost formed, ossification of skull begins. In connection with formation of muscular system, activity of limb movement is growing, there are weak respiratory movements.

In the end of the 20th week fetus reaches a length of 25 cm, weight - 300 g. Movement is so active that mother feels them, and fetal heartbeat can be heard. Skin of fetus, starting with head and face is covered with prenatal hairs and entire body - eldest lubricant, consisting of a mixture of fat-like secretion of sebaceous glands with scales of skin surface layer. The first cal - meconium is formed in the gut. Subcutaneous tissue is formed in the lower abdomen.

In the end of 24th week the length of fetus is 30 cm, weight - 700 g. The internal organs are so mature that sometimes, under appropriate conditions, fetus may be viable for premature birth.

Fetal development in the third trimester of pregnancy (from 24 weeks until birth)

By the 30th week, the length of fetus is about 35 cm, weight - about 1 kg. Fetus looks like an «old man» because of poor development of subcutaneous fat, whole body is covered with prenatal hairs, ears are very soft, nails do not reach fingertips. In girls, large labia do not close small, boys’ testicles are not descended into the scrotum, navel is located closer to the pubis. Fetus is premature and unripe, that is unsustainable, as functions of its internal organs and systems are not perfect. After birth, survival of such fetus is small and is possible only under especially favorable conditions.

On the 34th week fetus has a length of about 40 cm, weight - about 1,6 kg. Fetus is viable, but requires special care conditions.

On 38-40th weeks fetus acquires the characteristics of maturity: its length is 45 cm, weight - about 2,5 kg. «An old man» look is lost due developed subcutaneous tissue, skin becomes pink, navel is located in the usual place. Fetus becomes fully viable.

Fetal development. Signs of fetus maturity

Full-term fetus under adverse conditions of intrauterine development may have signs of immaturity and vice versa, aborted fetus may be born mature, so the concept of preterm and maturity do not always coincide.

Fetal length is an important sign of maturity: not less than 47 cm; and weight should be not less than 2,5 kg. Signs of maturity also include navel position: it should be positioned midway between the sternum and the pubis. Other important factors: state of skin (pink), lack of «senile» atrophy, development of subcutaneous fat, presence of prenatal hairs only on shoulders and upper back, hair condition of hair, nails and other symptoms.

With a weight of 4 to 5 kg fetus is consirered large, more than 5 kg - giant. Weight increase may be associated with features of mother’s nutrition, hereditary factors, number of births, mother’s illness (for example, diabetes often causes a large fetus), etc. A newborn, which has great weight must be carefully examined to avoid possible diseases.

Balanced diet, locomotor activity, continuous monitoring of fetal condition by a women’s clinic doctor are a guarantee of a full-term healthy baby birth.

First of all, nutrition of pregnant women should be correct. This means that every day your diet should include proteins, fats and carbohydrates in a certain proportion. Of course, proteins are in the first place, they are the building blocks for child body. Most adults do not need supplements and prenatal vitamins, as they receive all necessary materials from a balanced diet fully and adequately, but the fact is that a pregnant woman should receive more. She needs additional nutrients, especially folic acid and iron, as a pregnant woman, except her body, should provide her growing child with vitamins and nutrients. But we must be cautious in use of vitamins and supplements, one must ensure the diet diet does not include potentially dangerous amounts of these additives.

Vitamin A is one of the most toxic prenatal vitamins women take. Pregnant women should be especially careful in use of this vitamin. Therefore, the best way to take vitamin A - to take it only in the form of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a nutrient located inside fruits and vegetables. In the body, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A. If pregnant women take supplements of vitamin A in two and a half times higher than recommended doses (more than 10 000 ME / day), then they have two and a half times higher risk of child’s defects, compared with pregnant women not taking high doses of vitamin A. Moreover, women taking vitamin A in large quantities have five times higher risk of giving birth to a child with a neural crest defect, cleft lip, heart disease or brain disorders. As vitamin A is involved in the growth and development of a healthy fetus, then its too high content, even accumulated in mother’s body before conception, can lead to devastating consequences.

In fact, excess of vitamin A is the greatest danger during two weeks before conception and during first two months of pregnancy. Rate of its consumption for pregnant women is approximately 2500 ME. If vitamin A is taken separately, and one also adds multivitamins to it, you can easily bring the daily intake up to 10 000 ME. Before pregnancy dose of vitamin A should not exceed 5000 ME.

Multivitamin prenatal vitamins are also needed, as the body of a pregnant woman needs to increase their content, and consumption of only vegetables and fruits cannot fully satisfy this need. Some prenatal vitamins are made specifically for pregnant women and contain vitamins and trace elements in perfect proportion. But before you use these drugs, you should consult a physician at the first consultation. The doctor can check the body on a deficit or surplus of vitamins, compose a diet and determine whether you want to improve reception of certain vitamins, if they are not enough for a growing child. Most doctors advise and prescribe their pregnant patients to go through a course of taking folic acid and a certain group of prenatal vitamins during the first trimester.

During the first three months of pregnancy, when all child’s organs are formed, it needs optimal nutrition. Even in the earliest days of pregnancy fetus is rapidly changing and evolving. This is exactly the time when most women do not even know they are pregnant. For this reason, wanting to get pregnant, it is very important to adhere to proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle, avoiding alcohol and smoking, take extra prenatal vitamins and minerals, especially folic acid. This vitamin has been shown to reduce the risk of having a child with a serious illness - spina bifida, but for this you need to take folic acid from the date of conception.

Most doctors prescribe folic acid for pregnant women, because folic acid is essential for proper child development and health. Folic acid is particularly important for proper brain development. Doctors also advise pregnant women taking iron supplements. This helps avoiding anemia, which in mild form can manifest itself in women both during and after pregnancy. Most pregnant women feel tired, especially in last months - this is another reason to prevent iron deficiency.

Usually we brew tea from leaves of strawberry, raspberry leaf tea, blackberry, currant, cherry, blueberry, cranberry, lemon balm, pansies, calendula, linden flowers, fruits, rose hips, mountain ash, hawthorn.

Alternate teas - for at least two or three days drink one tea, then making a one-day break, brew another. So you get a full range of vitamins and minerals, so essential in your condition.

If you buy in the drugstore, do not take herbs in filter bags, it is prepared from waste.

Contraindicated during pregnancy!

There is no complete, accurate, unambiguous list of herbs contraindicated during pregnancy.

And so you’ll see inconsistency in different sources. Some say - it is possible, others - not. What to do?

Trust yourself.

Do not drink harbal teas with a large number of herbs.

Drink one, or a maximum three herbs together in one collection (if these are not special multicomponent treatment teas, raspberry leaf tea).

If you are using herb a bit, then you will get vitamins and trace elements, but also avoid side effects.

Contraindicated during pregnancy:

Strong hemostatic plants (yarrow, nettle,     persicaria, Achyranthes) should be used cautiously. These plants together with hemostatic effect, increase the tone of smooth muscles, including muscles of the uterus, causing cramping.

Some plants (hops, licorice, corn stigmas, sage, mint) contain large amounts of estrogens (histogenous). St. John’s wort, chamomile, yarrow, cinquefoil goose stimulate ovarian estrogen functions, disrupting hormonal balance. With increasing dosage and under certain conditions, the use of these plants may lead to premature births and miscarriages.

Contra-indicated:

* oregano,
* male fern,
* lady’s purse,
* persicaria,
* Ledum palustre,
* mistletoe,
* Melilotus officinalis,
* Thlaspi arvense,
* Salvia officinalis,
* aloe
* garlic
* wormwood,
* smellage,
* Juniperus,
* snakeroot
* celandine,
* creeping thyme,
* knotweed,
* bearberry,
* cabbage (seed),
* Sambucus nigra,
* centaury,
* kelp,
* calendula,
* Asarum,
* cinquefoil erect,
* parsley,
* tansy,
* ruta.

Some of these plants can be used in collections, where their negative effect is compensated.

The use of plants before and after childbirth

Recipes:

Raspberry leaf tea.

Ideal plant for pregnant women. Raspberry contains vitamins C, A, B - complex, E, as well as many trace elements. It contains highly digestible contents of calcium, which makes it a good tonic, strengthening the uterus and bones throughout life.

Raspberry leaf tea may help with nausea and prevent miscarriage and bleeding.

It is known that this plant makes birth easier, so it’s good to drink raspberry leaf tea during the last month of pregnancy.

Postpartum raspberry leaf tea reduces cramps and regulates vaginal discharge. It increases milk production.

Gastrointestinal problems like indigestion, cramps, diarrhea and flu-like symptoms are often treated with raspberry leaf tea and chamomile flowers.

Let the water for tea to cool down a bit before you immerse raspberry leaves in it, because hot water reduces effectiveness of this plant.

But!

Indeed, raspberry reduces intoxication and high body temperature and prevents development of complications of various infectious diseases. But few know that a large amount of raspberry may contract uterine muscles, and this is quite undesirable during pregnancy.

Shepherd’s bag.

Drink after giving birth the first three days. Shepherd’s bag contains vitamins C and K. It increases blood clotting. As haemostatic, it works immediately. It can be used to stop bleeding after a miscarriage and is the best post-natal grass. It contributes to postnatal contractions and causes uterus returning to its size and shape before pregnancy.

Plant strengthens diaphragm of pelvis, ligaments and muscles of the uterus.

It was traditionally used by American Indians to stop internal bleeding.

Broth: 1 teaspoon herb in a glass of boiled water. Brew for 30 minutes. Drink 1 tablespoon 3 times a day.

This herb is an excellent diuretic, treats kidney diseases, especially nephritis. Heals an intestinal disorder, which is a problem for some women during menstruation.

Valerian root.

Applied during and after pregnancy.

The taste of this plant is very bitter. This is a strong painkiller. It also stops shivering and weakens tension. If you suffer from headache, abdominal pain, postpartum uterine contractions, or insomnia, the sedative effect of valerian on nervous system will help you gaining a little peace and tranquility. The root of valerian is a great tool for those who passed through caesarean section. Because it helps calming severe pain from gas, which often accompany recovery after surgery.

But!

Valerian - an excellent sedative, but when misused can produce toxic complications.

Lucerne. Applied during and after pregnancy.

Alfalfa is rich in vitamins A, D, E and K. They are beneficial for both baby and mother after birth. Alfalfa contains folic acid, and 8 of valuable enzymes that promote digestion. It stimulates growth of cells supporting connective tissue.

Alfalfa stimulates milk production. Do not use this plant for as long as initial hardening of breast (a few days after birth) did not pass. Drink tea from alfalfa or eat sprouts.

Camomile.

Applied during and after pregnancy.

This is truly an irreplaceable plant in your home medicine chest , it cures just about anything. Tea with chamomile will help you to fall sleep, cleanse eyes and ease slight indisposition.

Try drinking this tea if you have a very active child, through he will receive the necessary dose through milk. If you are obsessed with disturbing thoughts, anxiety, insomnia, then quickly brew tea with chamomile.

Chamomile is not only a soothing plant, it is also an excellent remedy for any inflammation (including mastitis). It is good for hair while rinsing.

Herbs in toxicosis.

Astra, St. John’s wort, lavender, lemon, mantle, peony, tarragon, rose, chamomile.

Lactogenic herbs.

Anise, basil, cornflower, marjoram, common hazel, walnuts, horseradish, caraway, dill, fennel, hops.

With flu and SARS pregnant women are prescribed raspberry, lime, St. John’s wort. Raspberry leaf tea relieves abdominal cramping and lower back, reduces intoxication, prevents development of complications. Therefore, its leaves and fruits are good to include in herbal teas for threat of miscarriage and prevention of pregnancy without complications.

In pyelonephritis treatment, which is exacerbated during pregnancy, doctors recommend: fruits, buds of birch, plantain, St. John’s wort, cranberry leaf, calendula, foalfoot, dandelion root, chamomile, horsetail, strawberry leaf.

While chronic hepatitis B: St. John’s wort, sandy immortelle, knotweed, and chamomile.

Early toxicosis usually occur in the first 12 weeks. They bring poor health, a feeling of nausea, salivation, vomiting. Severe complication - excessive vomiting, dehydration which causes sudden weight loss, fever, rapid pulse.

Late toxicosis are accompanied by functional disorders of cardiovascular, central nervous system, liver, kidneys and other organs.

A collection of white birch leaves, horsetail grass field, berries and leaves of bilberry in the ratio 2:1:1:1 helps well. Pour two tablespoons of the mixture with 400 ml boiling water, leave for an hour, strain. Drink 1 / 3 cup 3 times a day 30-40 minutes before meals with late toxicosis and presence of edema.

Let’s talk about it. First of all, christening needs a godfather and a godmother. They may not be the bride and groom, children, followers of other faiths, mentally ill or frail people. This is where parents make the main gift for a baby, choosing worthy godparents, because these people continue taking care of the kids.

Sacrament of christening is quite fascinating. Prayers, walking, anointing - a beautiful ritual, but it requires patience, especially from new «spiritual parents».

Let’s talk about christening gifts. In preparation for the sacrament godparents should make a series of actions. First of all, buy a christening set. The kit includes a towel, a shirt, a cap for girls. In general, everything is done beautifully today: they add socks, gloves, suits, embroidered with a blue thread for boys and pink for girls, flowers, crosses. Of course, everything looks very nice, but do not forget about the ritual: at some point you will be asked to put off socks and gloves, and hat for the anointing, if you are ready to mess, then, of course, good luck to you:)

Want to make a gift to parents? You can create all necessary with your hands or by order: embroider names, praying to an angel - anything. A godmother is involved in all these things. A godfather should also think about another gift: a silver spoon. This spoon is the first baby’s cutlery, used when solid foods are introduced.

Now you know how and what is happening. And, certainly you have already felt the solemnity of this moment. However, christening gifts are in «binding» section, now let’s talk about informal gifts.

Before you choose a gift, let’s think about the child’s age. Parents want to protect him from bad energy, evil eye and other things. The Church does not put some framework, but most children are christened on the 9 th or 40 th day of birth. Although, of course, this is not a firm rule: parents can hold this ceremony, when the baby gets older and grow up.

Let’s start with the most important people after the child, with godparents. If a child is very small, it is likely that parents now have many costs: vests, cribs, strollers, baths, doctors, masseurs and so on. Therefore, you can ease your task and ask parents what they need. Just ask. After all, you must interact very closely: you now have a common baby!

All of the above mentioned concerns relatives, friends and neighbors. Want to make the right christening gift? Ask! Because a baby does not need two baths and three carriages.

There is no limit to toys, it’s truth. They are always useful to a baby, even if he does not appreciate now. There is no need to buy a car of teddy bears, colorful ducks and other things. Let this be one, but high-quality, pleasant toy. And remember about baby health! There are many fakes on the market, low-quality toys, which are dotted with bright colors, sound harsh sounds, be careful - toys should not harm health!

If a child is old enough, pay attention to his tastes and preferences when choosing a christening gift, and proceed from them: a child can already tell you what he wants.

The day of christening is a significant and memorable occasion for a family, baby, all relatives. Prepare a small celebration. Do not forget about a child: everything must be modest and peaceful. This is not a day of physical birth, it is a spiritual birthday, that, according to religious strictures, is much more important and meaningful.