Calm and in control in the birthing suite

Hypnobirthing is a modern practice that helps mothers and their birthing partners remain calm and in control during delivery of their baby.

Gestational Diabetes: Better Outcomes For Mothers and Babies

Gestational diabetes mellitus (sometimes referred to as GDM) is a transitional type of diabetes that can occur during pregnancy. If you are diagnosed with GDM, it means your blood glucose levels are higher than normal. The good news however, is that for most women after they have had their baby, their blood glucose levels will …

Offering new mums a convenient service

New mothers in the Perth metro area and Mandurah are being visited by midwives and lactation consultants in the comfort of their own homes, thanks to a service offered by St John of God Health Choices. The midwives and certified lactation consultants work with mothers to create personal care plans that suit the mother and …

Arriving too early

It is difficult to predict which babies will be born prematurely. No specific cause has been identified, so it is difficult to prevent. There are a few maternal risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, multiple pregnancies or a previous premature birth, but mostly, we just don’t know. Usually, babies born under 36 weeks will be admitted to a Neonatal Unit (Special Care Nursery). …

Managing with a premature baby

Neonatal Midwife Alison MacLean at St John of God Murdoch Hospital’s Maternity ward works closely with parents to prepare them to take their new baby home. “Having a new baby can be difficult enough without the added stress of your baby arriving earlier than expected or with health issues,” says Ms MacLean. “It’s a different and unexpected type of journey that lies ahead. “It’s our privilege …

Strategies to combat wrist pain for new mums

By adopting some simple strategies early, symptoms can be reduced for new mothers who experience wrist pain after the birth of their baby. DeQuervains Tenosynovitis is a common hand condition that causes pain at the base of the thumb and into the wrist. It can be classified as a repetitive strain injury due to increased repetition in lifting and prolonged awkward …

Stopping the leaks

The birth of a new baby is a wonderful life event, but there are many challenges ahead for new mothers, including sleepless nights, breastfeeding difficulties, losing the extra ‘baby weight’ and the possibility of developing stress urinary incontinence. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the leaking of urine with coughing, sneezing or other exertion. High impact exercise, constipation and heavy lifting can …