Labour

There are three stages of labour:

The first stage
In this stage the contractions will soften the cervix and the cervix will begin to gradually dilate. During this time you may experience a 'show'. When the cervix has dilated to 3 centimetres you are said to be in 'established' labour. Strong regular contractions lasting about 45 to 60 seconds and coming every 5 to 10 minutes will indicate that you are in established labour. The time interval from established labour to full dilation (10 centimetres) will vary, but often takes longer with a first labour.

The second stage
This stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated and lasts until the birth of the baby. Contractions will become stronger and closer together and you will feel the urge to push with each one; this will push the baby down the birth canal.

The third stage
This is the delivery of the placenta. After the baby is born, more contractions will expel the placenta. With consent, an injection of syntometrine will be given to the mother to speed up the delivery of the placenta.

Lanugo

This is the name for the body hair that develops on a baby's body in the womb. It usually disappears by the time a baby is born, but babies can be born with some lanugo remaining - often over their shoulders and down their spines. The hair will rub off soon after birth.

Lazy Eye

Some children suffer from a squint (strabismus), where the eyes are misaligned - either all the time or some of time. This may need to be corrected by the wearing of an eye patch on the good eye - forcing the other eye to work properly. It is important that any eye problems are identified as soon as possible. If your baby or child is squinting, seek medical advice. You may be referred to an eye specialist.

LCPs

LCPs is short for ‘long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids' which are a type of unsaturated fats that play many useful roles in the body. Two of the most common LCPs are the Omega 3 LCP known as DHA, and the Omega 6 LCP known as AA.

AA and DHA are important components of the retina of the eye and of the brain and they are therefore of major importance during the visual and neurological development of babies in the last 3 months of pregnancy and first few months after birth.

During pregnancy, your baby receives LCPs through your placenta. Both DHA and AA are present in breastmilk. That is why pregnant and breastfeeding mums need to make sure they take plenty of LCP rich food.

Babies whose LCP intake is plentiful during pregnancy and first few months of life through breastmilk or an infant milk with added LCPs, show better visual development and speech, thinking and movement skills when older. Also, the blood pressure tends to be lower in childhood which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life.

Research shows that mums with insufficient intake of LCPs during pregnancy run a higher risk of having babies with smaller heads which may be associated with slower development and consequently poorer academic achievement.

LCPs are found in oily fish (salmon, mackerel, trout, sardines, tuna), eggs, meat, soya, kidney beans and flax seeds (linseeds). Fish is a good source of both AA and DHA and meat and eggs are particularly rich in AA. For pregnant and new mum recipe ideas, visit HiPP's favourite recipes.

If you are not sure your intake of LCPs is sufficient in pregnancy, consult with your healthcare professional whether to take any supplements, there are many available in the market.

AA and DHA can be made from other fats in the diet by babies, but the ability to do so is very limited in the first few months of life, so a dietary source of AA and DHA is desirable to ensure optimum nutrition and development in bottle fed babies in the first 4-6 months of life. Hence, it is very important that you choose an infant milk for your baby which contains LCPs.

Let-down Reflex

When babies suckle at the breast, hormones are triggered which, in seconds, bring milk down to the nipple. This is known as the let-down reflex - for some it is just felt as a tingling sensation, others have likened it to a metal band tightening around their breasts! The reflex can also be triggered by your baby crying (or even by a hot shower). Milk is likely to leak out - which is why it is a good idea to wear breast pads when possible.

Visit The Breastfeeding Network for more information, advice and support on breastfeeding: www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

The let-down reflex can be affected by anxiety or tiredness, so breastfeeding mothers should try to rest and relax as much as they can.

Linea Nigra

This is the name for the vertical, pigmented line which can appear down from the navel during pregnancy. It usually fades afterwards.

Listeriosis

This is an infection that can cause severe problems in pregnancy and for newborn babies (and also in the elderly and others with reduced immunity). The bacteria causing listeriosis can be present in certain foods which you are advised to avoid during pregnancy. These foods include unpasteurised milk, blue cheese, mould-ripened cheeses, unwashed pre-packed salads, pâté of all kinds. You should also ensure that any ready-made meals are thoroughly reheated. Take care to wash hands before and after handling food. Pregnant women should avoid contact with sheep during the lambing period (January to April).

Click here to find out more about foods to avoid during pregnancy.

Lochia

This is the name for the vaginal discharge experienced for 2-6 weeks after the delivery of a baby. The womb contracts and gradually sheds the rest of its lining. At first the lochia is red, then pinky brown and then gradually becomes colourless before stopping naturally. To guard against the risk of infection It is advisable to use pads and not tampons.

Lochia is a normal post-natal experience. You should seek medical advice, however, if:

• The discharge remains heavy and bright red for more than one week
• You are needing to use more than one sanitary towel in an hour
• You have large blood clots
• The discharge is offensive (smelly)
• You have a fever or chills

Low Birthweight

The official classification of ‘low birthweight’ is a baby who is born weighing under 2500g or 5.5lb. Smoking and consuming large amounts of caffeine (more than 300mg) during pregnancy can lead to a low birthweight.

A low birthweight may impact upon infant mortality and may cause health problems later in life e.g. the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Click here for more information on caffeine levels in everyday food and drinks For help giving up smoking visit: www.givingupsmoking.co.uk.

Mastitis

This is where the breast (or breasts) becomes inflamed, lumpy and uncomfortable. It can happen in women at any time, but is more likely to develop during breastfeeding, particularly in the first month after giving birth. The most common reason for mastitis to occur is that the baby does not latch on properly and therefore the breast is not emptied properly. Mastitis may be caused by engorgement and/or blocked milk ducts, but if there is an infection present, antibiotic treatment may be necessary.

It is important to continue feeding and not stop (if you are experiencing difficulties feeding then you can express the milk by hand or with a pump). Apply warmth to the affected area, or have a warm bath or shower. If you are feeling unwell rest and take painkillers (your health visitor or GP will advise on the most suitable ones to use).  Try to make sure that your breast is completely empty of milk after feeding to prevent the condition re-occurring.

Ask your health visitor or midwife for advice on feeding techniques or contact one of the breastfeeding support groups featured in our useful contacts.

Maternity Benefits

For a guide to maternity benefits, access the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) website at www.dwp.gov.uk and request the leaflet N117A 'A Guide to Maternity Benefits'. Information on maternity and paternity benefits can also be found on www.direct.gov.uk/parents.

Your local Jobcentre Plus or the Citizens Advice Bureau will also be able to advise you about your rights at work and the benefits you can claim.

Measles

This is a very contagious illness caused by a virus. It is not as common as it used to be since babies are now routinely vaccinated against measles. The MMR vaccine given to babies is a combined vaccine that gives protection against measles, mumps and rubella and the first dose is given around 13 months. If you think your baby or child may have measles, notify your doctor.

For more information see immunisation or visit www.immunisation.nhs.uk.

Meconium

During a baby’s time in the womb, waste matter builds up in his or her gut. This is expelled in the first day or two after the birth as dark, sticky, tar-like faeces. See bowel movements-babies for more information.

Medicines For Babies

If your baby has a fever, or seems to be in pain, check with your doctor or pharmacist who will tell you whether a medicine such as children's liquid paracetamol or liquid ibuprofen would be suitable and what the relevant dosage is.

Membrane Sweep

See ‘Sweep’

Meningitis

Viral meningitis is a relatively mild, flu-like condition, but bacterial meningitis (and its linked condition, septicaemia) is a very serious, life-threatening condition.

Meningitis is an infection of the lining on the brain. In babies and toddlers, early symptoms of bacterial meningitis can include any or all of the following: headache, fever, vomiting, joint or muscle pain, cold hands and feet, shivering. They may have pale, mottled skin, refuse food, be breathing rapidly and have an unusual moaning cry. The condition worsens rapidly and the sufferer may become very sleepy, floppy and unresponsive. In some cases there may be a rash on the body, which remains visible when pressed with a glass.

The glass test: press the side of a clear drinking glass firmly against the rash so you can see if the rash fades and loses colour under pressure. If it doesn't change colour, contact your doctor immediately or seek other medical assistance.

If you suspect meningitis, you should always seek medical assistance immediately.

For more information, advice and support visit:

• The Meningitis Trust: www.meningitis-trust.org.
• The Meningitis Research Foundation: www.meningitis.org

Milestones

Babies vary considerably in the age at which they reach physical developmental milestones. But all milestones are reached in the same order.

Milk Spots/Milia

These are tiny white spots that often occur on the face in newborn babies. They usually clear by about 6 weeks. Gently wash the skin with warm water and pat dry. Avoid touching or squeezing spots or applying any lotions or creams.

Miscarriage

Most miscarriages occur during the first 13 weeks and it’s been estimated that around one in six recognised pregnancies end this way.

Symptoms include heavy bleeding, backache and stomach pains. Contact your doctor, midwife or hospital if you bleed at any time during your pregnancy or if you begin to have pains. But remember that bleeding does not necessarily mean you are miscarrying. And if you are bleeding because you are miscarrying it is unlikely anything you do or don’t do will stop it. A miscarriage is nobody’s fault and many women who have had several miscarriages go on to have normal pregnancies and births.

The Miscarriage Association (www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk) has a helpline on 01924 200 799 (Mon-Fri, 9am - 4pm).

You’ll also find further information on www.direct.gov.uk/ and www.tommys.org.

Morning Sickness

The common name for nausea and sickness often experienced during early pregnancy, morning sickness can happen morning, noon and night!

Snacking on plain foods such as crackers can help. Keep some by your bed and, when you first wake up, nibble a few crackers and then rest for a while before getting up. It often helps to eat little and often. Wrist acupressure bands may help, and also ginger tablets or syrup.

Morning sickness usually gradually wears off towards the end of the first trimester and stops around the 16th to 20th week.

Fennel Tea can help to relieve the symptoms of morning sickness. HiPP Organic have a soothing Fennel Drink which can be bought directly from the HiPP Shop.

For more ideas on foods/snacks/measures that can help click here.

Multiple Births

If you are expecting twins, they will either originate from one egg and be identical (usually sharing the same placenta), or they will originate from two fertilised eggs, not be identical, and each have their own placenta. Your pregnancy will be closely monitored and you are more likely to undergo a caesarean section.

If you are expecting two (or more!) babies, there are several organisations offering information and support. These include:

• The Multiple Births Foundation: www.multiplebirths.org.uk (Telephone: 0208 383 3519 e-mail: info@multiplebirths.org.uk)

• TAMBA (Twins and Multiple Births Association): www.tamba.org.uk/ (Telephone 0870 770 3305 or Freephone Tamba Twinline 0800 138 0509, evenings and weekends)

• Home-Start is a charitable organisation offering support to families: www.home-start.org.uk.

Mumps

A viral illness, mumps causes inflammation and swelling of glands inside the jaw. It is rarely seen in babies and children since the MMR vaccine gives protection against mumps as well as measles and rubella.

For more information see immunisation or visit www.immunisation.nhs.uk.

Nappy Rash

Some babies are more prone to nappy rash than others and it can also appear, or seem to get worse, when a baby is teething. Change baby's nappy frequently, wash the area gently with water, pat dry and use a suitable protective/barrier cream. If the rash persists or is severe, consult the health visitor, doctor or pharmacist - there are more powerful creams and ointments that can be used. Nappy rash may also be caused by a thrush infection - if this is the case you will need a prescription for a special anti-fungal cream.

Nausea During Pregnancy

Often referred as morning sickness, nausea in pregnancy can be very distressing and debilitating. The good news is that it does generally gradually wear off and then stop around the 16th to 20th week. It often helps to eat little and often. Wrist acupressure bands may help, and also ginger tablets or syrup.

Fennel Tea can help to relieve the symptoms of morning sickness. HiPP Organic have a soothing Fennel Drink which can be bought directly from the HiPP Shop.

For more ideas on foods/snacks that can help click here.

Navel

A common name for the umbilicus - or belly button!

Newborn Bloodspot/Heel Prick Test

A small amount of blood is taken from baby’s heel in this blood test which is carried out routinely on babies around 5-8 days. It tests for the rare inherited disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) and congenital hypothyroidism (CHT). The midwife pricks the baby's heel and collects some drops of blood on to a card. In many areas the test will also check for sickle cell disorders (SCD) and cystic fibrosis (CF).

For further information, see www.newbornbloodspot.screening.nhs.uk/.

NHS Direct

This is a very helpful government organisation - ring them at any time when you have any health queries (it's very comforting to know you can do this, particularly when you have young babies/children) - 0845 46 47.

Nits

Headlice or nits are extremely common, especially among young school children. Headlice and their eggs (nits) do not result from poor hygiene - they prefer clean hair and scalps! Ask your pharmacist for advice and treat the whole family. Notify the school too.  

Always seek medical advice before using insecticide lotions on young babies (under 6 months), pregnant women or people with asthma and allergies. Do not use insecticide lotions or rinses 'just in case'. They should only be used if live lice are found.

Headlice are growing increasingly resistant to the insecticides used to remove them and you may prefer to try 'wet combing', a chemical-free, method of combating the problem:

• After washing the hair, apply liberal amounts of conditioner and comb through

• Using a special fine-toothed nit comb (available from chemists) systematically comb through every strand of hair right from the roots to the ends

• Check the comb for lice after each stroke. This is likely to take around half an hour, so allow enough time

• Rinse the hair as normal. Repeat this procedure every three days for at least two weeks.

Nosebleed

Don't be worried if your child is prone to nosebleeds, they are quite common in young children - and a little blood goes a long way, so it often looks worse than it is! You can usually stop a nosebleed by pressing both sides of the nose together (the soft part towards the end) for 10-15 minutes (avoid blowing the nose for some time afterwards). Repeat if necessary.  

Nosebleeds In Pregnancy

Nosebleeds can be common in pregnancy - increased blood supply puts pressure on the nose's delicate veins and they may rupture more easily, bringing about minor nosebleeds. Try to blow your nose gently and if possible avoid violent sneezing. To help stop the bleeding follow the advice above.  

Nuchal Translucency Scan (NT)

This is a special ultrasound scan carried out around 11-13 weeks of pregnancy. The amount of fluid lying under the skin at the back of the baby's neck is measured. A computer programme uses this measurement, plus the size of the baby and the mother's age to calculate the risk of Down's Syndrome for that baby.

Nursery Temperature

The ideal bedroom temperature for a baby is between 16-20°C (18°C is just right). Room thermometers can be obtained cheaply from a number of retailers.

Oedema

Ankles, feet and fingers often swell a little in pregnancy. Providing that there is no protein in your urine and your blood pressure is normal there is no reason to be concerned. Try to avoid standing for long periods and put your feet up as much as you can. It is important to drink plenty of fluids.

Oxytocin

This may be given in a drip when labour is induced. The oxytocin stimulates contractions.

An injection containing oxytocin is often given at the end of labour to speed up the passing of the placenta and to help prevent heavy bleeding.