Newborn Photography, pregnancy tips
The first week with a newborn: you have just brought your tiny bundle of joy into the world, and you are looking down at their adorable faces.
After that, you begin to become aware of a few quirks that no one had informed you about. For instance, what exactly are the tremors that are experienced by newborns in the first week, and why does the skull of your infant appear to be formed like a cone? Another question is why their skin is so dry and why they have an insatiable hunger.
There is no need to be concerned about these things because they are simply a few of the typical quirks that are associated with newborns. Consequently, here is the information that you were not aware you needed to know about the unique characteristics and routines of newborns in the first week.
Your baby will cry a lot: the first week with a newborn
Babies cry, as we are all aware. However, you might not realise how frequently it happens until you’ve had your first kid and spent a few days with them. Babies frequently have a cause for crying. They can need a nappy change, hungry, or exhausted. Pay attention to these things. Verify that your infant is not experiencing any pain. Perhaps your infant is getting stuck in something, the nappy is too tight, or a label on a vest is irritating.
If your baby continues to cry, it might be because they are still upset from the stress of the outside world or the trauma of delivery and need some kind words and calming cuddles from you. Pause what you’re doing, hug your infant close, and put everything else aside for a short while. Consult your physician if you’re concerned that your infant is crying more than you believe is appropriate or typical.
You won’t get much sleep
During the first week with a newborn, you might have to put up with not getting any sleep at all because your kid won’t know day from night and won’t care that you’re tired. There will be a lot of diaper changes, burping, and time spent assisting your baby in settling in between feedings, which should happen every couple of hours.
It does improve. Your baby will sleep deeper and longer as they get heavier, and maybe so will you!
Getting used to feeding your baby takes time
For many people, breastfeeding is a fantastic experience, but it could not be for you. It may be quite painful or unpleasant at first, and it may take some time to grow used to it. Feeding may be uncomfortable if your baby has a tongue or lip tie, so obtain guidance on this and don’t be scared to seek a second or third opinion if you don’t feel like your voice is being heard.
Starting to produce enough milk might take a few days, and even if you get it perfect, if you are not getting enough food, water, and sleep, your milk production may decrease.
Do not hesitate to seek assistance and guidance if you are having trouble feeding your infant.
Babies’ stools are not the same as ours
Sometimes, when you change your infant for the first few times, you could find yourself wondering whether there is an issue. The first few days after birth, their faeces will be thick, sticky, and almost completely black. Even though the colour of your baby’s faeces may change over time and will arrive in a wide variety of colours and consistencies, you need not be concerned about this factor in any way.
It is possible that your infant will appear to be exerting themselves excessively when they are pooping. Once more, this is perfectly typical and there is no need for concern.
Their breathing is strange
Infants frequently stop briefly before experiencing bursts of fast breathing. A 20-second delay is seen as typical. Your baby’s breathing should become more regular by the time they are six weeks old.
You most likely spend a significant portion of the night hunched over your infant’s cot, making sure they’re still breathing, like many new parents do. And it’s likely that you’ve been alarmed a few times by their erratic breathing.
It is advisable to exercise caution if you are concerned about SIDS outbreaks. By sleeping on your baby’s back, removing all soft toys and bedding from their cot, and quitting smoking, you can lower the chance of SIDS. Seek medical help right away if your infant seems limp, goes blue, purple, or grey, or stops breathing for more than 20 seconds.
Conclusion: The first week with a newborn
During the first week with a newborn, there are both unexpected and challenging events, as well as lovely moments. The process of your infant adjusting to the world outside the womb may involve you experiencing sleepless nights, unending weeping, and even unexpected body functions. However, all of these things are a natural part of the growing process. Always keep in mind that these early quirks are entirely natural and just transitory.
In the process of getting to know your kid and overcoming these early challenges, do not be afraid to ask for assistance and rely on the people who are there to support you. You should have faith that, with time, you and your child will discover your rhythm, and that those challenging times will soon be a thing of the past. Treasure every minute, because even though it may be exhausting, it is also the beginning of a wonderful trip that you will be taking together.
Newborn Photography, Pregnancy Photoshoot, pregnancy tips
Congratulations, you’re expecting! Remember to care for yourself amid the flurry of emotions and baby preparations. Exercise during pregnancy is vital for feeling great. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a bit rusty, safe workouts exist for you and your baby.
This guide covers the benefits of prenatal exercise, safe routines for each trimester, and tips to stay motivated. So, grab your water bottle and comfy trainers, and let’s get moving!
Benefits of Pregnancy Workouts
Staying active during pregnancy isn’t just about fitting into your favourite jeans post-birth (although that’s a perk!). Regular exercise brings benefits for both you and your baby. Exercise lifts your spirits, combating fatigue and energising you throughout the day.
Regular exercise strengthens back-supporting muscles, reducing aches and improving sleep quality. Manage weight gain and stay healthy: Staying active helps manage healthy weight gain, lowering the risk of conditions like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Exercise strengthens labour and delivery muscles, leading to a smoother process and faster recovery post-birth.
Studies show that regular exercise during pregnancy may benefit your baby’s health, regulating heart rate, weight, and brain development. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise routine, but once you get the green light, there are many ways to get moving and enjoy the benefits.
Getting Started with Pregnancy Workouts
Pregnancy workouts aren’t just about keeping fit (although that’s a bonus!). They bring many benefits for you and your baby on the way. Think better mood, improved sleep, less back pain, and a lower chance of gestational diabetes. Also, staying active helps with healthy weight gain, which is essential during pregnancy. With all this new info floating around, having questions is natural. But here’s the good part: starting pregnancy exercises is easier than you think.
First off, talk to your doctor. They’ll check your health and give you the thumbs up (or suggest any tweaks) for your workout plan. This is especially crucial if you have any health issues already. Remember, your body’s doing something incredible, so listen to it! Take it easy, adjust exercises, and take breaks when needed. Find what works for you.
Stay hydrated, especially when exercising. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip often before, during, and after workouts. Comfort is key! Wear comfy, breathable clothes that let you move freely. And don’t forget a supportive exercise bra made for pregnancy.
Safe Pregnancy Workouts by Trimester
During the first trimester, your body goes through significant changes like morning sickness and fatigue. It’s okay if you’re not up for exercise—rest is critical. If you were active before, you can usually keep it up, but watch for signs to slow down. Once your doctor says it’s okay, try prenatal yoga to stay active and meet other expecting moms.
In the second trimester, known as the “golden trimester,” you might feel more energetic. Here are some gentle exercise ideas:
- Swimming: Great for joints and staying cool.
- Walking: Simple and effective, indoors or out.
- Prenatal aerobics: Safe and keeps your heart rate up.
- Stationary cycling: Low impact, but adjust your seat.
- Lightweight training: Helps with muscle tone and endurance.
- Modified Pilates: Builds core strength and flexibility.
In the third trimester, your belly grows, making some exercises harder. Stick to:
- Walking: Always a good choice.
- Swimming: Eases joint pressure.
- Prenatal yoga: Focuses on gentle stretches and breathing.
- Modified Pilates: Keeps you strong and flexible.
- Barre classes: Low-impact mix of ballet, yoga, and Pilates.
- Light weight lifting: Stick to lower weights and more reps.
Specific Exercises You Can Do at Home
Here are safe and effective exercises you can do at home during pregnancy:
Cardio:
- Brisk walking: Aim for a 30-minute walk most days.
- Stationary cycling: Cycle for 20–30 minutes at a moderate pace.
- Modified jumping jacks: Step out to the sides instead of jumping.
- Modified jumping rope: Mimic jumping with wrist flicks and small hops or side steps.
Strength Training:
- Squats: Lower yourself as if sitting in a chair, keeping your back straight.
- Lunges: Step forward, ensuring knees don’t extend over toes.
- Wall pushes: Lean in with straight arms against a wall.
- Modified planks: Do a kneeling plank, keeping your back straight and core engaged.
Flexibility:
- Prenatal yoga: Focus on spine lengthening, hip opening, and core strengthening poses.
- Gentle stretches: Arm circles, neck rolls, and ankle rolls.
Tips for Staying Motivated Throughout Your Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings a lot of changes, and sticking to exercise might seem like a chore. But trust us, it’s worth it for you and your growing bump! Here’s how to keep the energy flowing during pregnancy:
- Find a workout partner: Sweating it out with a friend is special. It’s like having a cheerleader by your side! Look for a fellow mom-to-be or someone who enjoys similar activities. You can cheer each other on, share childcare duties, and turn workouts into social hangouts.
- Set doable goals and celebrate each victory: Don’t rush to become a fitness pro overnight. Start with small, realistic goals, like a 20-minute walk three times a week. As you feel stronger, amp up the intensity or length of your workouts. And remember to celebrate every win, big or small! Did you just finish a prenatal yoga class without a break? Pat yourself on the back! Did you walk an extra mile? Treat yourself to a tasty pregnancy smoothie.
- Track your progress: Seeing how far you’ve come is super motivating. Use a fitness tracker or jot down your workouts in a journal. Write down how far you walked, how much weight you lifted, or how long you exercised. Looking back at your progress will give you a boost, especially on days when motivation is lacking.
- Reward yourself: Who doesn’t love a reward? After hitting a goal, treat yourself to something pregnancy-friendly and enjoyable. It could be a cute new workout outfit, a soothing prenatal massage, or a movie date with your partner.
Conclusion
Here’s a toolkit of safe and effective pregnancy exercises. Remember, everyone’s journey is different. Listen to your body, modify exercises as needed, and enjoy yourself! Celebrate your changing body and know that even a little movement helps. Congratulations and best wishes for a healthy, joyful experience!
Newborn Photography, Pregnancy Photoshoot, pregnancy tips, Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care
Welcome to the world of pregnancy-safe skin care!
Pregnancy is an incredible time for you and your body goes through a tremendous period of change over the duration of your pregnancy. Throughout your
pregnancy journey, your skin will change and as a result, your skincare routine may need to be adapted.
To ensure that you and your baby remain safe during your pregnancy you may need to remove products from your skincare setup. You may also find that your skin texture or pH changes during your pregnancy and requires a completely different set of products.
In this article, we will guide you through the ideal pregnancy-safe skincare products to use during your pregnancy and which products you should avoid until after your baby arrives.
The Importance of Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can change the appearance of your skin and how it reacts to certain skincare products. A product you may have used for years may leave your skin feeling dry or lead to breakouts. Knowing what ingredients are in your skincare and how to care for your skin during pregnancy will keep both you and your baby safe during pregnancy.
Skin Changes During Pregnancy
Changes to your skin during pregnancy are common and quite frequent. Changes in hormone levels are responsible for this, along with changes to your cardiovascular system and immune function during pregnancy.
While some women experience 9 months of pure complexion perfection and “pregnancy glow”, others experience at least one less favorable new or worsening skin issue – which makes a good skin care routine all the more important.
The most common are:
- Dry skin
- Darkening skin (a condition called melasma or chloasma)
- Acne
People with pre-existing skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, may also experience a change in their symptoms (for better or worse).
Safe Skincare Ingredients During Pregnancy
Let’s begin our journey through pregnancy-Safe Skin Care products with an overview of ingredients that are considered safe to use.
Cleansing
Cleansing is an important part of any skincare routine, however, you may need to adapt what you use during pregnancy. During pregnancy, your skin will be more sensitive so opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers and avoid any harsh ingredients and abrasive exfoliants.
Sunscreen
Sun protection is paramount, especially during pregnancy when your skin can be more prone to pigmentation changes. Using a high SPF is important to protect the skin, however, the type of sun cream is also important. Chemical sunscreens can be harmful during pregnancy so choose a natural zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-based sun cream instead.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a wonder ingredient that plumps and hydrates the skin and helps to retain moisture. Hyaluronic acid is a safe ingredient to use during pregnancy and can greatly help if your skin is feeling dry. It can be used anywhere on the body, and for best results use on damp skin before your moisturiser.
Natural Oils
Next in our list of Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care ingredients: natural oils.
Natural oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil can be great for the skin and safe to use to moisturise your body. Natural oils in virgin or cold-pressed forms are free from harmful chemicals and can be very beneficial to your skin, especially during pregnancy, to help reduce stretch marks and combat dryness.
Fragrance-Free Products
Products that contain fragrance can be irritating to the skin and increase the chance of an allergic skin reaction. Fragrances are unnecessary in skincare and synthetic fragrances can cause skin sensitivity which is the last thing you need during your pregnancy. Choose instead fragrance-free products that are natural and minimise the risk of irritation.
Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy
Before using your favourite skincare or beauty product it is worth checking that it is safe to use during pregnancy.
Some products can be irritating to the skin whereas others can include hormone-disrupting chemicals so it’s a good idea to review all your beauty products before using them during pregnancy, this includes everything from face cream to nail polish, hairsprays, and shampoos.
Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives): Retinoids are a favored ingredient in skincare however, high doses of retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy, as they may be associated with birth defects. Avoid products containing tretinoin (Retin-A), and high levels of retinol.
Salicylic Acid: Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in many cleansers and generally is safe during pregnancy as long as it is used in low percentages. However, it’s advisable to consult your doctor before using salicylic acid, either on the face or on the body.
Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is used to lighten the skin and dark spots, however, it is advised to avoid the use of this ingredient during pregnancy due to concerns about possible impacts on fetal development.
Parabens: Parabens are used as a preservative in skincare and beauty products such as shampoos and conditioners. Parabens are known as endocrine disruptors and should be avoided during pregnancy. There are many brilliant paraben-free products on the market and many are clearly labeled as paraben-free.
Chemical Sunscreens: During pregnancy, your skin absorbs any product you place on it which in turn enters your bloodstream. Some chemical sunscreens are not advisable to use during pregnancy because the chemicals can be absorbed into the bloodstream. However, sun protection is important so choose natural-based sunscreens to help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Essential Oils: It is unsure whether essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy. Essential oils containing phthalates have been known to have endocrine-disrupting potential, and studies on animals have shown that phthalates have had an impact on fetal health. So it is safer to steer clear of essential oils during pregnancy.
*If you are having a massage during your pregnancy, check if the masseuse is using pregnancy-safe oils or ask to provide your own natural oils such as almond oil.
Consult with Your Healthcare Provider
If you have any concerns about the types of products that are safe to use during pregnancy it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.
A pharmacist will also be able to give good advice on products that are safe during pregnancy. However, if you notice any major differences in your skin such as the sudden appearance of a lesion or rash you should consult your doctor immediately for advice.
Final thoughts on Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care
It is good to remember that every pregnancy is different and what works for you may not be the same for someone else. When it comes to skincare during pregnancy you may need to go through a period of trial and error to find products that work for you and your skin. As long as the products that you are using are safe for pregnancy.
It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you are using safe products during pregnancy. However, the tips we have given above are great starting points for conducting your own research on the products on your beauty shelf, to ensure that the products you use are safe for you and your baby.
Mummy and Me, Newborn Photography, Pregnancy Photoshoot, pregnancy tips
Looking for some tips to keep your baby safe in Summer? You’re in the right place!
When it comes to the summer sun the last thing you want is a hot and bothered baby, however keeping them cool can be tricky. Persuading a baby or toddler to keep their hat on is a never-ending battle and you can get lost trying to figure out which of the many sun creams you should use.
In this guide, we will give you some excellent tips for keeping your baby cool when the temperatures soar. From avoiding sunburn to picking the best suncream we will cover the basics so you are ready for that high summer heat.
Avoiding sunburn and heatstroke
Regardless of your baby’s age, if the temperatures are high it’s best to avoid being outside, especially during the hottest parts of the day between 11 am to 3 pm. Remember babies under the age of 6 months have very sensitive skin and should be kept out of direct intense sunlight.
Seek the shade
If you can not avoid the midday sun, then seek the shade whenever possible. Walk on the shadier side of the street and take shelter during the midday sun. If you are out and about take a break at a nearby cafe or restaurant, especially if it has air conditioning. Shopping centres, local libraries, and art galleries are also great places to hide from the sun with babies.
Drink plenty of water
To help avoid heat stroke make sure your baby stays hydrated.
- If your baby is under 6 months and you are breastfeeding you may need to offer them feeds more often. Your breastmilk should contain all the water they need and will adapt to quench their thirst.
- For bottle-fed babies, you can offer your child a small drink of cooled boiled water after they have been fed.
- For babies that are weaning, you can offer them a drink of water with their food.
- Babies over the age of 12 months should be offered cool water as a regular drink more often during the hot summer months.
Keep your baby safe in Summer: Cover up in the sun
Even when it’s hot you can still protect your baby’s delicate skin by dressing them in loose breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. Choose outfits that have long loose sleeves to cover their arms or layer with a lightweight cardigan so their skin is not in direct sunlight.
Don’t forget their sunhats, which you can buy with under-the-chin straps to help prevent the battle to keep the sunhat on. You can also help to protect your baby’s eyes with baby-sized sunglasses that meet the British Standard for UV protection and have the CE mark on their label.
If you are spending the day at the beach, invest in an all-in-one swimsuit that covers your baby’s arms and legs. This will help keep them protected from the sun even on the beach. Many baby swimsuits include high SPF protection too, although you should always double up with suncream to be safe.
Try to avoid the temptation to cover your pram with a muslin or blanket. Even if it shades them from the sun, it can dramatically raise the temperature inside the pram and increase the risk of heatstroke. Instead, use a flexible sun parasol that fits onto your pram or buy a specific sun shade that has been designed to be well-ventilated.
Always wear your suncream
There are many different suncreams available and the one you choose will depend on your baby’s age and skin sensitivity. Although suncream alone will not protect your baby from sun damage it can prevent them from burning. Remember to apply suncream to your baby half an hour before they are going to be in the sun and choose your suncream wisely.
Pick a high SPF such as SPF 50 and make sure that the suncream includes a high UVA and UVB protection score. Many well-known brands have suncream designed specifically for children with fewer chemicals that irritate their skin. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Dermo is a great choice for sensitive baby and toddler skin. You can also buy mineral-based sunscreens such as Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide suncream that is kinder to your baby’s skin.
Suncream will need to be reapplied throughout the day, especially if they are playing in the water or going swimming. Make sure to reapply suncream as soon as they are out of the water or choose a waterproof suncream with a high SPF.
Additional summer sun ideas
Summer Sun Advice: Tips to Keep Baby Safe in Summer
Accessories such as pram fans and a cool bath, before they go to bed, can help them cope with high summer temperatures. Keep your baby’s room cool by keeping the blinds closed during the day and purchase a room thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature.
Final thoughts on keeping baby safe in summer
By following all these tips you will be able to have a fun and enjoyable summer while also staying sun safe. It is worth remembering that young babies are unable to regulate their own temperature until they are around three months, so you should limit the time they are exposed to the sun or out and about in high temperatures.
Making sure your baby is kept safe by buying appropriate clothing, suncream, and accessories for summer will help protect them during the summer months and will also ensure that their skin is protected in the long term.
Know the signs of heatstroke and what to do
Although it is ideal to avoid the intense sun during summer, it is also good to know the signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion in a baby.
During the high heat of the summer months be on the lookout for the following symptoms of heat stroke in a baby:
- A high temperature of over 39 degrees
- Rapid pulse
- Vomiting
- Lethargy or floppiness
- Shallow breathing.
If you are worried that your baby has heat stroke
make sure to get them out of the sun as soon as possible. Call 999 or take your baby to A&E immediately if they show the above signs of heatstroke.
Milestones Photography, Newborn Photography, Studio Photography
Family Photography, Milestones Photography, Newborn Photography, Pregnancy Photoshoot, Studio Photography
Cake smashes are fast becoming one of the most popular ways to celebrate little ones first birthday. Babies love messy play and splashing in the bath and these sessions combine both. Add in this all being capture on camera and you have the perfect memories and treasured photos to mark this big milestone.
Cake smash photoshoots include:
1. Some non messy portraits at the start
2. Cake smash – Cake and set completely personalised for your choice of theme
3. A splash in our minature roll top bath to clean up
A unique and personalised cake smash set
My cake smash sets are all individual and tailored to your choice of colour and theme. Upon booking i’ll send out a questionnaire to get an idea of the cake smash theme you would like and then i’ll spend some time researching ideas and discussing them with you to pur together something that matches your ideas perfectly.
Once we have decided on a plan i’ll let my baker at Iced rose know and she will create a custom cake to match! If your little one has food allergies just let me know and Hannah will make sure the cake meets your child’s needs.
Cake smash theme ideas!
Some families opt for a theme that matches their home decor, others choose something that the child really loves and others opt for a more neutral theme! Whatever you decide I will make it come to life! In order to help you plan the perfect set I have put together a gallery of examples of different cake smashes I have captured in the past! This list is not conclusive and will be added to regularly so do pop back and take another look for inspiration at a later date if you wish.
What to chat through your cake smash theme ideas then drop me a message via the form below and we can have a chat.
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