Parvovirus

Also known as Slapped Cheek Disease or Fifth Disease, this is an infectious disease that mainly affects children and causes a rash that starts on the cheeks - hence the name. Speak to your doctor if you come into contact with slapped cheek disease and you are pregnant, since this infection can be harmful to the baby (if you are infected in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, there is a 15% increased risk of miscarriage). Immunity can be checked with a blood test (around 60% of women are immune) - although most babies of pregnant women infected with slapped cheek disease are not affected.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

The pelvic floor muscles give you control over your bladder and bowels. They can become weak as the result of stresses of pregnancy. Pelvic floor exercises can help to protect you from incontinence during and after your pregnancy and later on in life. You may be shown these exercises in antenatal classes - if not ask your midwife about them.

Pessaries - Prostaglandin

Often used when inducing labour, a prostaglandin pessary inserted high in the vagina encourages the cervix to 'ripen' i.e. soften and open.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

This is a rare inherited disorder in which the body is unable to deal with a nutrient called phenylalanine. Phenylalanine is an amino acid and is found in most protein foods. It must be excluded from the diet - otherwise it accumulates in the body, resulting in epilepsy and severe learning difficulties. All newborn babies are screened for PKU using the heel prick test.

For more advice, support and information visit the National Society for Phenylketonuria (NSPKU): www.nspku.org.

Screening means that babies with the condition can be treated early - through a special diet - which will prevent severe disability and allow them to lead normal lives.

Pica

The term applied to cravings in pregnancy (and also childhood) to eat non-food substances such as earth. In some cases this can be a symptom of iron-deficiency anaemia.

Placenta

The placenta, in the womb, connects the blood system of a pregnant woman to her developing baby - and supplies the baby with food, oxygen and antibodies. After the baby has been born, the placenta will be delivered and is known as the afterbirth.  An injection -syntocinon - is often offered at the end of labour to speed up the passing of the placenta and to help prevent heavy bleeding.

Placenta Praevia

Early scans may show that the placenta is attached rather too low in the womb and may obstruct the neck of the womb. As the womb grows and the baby develops, however, the placenta is usually carried upwards and, by 20 weeks of pregnancy, is generally in a position where it will cause no problems.

In some women, however (around 1 in 10 of those who have a low-lying placenta in early pregnancy) it remains too low. This is the condition known as placenta praevia. A low-lying placenta after 20 weeks can cause vaginal bleeding and may also prevent the baby from getting into the normal ‘head first’ position ready for birth. A caesarean section will often be necessary.

If placenta praevia is suspected or diagnosed, you are likely to be given additional ultrasound scan/s to monitor progress. You will also need to observe for vaginal bleeding.

Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is a rare condition whereby the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterus before the baby is born. The condition can deprive your baby of oxygen and nutrients and cause severe bleeding that can be dangerous to mother and baby. If you experience bleeding at any time during pregnancy contact your doctor immediately.

Poisoning

A child can swallow, inhale, or absorb poison through the skin. Once in the body, the poison may enter the bloodstream and be carried quickly to all organs and tissues. The treatment that your child will need depends on the type of poison involved.

Corrosive poisonous substances, e.g. bleach, dishwasher powder, petrol:
If the substance is on the skin, wash it away with water. If your child has swallowed something corrosive, get them to rinse out their mouth, and then give frequent sips of milk or water. Dial 999 for an ambulance - and give information about the poison.

Non-corrosive poisonous substances, e.g. medicines, tablets, alcohol, poisonous plants:
Dial 999 for an ambulance. Give as much information about the poison as possible.

Never make the child vomit. It is helpful if you can:

• Try to find out how much has been taken

• Take any relevant medicine bottles/tablet containers etc to show the medics

• Try to find out how long ago the poison was taken

• If the child is sick, keep samples of the vomit for analysis

Prevention of poisoning

• Keep all alcohol and medicines locked away

• Keep medicines in their child resistant containers

• Household chemicals e.g. cleaning products, bleach, etc should be kept in a safe place or locked away

Poisonous Plants

The list of poisonous plants commonly found in our houses and gardens is surprisingly long. Babies and children playing in the garden should be closely supervised until they are old enough to learn that they must not touch or eat the plants. Some of the most well-known poisonous plants include:

• Digitalis (foxgloves)
• Laburnum
• Yew berries
• Deadly nightshade
• Mushrooms
• Privet
• Rhubarb leaves
• Sweet pea seeds
• Poppies

In the house, make sure that all plants are well out of reach.

Positional Plagiocephaly (flathead)

Babies’ skulls are made up of several ‘plates’ of bone that are not yet tightly joined together (the skull gradually fuses together as they get older).

Spending long periods in one position (e.g. on their backs when sleeping) can result in a flattened appearance of part of the head (e.g. the back of the head) and this is known as ‘positional plagiocephaly’. Mild flattening is very common. It is estimated that about half of babies under 12 months are affected.

The condition is a cosmetic one and does not cause any medical or developmental problems. Once the baby is old enough to change position (e.g. when sleeping) and the constant pressure is reduced, the condition usually gradually resolves itself or improves. There are corrective means that can be used i.e. a helmet, but this is not usually offered under the NHS.

You can help the natural improvement to baby’s head shape by giving plenty of play time on his or her tummy - and also sitting them up to watch the world!

Postnatal Depression

It is quite usual to experience ‘baby blues’ three or four days after the birth of your baby. You may feel tearful and experience emotional highs and lows. This is not the same as postnatal depression, which is more serious.

Estimates vary, but it is believed that up to a quarter or more women suffer from some degree of postnatal depression. It may start soon after the birth or take weeks or months to develop. Most new mums go through bad patches, but postnatal depression is a constant problem. It may gradually improve, but may also require medication or counselling.

If you feel you may be suffering from this debilitating condition, don’t hesitate to talk to your health visitor or doctor. It can also be very helpful to meet up with other mums and compare notes.

Helpful organisations include:

• The Association for Postnatal Illness (APNI): www.apni.org. Helpline: 020 7386 8885

• Meet-A-Mum-Association (MAMA): www.mama.co.uk.

Pre-eclampsia

This is a dangerous condition that can develop in the second half of pregnancy. Early symptoms include high blood pressure, oedema (swelling) of the legs, ankles and fingers, and protein in the urine.

Pre-eclampsia is dangerous for both the pregnant woman and her baby. Sufferers may be given drugs to lower blood pressure and told to rest - and will be closely monitored to make sure the condition doesn’t worsen. In late pregnancy induction of labour, or a caesarean section, may be necessary. After the birth, blood pressure should return to normal again.

Pre-eclampsia danger signs - seek immediate advice from a health professional if you have any of the following:

• Severe headache

• Problems with vision, such as blurring or flashing before the eyes

• Severe pain just below the ribs

• Vomiting

• Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet

For more information, advice and support on this condition visit Action on Pre-eclampsia www.apec.org.uk or visit Tommy’s The Baby Charity:www.tommys.org.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates (oligosaccharides) and a source of dietary fibre. These special nutrients improve health by stimulating the growth of “friendly” gut bacteria.

Prebiotics are found in wholegrains, bananas, asparagus, artichokes, garlic, onions, tomatoes, chicory. There are many prebiotic and probiotic supplements available in the market; consult with your healthcare professional whether to take any in pregnancy.

The prebiotic fibres are naturally found in breastmilk in large quantities and are also added to baby milks. They absorb water and this has the effect of making stools softer and easier to pass. PRÆBIOTIK® is our registered trademark which indicates that our products contain a special mix of prebiotics, derived from the lactose in milk.

Probiotics are the “friendly” bacteria which naturally exist in our gut and thrive on prebiotic fibres we ingest. They fight potentially harmful (pathogenic) bacteria in our digestive system. Probiotics are traditionally found in yogurt-based foods.

What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

Pregnancy Book

This is a useful and informative book published by the Department of Health that is given out to women during their first pregnancy.

Premature Birth

A baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy is technically premature.

If you would like more information visit Tommy’s The Baby Charity: www.tommys.org.

Prescriptions

These are free whilst you are pregnant and for 12 months after you have given birth. Your child also qualifies for free prescriptions until the age of 16.

Rash

Many babies develop rashes, ranging from tiny white ‘milk’ spots, a red ‘heat’ rash that gets worse when the baby cries, to rashes that indicate an illness such as chickenpox. If your baby or child develops a rash, particularly if he or she is unwell, check with the doctor.

Reflexes

Primitive reflexes are present in newborn babies, but disappear in the first few months of life. Amongst others, primitive reflexes include the rooting reflex, where baby instinctively roots to find the nipple when the corner of the mouth or cheek are touched; the grasping reflex, when the baby will grasp a finger and hold on (very gratifying for older brothers and sisters!); and the walking reflex, where the baby makes forward stepping movements when held upright.

Reflexology

Reflexology is generally considered safe in pregnancy, provided all is well with your pregnancy. It should be avoided if there is a history of blood clots, placenta praevia, pre-eclampsia or if there has been any bleeding in pregnancy. You are advised to use a qualified reflexoligist who specialises in pregnancy. To find a qualified reflexologist in your area visit the following website: http://www.aor.org.uk/.

Reflux/Regurgitation

Babies often bring up some of their feed. It may be a small amount; it may also seem a huge amount, especially if a bubble of air is caught behind it! Some babies are more susceptible to this, especially if they are very hungry prior to a feed or swallow more than normal as they feed. If your baby is thriving and gaining weight well, and is not crying during or after feeds you should not be concerned. This is rarely serious - keep a muslin cloth handy to mop up. Consult your health visitor or doctor if you are worried, or if your baby fails to put on weight.

Visit the Infant and Adult Gastric Reflux Support Group for more information: www.livingwithreflux.org/.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

This is characterised by the urge to move around in bed to relieve crawling, tingling or burning sensations deep inside your legs. RLS may occur if you are sitting for long periods. You may find some relief from massage or the use of relaxation techniques. Avoid lying in bed reading or watching television before you go to sleep - the longer you lie still, the worse the symptoms will become. Avoid caffeine and antihistamines because they can make the symptoms worse.

Rhesus D Status

Blood group and Rhesus D (RhD) status will be tested early in pregnancy. If you are RhD-negative this could cause problems, particularly for future babies. RhD-negative women are, therefore, routinely offered an anti-D injection.

Ringworm

A fungal skin condition that causes red, ring-shaped patches on the skin.

Roseola

Roseola infantum is an infectious disease caused by a type of herpes virus. It generally affects babies and toddlers. Starting with a fever, a rash appears on the body four or five days later and this often spreads over the whole body. The rash usually clears up very quickly. No treatment is necessary except liquid paracetamol, e.g. Calpol, in the early stages to reduce the temperature if required. One attack gives lifelong immunity.

Roundworm

In children, the common type of roundworm found is threadworm. These live inside the child’s bottom and eggs are laid around the anus, causing itching, particularly at night. The child scratches his or her bottom and picks up eggs under the fingernails. These are easily transferred into the mouth and swallowed and the whole cycle continues. If your child has a very itchy bottom, especially at night, look for thread-like worms in their stools.

If you find them, consult your doctor, who will prescribe anti-worm treatment for the whole family. This is a single-dose treatment followed two weeks later by a second single dose. Keep nails short and make sure children wash their hands after going to the lavatory. Wash your hands after changing a nappy and also before eating and before preparing food.

Anti-worm treatment may not be suitable for babies under three months, for breastfeeding mothers or during pregnancy (particularly during the first trimester). In this instance the doctor may recommend following a strict hygiene routine.

Rubella/German Measles

This is a viral infection that is serious only for women in the first months of pregnancy who have no immunity to it - exposure in this case can cause severe problems for the developing baby. Fortunately, most women have immunity following routine vaccination as a child. Children are immunised against rubella at 12-15 months and again before starting school. Rubella infection itself also confers immunity.

If you are planning a pregnancy, and are not sure whether you have been vaccinated against rubella, consult your doctor. If you come into contact with rubella, are pregnant, and are unsure whether you have immunity, see your doctor immediately.

SENSE (National Deaf-Blind and Rubella Association) can provide more information, support and advice - visit: www.sense.org.uk.

The following website can provide useful information on immunisations and your child: www.immunisation.nhs.uk.

Rupture Of Membranes

See ARM (Artificial Rupture Of Membranes) and Waters Breaking

Salmonella

Food poisoning may be caused by salmonella. The most likely sources of salmonella are poultry products. Vulnerable groups such as babies, children, pregnant women, the frail and the elderly should avoid foods containing raw egg (mousses, home-made mayonnaise etc) and any eggs given should be well cooked. Always wash hands after handling raw meat or poultry and make sure that raw foods are stored separately from ready-to-eat foods.

For more information on salmonella, food poisoning and keeping food safe visit: www.eatwell.gov.uk.

Scabies

This is a highly contagious, very itchy skin infestation, often appearing between the fingers, on the wrists, genitals and armpits. It is caused by a mite which burrows into the skin to lay eggs. It is generally treated with an insecticide applied to the whole body - and all those who have been in close contact with the sufferer should also be treated.

Scarlet Fever

This is a severe throat infection (also referred to as scarlatina), sometimes seen in childhood, caused by a strain of streptococcal bacteria. Symptoms include sore throat, fever, headaches, vomiting. A rash may appear and the surface of the tongue may become red and swollen. A doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics.

Seat Belts

If you are pregnant, seat belts should go above and below the bump, not over it!

To download your free copy of the government publication "Buckle up for Baby and You" click here.

Separation Anxiety

Towards the end of their first year of life, babies often start to fear being separated from their parents. This is a perfectly normal stage.

Sex During And After Pregnancy

During a normal pregnancy you can continue to have sex throughout the pregnancy. If you are having any problems with your pregnancy, or have a history of miscarriages, ask your doctor or midwife for advice.

After the birth sex may be the last thing on your mind! You can begin to have sex again when you, or your partner, feel it is the right time. Some women prefer to wait until after their six-week postnatal check, others go for it sooner. Many couples seem to resume their sex life somewhere between one and three months after the birth, although there is also a minority who wait longer. There are no set rules.

Show

A small show of blood is often a sign that labour is about to start (although not necessarily straight away). The show comes from the plug of mucus sealing the neck of the cervix becoming dislodged, ready for the birth.

Sibling Rivalry

The competition that often exists between brothers and sisters.

For more information, top tips and advice visit Parentline Plus: www.parentlineplus.org.uk.

Sickness

See 'Morning Sickness'

SIDS - Cot Death

Most cot deaths (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) occur in babies under six months. We do not know exactly why they happen, but some theories suggest that affected babies may have problems with regulation of breathing, or temperature control.

To reduce the risk of cot death:

• Do not smoke during or after pregnancy - and do not allow others to smoke around the baby.

• ‘Back to sleep' - put baby on his or her back to sleep, with feet at the bottom of the cot or pram (‘Feet to Foot').

• Do not cover baby's head (or use a hat) when they are asleep.

• Avoid overheating the baby. Keep baby's room at a temperature of around 18°C (bedroom temperature).

• Avoid excess bedding (bedding for babies). Do not use duvets, quilts or pillows for babies under 1 year old.

• Check their tummy (not hands or feet) to make sure they are not too hot.

• Do not put the cot next to a radiator, and place the cot out of direct sunlight making sure that it is not within reach of any kind of cord e.g. light or curtain pull.

• It is ideal to have a new mattress for each new baby. However if this is not possible check that the mattress is undamaged and that it is thoroughly clean before re-using.

• Don't share a bed with your baby - particularly if you or your partner have been drinking, are very tired (or taking medication that causes drowsiness), if either of you smoke, or if the baby was premature or low birthweight.

• Current advice is for babies to sleep in a cot in their parents' room for the first six months.

• Do not fall asleep with your baby on the sofa - it is not safe. Always put them back in their cot to sleep.
• Settling your baby to sleep (day and night) with a dummy can reduce the risk of cot death, even if the dummy falls out while your baby is asleep. (If breastfeeding, do not begin to give a dummy until your baby is one month old to ensure that breastfeeding is well established.) Don't force your baby to take a dummy if he or she doesn't want it and never coat the dummy in anything sweet.
• If your baby is unwell seek medical advice.

The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths can provide more information, advice and support on cot death (SIDS) - visit: www.fsid.org.uk.

To download the Department of Health leaflet ‘reduce the risk of cot death, click here.

Slapped Cheek Disease

Also known as Fifth disease or Parvovirus, this is an infectious disease that mainly affects children and causes a rash that starts on the cheeks - hence the name. Speak to your doctor if you come into contact with slapped cheek disease and you are pregnant, since this infection can be harmful to the baby. Immunity can be checked with a blood test (around 60% of women are immune) - although most babies of pregnant women infected with slapped cheek disease are not affected.

Smoking

Smoking is harmful during pregnancy, increasing the risk of miscarriage, low-birth weight, premature birth and even stillbirth. It can also result in health and developmental problems for your baby, including a higher risk of cot death.

For help and information on giving up smoking, visit NHS Stop Smoking Services: www.gosmokefree.nhs.uk or contact the NHS Pregnancy Smoking Helpline - 0800 169 9 169 (open daily from 12 noon to 9.00 p.m.)

Soft Spot

Also known as the ‘fontanelle’, this is the name for either one of two membrane-covered areas on a baby’s skull. The most obvious one is on top of the baby’s head (the anterior fontanelle). This will gradually disappear over the course of the first 18 months as the baby grows and the bones of the skull move closer together. A sunken fontanelle can indicate dehydration.

Spina Bifida

This is a type of neural tube defect which occurs when the bones, usually at the bottom of the spine, do not join properly. As a result, when a baby is born, part of the spinal cord is exposed which causes varying degrees of nerve damage. Antenatal blood tests measure the levels of AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) - high levels are associated with spina bifida - and 90 per cent of cases are picked up during ultrasound scans.

Taking folic acid during early pregnancy reduces the risk of spina bifida. Click here for foods that will also help increase folic acid levels.

The Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (ASBAH) can provide more information, advice and support - visit www.asbah.org.

Spotting

Spotting during pregnancy is when a small amount of vaginal bleeding similar to, but lighter than, a period. It can vary in colour from red to brown. Spotting can be quite common during the first three months of pregnancy.

It's not usually serious, but it's always best to take any bleeding seriously and call your doctor, midwife or hospital straight away for advice. You may need a vaginal examination or an ultrasound to rule out any complications and to make sure that you and your baby are fine.

Squint

Newborn babies often have a squint in the first few weeks of life. If it persists beyond three months, ask to be referred to an eye specialist. It is important that it is treated as soon as possible.

Sterilising

It is recommended that, for the first 12 months of baby's life, all equipment used for bottle feeding should be sterilised before use. This includes bottles, teats and breast pumps. Dummies should also be sterilised throughout the first year. Equipment should be thoroughly cleaned in hot soapy water before sterilising - either by steam, microwave or cold water sterilising methods. Equipment used for preparing and feeding your baby are the weaning stage, e.g. bowls, spoons, chopping boards, do not need to be sterilised but should be thoroughly cleaned with hot soapy water both before and after feeding.  

Sticky Eye

Babies are very prone to sticky eye. To clean the eyes:

• Wash your hands thoroughly

• Using a small piece of cotton gauze or cotton wool dampened in cool, boiled water, gently wipe baby’s eye from the outside corner to the inside corner (near the nose)

• Wipe once, then discard the cotton gauze or cotton wool, and repeat the process using a fresh piece

• Resist the urge to scrub or pick!

If the sticky eye persists or gets worse, consult your doctor.

Stings

Do not use tweezers to remove bee or wasp stings, but scrape them out if possible with the edge of a card (such as a credit card) or a blunt knife. If a child is stung in the mouth or throat, seek medical help immediately as swelling may obstruct breathing. Give ice to suck to help reduce swelling.

Stitches

If you have an episiotomy (or a tear) during labour, you will probably have some stitches. The midwife will keep a check on them and stitches usually dissolve by themselves in 10-14 days. If you remain uncomfortable after this or have any swelling, tenderness or discharge, see your doctor - sometimes small pieces of stitch can remain longer and cause irritation or infection.

Stye

This is a small abscess at the base of an eyelash, causing swelling and discomfort. It usually clears up by itself, but check with your pharmacist or doctor if it persists.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

See Cot Death (SIDS)

Sun Protection

Suncream for babies and children has never been easier to find in the shops - make sure you use it! You can also find beach gear such as sunhats and special beach suits that protect against sunburn. If your child does suffer sunburn, apply soothing lotion such as aloe vera or calamine. Consult your doctor if the sunburn is severe.

During pregnancy, skin may be more sensitive to sunlight. Take care to use a high-factor sunscreen and avoid staying in the sun for long periods.

Sure Start

Sure Start is a government programme aimed at giving the best start in life for every child and increasing the availability of child care, particularly for those on low incomes.

You’ll find more information on the website: www.surestart.gov.uk.

Swaddling

Very young babies can feel more secure if they are firmly wrapped. If you wrap your baby, use a cotton cellular blanket or a cotton sheet - a woollen shawl or blanket may make them too hot and it is important to avoid this. Using a triangular shape, lay the baby on the cotton blanket or sheet with his or her head above the long side of the triangle. Wrap one side over the baby's arm and body and tuck it in beneath them, then wrap the other side over the other arm and tuck it beneath the baby.

Sweep

If a pregnant woman is overdue, she may be offered a membrane sweep by her midwife or doctor. While making an internal examination, he or she will 'sweep' a finger around the neck of the womb, which may help to increase the chance of labour starting.

Swimming - For Baby

Take your baby swimming - some health professionals recommend waiting until babies have had their immunisations, but others (including the Department of Health’s publication ‘Birth to five’) say there’s no need to wait.

Request a copy or download individual sections of the Department of Health ‘Birth to five: 2007 edition'.

Swimming - Pregnancy

Swimming is great exercise during pregnancy since the water supports the weight of the baby.

For information on exercising safely during pregnancy click here.

Swollen Glands

Lymph nodes (also referred to as ‘glands’) are part of our immune systems. Swollen glands are a sign that we are fighting an infection and appear as swollen, tender lumps in the neck, armpits or groin. Sore throats often make the glands in the neck swollen.