Blog

Ultrasound Scans in Pregnancy: Exploring Key Milestones and Expectations with Numi Scan

Monday 2nd October 2023

Discover the essential role ultrasound scans play in prenatal care, and learn what to expect from each type during your pregnancy journey with the expert guidance of the Numi Scan team in Essex…

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Discover the Benefits of 4D Baby Scans for Expectant Parents with Numi Scan

Monday 25th September 2023

Learn about the advantages and benefits of 4D baby scans, from enhanced bonding experiences to detailed visualisation, and how Numi Scan provides expectant parents with a comfortable and enjoyable ultrasound journey. Expecting a baby is a joyful, emotional, and exciting time for parents-to-be, as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of their little one. Advances in ultrasound technology have provided expecting parents with more incredible opportunities to see, connect with, and bond with their baby while still in…

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Essential Tips for a Smooth and Comfortable Baby Scan Experience

Tuesday 19th September 2023

Discover practical tips for preparing yourself and your baby for an ultrasound scan and ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience at professional ultrasound facilities like…

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Gender Reveal Scans: Discovering Your Baby's Gender with Excitement and Confidence

Monday 28th August 2023

Celebrate Your Baby's Gender Reveal Scan with Numi Scan's Support and Guidance Embrace the excitement of discovering your baby's gender with a gender reveal scan, and learn how Numi Scan's comfortable and enjoyable ultrasound services can enhance your pregnancy journey in Essex, Hertfordshire, London & Grimsby. Introduction: One of the most significant milestones in an expectant parent's journey is discovering the gender of their baby.…

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A Guide to Baby Scans for First-Time Parents: Understanding the Different Types

Wednesday 9th August 2023

Understanding Baby Scans for First-Time Parents: A Comprehensive Guide Meta Description: First-time parents can navigate their pregnancy journey with confidence thanks to this detailed guide to…

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Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy with Well-Being Scans | Numi Scan

Monday 24th July 2023

Learn about the importance of well-being scans during pregnancy and how Numi Scan's expert team ensures thorough monitoring of your baby's health to support you in making informed decisions and nurturing a healthy pregnancy. During pregnancy, expectant parents eagerly anticipate the arrival of their little one while seeking to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby. Ultrasound scans play a vital role in monitoring the baby's growth, development and health, providing essential information for doctors, midwives, and parents to make informed decisions throughout the pregnancy journey. Among these crucial…

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Preparing for Your First Pregnancy Scan: Tips and What to Expect

Monday 17th July 2023

This article provides tips and advice on what to expect during your first pregnancy scan. Learn how to prepare for your scan, what to expect during the procedure, and how to interpret the results. Get the information you need to feel confident and prepared for your first prenatal experience. The first ultrasound scan during pregnancy is often filled with anticipation and excitement as expectant parents eagerly await the first glimpse of their baby. As you prepare for this significant milestone, you may have questions about what to expect and how to prepare for the experience. In this blog, we will guide you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth and comfortable first pregnancy scan experience and share insights on how Numi…

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Numi Scan Franchise Opportunity

Wednesday 12th January 2022

*Numi Scan Franchise Opportunity Numi Scan are now offering business minded people the opportunity to own their own Numi Scan clinic. If you are a qualified Sonographer then you will no doubt be even more successful with your Numi Scan franchise. Our branding is unique amongst other baby scan clinics. We offer our patient's a true boutique atmosphere to see their unborn baby This is a unique opportunity to get onboard with a fast growing company who specialise in a five star patient experience Our patient's can meet their baby in stunning 4D, see baby for the very first time or even a general well-being scan to check on baby's progress All of our clinics use the very best obstetrics ultrasound machines…

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Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening Test (NIPT) Harmony Test £399

Saturday 27th November 2021

A More Accurate Screening Test for Down Syndrome A new, DNA-based technology Harmony is a DNA-based blood screening test that measures the risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21) from as early as 10 weeks in pregnancy. When you are pregnant, your blood contains fragments of your baby's DNA. Harmony Prenatal Test analyses DNA in a sample of your blood to predict the risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and certain other genetic conditions. The Harmony Prenatal Test is more accurate than traditional Down syndrome blood tests, meaning it is much less likely to give a false-positive result compared to traditional tests, such as the first trimester screening test. Reducing the chances that your doctor would recommend follow-up diagnostic…

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Gender Reveal Scan

Thursday 25th November 2021

Gender Reveal/Sexing Scan A gender reveal scan, also known as a sexing scan, can be performed from 16 weeks onwards during your pregnancy. Includes: Tell you the gender of your baby Have a sneak peek of your baby in 4D Listen to baby’s…

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Super Star Baby Scan package at Numi Scan Stansted

Thursday 25th November 2021

Stansted 4D Scan Package Performed between 24 – 34 weeks Just £99 Normally £158.00 Our special 4D baby scan of baby in real-time 4D that can be performed between 24 weeks and 34 weeks of pregnancy. Includes: ✓ Super Star Baby 4D Scan - normally £158 ✓ 4D Scan in 'HD Live' ✓ Listen to baby’s heartbeat ✓ Wellbeing report & Gender Reveal (optional) ✓ Digital Copies of All Images & 2D Movie Clips Emailed to you ✓ Six 6"x4" prints ✓ Two 7" x 5" Prints 30 Minute Appointment 20 Minute Baby Scan ✓ Our Most Popular 4D Scan…

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What is an Early Pregnancy Ultrasound Scan?

Tuesday 23rd November 2021

An early pregnancy scan is usually performed shortly after finding out you are pregnant. This is usually 6 to 8 weeks after conception…

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Ultrasound Wellbeing Scans £55

Friday 19th November 2021

Ultrasound scans Wellbeing scan This ultrasound scan is usually carried at between 16- 40 weeks of pregnancy. Some obstetricians advise that this scan is offered to all women. Others reserve such scans for those women who have had previous complications of pregnancy such as pre-eclampsia, growth restriction, diabetes, stillbirth, and for those women who develop a problem during the course of their current pregnancy. This scan aims to determine the growth and health of the fetus by: Measurement of the size of the fetal head, abdomen and thigh bone and calculation of an estimate of fetal weight Examination of the movements of the fetus Evaluation of the placental position and appearance Measurement of the amount of amniotic fluid Assessment of blood flow to the placenta and fetus…

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Early Pregnancy Scans, Why have one?

Thursday 18th November 2021

In the UK you could be referred for an early pregnancy scan at your local Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit through your GP or Midwife. You may be referred for an early scan if you have pain, vaginal bleeding or spotting, or because you have a history of problems with a previous pregnancy. Some people opt to have a private early pregnancy scan, simply because they would like some reassurance for example, if they are a little worried and they want to know where they are in their pregnancy maybe because they are unsure of their dates, it could…

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5 Star Rated Experience at Numi Scan

Sunday 14th November 2021

Our Reassurance Scan offers early pregnancy reassurance to ladies from as little as 7 weeks (based on your LMP). Each of our early pregnancy scans come complete with a wellbeing report Scan Includes: Confirmation of…

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Ultrasound Scans at Numi Scan Stansted

Sunday 14th November 2021

Private Ultrasound Clinic Offering the very best patient care.... Numi Scan Stansted, offer a variety of baby scanning packages to suit all stages of your pregnancy. Whether you're looking for a wellbeing scan, reassurance scan or a 4D scan, you can expect a 5 star service! Our scan packages are aimed at providing you with essential information about the well-being of your baby, as well as giving you the opportunity to bond with your baby in a luxurious setting. Whether you're looking for gender confirmation, reassurance or the chance to bond with your baby with a 4D scan, we will make it a…

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Getting Ready For Christmas

Friday 12th November 2021

We are getting ready for the Christmas rush at Numi Scan! If previous years are anything to go by we will fill up quickly, particularly with early pregnancy scans. Expectant mothers getting excited about sharing their exciting news that they are expecting a baby on the big day! We will offer all of our pregnancy packages…

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Numi Scan Franchise Opportunity

Saturday 16th October 2021

Numi Scan is about to open our first franchise in North London. Very exciting! You could be offering: Early pregnancy scans Gender reveal scans 4D scans & more..... Please contact us on 01279797790 at our Stansted clinic if you would like to know more about the benefit's of a Numi Scan franchise.

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Presentation Scan - £69

Wednesday 13th October 2021

FROM 26 TO 40 WEEKS This is a traditional 2D scan that can be conducted between 26-40 weeks of your pregnancy. The presentation scan focuses on the position of your unborn baby and allows us to assess growth measurements and to check if the placenta is clear of the internal cervical os. The placental function will be assessed using an umbilical artery Doppler blood flow measurement. INCLUDES ✓ Well-being Report ✓ 2D Scan ✓ Growth measurements ✓ Baby Presentation ✓ Establish placenta position ✓ Femur length ✓ Abdominal circumference ✓ Head circumference ✓ Amniotic fluid volume ✓ Audible heartbeat trace ✓ Observe fetal movement ✓ measurement of placental function (Umbilical Artery Doppler Flow) ✓…

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Well-being scans

Wednesday 13th October 2021

Our well-being scan forms the first part of any of our packages from 16 weeks plus. It focuses on the development of your unborn baby and allows us to check growth measurements, fetal movement, weight calculations, establish placenta position, amniotic fluid volume, provide an audible heartbeat trace and identify the position of your baby. The well-being report comes as part of our gender scan & all of our 4D scans. It is important to drink 1 litre of water 40 minutes before the scan if less than 20 weeks gestation. 💧

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Slickest clinic in Essex/Hertfordshire with outstanding 5 star reviews

Wednesday 13th October 2021

We are 4 years old now and we still continue to be the slickest clinic in Essex with outstanding 5 star reviews. We offer early pregnancy, gender, well-being, 4D ultrasound scans as well as vascular screening. We are opening in North London soon where we will offer the same 5 star service to our patients. See you soon 🙂

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GESTATIONAL DIABETES IN PREGNANCY

Sunday 10th October 2021

WHAT IS GESTATIONAL DIABETES? Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that you develop when you’re pregnant and is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal. WHAT CAUSES GESTATIONAL DIABETES? It happens when your body can’t produce enough insulin (a hormone that helps to control your blood sugar level) to meet your extra needs in pregnancy. As you’re not producing enough insulin, your blood sugar levels rise. Gestational diabetes can cause problems for you and your baby but there are things you can do to help reduce the risks and have a healthy pregnancy. For most women who get gestational diabetes, it starts in the second…

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STUDY FINDS ANTIBODIES IN BREAST MILK REMAIN FOR 10 MONTHS AFTER COVID INFECTION

Sunday 10th October 2021

New data suggests breastfeeding women who have been infected with Covid-19 continue to secrete virus-neutralising antibodies into their milk for up to 10 months. Besides emphasising the important role breastfeeding could play in helping to protect infants from the disease, researchers believe that such antibodies could be used to treat people with severe Covid-19, preventing their condition…

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Baby loss awareness week 2021 - Introduction to Numi Scan North London’s Franchise.

Sunday 10th October 2021

Baby loss awareness week 2021 - Introduction to Numi Scan North London’s Franchise. Wave of light 2021 Okay, a little about me. I am the director of the Numi Scan North London Franchise. This is my first blog. So, please bear with! I never choose the easy route. So here I am, writing my first blog on a subject many people REALLY struggle to speak about. I had…

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Early Pregnancy Scan £79 plus FREE 2nd Scan

Saturday 9th October 2021

Early Pregnancy Scan £79 plus FREE 2nd Scan Appointments Available 7 Days a Week 👶Confirms Pregnancy 👶Visualise Baby’s Heartbeat 👶Date Pregnancy 👶Well-being Report 👶Check For Single Or Multiple Pregnancy 👶4D Peek www.numiscan.co.uk 01279797790 Stansted clinic & 020 3897 9839 North London clinic No:1 for Early Pregnancy Reassurance Scans

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4D Super Star Baby Scan reduced to just £99

Friday 8th October 2021

Even at 34 weeks we are able to get fantastic images if baby helps a little:) 4D Super Star Baby Scan reduced to just £99 BOOK NOW! www.numiscan.co.uk 01279797790

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AAA Screening £75

Friday 8th October 2021

Numi Scan offer AAA screening without referral. Abdominal aneurysm's are hereditary, it is advisable to be screened if a family member has previously had an aneurysm. Book via www.Numiscan.co.uk

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Harmony NIPT Screening £399

Monday 4th October 2021

Harmony Screening £399 A More Accurate Screening Test for Down Syndrome At a glance: ✓ Most accurate non-invasive screening for 3 most common anomalies ✓ Most accurate non-invasive test for gender confirmation ✓ No GP Referral Needed at Numi Scan ✓ Supersedes the nuchal, quadruple or integrated test ✓ Second opinion after a non-reassuring or a missed 12 week screening ✓ £399 includes early pregnancy scan ✓ 4 Complimentary black and white pictures ✓ Convenient for Hertfordshire/Essex & North London patients Available at www.numiscan.co.uk

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Polyhydramnios

Monday 4th October 2021

Do you feel your bump is a little on the large side? Come to Numi Scan for a well-being scan to see if you have Polyhydramnios. Polyhydramnios is where there is too much amniotic fluid around the baby during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds your baby in the womb. Too much amniotic fluid is normally spotted during a check-up in the later stages of pregnancy. It isn't usually a sign of anything serious, but you'll probably have some extra check-ups and will…

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Numi Scan - North London Grand Opening Give Away

Monday 4th October 2021

Numi Scan - North London · Grand Opening Give Away! To celebrate our grand opening we are giving away a range of free scans and discounts to use in our brand new luxury clinic in North London, Muswell Hill. - 1 Free Early Pregnancy Scan - 1 Free Gender Scan - 1 Free 4D Scan - 20% Off Your Booking - 4…

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Coronavirus (COVID-19): Test to Release for international travel

Wednesday 2nd December 2020

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Test to Release for international travel How the scheme works (From Dec 15th) The Test to Release for International Travel scheme is for people who need to self-isolate on arrival in England. Under…

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Autumn Lockdown

Saturday 31st October 2020

During the autumn lockdown the primary reason to attend our clinic must be for the well-being of your unborn baby, gender & 4D images are secondary. Numi Scan are able to offer our patient's the following appointments: Early Pregnancy scans Well-Being Scans Gender Scans Presentation Scans 4D Scans Diagnostic Vascular Scans: Carotid Artery Scans AAA Scans DVT Leg Scans Arterial Leg Scans Vascular MOT Please ensure you wear a mask and…

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covid-19 Testing Available at Numi Scan

Thursday 14th May 2020

Numi Scan are now offering Covid-19 PCR swab tests £150 (sensitivity is 100%, specificity is 100%) and IgG Abbott Antibody tests £75 (sensitivity is 97.5%, specificity is 100%) Free postage available for symptomatic patients. Results in 2 days. Call 01279797790 to arrange your test.

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Limited Services Due To Covid-19

Friday 27th March 2020

Due to the Coronavirus we are only able to offer early pregnancy & well-being scans. The well-being scan would cover gender too if required. We will continue to offer our full range of vascular screening. We will inform you when our service resumes to normality as and when we can. Please wait outside the clinic until you are asked to enter the building, this should ensure limited cross-infection. Our scan room and equipment will also be thoroughly cleaned…

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Early Pregnancy Scan £79 plus FREE 2nd Scan

Friday 27th March 2020

Early Pregnancy Scan £79 plus FREE 2nd Scan Appointments Available 7 Days a Week 👶Confirms Pregnancy 👶Visualise Baby’s Heartbeat 👶Date Pregnancy 👶Well-being Report 👶Check For Single Or Multiple Pregnancy 👶4D Peek www.numiscan.co.uk 01279797790 No:1 for Early Pregnancy Reassurance Scans

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Well-being appointments reveal gender too! £55

Friday 27th March 2020

Well-Being Scan- £55 From 16 to 40 Weeks Includes 2D Scan Well-being Report Our well-being scan forms the first part of any of our packages from 16 weeks plus. It focuses…

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Coronavirus – Covid 19

Tuesday 17th March 2020

Dear Patient, I know these are worrying times. I’m writing to you as a Numi Scan patient to say that we are increasing our cleaning schedule to help keep our patient's healthy. We have such an important role…

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5 Star review

Wednesday 29th January 2020

A perfect review from some regular patient's of Numi Scan. S A R  17 hours ago I’ve used numi scan throughout my whole pregnancy, at times when I needed reassurance, gender reveal and to see the little ones face. It’s been a massive part of my pregnancy and I am extremely grateful for the service and for Nathan always being able to fit me in last minute (I am the biggest panicker ever). I am now coming to the end of my pregnancy and will be giving birth in a few weeks, but I just wanted to say a thank you for always…

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5 Star review

Wednesday 29th January 2020

Louise Wicks 1 review 4 months ago- I’ve been to see Nathan on multiple occasions for reassurance during my pregnancy. I cannot recommend Nathan and what he…

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5 Star review

Wednesday 29th January 2020

Mitchell Oakley reviewed Numi Scan – 5 star 10 July 2018 · Just come home from Numi Scan. We had such a great experience! Nathan is such a nice man and makes it very comfortable. The room my partner was scanned in was lovely and you can't fault the level of customer service. We initially came on Sunday and we didn't get too many clear pictures as the baby was camera shy! Instead of just settling for what we had, Nathan invited us to come back tonight to see…

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5 Star review

Wednesday 29th January 2020

Shelby Collins reviewed Numi Scan – 5 star 6 October 2018 · We first went to Numi Scan back in April for a…

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5 Star review

Wednesday 29th January 2020

Chris Bedwell recommends Numi Scan. 3 November 2019 · There are not enough words to say how amazing this place is. Nathan is not only one of the nicest people you will ever meet, but the service he provides is outstanding. The clinic is welcoming and the scan room is comfortable. My wife and I have been for two appointments - one for a 10 week scan and the most recent was today, a 16 week…

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Atrial Fibrillation

Tuesday 13th November 2018

Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition that causes an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate. A normal heart rate should be regular and between 60 and 100 beats a minute when you're resting. You can measure your heart rate by feeling the pulse in your neck or wrist. In atrial fibrillation, the…

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Well-being Scan

Wednesday 24th January 2018

If you find your unborn baby has reduced movement, particularly in the 3rd trimester, Numi Scan can complete a well-being scan that focuses on the development of your unborn baby. During this examination we can assess the umbilical artery blood flow to ensure the artery is supplying the right amount of blood, check growth measurements, check for fetal movement, amniotic fluid levels & establish placenta position. For more information & to make a booking visit www.numiscan.co.uk

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Group B Streptococcus

Thursday 11th January 2018

*Testing for Group B Streptococcus Group B Streptococcus is the most common cause of life-threatening infections in newborn babies in the UK.This kit contains everything you need to test for GBS and help safeguard your baby's health during pregnancy. What is Group B Streptococcus (GBS)? Group B Streptococcus is the UK's most common cause of…

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Vascular Screening MOT

Wednesday 3rd January 2018

*Vascular MOT Special Offer £299 (originally £384) AAA This scan is used to detect abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA's) and also for the monitoring and follow-up assessment of an aortic dilation. Aortic Aneurysm Screening can be performed as a routine check and is recommended in men aged over 45. If you have…

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How to have an easier labour

Friday 1st December 2017

The best natural aids for childbirth Writing a birth plan is one of the best ways to mentally prepare for your baby’s arrival. Putting pen to paper not only lets your midwife know exactly what kind of birth you want, but also helps you to work out your priorities regarding pain relief. Giving birth is overwhelming and while understandably many women choose drugs as their preferred method of getting through, it’s also…

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How to cope when you’re overdue

Friday 1st December 2017

It it’s been 40 weeks but it appears baby is yet to get the memo, Becky Dickinson offers advice on how to cope when you’re overdue Congratulations! You have carried a baby for nine long months. But whether or not you have enjoyed every moment, or been plagued by sickness, backache and heartburn, there comes a point for every woman when enough is enough. Your uterus has done a sterling job, but by 40…

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Pregnancy: are you gaining the right amount of weight?

Friday 1st December 2017

A recent study has found that not gaining a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy puts mothers and babies at an increased probability of various health risks. Research concluded that 75% of women do not gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy. The study, led by Monsah University researchers in Melbourne, Australia, discovered that women who gain too much weight during pregnancy are at a higher risk of having a large baby and undergoing a caesarean birth, whereas those women who do not gain enough weight have an 8% risk of having an underweight child and an 8% risk of premature birth. The results revealed that 23% of women did not reach the recommended weight…

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Is it normal to feel anxious about being pregnant?

Friday 1st December 2017

Feeling anxious during pregnancy Pregnancy can be overwhelming to the point that after wanting a baby for so long, getting a positive test can quickly turn into stress and anxiety. After the initial period of happiness, pregnancy can seem very lonely and scary, and your head can start to fill with thoughts of what might go wrong. We all experience a host of emotions as we go through change, and most…

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Stretch marks - Can they be avoided?

Friday 1st December 2017

Are stretch marks inevitable in pregnancy or can you save your skin? If you don’t know much about pregnancy before you are expecting a baby, the one thing you are bound to have heard of is stretch marks! But is there anything you can do to lessen their impact on your skin or avoid them altogether? Read on… What are stretch marks? Stretch marks occur…

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Ovulation

Sunday 19th November 2017

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CONCEIVE? Understanding your menstrual cycle and the date that you are likely to be ovulating can increase your chances of conceiving. Ovulation usually happens around two weeks before your period starts1, and you are most likely to conceive if you have plenty of sex in the days prior to this. Common signs of ovulation As ovulation approaches you may notice some physical changes. These include: >An increase in vaginal mucus, along with a change in consistency which may make it look like egg white >A slightly raised temperature >Abdominal pain >Tender breasts >Spotting >Feeling bloated >Charting your temperature Prior to ovulation your body temperature drops…

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Home Pregnancy Tests

Sunday 19th November 2017

HOME PREGNANCY TESTS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW While headaches, nausea, and a missed period can be symptoms of early pregnancy, the only way to confirm it is to take a home pregnancy test.…

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How To Recognise Signs Of Labour

Wednesday 16th August 2017

You've been anticipating childbirth for the last nine months, so of course you’re anxious to be able to tell when the big moment is arriving. How will you know when it’s time to grab your hospital bag and get to the delivery room? Thankfully, your body will give you some solid clues. Read on to learn about the common signs of labor. When Will I Go into Labour? You have your baby’s due date—but a due date is just an estimate, and there’s really no telling exactly when baby…

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10 Ways To Get Better Sleep

Wednesday 16th August 2017

You’re so tired, and all you want is a restful night of sleep. So what's stopping you? Skip the late-night snacks We know baby’s hungry, but seriously, don’t consume anything—we’re talking about food and drink—less than two hours before bedtime. “There’s the likelihood that it will cause reflux or heartburn,” Move to the side You probably know you should sleep on your side if possible, since it’ll reduce the amount of pressure on your uterus and help you breathe better. Plus, the position will help relieve backaches. And there actually is a good side. According to the American Pregnancy Association, sleeping on your left side can help increase the amount of…

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Pregnancy trends to look out for this year

Wednesday 16th August 2017

Exercising until the end More women are not slowing down when it comes to exercising while they are pregnant. Tone up for a fit and healthy pregnancy with these 5 exercises. Midwives are more common Pregnancy trends show that more women opt for a midwife to deliver their baby, as they are looking for personalised care with less intervention. Hospitals are going wireless More hospitals are now using wireless foetal telemetry (to monitor the foetus) so that the mother-to-be can be mobile before giving birth. Pregnant women are stylish The fashion industry has taken…

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Pain Relief During Labour

Thursday 13th July 2017

Giving birth is a unique experience and it’s impossible to predict how you will feel physically. Some level of discomfort is to be expected but if things go beyond your expectations, it’s reassuring to know pain relief is available. Understanding different methods of pain relief and when they might be administered should make your labour more bearable. TENS machine Prevents pain signals from reaching your brain Especially effective in the first stages of labour Helps your body release ‘feel-good’ endorphins Can be controlled…

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Birthing Positions

Monday 17th April 2017

It’s natural to feel nervous about giving birth. Understanding your options and the benefits of different birth positions can help you feel more prepared. It’s also important to know what to expect if you need an assisted delivery or a caesarean, in case things don’t go to plan. Being in a good position During labour, there are certain positions that can make the birthing process easier. The most important thing is to make yourself as comfortable as possible, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Being upright, able to move around and free to change positions is better for you and your baby. As labour progresses, your baby is busy manoeuvring through the birth canal and it…

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1-4 Weeks Pregnant

Sunday 16th April 2017

Although you may not even know you’re pregnant, by week 4 your body is already going through some significant changes. Learn when your baby’s genetic make-up becomes set and how your placenta will soon begin to form to support them, along with nutrition tips for weeks 1–4 of pregnancy. The start of your baby’s journey Fertilisation takes place around 14 days after the start of your last period. At that point, the fertilised egg that will eventually become your baby is technically called a zygote. During the 90 hours after fertilisation, the cells divide and subdivide into a pinhead-sized solid mass of cells…

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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) In Pregnancy

Sunday 12th March 2017

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where a blood clot develops, often in the deep veins of the legs but occasionally in the pelvis. It can be fatal if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs. Having a DVT is not common in pregnancy, but pregnant women are more likely to develop thrombosis than non-pregnant women of the same age. A clot can form at any stage of pregnancy and up to six weeks after the birth. Other factors that put you at risk of thrombosis include: >having had thrombosis (a clot) before >being over 35 >having thrombophilia – a condition…

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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

Sunday 12th March 2017

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening is a way of detecting a dangerous swelling (aneurysm) of the aorta – the main blood vessel that runs from the heart, down through the abdomen to the rest of the body. This swelling is far more common in men aged over 65 than it is in women and younger men. An AAA usually causes no symptoms, but if it bursts, it’s extremely dangerous and usually fatal. Around 8 out of 10 people with a ruptured AAA either die before they reach hospital or don’t survive surgery. Screening involves a simple ultrasound scan of your stomach (abdomen), which takes about 10-15 minutes. If your abdominal aorta is not enlarged, you don’t ever need to be tested again. If you…

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Stroke & Carotid Artery Disease

Sunday 12th March 2017

Carotid artery disease is a common cause of stroke. What is carotid artery disease? The carotid arteries supply oxygenated blood to the large front part of the brain. This part of the brain controls thought, speech and personality as well as our sensory (our ability to feel) and motor (our ability to move) functions. Carotid…

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Weight Gain In Pregnancy

Thursday 9th March 2017

Weight gain is a normal and natural part of a healthy pregnancy. Learn how much weight you should gain depending on your BMI, how to gain weight safely, and why dieting is not recommended. Weight gain: a natural part of pregnancy Weight gain in pregnancy is healthy, natural and necessary. Aside from the additional weight of your baby and increased fluids, your body gradually lays down some fat stores. “Your calorie requirement during pregnancy only increases in the third trimester, when you need an extra 200 calories per day.” During your first and second trimesters your energy needs are the same as before pregnancy. Eating for two simply means maintaining a healthy diet: this will provide your baby with all the nutrients they need…

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Vitamins & Supplements For Conception

Sunday 26th February 2017

Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet before conception and during pregnancy will help to supply adequate nutrition to your growing baby. Taking supplements that contain key nutrients prior to conception and during pregnancy will enhance your healthy diet and help provide additional support as your baby grows. But which vitamins are most important to take while trying to conceive? Discover the roles of folic acid and vitamin D, and why you should include them in your pre-conception diet. Adding some oomph to your diet Eating a varied diet can help your body provide the majority of nutrients your baby needs in the early stages of development. However, nutritional gaps can occur, even among the healthiest eaters. A deficiency of vitamins pre-pregnancy can reduce…

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What To Eat To Conceive

Saturday 25th February 2017

From eating a nutrient-rich diet to taking key nutrients in the form of supplements, what you eat can play an important role in increasing your potential to conceive. Discover the benefits of a balanced diet for both you and your…

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Foods To Avoid When Trying To Conceive

Friday 24th February 2017

Nutrition and lifestyle choices can influence your chances of conceiving and your baby’s development once you do become pregnant. In fact, nutrition at this critical stage can also have an impact on your developing baby and their long-term health. For these reasons, you and your partner may wish to pay special attention to your conception diets, and find alternatives for the foods best avoided when trying to conceive. Your conception diet – what’s on or off the menu? Foods…

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Learning Language In The Womb

Tuesday 21st February 2017

When babies begin to hear the world around them, the most important sound they’ll discover is their mother’s voice. This familiar noise will calm and soothe them and lays the foundation for their social and emotional development, language and speech. Early learning Your…

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40 Weeks Pregnant

Thursday 16th February 2017

By the time you're 40 weeks pregnant, your baby is fully developed and ready for birth. Their nutrition will then be reliant on your own diet via your breast milk, so it’s important to maintain the healthy eating habits that have been beneficial throughout pregnancy. Learn why foods rich in LCPs (long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids) are an essential part of a healthy breastfeeding diet,…

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Early Signs of Pregnancy

Wednesday 15th February 2017

Understanding the early signs of pregnancy Maybe your period’s late or your boobs are sore – whatever the signs, you really think you might be pregnant. So what do you do? Here’s our guide to finding out for sure if you’re pregnant, what the early signs of pregnancy are, and working out what to do first! Noticing the early signs of pregnancy You may notice the early signs of pregnancy as little as within one week of conception. Most…

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7 Weeks Pregnant

Tuesday 14th February 2017

During week 7, your baby’s arm buds are emerging and flat, paddle-like hands are forming. Iodine supports your baby’s growth at this time. Discover which foods contain this mineral, and why you may want to ask your doctor about taking a daily…

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Folic Acid in Pregnancy

Monday 13th February 2017

Folic acid supports your baby’s earliest development, making it a key nutrient for your first trimester of pregnancy. Learn what it does, how much is recommended, and which foods can help to increase your intake to reduce the risk of neural tube problems. Folic acid – protecting your baby’s future health Even before you know you’re pregnant, folate, or folic acid in its manufactured form, is doing its job of supporting your baby’s development. It plays a significant role in the formation of your baby’s neural tube – the structure that forms in the first month of life that eventually becomes your baby’s spinal cord…

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Exercises to Avoid During Pregnancy

Sunday 5th February 2017

If your pregnancy is straightforward and your doctor or midwife has given you the go-ahead, you can carry on exercising and even start a new routine. Studies now show that it is, in fact, highly beneficial for expectant mums to exercise, or get Active for 2. But there are some guidelines to bear in mind which aim to protect the health of you and your developing baby. Safety first: Check with your midwife Before you begin exercising while pregnant, talk to your doctor or midwife. Whether you’re continuing with an activity that you enjoyed before, or want to start a new routine, let them know. For some women,…

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Pelvic Floor Exercises in Pregnancy

Sunday 5th February 2017

Your pelvic floor has an important role to play during pregnancy, birth and post-birth. A strong pelvic floor can support your baby and your bladder in pregnancy, help rotate your baby’s head during labour, and help prevent prolapse and stress incontinence once your baby is born. So if you’re starting to get Active for 2 by exercising in pregnancy, it’s well worth including pelvic floor exercises in your routine. What is my pelvic floor? The pelvic floor is a set of muscles attached…

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Pregnancy Exercises: Benefits, Facts & Stats

Saturday 4th February 2017

The benefits of exercise during pregnancy are well documented. Numerous studies demonstrate a positive effect on both an expectant mum’s health and her baby’s health – to the extent that women are now being encouraged to get Active for 2. Pregnancy exercise does much more than improve a mother’s well-being – it can aid the development of your baby’s…

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Exercising Safely During Pregnancy

Saturday 4th February 2017

Research shows that exercise in pregnancy can be incredibly beneficial to both you and your baby – yet information on what’s safe and what’s not can be confusing and outdated. Experts now agree that if your pregnancy is uncomplicated and your midwife approves, you can continue to exercise, take up something new and get Active for 2. Is it safe to exercise in pregnancy? In the past, mums have been encouraged to put their feet up and take it easy. Much to…

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26 Weeks Pregnant

Saturday 4th February 2017

In your 26th week of pregnancy, your baby is entering a stage of significant physical growth and brain development. Your balanced diet should include good sources of the…

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13 Weeks Pregnant

Saturday 4th February 2017

By the time you're 13 weeks pregnant, your baby is growing rapidly and is quite active, although their movement is still undetectable to you. Their reproductive organs are developed now and their liver and pancreas are beginning to function. Maintaining your healthy, balanced diet is essential, and this includes fibre to support healthy bowel function. Alive and kicking in week 13 Your 13th week of pregnancy marks the start of your second trimester. By now, your baby weighs roughly 25g (almost an ounce). They are already very active and will be stretching,…

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8 Weeks Pregnant?

Friday 3rd February 2017

During week 8, your baby’s facial features are becoming more defined. Less excitingly, morning sickness may be reaching its peak around now. We hope the following suggestions provide at least a little relief. When you can tolerate food, be sure to include some rich sources of zinc on your plate.…

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Food 'Does & Don'ts'

Friday 20th January 2017

During pregnancy it’s important to pay special attention to your diet and avoid anything that may carry the risk of food poisoning. It’s normal to experience changes in your eating habits during pregnancy. You may suddenly go off a favourite food or have the urge for something out of the ordinary. There are certain foods you should avoid while pregnant due to the risk of food poisoning. Likewise, there are plenty of foods that you might think…

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Cravings

Friday 20th January 2017

Cravings are common during pregnancy, and can range from the stereotypical pickles to more unusual non-food substances. Learn about the possible causes of cravings and how to indulge them safely without affecting the supply of nutrients to your baby. Cravings in pregnancy Many mums-to-be experience strong cravings for particular foods when pregnant. These cravings can be caused by fluctuating pregnancy hormones, or your body could be prompting you to eat more of a vitamin or nutrient that you’re lacking. If you’re craving salty olives, for example, it might be that your body wants you to up your sodium intake. Even if…

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A healthy pregnancy diet

Friday 20th January 2017

During pregnancy, your baby relies on you for their nutritional intake. Eating a well balanced diet will provide the wide range of nutrients they need for healthy development now, and help to set the stage for their health throughout life. Learn how to get a good balance from the different food groups, and what you can eat when pregnant if you follow a vegetarian, vegan or coeliac diet. A healthy pregnancy…

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