The stage prior to becoming pregnant is called ‘preconception’.
The health, nutrition and lifestyle of you and your family before conception is important not only for pregnancy outcomes but also for the lifelong health of your children and even the next generation. In addition, childbearing individuals with more complex health needs should consider appropriate planning to ensure optimum health prior to pregnancy if possible.
Your body & becoming pregnant
Articles
Factsheet- Allergen Introduction: Navigating Food Allergies During Weaning
Freeflow- Introducing Solids: A Guide
Freeflow- Optimising Your Microbiome in Pregnancy
Factsheet- Pregnancy Pilates: Movement That Supports You Through Pregnancy
Factsheet- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Navigating Preconception, Pregnancy, and Beyond
Factsheet- Fertility Series: Understanding ICSI As A Path to Parenthood
Book Review: Growing Up Pregnant by Deirdre Curley
Factsheet- Balancing Work and Breastfeeding: A Guide for Returning to Work
Book Review: Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage By Rachel Reed
Factsheet- Planning a Pregnancy? A Comprehensive Guide to Timelines and Key Focus Areas
Factsheet- Understanding Estimated ‘Due Dates’: Their History, Comparison with Other Animals, and Why They Aren’t Set in Stone
Book Review: The Womb: The Inside Story of Where We All Began by Leah Hazard
NEW POST! Written by the wonderful @kathrynstaggibclc who has written a trio of posts with this being the first!
Breastfeeding a preterm baby is a marathon, not a sprint 🏃♀️💪. From hand-expressing colostrum in those early hours to building a routine with lots of support, every drop is a step forward 💧. 💖 Early milk is packed with immune-boosting magic for our little ones 🍼✨. Remember, it’s okay to take it slow, and patience is key 🙌. Support is everything in these early stages, so lean on those around you 🤗👶.
👉 Check out the full post through the link in our bio or linktree to learn more about navigating breastfeeding with your little one and getting the support you need!
💪👶You’ve got this, and every milestone—no matter how small—is a victory 💪💖 #PretermBreastfeeding #IBCLC #PreemiePower #BreastfeedingJourney #HolisticSupport #BreastfeedingMama #BreastfeedingCommunity #ParentingTogether
Repost! @boobtofood is always my go to for baby to toddler nutrient dense eating, so many fabulous recipes and quick and easy reels like these to help parents short on time!
Posted @withregram • @boobtofood Are you working through the process of allergen exposure with your bub? Here’s an easy way to introduce peanut - and other nuts too - while also helping a teething baby.
What are your best tips and tricks for introducing allergens? Let us know below 🥜🦐🧀🐟🌾🫛
Silicon feeder from @haakaanz
Starting solids? Research now suggests that introducing allergenic foods like peanuts, eggs, and dairy between 4-6 months can reduce allergy risks! 🌱 Start with small amounts, one new food at a time (waiting 3-5 days between), and always watch for any signs of a reaction. Talk with your health visitor to decide the best approach, especially if there’s a family history of allergies. 🥄 #StartingSolids #BabyMilestones #AllergyPrevention #ParentingTips #BabyNutrition
🌿 Thinking about cloth nappies? Hear from Fatima, a parent who used cloth nappies, about the ups and downs of choosing the eco-friendly route!
Key Takeaways: 🧸 Sustainability: Cloth nappies are a long-term investment, saving money and reducing waste in landfills 🌍
🧺 Washing isn`t that bad: Just toss them in with the baby’s clothes, and it`s part of your laundry routine!
💰 Upfront cost: Yes, they’re pricier at first, but you save in the long run—and second-hand options make it even more affordable!
👶 Drying time matters: More nappies = more convenience, especially in winter.
Check out the full post via our story or Linktree for tips on managing your cloth nappy journey! #EcoParenting #SustainableLiving #ClothNappies
Repost! Nothing better than cloth nappies swaying in the wind on a lovely sunny day ☀️
Posted @withregram • @frithonlife There’s so many reasons to switch to cloth nappies this Plastic Free July, but here are 5 of them. 💚
Nappies featured in order:
MCN Pearl Pocket @modern_cloth_nappies
LLB Everyday AIO @littlelovebum
Poppets Pocket @poppetsbaby
Fiyyah Pokkit @fiyyahco
Bear Bott AIO @bearbott_
Are you considering the switch? Or if you have already, what was your motivation?
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#PlasticFreeJuly #ChooseToReuse
#ChangeStartsHere #clothnappy #clothdiaper #clothnappies #clothdiapers #makeadifference #reusablenappy #washingline #setmeplasticfree
@setmeplasticfree @reusablenappyweekofficial
💚 Thinking about switching to cloth nappies but not sure where to start? @theecomidwife is busting the myths and sharing real-life tips on why cloth nappies might be easier (and more eco-friendly) than you think! 🌱👶
Key Tips: 🧼 Modern washing machines make cleaning cloth nappies a breeze
💧 Cloth wipes clean better than disposable ones — no chemicals, just water!
💪 Less nappy rash, fewer poonamis, and a better fit for baby’s comfort
♻️ Reusable nappies use WAY less water & energy in the long run!
Ready to learn more? Head to the full post for all the details in our story or Linktree bio! 📲💚 #EcoParenting #ClothNappies #SustainableLiving #BabyCare #MythBusting
Repost!
Posted @withregram • @australianbirthstories Newborns have small stomachs
You might be surprised just how small the capacity of a newborn’s stomach is. So I’ve created this little clip to show you.
Breastfeeding preparation starts in pregnancy and now, you can access expert information in @the.birth.class
I get it, you’re preparing for birth and that’s your focus for now. But a successful breastfeeding journey starts in pregnancy, when you’ve got the time and space to learn and digest the information which will help you form realistic expectations.
The updated breastfeeding module in The Birth Class features Joelleen Winduss-Paye, a midwife, international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) and naturopath. She shares an abundance of evidence-based information, including:
* The benefits of antenatal expressing (and how to do it)
* The nutritional potency of colostrum
* Why your baby’s latch matters
* What you can expect in the first days and weeks of breastfeeding
* The size of your baby’s stomach and why they feed so frequently
* How an IBCLC can guide you and help you navigate feeding challenges
📷@australianbirthstories
🍁 NEW POST 🍁
🍂✨ Embrace Autumn’s Bounty for Motherhood! ✨🍂
As the leaves turn, so should our plates! Here’s why this season is a game-changer for women in all stages of motherhood:
🔸 Preconception Power: Boost fertility with pumpkin seeds and sweet potatoes for hormone health.
🔸 Pregnancy Perks: Nourish both you and your baby with squash, apples, and root veggies packed with essential nutrients!
🔸 Postnatal Recovery: Oats, pumpkins, and dark greens support healing and milk supply.
🔸 Tiny Tummies: Introduce toddlers to pureed seasonal delights like carrots and apples for healthy habits.
🍁 Fall in love with nourishing meals and mindful moments this season!
What’s your favorite autumn food? 🍽️💛 #AutumnVibes #HealthyEating
Following on from our new post on Monday, we’re resharing a fantastic account @boobtofood who have been a life saver on the weaning journey with my son! Evidence based and have a team that cover many specialities.
Posted @withregram • @boobtofood Are you starting solids soon? Wondering what to start with? Feeling overwhelmed?
There’s no right or wrong food to start with (although we would generally recommend your baby’s first few introductions to food be foods considered low allergenic) but there are some foods that we like to focus on for a few reasons:
1. Meet your baby’s nutrient requirements particularly iron, zinc and DHA
2. Are easy to digest for your baby’s maturing digestive system
3. Are good foods to practice their chewing skills (eg mango pits/chicken drumsticks)
4. Are top allergens which are recommended for early introduction to minimise the risk of allergies developing (specifically peanut and egg)
Do you want a copy of our first food guide? Where we outline which foods to feed at different stages of your baby’s solids journey?
Comment ‘guide’ and we will message it to you!
✨ NEW POST ✨
Starting solids can be an exciting milestone for you and your baby! 🥕 Ready to begin? Discover when and how to introduce solids, signs of readiness, and tips for making the transition smooth and fun. Click the link in our Linktree bio or story for advice and evidence-based insights! #WeaningJourney #BabyMilestones #ParentingTips
Have you got any seasonal tips of way to create art with your little one? I love going out on autumn walks with my son and collecting leaves, acorns and conkers (always leaving plenty for the animals and others!) and seeing what art we can make. I find it so important to celebrate the seasons with my family!
- Abbie
Posted @withregram • @creative.kids.channel Autumn Tree 🍂🍁 Art for Kids
#creativekidschannel #autumn #autumncrafts #craftsforkids #artsandcrafts #craftsforchildren #activitiesforkids #creativeideasforkids #creativekids #artprojectsforkids #easydrawings #arttutorial #drawingtutorial
This factsheet presents some of the evidence and existing gaps in our knowledge as well as some useful resources around ECV!
💻 To read, click the link on our story or head over to All4Birth!
Did you or were you offered an ECV for a breech presentation? Or perhaps did you opt for a different approach such as moxibustion or chiropractic care? We’d love to hear from you 👇
#all4birth #all4you #all4birthfactsheet #ecv #externalcephalicversion
Crisp air, colourful leaves, and pumpkin patches—autumn is the perfect season for outdoor toddler adventures! 🍁 From leaf collecting to nature walks, discover fun ways to embrace the beauty of fall with your little one. Click the link in our story or Linktree for ideas and resources to make the most of this magical season! #AutumnActivities #ToddlerAdventures #NaturePlay
We’re resharing this beautiful campaign from @lunasfund, a charity local to me (Abbie) and so important on #babylossawarenessweek
Posted @withregram • @lunasfund 💜☕️ To kickstart Baby Loss Awareness Week on Wednesday, we share with you all, our very first campaign.
Highlighting the impact baby loss has on the whole family through the representation of a coffee cup, we continue to break the taboo and demonstrate the domino effect baby loss has on the whole family. 💜
Thank you to all of the families who so kindly and bravely joined us in this campaign. We couldn’t have done it without you. ✨
Be brave.
Be bold.
Your story needs to be told.
Share your story this week with #lifelineafterlosswithLF
🎥 @tomcardermedia @fish_o
☕️ @pranceroadstarbucks @starbucksuk
📚💔 This Baby Loss Awareness Week, we’re honored to feature Emma Poore, author of “Where are you Lydie?”—a touching picture book for bereaved siblings.
Emma’s journey with her sons, George and Henry, after losing their sister Lydie shows us the challenges families face in grief. This book helps young children navigate their emotions and keeps their loved ones’ memories alive.
💖 Let’s support each other this week and raise awareness. For Emma’s full post read on our Linktree #BabyLossAwarenessWeek #WhereAreYouLydie #GriefSupport
As a parent, you may feel the pressure to be perfect, checking off a daily list of activities for your kids—educational games, fresh air, balanced meals, and more 📝. But as Hela shares, perfection isn’t the goal! Some days, your child may stay up late, inspired to create their own music 🎶, or be so absorbed in play that you let the to-do list slide—and that’s okay. 💖
Parenting is about finding balance, not perfection. Give yourself grace, focus on love, and watch your children grow into confident, independent individuals. Reassuring, wonderful words shared by @helamarjan
Read more of this journey through the link in our Linktree or story! 📲💫 #ParentingBalance #LoveOverPerfection #LinkInBio
🌟 *Real Life Story Alert!* 🌟 Ever wondered how your midwife knows if your baby’s head is down or breech? 🤔 As a midwife passionate about the biomechanics of birth, I was always aware of my own baby’s position and at 32 weeks, I found out my baby was breech! 😮
After 10 weeks in breech, at 37 weeks I decided to go for an ECV (External Cephalic Version) 💪. It was nerve-wracking being on the receiving end of care I usually give, but the procedure was a success! 🙌
Curious about the full story and how things unfolded? Head to our Linktree or story to read more on All4Birth! 📲👶 #BirthStory #MidwifeLife #BreechBaby #ECVSuccess #LinkInBio
👶✨ The journey to healthy baby skin starts from day one! 🌈 Did you know that your little one’s skin is a powerhouse of protection, regulation, and development? From shielding against harmful micro-organisms to playing a crucial role in immune system development, it’s a superhero in the making!
🌿 Discover the wonders of the infant microbiome in this post from our very own Dr Anna Byrom! 🦠👶 We delve into the importance of nurturing your baby’s skin microbiome, the community of microorganisms that contribute to their overall health and well-being. From protection against infections to the synthesis of vitamin D, your baby’s skin is a multitasking marvel!
🌟 Here are some evidence-based tips to support your newborn’s skin microbiome: 1️⃣ Embrace skin-to-skin contact for a beneficial bacteria boost!
2️⃣ Give a shoutout to breastfeeding, a natural source of microbiome-friendly goodness.
3️⃣ Practice mindful baby hygiene – delay that first bath and choose gentle cleansers.
4️⃣ Handle antibiotics with care, only when necessary, and follow your doctor’s advice.
5️⃣ Nurture a healthy gut microbiome through wise food choices, setting the stage for a radiant skin microbiome!
📚 Dive into the science behind baby skin microbiome development and learn how to foster a diverse and balanced microbiome. Your baby’s skin deserves all the love and care, setting the foundation for a lifetime of well-being! 💕
🌱 Optimising Your Microbiome for a Healthy Pregnancy 🌱
Did you know that the trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that make up your microbiome play a crucial role in your pregnancy? From reducing the risk of gestational diabetes to supporting your baby’s development, nurturing your microbiome can make a big difference! Here’s how:
🌾 Eat More Fibre: Load up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains to feed your gut’s good bacteria. A diverse, fibre-rich diet can improve your gut health and reduce inflammation.
🥦 Include Fermented Foods: Add probiotics to your diet with foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. These help balance your gut microbiome, benefiting both you and your baby.
🍇 Diversify Your Diet: Aim for 30 different plant-based foods each week! This variety supports a diverse microbiome, which is key to overall health.
🚫 Limit Sugars: High sugar intake can harm your gut by promoting bad bacteria. Keep it in check to maintain a healthy microbiome.
💊 Use Antibiotics Wisely: While necessary at times, antibiotics can disrupt your gut microbiome. Discuss any antibiotic use with your health professional to protect your gut health.
🏃♀️ Stay Active: Regular exercise boosts beneficial gut bacteria and supports a healthy pregnancy. Even moderate activity can make a difference!
💊 Consider Probiotic Supplements: For extra support, especially if you’re at risk for complications like gestational diabetes, ask your health professional if a probiotic supplement might help.
Taking care of your microbiome during pregnancy can set the stage for a healthier you and a healthier baby. Click the link in our bio or Linktree for more tips on nurturing your gut health during pregnancy! 🌟 #PregnancyHealth #Microbiome #GutHealth #All4Birth
