Mother-Baby Wing, Nairobi (2025)

25/10/2025

Feet Swelling in Pregnancy - Causes, Care, and When to Worry

Swollen feet and ankles (known medically as oedema) are one of the most common pregnancy symptoms - especially in the third trimester. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s usually normal and temporary.

What Causes Feet Swelling in Pregnancy

1️⃣ Increased Body Fluids
During pregnancy, your body produces up to 50% more blood and fluids to support your baby this extra fluid can collect in your lower limbs.

2️⃣ Pressure from the Growing Uterus
As your uterus expands, it presses on the veins in your pelvis, slowing blood return from your legs and causing swelling around your feet and ankles.

3️⃣ Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones like progesterone relax your blood vessel walls, making it easier for fluid to move into the tissues.

4️⃣ Hot Weather or Standing Too Long
Both can worsen swelling due to reduced circulation.

How to Reduce Swelling Naturally

✅ Elevate Your Legs - prop them on pillows when resting to improve blood flow.
💧 Stay Hydrated - drink plenty of water to help your body flush out excess fluids.
🚶‍♀️ Move Regularly - short walks and ankle rotations prevent fluid buildup.
🧦 Wear Comfortable Shoes or Support Stockings avoid tight straps or heels.
🍎 Eat a Balanced Diet - reduce salt and processed foods to prevent water retention.
🧘‍♀️ Sleep on Your Left Side - this improves blood return from the lower body.

When to Call Your Midwife or Doctor

⚠️ Sudden or severe swelling of your face, hands, or feet.
⚠️ Headaches, blurred vision, or pain under your ribs.
⚠️ Swelling that appears overnight or feels painful.

These may be signs of pre-eclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition that needs medical attention.

Summary

Moderate foot swelling is a normal response to pregnancy changes. Gentle movement, hydration, and rest can make a big difference. Always report any sudden or severe swelling your safety comes first. 🌷

24/10/2025

You’re not imagining it this is very common in pregnancy! Many mums-to-be say they feel hungry, start preparing food, and then suddenly lose all interest or feel full before even eating. Here’s why that happens 👇

What’s Going On in Your Body

1️⃣ Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones affect your sense of smell, taste, and digestion. The smell of food (even one you liked a minute ago) can suddenly make you feel sick or “off.”

2️⃣ Slower Digestion
Your digestive system slows down to help your body absorb more nutrients. This means your stomach empties slowly so it’s easy to feel full quickly, even after small portions or before eating.

3️⃣ Pressure from the Growing Baby
As your womb expands, it presses on your stomach, leaving less room for food. This is especially common in the second and third trimesters.

4️⃣ Emotional and Sensory Sensitivity
Pregnancy heightens all your senses. Smells, textures, or even the thought of certain foods can change your appetite instantly.

🍽️ What You Can Do

✅ Eat small, frequent meals - try 5–6 mini meals a day instead of 2–3 large ones.
🥣 Go for light, appealing foods - smoothies, fruits, yoghurt, porridge, or soups are easier to manage.
🍋 Avoid strong smells - ask someone else to cook or keep windows open for ventilation.
💧 Drink fluids between meals - but not too much during meals, as it can make you feel full faster.
😴 Rest and relax before eating - stress can also switch off your appetite.

🚨 When to Talk to Your Midwife

If this continues for days, you’re losing weight, or struggling to eat or drink enough mention it at your antenatal visit. You may need extra support or mild treatment for nausea or heartburn.

Don’t worry your appetite will usually settle as your pregnancy progresses. Eat what you can tolerate, when you can, and remember: small bites still nourish your baby. 🌸

24/10/2025

Ever found yourself dreaming about pickles, chocolate, or even ice cubes? 😅 Pregnancy cravings are completely normal and often one of the most talked-about parts of pregnancy!

Why Cravings Happen

1️⃣ Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy hormones affect taste and smell, making you suddenly love (or hate) certain foods.

2️⃣ Nutrient Needs
Your body may crave certain foods because it’s signalling a need - for example, a desire for red meat might reflect low iron levels.

3️⃣ Emotional Comfort
Sometimes cravings are linked to emotions - a way of finding comfort, easing stress, or celebrating the journey of pregnancy. 💛

Common Cravings Include:

🍫 Sweets and chocolate - for quick energy.
🍟 Salty foods - as your blood volume increases.
🍋 Sour or spicy foods - to ease nausea or refresh your taste buds.
🍎 Fruits - often linked to vitamin C needs.

What’s Normal vs. What’s Not

✅ Normal: Craving common foods in moderation.
⚠️ Not Normal: Craving non-food items like clay, soil, ice, soap, or chalk - a condition called pica. If this happens, talk to your midwife right away, as it may mean a mineral deficiency (like low iron).

Tips for Handling Cravings Wisely

🥗 Keep healthy snacks ready fruit, yoghurt, nuts, or smoothies.
🍽️ Eat balanced meals so you don’t get too hungry between them.
🚫 Enjoy treats occasionally but don’t overindulge in sugary or salty foods.
💧 Drink plenty of water sometimes thirst can feel like a craving.

Cravings are your body’s way of speaking listen, but respond with balance. Enjoy your favourites in moderation and keep nourishing both you and your baby. 🌷

23/10/2025

Antenatal care

23/10/2025

💧 Drinking Water in Pregnancy - The Simple Habit That Makes a Big Difference

Water might seem ordinary, but during pregnancy, it becomes one of your body’s greatest needs. Every sip helps your baby grow, supports your organs, and keeps you feeling well. 🌸

Why Water Matters So Much in Pregnancy

1️⃣ Builds Your Baby’s Environment
Water forms part of your baby’s amniotic fluid, which cushions and protects them in the womb.

2️⃣ Supports Circulation and Nutrients
It helps transport essential nutrients and oxygen to your baby through the placenta.

3️⃣ Prevents Common Pregnancy Problems
✅ Reduces constipation
✅ Helps prevent urinary infections
✅ Lowers risk of swelling, headaches, and overheating

4️⃣ Aids Digestion and Detoxification
Your kidneys work harder in pregnancy water helps flush out waste efficiently.

How Much Water Should You Drink?

💧 Aim for about 8–10 glasses (2–2.5 litres) a day.
🌿 You may need more in hot weather or after exercise.
🫖 You can also include soups, milk, and fruit-infused water as part of your fluid intake.

Tips to Stay Hydrated

🥤 Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere.
🕐 Sip slowly throughout the day instead of drinking large amounts at once.
🍋 Add lemon, mint, or cucumber slices for flavour.
🌙 Drink a glass of water before bed but reduce intake right before sleeping to avoid too many night trips!
When to Seek Advice

⚠️ If you notice very dark urine, dizziness, or feel faint you may be dehydrated.
⚠️ Severe swelling, headaches, or reduced urine output should be checked by your midwife.

Water keeps both you and your baby healthy it’s one of the simplest yet most powerful gifts you can give your pregnancy. 💛

23/10/2025

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23/10/2025

🍍 Pineapple in Pregnancy - Safe or Not? Let’s Clear the Confusion!

Many people hear mixed opinions about eating pineapple during pregnancy - some say it’s dangerous, others say it’s healthy. Here’s the truth, based on midwife-approved facts. 👩‍⚕️💛

✅ The Good Side of Pineapple

Pineapple is full of nutrients that are great for pregnancy when eaten in moderation:
🥗 Vitamin C - boosts your immune system and helps your body absorb iron.
💧 Water content - keeps you hydrated.
🌾 Fibre - helps prevent constipation.
🍍 Natural enzymes - support digestion and reduce bloating.

So yes, you can safely enjoy pineapple as part of a balanced diet.

⚠️ The Common Concern: Bromelain

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which in large amounts could soften the cervix and cause mild contractions.
👉 However, the amount found in fresh pineapple is too low to cause labour when eaten in normal food quantities.
You’d have to eat many whole pineapples at once to reach risky levels which is nearly impossible!

Tips for Enjoying Pineapple Safely

🍍 Eat moderate portions a few slices or a small bowl is fine.
🥤 Avoid bromelain supplements they contain concentrated enzyme levels, unlike the fruit itself.
🍋 If you notice heartburn or mouth irritation, reduce your intake (pineapple is quite acidic).
🥗 Mix it with other fruits like banana, apple, or melon to balance the acidity.

In summary:

✅ Pineapple is safe and healthy in normal portions.
🚫 Avoid excessive amounts or enzyme supplements.
🌸 Enjoy it as a refreshing, vitamin-packed treat for you and your baby.

23/10/2025

Bananas are one of the best fruits to enjoy during pregnancy they’re easy to digest, full of energy, and packed with nutrients that support both you and your growing baby.

Why Bananas Are Great for Pregnant Women

1️⃣ Rich in Potassium
Helps prevent leg cramps and supports healthy blood pressure both common concerns in pregnancy.

2️⃣ Boosts Energy
Bananas provide quick natural energy, perfect for fighting pregnancy tiredness or morning sickness.

3️⃣ Eases Nausea
Their smooth texture and mild flavour make them gentle on the stomach ideal if you’re struggling with nausea or vomiting. 🤰

4️⃣ Supports Digestion
High in fibre, bananas help prevent constipation, which is common during pregnancy. 🌿

5️⃣ Source of Vitamins and Minerals
They provide Vitamin B6 (which helps reduce morning sickness), Vitamin C, and small amounts of iron and magnesium. 💪

Tips for Eating Bananas During Pregnancy

🍽️ Eat one medium banana daily as a snack or blend it in smoothies.
🥣 Combine with oats, yoghurt, or peanut butter for a healthy breakfast.
🚫 Avoid overripe bananas if you have gestational diabetes they contain more sugar.
💧 Always wash the fruit before eating, even if you’re peeling it.

In short:
Bananas are a natural, nourishing, and affordable pregnancy superfood gentle for you, and good for your baby’s growth and energy. 🌸

23/10/2025

Antenatal (or prenatal) clinics are not just routine check-ups they are your lifeline to a healthy and safe pregnancy. Every visit helps your healthcare team ensure that you and your baby are growing well. 🤰💛

Why Antenatal Clinics Matter:

1️⃣ Early Detection of Problems
Regular visits help detect conditions like high blood pressure, anaemia, or gestational diabetes early — before they cause harm.

2️⃣ Monitoring Your Baby’s Growth
Your midwife checks your baby’s heartbeat, position, and growth to make sure everything is on track.

3️⃣ Support and Education
You’ll learn about nutrition, labour, breastfeeding, and newborn care preparing you for motherhood with confidence.

4️⃣ Vaccinations and Supplements
You’ll receive important vitamins (like folic acid and iron) and vaccines (such as for whooping cough or flu) to protect both of you.

5️⃣ Emotional Support
Pregnancy can be exciting but also emotional. Antenatal visits are a safe place to talk about your feelings, worries, or any changes you notice.

Typical Antenatal Visit Schedule (for a healthy pregnancy):

📆 Every 4 weeks until 28 weeks
📆 Every 2 weeks from 28–36 weeks
📆 Every week from 36 weeks until delivery

Your midwife may see you more often if needed.

What You Can Do:

🗒️ Keep all your appointments and carry your maternity notes.
🍎 Follow your midwife’s advice on diet, supplements, and rest.
❓ Don’t hesitate to ask questions every visit is for you and your baby.

Attending antenatal clinics is one of the most powerful ways to show love to your unborn child. Every visit brings you closer to a safe, joyful birth. 🌷

23/10/2025

Is it true that nobody checks the calendar more than a pregnant woman?
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

23/10/2025

It’s very common for couples to wonder if it’s safe for a man to release s***m inside a pregnant woman. The short answer is yes, in most healthy pregnancies, it’s completely safe. ❤️

Here’s what you should know:

1️⃣ The baby is well protected
Your baby is surrounded by the amniotic sac and cushioned by fluid inside your womb. The cervix is also sealed with a mucus plug that prevents bacteria and semen from reaching the baby. So, s***m cannot harm your baby. 👶

2️⃣ Semen is generally safe
Semen contains prostaglandins natural chemicals that can soften the cervix. In late pregnancy, this might sometimes cause mild contractions, which is why some midwives even say s*x can help “nudge” labour when the body is ready.

3️⃣ S*x does not cause miscarriage
In a normal pregnancy, s*x and ej*******on do not cause miscarriage. Early miscarriages are usually due to chromosomal or developmental issues, not s*xual activity.

4️⃣ When to avoid or be cautious:
🚫 If your doctor or midwife has advised against s*x due to:
•Placenta praevia (low-lying placenta)
•Va**nal bleeding
•Leaking of amniotic fluid
•Weak cervix or risk of preterm labour
•Multiple pregnancy (like twins) with complications

In these cases, follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

5️⃣ Hygiene and comfort matter:
✅ Make sure both partners are clean and relaxed.
✅ Try comfortable positions as the bump grows, side-lying or woman-on-top often work best.
✅ Stop if there’s pain, bleeding, or discomfort.

Bottom line:
For most couples, having s*x including ej*******on inside is safe and natural during pregnancy. It can even strengthen emotional connection and release feel-good hormones that benefit both mother and baby. 🌸

*xInPregnancy

23/10/2025

⚡ Painful Va**na in Late Pregnancy - What’s Normal and When to Worry

As your due date approaches, many women notice va**nal pain, pressure, or soreness and it can feel sharp, heavy, or like an ache deep inside. Don’t panic in most cases, it’s a normal sign that your body is getting ready for labour. 🤰

Common Causes of Va**nal Pain Near Your Due Date

1️⃣ Baby’s Head Engaging (Lightening)
As your baby drops lower into your pelvis, their head presses on nerves, muscles, and ligaments around your va**na and pelvis causing sharp, shooting pains sometimes called “lightning crotch.” ⚡

2️⃣ Pelvic Pressure and Stretching
Your pelvic joints and tissues loosen under the effect of relaxin (a pregnancy hormone), preparing your body for birth. This stretching can make your va**na and groin area feel sore or heavy.

3️⃣ Increased Blood Flow
More blood flows to your pelvic region, making the area feel swollen or sensitive especially when walking or standing for long periods.

4️⃣ Braxton Hicks Contractions
These “practice contractions” can create a tight or heavy feeling in the va**nal area as your uterus tightens.

5️⃣ Varicose Veins in the V***a
Some women develop small, bulging veins around the v***a that can feel painful or tender. These usually improve after birth.

What You Can Do to Feel Better

🧘‍♀️ Rest often and change positions frequently.
💧 Stay hydrated dehydration can worsen cramps and contractions.
🛀 Try a warm (not hot) bath or use a warm compress on the area.
🕯️ Do gentle pelvic floor exercises to improve blood flow and relieve pressure.
👗 Wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid standing too long.

When to Call Your Midwife or Doctor

⚠️ If pain is constant, severe, or accompanied by bleeding.
⚠️ If you feel pressure like the baby is “pushing down.”
⚠️ If you have burning or pain when passing urine (possible infection).
⚠️ If you notice unusual discharge or fluid leaking.

Some va**nal pain near your due date is a normal part of your body’s preparation for birth a sign that your baby is settling lower and that the big day is near. 🌸

**na

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