Bellies

Can you prevent stretch marks?

Whether you will get stretch marks or not may also depend partly on genetics. But there are a few things you can do to help your skin prepare and be more supple for the 'big stretch'. It is important not to only moisturize your skin externally but you need to ensure that you drink plenty of water so that you are properly hydrated.

Then, using a good tissue oil or a cream may help reduce the chance of getting stretch marks. It is important to remember that it is easier to prevent or lightened early stretch marks but if you leave them, it is much more difficult and often impossible. Make it part of your morning and bedtime routine to apply oil or cream to your belly, thighs, hips and around your breasts.

I found that Bio Oil and Palmers Massage Cream for Stretch Marks work the best. Palmers is thick and creamy, smells like Cocoa Butter and is absorbed nicely. Other women preferred to use a Vitamin E cream, but just make sure you use something that is nourishing and use it regularly, even after the birth to help the skin 'bounce back'.

Is Breastfeeding painful?

Although breastfeeding should not be painful if your baby is latched on correctly, there are certainly times when it can hurt. Some women, especially first time moms, experience sore nipples which may even bleed. This may be caused by various factors but the good news is that there is help. Firstly try to keep your breasts clean to prevent any infection and allow your nipples to get air. For severe cases laser therapy may be necessary and this works really well. Using a nipple cream to prepare your nipples and keep them supple is your best 'prevention'.

The one pain that most new moms experience is the pain of engorged breasts, when your milk comes in, and it can be very uncomfortable. The old wives remedy of cabbage leaves does work though!! So make sure you buy a cabbage and keep it in the fridge, then break off a leaf for each breast (remember to rinse them) and place it inside your bra. Feels great, and soon your breasts will be feeling much better.

The one part of breastfeeding which you may not be prepared for is that there is other pain involved with breastfeeding and that is the pain of your uterus contracting when your baby latches on and starts to feed. This is rather sore and uncomfortable but it only lasts for the first few days and then you should be able to relax and enjoy the bonding and wonder of breastfeeding your precious little one.

Persisting through any of the possible difficulties is most definitely worth it and will be rewarding for both you and your baby.