Average fetal length and weight:

Can you guess what is my present weight at the moment?
NO? I knew it!
My mom also wonders every time when she stares at her bump how much weight she is carrying in er tummy..this is a very interesting and evident question that comes to the mind of any mother who is carrying a baby..

But one more important thing to note here at this stage is that all pregnancies are different and all babies are also different as far as the growth pattern and weight gain and development is concerned. Hence do not panic a lot if you see that your babies weight is more or less than the average it should be at that point of gestational age.

I will tell you why we grow differently..
The thing is at some times we feel very hungry and energetic and tend to have more nutritions than some other times. Hence it may happen quite naturally that we are gaining more weight and maturing more at some gestational age than some other point of time.Hence the bottom line is do not worry if you notice little discrepancies in the fetal weight gain according to gestational age..rather consult your doctor if you are too much concerned :)

Average fetal length and weight:

From early in pregnancy, babies grow at different rates, so these numbers are merely averages. Your baby's actual length and weight may vary substantially. Don't worry too much if an ultrasound indicates that your baby is much smaller or larger. (Your practitioner will let you know if it's time to worry about how big your baby is.) By full-term, your baby may end up weighing less than 5 pounds or more than 9.

Note that babies are measured from the crown (or top) of the head to the rump (or bottom) until about 20 weeks. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against his torso during the first half of pregnancy and very hard to measure.

After that, babies are measured from head to toe.

See our help section if you have questions about how we count the weeks of pregnancy and gestational age.

Gestational age	Length (US)	Weight (US)	Length (cm)	Mass (g)
	(crown to rump)		(crown to rump)
8 weeks	0.63 inch	0.04 ounce	1.6 cm	1 gram
9 weeks	0.90 inch	0.07 ounce	2.3 cm	2 grams
10 weeks	1.22 inch	0.14 ounce	3.1 cm	4 grams
11 weeks	1.61 inch	0.25 ounce	4.1 cm	7 grams
12 weeks	2.13 inches	0.49 ounce	5.4 cm	14 grams
13 weeks	2.91 inches	0.81 ounce	7.4 cm	23 grams
14 weeks	3.42 inches	1.52 ounce	8.7 cm	43 grams
15 weeks	3.98 inches	2.47 ounces	10.1 cm	70 grams
16 weeks	4.57 inches	3.53 ounces	11.6 cm	100 grams
17 weeks	5.12 inches	4.94 ounces	13 cm	140 grams
18 weeks	5.59 inches	6.70 ounces	14.2 cm	190 grams
19 weeks	6.02 inches	8.47 ounces	15.3 cm	240 grams
20 weeks	6.46 inches	10.58 ounces	16.4 cm	300 grams
	(crown to heel)		(crown to heel)
20 weeks	10.08 inches	10.58 ounces	25.6 cm	300 grams
21 weeks	10.51 inches	12.70 ounces	26.7 cm	360 grams
22 weeks	10.94 inches	15.17 ounces	27.8 cm	430 grams
23 weeks	11.38 inches	1.10 pound	28.9 cm	501 grams
24 weeks	11.81 inches	1.32 pound	30 cm	600 grams
25 weeks	13.62 inches	1.46 pound	34.6 cm	660 grams
26 weeks	14.02 inches	1.68 pound	35.6 cm	760 grams
27 weeks	14.41 inches	1.93 pound	36.6 cm	875 grams
28 weeks	14.80 inches	2.22 pounds	37.6 cm	1005 grams
29 weeks	15.2 inches	2.54 pounds	38.6 cm	1153 grams
30 weeks	15.71 inches	2.91 pounds	39.9 cm	1319 grams
31 weeks	16.18 inches	3.31 pounds	41.1 cm	1502 grams
32 weeks	16.69 inches	3.75 pounds	42.4 cm	1702 grams
33 weeks	17.20 inches	4.23 pounds	43.7 cm	1918 grams
34 weeks	17.72 inches	4.73 pounds	45 cm	2146 grams
35 weeks	18.19 inches	5.25 pounds	46.2 cm	2383 grams
36 weeks	18.66 inches	5.78 pounds	47.4 cm	2622 grams
37 weeks	19.13 inches	6.30 pounds	48.6 cm	2859 grams
38 weeks	19.61 inches	6.80 pounds	49.8 cm	3083 grams
39 weeks	19.96 inches	7.25 pounds	50.7 cm	3288 grams
40 weeks	20.16 inches	7.63 pounds	51.2 cm	3462 grams
41 weeks	20.35 inches	7.93 pounds	51.7 cm	3597 grams
42 weeks	20.28 inches	8.12 pounds	51.5 cm	3685 grams

taken from :http://www.babycenter.com/


Fetal Development at different gestational age:

9 weeks of gestation:start of fetal stage to 25 weeks:
The fetal stage commences at the beginning of the 9th week. At the start of the fetal stage, the fetus is typically about 30 mm (1.2 inches) in length from crown to rump, and weighs about 8 grams.The head makes up nearly half of the fetus' size.Breathing-like movement of the fetus is necessary for stimulation of lung development, rather than for obtaining oxygen.The heart, hands, feet, brain and other organs are present, but are only at the beginning of development and have minimal operation.

Fetuses are not capable of feeling pain at the beginning of the fetal stage, and will not be able to feel pain until the third trimester.At this point in development, uncontrolled movements and twitches occur as muscles, the brain and pathways begin to develop.

16 to 25 weeks after fertilization:
A woman pregnant for the first time (i.e. a primiparous woman) typically feels fetal movements at about 21 weeks, whereas a woman who has already given birth at least two times (i.e. a multiparous woman) will typically feel movements by 20 weeks. By the end of the fifth month, the fetus is about 20 cm (8 inches).

26 to 40 weeks of gestation:
The amount of body fat rapidly increases. Lungs are not fully mature. Thalamic brain connections, which mediate sensory input, form. Bones are fully developed, but are still soft and pliable. Iron, calcium, and phosphorus become more abundant. Fingernails reach the end of the fingertips. The lanugo begins to disappear, until it is gone except on the upper arms and shoulders. Small breast buds are present on both sexes. Head hair becomes coarse and thicker. Birth is imminent and occurs around the 40th week. The fetus is considered full-term between weeks 35 and 40, which means that the fetus is considered sufficiently developed for life outside the uterus.It may be 48 to 53 cm (19 to 21 inches) in length, when born. Control of movement is limited at birth, and purposeful voluntary movements develop all the way until puberty.

taken from:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fetus

Newborn Baby birth weight:

Oh My God!They are tracking my weight from now on?
Great lord!
I was under the impression that people begin to discuss and criticise about weight only after they are adults :)
My mom herself is overweight ;) and you know something, everytime momma decided to have some pastry or sweet, someone from the family or friends was behind her back like a shadow with red eyes and nodding head that she should not have that piece of cake or sweet! Poor mom! Now that she is diabetic with my presence she is can't even think of having a small piece of any sweet..

I cannot understand why are people so obsessed with weight matters. Why cannot people eat happily and become plump and chubby? But I believe there is some difference between plump and fat. You can limit your weight gain till plump but you should not be fat.

There are restrictions for my weight gain also at this point of time. I should not be underweight or overweight at the time of birth. Doctor and my grandparents are real strict about my and mom's diet. They do not want any under nourishment or overeating to happen by any means!
I would try my best momma not to keep you in an embarrassing situation when I come out. I am taking proper diet from you within having all nutritional food and keeping my little eyes on health and hiegene :)

Let us collect the data what is meant by proper weight at the birth time. There are exact limitations for birth weight -otherwise people will tag me as either Small Gestational Age or Large Gestational Age and all that!!


At full term, the avrage baby will be about 20 inches (51 cm) long and will weigh approximately 6 to 9 pounds (2700 to 4000 grams).

During a normal pregnancy your baby will grow and develop at about the same rate as any other pregnancy. When you visit your Doctor, midwife or other health care provider for antenatal care they will check you over, your weight, heart rate.

They may also measure your abdomen on the outside to check your baby's size and rate of growth. This measurement is taken from the upper edge of the pubic bone to the top of the uterus and is called the fundal height.

If there is an unexplained discrepancy between size and dates, your care provider could arrange an ultrasound to determine the cause. But try not to be concerned. The most likely explanation is that everything is quite normal and that there is no need to worry.

If the size is greater than dates, it may indicate twins, a large baby, or even mis-measuring. Doctors are more concerned when the fundal height is too small rather than too large, as this could indicate that the baby is not growing properly.

This can be confirmed with a series of ultrasounds that monitor how quickly the fetus is growing. In some cases, fetal growth can be improved by treating any condition in the mother (such as high blood pressure) that may be a contributing factor.

Birth weight and gestational age

Birth weight chart

At any ultrasound scans you may have, measurments of baby will be taken and compared to
Fetus Growth Charts. These measurments are used to see that your baby's growth rate is normal and you have the correct estimated Due Date.
You may be told, or see on your antenatal records, your baby is Large for gestational age (LGA) or Small for gestational age (SGA).
But what does this mean?
See below...

* Large for gestational age (LGA): Weight is above the 90th percentile [ LGA Line Blue line ] at gestational age
* Macrosomia: Weight is above a defined limit at any gestational age
* Appropriate for gestational age: Avarage birth weight
* Small for gestational age (SGA): Weight is below the 10th percentile [ SGA Line Green line ] at gestational age
* Low birth weight (LBW): Weight is below a defined limit at any gestational age

Low Birth Weight (LBW) or (SGA)

premature baby-Small for gestational age (SGA) babies are those whose birth weight lies below the 10th percentile for that gestational age. Low birth weight (LBW), is sometimes used to define a baby that weighs less than 5 lb 8 oz (2500 g) regardless of gestational age. One third of babies born with a low birth weight are also small for gestational age.

Other definitions include Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) which is less than 3 lb 5 oz (1500 g), and Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW) which is less than 2 lb 3 oz (1000 g).

About 10 percent of fetuses are low birth weight. A health care provider may suspect fetal growth restriction if the mother's uterus measurement (fundal height) is lower than expected. This can be confirmed with a series of ultrasounds that will monitor how quickly the fetus is growing.

Measurements can be taken of the fetus' head and limbs and compared with a growth chart to estimate fetal weight. In some cases, fetal growth can be improved by treating any condition in the mother (such as high blood pressure) that may be a contributing factor.

The health care provider will closely monitor the well being of a growth restricted fetus using ultrasound and fetal heart rate monitoring. If these tests show that the baby is having problems, the baby may need to be delivered early.

The main causes for Low Birth Weight:
The two main causes of LBW are early delivery, also known as preterm birth, and poor fetal growth. About 70% of all LBW babies are born preterm - before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. The remaining 30% of low birth weight babies are born at full term, but did not grow properly in the womb.

Preterm Birth
Premature preemie ~ Some of the risk factors for preterm birth are:

* Carrying more than one baby such as twins or triplets
* Previous preterm birth
* Previous abortions
* Smoking or exposure to second hand smoke
* Stress and lack of support
* Infection- some infections in pregnant women, such as bladder or vaginal infections, can cause labour to start early
* Stressful work conditions such as
o Long hours
o Being on your feet for long periods
o Exposure to harmful substances

Poor Fetal Growth
~ Some reasons for this may be:small baby

* Use of alcohol, drugs & smoking - women who smoke are 2-3 times more likely to have a LBW baby
* Exposure to second hand smoke can also contribute to LBW
* Poor nutrition - women who do not gain at least 22lb (10 kg) are 2-3 times more likely to have a LBW baby
* Being under weight before becoming pregnant
* Mothers age at time of pregnancy - women under 20 and over 45 are more likely to have a LBW baby.
* Stress, exhaustion or lack of rest
* Abuse and /or family violence
* Living in poverty

Fortunately, there are things that can be done to prevent some low birth weight babies.

Some of the simple things that can be done to decrease the chance of it happening are:

* NO alcohol, drugs or smoking in pregnancy - and also before you get pregnant.
* Eating a balanced diet - More fruit and vegatables, less of the junk foods.
* Watch your weight - Eating for two is OK, but not double your usual amount.
* Regular low impact exercise - Take a stroll around the park or go swimming.
* Take time to relax - Put your feet up, read a book or knit those baby booties.


Large for Gestational Age (LGA)

The average newborn weight is about 7 pounds 8 ounces (3,400grams). The term macrosomia is used to describe a newborn with an excessive birth weight, which literally means "large body". The diagnosis of fetal macrosomia can be made only by measuring birth weight after delivery.

Fetal macrosomia has been defined in several different ways, including birth weight of 8 lb 13 oz to 9 lb 15 oz (4000-4500 g) or, greater than 90% for gestational age. High birth weight (HBW), babies weighing over about 9 pounds (4,080g) fall into the 90th percentile for weight and are known as large for gestational age (LGA) babies.

About 10 percent of all babies weigh more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces (4 kg). With about 1.5% of babies their birth weight was equal to, or was greater than 9 lb 15 oz (4500 g). Rarely do babies weigh over 10 pounds (4.6kg). Although most LGA babies are born at term (37-41 weeks of pregnancy), a few premature babies may be LGA.

How do they tell if baby is Large for Gestational Age (LGA)

When you visit your midwife or doctor for antenatal care, they may measure your abdomen on the outside. This measurement is taken from the upper edge of the pubic bone to the top of the uterus and is called the fundal height. The tape measurements (in centimetres) should equal the number of weeks that you are pregnant within 2 or 3 centimetres. fundal height

Based on that, you may be told, or see, on your antenatal records, that you are a little large for dates or (LGA) -- but this measurement can vary depending on your size and shape. Women expecting second or subsequent babies sometimes do tend to measure slightly large for dates in their first and second trimesters. This may be due to the fact that their muscles have been weakened by a previous pregnancy, although I haven't actually seen studies to support this idea.

Try not to be concerned if the fundal height is greater than dates, it may indicate twins, a large baby, mis-measuring, or even be because of fetal position. The most likely explanation is that everything is quite normal and that there is no need to worry. Doctors are more concerned when the fundal height is too small rather than too large, as this could indicate that the baby is not growing properly.

If there is an unexplained discrepancy between size and dates, your care provider could arrange an ultrasound to determine the cause of any discrepancy. An ultrasound can provide a more accurate idea of how big your baby really is, but this is not always accurate. There can be a difference of 10-15 per cent between the weight predicted by ultrasound and the actual weight of the baby at birth, especially if you are close to your due date.

During the ultrasound, several measurements are taken of the fetal body parts, fetus' head and limbs and these are compared with a growth chart to estimate fetal weight. This will only be, an estimation.

The two main reasons why a baby might be LGA:

* The first is an underlying medical problem. The most common medical cause of a LGA baby is the mother with gestational diabetes. When maternal blood sugar is high, more glucose is available to the fetus and glucose is the baby's favorite for growth, resulting in larger fetal weights. Babies of diabetic women are usually large at birth, but they behave clinically as if they are immature. These infants are not longer in average length but have increased fetal weight.

* The second reason for LGA babies is the mother's size and the family genetics. Mothers with heavy build are more likely to give birth to large babies. Excessive weight gain in pregnancy is a risk factor for macrosomia. The risk is greater for women with obesity than for women without obesity. Maternal weight prior to pregnancy can affect the weight of the fetus, a BMI greater than 30 is associated with larger infants at delivery.A father's heavy build may play a part in LGA babies, but there seems to be not much relation between father's weight and baby's weight.

Other determining factors include:

* Gestational age: Birth weight increases as gestational age increases. Prolonged pregnancies that go beyond 40 weeks increase incidence of macrosomia. Macrosomic infants account for about 10% of term deliveries and more than 6% of post-term deliveries.

* A history of macrosomia, can influence future pregnancies. Women who previously delivered a macrosomic fetus are 5-10 times more likely than women without such a history to deliver a baby considered large for gestational age (LGA) the next time they become pregnant.

* Multiparity (A woman who has given birth two or more times) and grand multiparity (4 or more) increase the risk of macrosomia. Parity has been reported to be associated with 4-5 ounces (100-150 grams) of weight gain at birth. Multiparity have 2 to 3 times the number of LGA infants vs. primaparas (First time mums).

* Fetal sex influences macrosomic potential. Male infants tend to weigh more than female infants at any gestational age. Recent studies have confirmed this association.

* The risk of macrosomia also varies with ethnicity. Even when controlled for diabetes, studies have demonstrated that Hispanic women have a higher risk of fetal macrosomia compared with white, African American, or Asian women.

Despite the identification and characterization of risk factors, no combination of these risk factors can predict macrosomia accurately enough to be used clinically. Much of the birth weight variation remains unexplained, and most macrosomic infants do not have identifiable risk factors.

Excessive maternal weight gain

* The third reason for LGA babies is the conditions inside the womb.

One of the luxuries of modern living is that it's easy to buy convenience foods that taste good - it's just too bad they're full of preservatives and other ingredients you should steer clear of during pregnancy.

The group at greatest risk were those who gained more than 40 pounds and had gestational diabetes. Nearly 30 percent of these women had heavy babies, compared with 13.5 percent of women with gestational diabetes who had normal weight gains during pregnancy.

Research findings suggest all women should avoid excessive weight gain during pregnancy. And women who are being treated for gestational diabetes should also strive to keep weight gain below 40 pounds.

Weight gain during pregnancy has been rising over the past two decades, and some researchers suspect this may be fueling an epidemic of childhood obesity.

Gain weight gradually in pregnancy

In general, you should aim to put on between 25 and 35 pounds if you began your pregnancy at a desirable weight. If you're underweight to begin with, you can gain a bit more (28-40 pounds); if you're overweight at the start, your goal should be to put on a little less (15-25 pounds).

If you're short (under 5 feet 2 inches), an adolescent, or are carrying more than one child, check with your doctor about how much weight you should gain.

When you put on weight may be as important as the total tally of pounds. You should gain the least weight during the first trimester (roughly 2 to 5 pounds total) and steadily increase, with the greatest number of pounds (roughly a pound a week) coming in the third trimester, when the baby is growing the most.

Women who eat well and gain the appropriate amount of weight are more likely to have healthy babies. So if you're eating fresh, wholesome foods and adding pounds, relax: You're supposed to be getting bigger.

taken from:http://www.baby2see.com/baby_birth_weight.html

Getting the nursery ready:

I am really excited!
I want to decorate my small little space with my momma..
Momma has started to think a lot about how to organise and decorate the room for a comfortable living space for me..I am really happy and over the moon at the moment.

There are requirements of good storage for my clothes and toys and medicines etc.Everything to be organised properly and neatly.My momma being an interior designer herself I have lot of expectations from her..I hope she will design and decorate my room in a way that every other kid of my age will be jealous of when they see it :)
Momma I am waiting to see it with my own eyes too..

I want something modern and really fascinating..It should not be overwhelming with all bright colours and large cartoons ! As you all know infants at the very tender age prefer to have soft soothing colours instead of bright ones.

I expect to have a room where there will be enough of space to roam around when I can crawl and move and enough of light for my vision. The ceiling also should not be decorated too much as I will be spending most of my initial times looking up at the bedroom ceiling.Mom please make it interesting and soft to look at :)
I really do not have colour preferences as such but please do not make with the old concept of pink for girls and blue for boys, like that. Mom hope you donot mind telling me all the detailed requirements !

I am proving you some data which you can learn and then decide how to work on this design part for my nursery :)


Baby nursery

Baby nursery on your mind lately? You’ve come to the right place: here you’ll find ideas on picking a theme for your baby’s room, as well as what are some of the essentials you need to decorate a special room for a special baby.

Baby Room and Nursery Themes - Decorating your baby’s room is one of the most important things you can do while waiting for your little one to arrive.

Popular Nursery Theme Ideas for Baby Boys – The ultrasound showed that a bouncing baby boy is on the way. Now you need to prepare a room in which he can grow and have adventures.

Popular Nursery Theme Ideas for Baby Girls – You’ve found out that your precious bundle of joy will be a girl. Pictures of pink and frills suddenly fill your head. But, decorating for a little girl doesn’t have to be limited to pink.

Baby Furniture for Frugal Families – Ideas to get you thinking frugally before rushing out to purchase furniture for your baby’s room.

Baby Nursery: Decorating Tips and Ideas – Baby nursery decorating is a lot of fun: with a little planning and creativity, you can welcome your baby in a great room.

Baby Cribs: Important Safety and Styling Features -Baby cribs are available in a number of different styles; there are certain safety features however that need to be considered before purchase.

Baby Furniture – Essential Gear for Your Little One – Confused about the endless variety of baby furniture available? Want to know what baby furniture you absolutely need? Find out everything you need to know about baby gear right here.

Baby Bedding Do’s and Don’ts – Baby bedding comes in a variety of styles, themes and colors. Learn what you must look out for when shopping for a newborns as opposed to toddlers bedding.

Baby Room Bonanza! Critical Items for Establishing a First Time Setting – Establishing a first time baby room requires the acquisition of a few key items to ensure a cozy and comfortable environment.

Baby Cribs: Important Safety and Styling Features – Baby cribs are available in a number of different styles; there are certain safety features however that need to be considered before purchase.

Baby Furniture – Essential Gear for Your Little One – Confused about the endless variety of baby furniture available? Want to know what baby furniture you absolutely need? Find out everything you need to know about baby gear right here.

Baby Room Bonanza! Critical Items for Establishing a First Time Setting – Establishing a first time baby room requires the acquisition of a few key items to ensure a cozy and comfortable environment.

Creating Good Feng Shui in Baby’s Room – By incorporating feng shui, parents are going beyond the traditional coordinated theme rooms to ensure baby has a healthy environment.

Creating a Baby Center as the Focal Point of a Nursery/Playroom – Creating a baby center allows a safe haven for your baby to play without concern for safety or boredom.

taken from:http://www.babys-first-year.com/baby-nursery.html

Tips on getting your baby nursery ready:

It used to be pink for girls, blue for boys. But those days are long gone and today anything goes when decorating a baby nursery. With all the excitement of bringing a new born home, getting the nursery prepared before hand is a must. This job can be challenging because there are so many choices today and not only do you and your significant other need to agree but you want to consider how your baby will fit into all this.

Since you do not need to go with the old days of pink or blue, you also want to somewhat fit the colors into your homes decor. And there are so many colors and patterns in the stores that it can be overwhelming. But all in all it can be very fun and rewarding.

There are not only a vast array of colors but also many styles and fortunately, many price ranges to suit your budget. No matter what, you can arrange to create an adorable room ready to greet your little one.

To make things work effectively you will need to have a plan and a timetable of what you want. This isn't like the time you decided to redecorate the family room and it took you over a year to just decide what sofa and colors you wanted. This baby is going to be here in about 9 months so you need to get moving. The first step is to decide what theme you want which would include the color scheme.

There are plenty of items on the market that are standard but popular. You will find that Winnie the Pooh or any Disney character is readily available. Also, you can find other themes like ducks, bears, bunnies, or any other animal. If you want to create your own theme you could start with alphabets, rainbows, shapes, you name it and you can find it somewhere. You can also choose almost any color, you don't need to go with what is out there. Go to your local paint store and you will find plenty of color samples. Once you decide on one, you can paint the walls and maybe a piece of furniture. If your color choice is not available in sheets or accessories you can find something that complements it or just go with pure white.

If you use your imagination you can definitely come up with a lovely theme of your own and one that no other baby has. Along with the theme and color scheme is of course furniture. There is such a variety of styles and prices to choice from. You can find cribs that grow with your child, remember they will not be in a crib for very long. There are cribs that convert to toddler beds and even into a twin size bed. You will also want to check out dressers and changing tables. Don't forget a rocker or some other comfortable chair for those late night feedings or just for cuddling and reading. Every nursery must have a diaper disposal system and there are many styles and brands to choose from!

There are also several web sites to assist you in finding the right products to fit your budget along with tips and ideas. No matter what theme, colors, style or price range you will find getting your nursery ready will be a great adventure.

from:http://ezinearticles.com/

Getting the Nursery ready:

When your baby arrives, you will be the center of his or her universe. And that universe will be centered largely in the nursery. You are both going to spend a lot of time here, especially when you first bring your baby home, so it's important to make it a calm, comfortable place for both of you. You may want to plan to get your baby's nursery ready when you're about six or seven months pregnant, when you are still able to get around fairly easily.

Your baby's nursery - whether it's in your bedroom or in a separate room - should be a quiet area where there is subdued lighting and little traffic. Remember, your baby will spend most of the time here looking up - so make sure there are no bright overhead lights. It should be a peaceful place, designed for ease of use and comfort for you and for your baby. Arrange the furniture and items in a way you think makes the most sense logically, but realize that you may need to rearrange things a little once you figure out what works best for both of you.

Baby's First Bed

Your newborn's needs are simple: a firm, flat mattress and a safe enclosure where he or she will feel protected and secure. In the first months of infancy, you may prefer a bassinet. These portable baby beds can be carried from room to room so you can keep a close watch on your sleeping baby.

A bassinet is not a necessity. And since most bassinets will not support the weight of an older baby, they're useful only for the first four or five months, which makes them a bit of a luxury item.

For safety's sake at sleep time:

* To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), your baby should be placed on his or her back when it's time to sleep. Remember the phrase "Back to Sleep," and be sure that everyone who cares for your child follows this rule, even at nap time
* The sleeping surface must be firm and flat
* Fluffy pillows, crib bumpers, blankets, and toys should never be placed in the crib with a sleeping baby

New cribs purchased in the United States must meet safety regulations, but if you borrow an older crib, make sure that:

* Crib slats are no more than two and three eighths (2 3/8) inches apart - to prevent your baby's body from slipping through.
* The mattress fits snugly - you should be able to fit no more than two fingers between the mattress and the side of the crib. Remove any plastic coverings!
* The top section of the corner post is no higher than 1/16 of an inch, or no shorter than 16 inches if there's a canopy - to avoid snagging your baby's clothes or causing injury.
* There are no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard - they could catch your baby's head or limbs.
* To prevent entanglement, be sure to remove all mobile or hanging items by the time your baby is four months old or begins to pull himself up. And when your baby is less than four months, make sure the mobile is out of reach and securely fastened so it can't fall into the crib.

Changing Table

You can buy a changing table specifically designed for infant diaper changing or just use any other flat surface covered with a changing pad or towel. Be sure the table is sturdy. If possible, secure the table to a wall.

Never leave your baby alone on the table; always keep one hand on your baby when using the changing table. Keep all the changing supplies you need within your reach but out of baby's reach.

Childproofing

Keeping your house safe for your new one will be an ongoing, ever-changing process. Now is a good time to start with the basics. Give your home a thorough inspection, looking for choking hazards and other items that can be dangerous to a small child. Before your baby comes home, buy and install outlet covers for the electrical outlets that will be within reach for a curious baby or toddler. Cabinet locks should be installed to keep your baby out of areas where you store cleaning supplies and other chemicals.

As your child grows, you'll have to reevaluate what you need to do to keep the house safe.

With everything you have to think of, it's easy to lose track of the fundamentals. That is, your baby needs an environment that's safe, comfortable, nurturing and loving. So check off each item, one by one, and dream of the day you'll be holding him, or her, in your arms.

taken from:http://johnsonsbaby.com/

Preparing for Baby's Arrival:

Yes yes ..I know ..I will have lots of new clothes and all new toys and stuff when I am out of my mom's womb. But still you will have to promise me that every time you will take me to the shops whenever you plan to buy my stuff..Will that be ok?
I really donot understand what a big deal it is if we buy all my items before I am born. But there is a definite NO from my grandparents :( They say not to buy my stuff beforehand..this is bad..I am sure when I am born you definitely will not take me with you for buying all my items..right now if we plan then probably I can have a trip to the toy store and I can tell momma what to buy from her inside! Is that not a good idea? Whatever,if not then let us plan something beforehand..so that momma is not at a loss when I arrive.At that time she will be weak and all concerned about my presence only..how will she know what objects to buy and what will I need..there are so many small small things that I myself even cannot remember all at a time. Let us investigate more into the matter and get ready for buying all new stuff and that also ALL FOR ME !! Yippeee :)


Preparing for Baby's Arrival Home:

Here are a few things to consider as you prepare your home for a baby:

1. Buy a book on newborns and parenting. Most important, you will want to understand your newborn's behavior. We suggest you pick a book or two and become familiar with the newborn's appearance and behavior, and parenting approaches. If you need some ideas for quality baby books, search our "Online Catalog of Resources at PAMF's Health Resource Centers" section under the general topic of parenting and infant care for a list of titles. These items are available in our Health Resource Centers in Palo Alto and Fremont. Your welcome to come visit, browse and find the book(s) right for you.
   
   
2. You will need a car seat when you arrive at the hospital to bring your infant home. California state law requires car seats to be federally approved. The baby must always be placed in the car seat, beginning with the first ride home. The safest placement is in the middle of the rear seat, facing backwards. Never place an infant in the front seat of a car with passenger air bags. For more information about car seats visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Web site (accessed October 2007).
   
   
3. Prepare a place in your home for the baby.
   
   
4. Essential nursery equipment includes:
   • A crib or bassinet with slats no more then 2 3/8 inches apart. If you buy a used crib, make sure it meets safety standards. (National Safety Council, accessed October 2007)
     
   • Large tote or diaper bag packed with diapers, receiving blankets, a change of clothes, a plastic bag for soiled diapers, and a washcloth or baby wipes
     
   • Diaper pail or garbage can
     
   • Place to change diapers
     
   • Storage area for baby clothes and diapers
     
   • If you are using cloth diapers, contact the company to begin delivery. The initial delivery should be 90 for the first week.
     
   • Purchase disposable diapers, if you are using them. You will need about 350 for the first month.
   
   
5. Feeding
   • Breast-feeding mothers require no special equipment. See breast-feeding classes for more information.
     
   • If formula-feeding you will need to discuss with your baby's doctor which formula is appropriate, and whether sterilizing is necessary where you live. In addition you will need bottles, nipples and brushes for cleaning both.
   
   
6. Other items to have on hand include:
   • T-shirts or "onesies," 5 to 10 sets
     
   • Booties/socks, 3 to 5 pairs
     
   • Hat, 1 or 2
     
   • Sleepers or gowns, 5 to 7 sets
     
   • Cold weather sleeper, 1 or 2, depending on the weather or temperature of the child's bedroom
     
   • Receiving blankets, 5 to 7
     
   • Thermal blankets, 1 to 2
     
   • Crib sheets, preferably fitted, 3 to 4
     
   • Soft wash clothes, 3 to 5
     
   • Burp cloths or cotton diapers, 3 to 5
     
   • Baby nail scissors or nail clippers
     
   • Baby thermometer
     
   • Baby brush
     
   • Mild soap
   
   
7. Consider buying used baby clothes.
   
8. Wash all clothing, bedding, towels and wash cloths before baby arrives.
   
9. Begin baby-proofing your home. (National Safety Council, accessed January 2008)

taken from:http://www.pamf.org/pregnancy/second/home.html

Preparing for the new baby:

Just print and check off as you shop for baby items!

o nasal aspirator

o diaper rash ointment

o 2 packages of disposable diapers or 2 dozen cloth diapers

o gentle baby soap

o no tears shampoo

o 2-4 pacifiers (you will lose them)

o blunt baby nail scissors

o baby brush and comb set

o alcohol wipes (for the cord)

o 4-6 bottles (4 and 8 ounce size)

o bottle brush

o 2 nursing bras (if nursing)

o breast pads (if nursing)

o breast pump (if nursing)

o 6 bibs

o 2-4 hooded bath towels

o 4-6 wash clothes

o 4 bassinet sheets

o 2 waterproof mattress pads

o 2 quilted crib pads

o 3-4 crib sheets

o crib bumper

o 2 comforters (depending on season)

o 2 crib blankets (depending on season)

o 6-8 snap t-shirts or onesies

o 4-6 lightweight sleepers

o 6-8 receiving blankets

o 6-8 baby gowns with pull-ties

o 4 pairs of booties or socks

o 1 sweater

o 1 snowsuit (depending on season)

taken from:http://www.surebaby.com/baby_checklist.php

Baby Needs Checklist:

Clothing
__ hats
__ onesies
__ pants/coveralls
__ undershirts
__ gowns
__ outerwear
__ rompers
__ shirts
__ socks/booties

Bathtime
__ hooded towels
__ washcloths
__ baby soap
__ baby tub
__ nail clippers
__ baby lotion

Feeding
__ breast pump
__ bottles
__ bottle brush
__ bottle drying rack/wash rack
__ bottle warmer
__ bibs
__ burp cloths
__ nursing tops
__ formula

Traveling items
__ stroller
__ car seat
__ diaper bag
__ baby carrier (front or sling)
__ travel baby wipes case
__ car seat cover (if cold out)
__ umbrellastroller

Health
__ thermometer
__ CPR guidelines
__ pediatrician
__ nasal aspirator
__ saline nasal drops
__ cotton gauze (for use when cleaning umbilical stump)

For the Nursery
__ crib
__ bassinet
__ dresser
__ changing table
__ book shelf
__ trash can
__ rocking chair
__ monitor
__ crib mobile
__ nightlight
__ crib sheets
__ crib bumper
__ baby blankets
__ crib skirt
__ waterproof mattress cover
__ bassinet sheets
__ crib mattress
__ nightlight
__ diaper stacker
__ hamper

Diapering
__ diapers (either disposable or cloth)
__ baby wipes
__ diaper cream
__ liquid baby powder
__ diaper pins (for cloth diapers)
__ Diaper disposal system (Diaper Genie or trash can)
__ wipes warmer

Other nice items to have when baby arrives:
__ brag book
__ photo frame
__ birth announcement cards
__ keepsake boxes
__ baby book
__ books on baby care and post-pregnancy care
__ soft toys
__ detergent

Buying for baby: What you really need

It is an age old belief that you shop for your baby, only after he is born healthy and all is well. But it is also practical to be organised. In case you and your family are superstitious about shopping beforehand, have fun window shopping, choose the items beforehand, and keep ‘a things to shop for’ and a ‘things to do’ list ready. Ask your husband or someone responsible to run these errands for you once your baby is born.

It's tempting to think that when your baby is born you need all sorts of complicated and expensive equipment. In reality, you need very little but of course, you may want to buy a few extras. Our checklist below should give you an idea of what you will need before your baby is born - anything else is a nice extra and can probably wait till after your baby is born.

Try not to buy too many clothes as most family members and friends who are seeing the baby for the first time tend to gift clothes. In many communities, newborn babies are made to wear only hand-me-down clothing for the first few days. Therefore plan accordingly and buy only the essentials.

• Nappies. As newborn babies will need their nappies changed 10-12 times a day, buy enough nappies to keep you going for at least the first few days or so. If you are planning to use reusable nappies, it's a good idea to have at least one packet of disposables handy too. If you are getting some nappies stitched, choose soft absorbent cotton material. Nowadays, readymade cloth nappies with drawstrings are available where you do not need to use nappy pins. Ensure that you wash and iron the nappies before you use it for your baby.

• Baby wipes or cotton wool, for nappy changing.

• A changing mat, protective plastic sheet or a changing unit.

• Sleep suits. Three or four loose "Jhablas" or all-in-one sleep suits will be very handy. Small babies tend to live in these in their first few months and really don't need to wear anything else, apart from a vest underneath in winter months, or a cardigan over the top if it is very cold. Avoid frills, bows, zips, laces, buttons, and beads. They may cause bruises or rashes on the baby’s soft skin. Avoid buttons in the back as they can cause discomfort to a tiny baby -- instead choose clothes with buttons in the front or at the side seams.

• Baby vests/body suits/singlets. At least three or four vests, also known as body suits, are essential, with envelope necks and poppers underneath. These can be worn under single piece dresses or jhablas, or when the weather is very hot, a baby vest may be all your baby needs to wear. Remove care labels from the neck and side seam after you have read the washing instructions. Most labels are made of polyester or synthetic tape which may cause irritation to your baby's soft skin.

• If it is winter, a couple of blankets to wrap your baby would be ideal. Two or three cardigans and about three pairs of thermal vests and pants to provide an extra layer of warmth for your baby. Keep in mind that clothes (especially the woollies) take longer to dry in winters.

• A warm woollen cap and a few pairs of cotton socks, mittens and booties -- especially in winters.

• Small bibs. Babies sometimes take out curdled milk while burping. The bibs will protect the baby’s clothes from getting messed up.

• Small hand towels and napkins. You may need to wipe the baby from time to time and these hand towels are very useful and handy.

• A cradle, crib or cot, unless your baby will be sleeping in your bed. It is wise to choose this carefully as there are many options available and some can even be used till your baby is a few years old.

• A mattress which fits the cradle, cot, or crib and a protective bumper mattress to prevent your baby from hurting his hands and head on the rails.

• Cot sheets and cellular blankets, or a bottom sheet and a baby sleeping bag.

• A baby bath tub or a newborn bath bed.

• A couple of small towels and some mild baby bath.

• A large bucket to soak your baby's nappies.

• A rear-facing car seat, if your baby will be travelling by car. Choose a brand which suits the specifications of your car.

• A pram, pushchair or buggy that is suitable for newborn babies (with a lie-flat position).

• Nursing bras and breast pads if you are breastfeeding. Invest in some shirts with buttons down the front or loose kurtas for easy feeding.

• Bottles, teats, bottle brushes and some sterilising method, if you are bottle feeding.

• A baby bag. It is useful when you go out with the baby as it has lots of separate sections and compartments for diapers, a few sets of clothes, feeding bottle or flask, baby wipes or tissue paper, napkins and essential medication.

• A foldable mosquito net especially if you have a lot of mosquitoes, flies and insects hovering around your home.

• A separate rack or cupboard to store your baby's essentials like medication, nappies, diapers, bibs, cotton wool and wipes.

• A camera and record book - you wouldn’t want to miss those special first moments!

taken from:http://www.babycenter.in/baby/buyingforbaby


NewBorn Checklist:

When it comes to having all that you need for your baby when he arrives, you will want to use this newborn baby checklist to help you. It can be quite overwhelming to know what newborn babies need before they arrive. Having a baby is stressful enough without having to worry about what to buy in preparation for his or her arrival.

The best way is to ask another parent’s opinion. He or she will be able to indicate which items are necessities and which ones aren’t helpful in caring for a newborn. The newborn baby checklist below is just that – it’s a compilation of several veteran parents’ opinions on what to buy before the newborn baby arrives. A newborn’s material needs are few – this list includes the basics needed to help a newborn baby sleep and stay warm, fed, and clothed.

Here are 8 useful newborn baby checklist on preparing for your first newborn:

Clothing Hats Onesies pants/coveralls undershirts gowns outerwear rompers shirts socks/booties	Bathtime hooded towels washcloths baby soap baby tub nail clippers baby lotion
Feeding breast pump bottles bottle brush bottle drying rack/wash rack bottle warmer bibs burp cloths nursing tops formula	Traveling items stroller car seat diaper bag baby carrier (front or sling) travel baby wipes case car seat cover (if cold out) umbrellastroller
For the Nursery crib bassinet dresser changing table book shelf trash can rocking chair monitor crib mobile nightlight crib sheets crib bumper baby blankets crib skirt waterproof mattress cover bassinet sheets crib mattress nightlight diaper stacker hamper	Health thermometer CPR guidelines Pediatrician nasal aspirator saline nasal drops cotton gauze (for use when cleaning umbilical stump) Other nice items to have when baby arrives: brag book photo frame birth announcement cards keepsake boxes baby book books on baby care and post-pregnancy care soft toys detergent
Diapering diapers (either disposable or cloth) baby wipes diaper cream liquid baby powder diaper pins (for cloth diapers) Diaper disposal system (Diaper Genie or trash can) wipes warmer

Sleeping during pregnancy

Yeah... after a loooong time! I think you have missed me a lot..right?

I was very busy all these days to practice my new ability of touch and grabbing :)
I find it very interesting to clutch the umbilical cord and swing from one end of my mom's tummy to the other..
I feel like a hero, you know!

Nowadays I can do so many things..compared to my previous abilities..
But one thing that bothers me much is that i cannot practice all my talent the entire day..i have to sleep and rest as i feel sleepy during the day. As momma does not sleep properly at night I also have difficult time to rest and sleep at night..
Please momma get some good sleep at night so that I also get nice rest that time.
I know for you it is very difficult to have a sound sleep at night, but still you will ahve to try dear!
If you want to know some facts regarding how to get good sleep during pregnancy, i am providing you some good data to start with and practice.

Here it goes..

Many expectant parents know how hard it might be to get a good night's sleep in the months that follow the birth of their child, but who would have guessed that catching some ZZZs during pregnancy would prove to be so difficult?

Actually, you may sleep more than usual during the first trimester of your pregnancy. It's normal to feel tired as your body works to protect and nurture the developing baby. The placenta (the organ that nourishes the fetus until birth) is just forming, your body is making more blood, and your heart is pumping faster.

It's usually later in pregnancy, though, that most women have trouble getting enough deep, uninterrupted sleep.

Why Can Sleeping Be Difficult During Pregnancy?

The first and most pressing reason behind sleep problems during pregnancy is the increasing size of the fetus, which can make it hard to find a comfortable sleeping position. If you've always been a back or stomach sleeper, you might have trouble getting used to sleeping on your side (as doctors recommend). Also, shifting around in bed becomes more difficult as the pregnancy progresses and your size increases.

Other common physical symptoms may interfere with sleep as well:

• the frequent urge to urinate: Your kidneys are working harder to filter the increased volume of blood (30% to 50% more than you had before pregnancy) moving through your body, and this filtering process results in more urine. Also, as your baby grows and the uterus gets bigger, the pressure on your bladder increases. This means more trips to the bathroom, day and night. The number of nighttime trips may be greater if your baby is particularly active at night.
• increased heart rate: Your heart rate increases during pregnancy to pump more blood, and as more of your blood supply goes to the uterus, your heart will be working harder to send sufficient blood to the rest of your body.
• shortness of breath: At first, your breathing may be affected by the increase in pregnancy hormones, which will cause you to breathe in more deeply. This might make you feel as if you're working harder to get air. Later on, breathing may feel more difficult as your enlarging uterus takes up more space, resulting in pressure against your diaphragm (the muscle just below your lungs).
• leg cramps and backaches: Pains in your legs or back are caused in part by the extra weight you're carrying. During pregnancy, the body also produces a hormone called relaxin, which helps prepare the body for childbirth. One of the effects of relaxin is the loosening of ligaments throughout the body, making pregnant women less stable and more prone to injury, especially in their backs.
• heartburn and constipation: Many women experience heartburn, which occurs when the stomach contents reflux back up into the esophagus. During pregnancy, the entire digestive system slows down and food tends to remain in the stomach and intestines longer, which may cause heartburn or constipation. Heartburn and constipation can both get worse later on in the pregnancy when the growing uterus presses on the stomach or the large intestine.

Your sleep problems may have other causes as well. Many pregnant women report that their dreams become more vivid than usual, and some even experience nightmares. Stress can interfere with sleep, too. Maybe you're worried about your baby's health, anxious about your abilities as a parent, or feeling nervous about the delivery itself. All of these feelings are normal, but they might keep you (and your partner) up at night.

taken from:http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_newborn/

What is the best sleeping position during Pregnancy?

Sleeping on your side is best while you're pregnant. In particular, sleeping on your left side may benefit your baby by improving blood flow – and therefore nutrients – to the placenta. It also helps your kidneys efficiently eliminate waste products and fluids from your body, which in turn reduces swelling in your ankles, feet, and hands.

It's a good idea to start training yourself early in pregnancy to sleep on your left side whenever you can. Of course, staying in one position all night isn't likely to be comfortable, so turning from side to side while favoring your left side is probably the best strategy.

As for sleeping on your back, avoid that position throughout pregnancy, especially in the later months. Here's why:

When you're sleeping on your back, the weight of your uterus lies on the spine, back muscles, intestines, and major blood vessels. This can lead to muscle aches and pains, hemorrhoids, and impaired circulation, which is uncomfortable for you and can reduce circulation to your baby.

Back sleeping can make blood pressure drop, causing some expectant moms to experience dizziness. On the other hand, in some moms-to-be it can make blood pressure go up.

Finally, back sleeping can cause snoring and, with increased weight, could lead to sleep apnea.

10 Tips for Better Sleep During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is hard work, and you'll need your sleep. One of the cruel realities is that a good night's sleep during pregnancy remains elusive, if not impossible for most pregnant women, at some point during their pregnancy. While you might not be able to sleep like a baby, there are some ways you can improve your chances for better sleep during pregnancy.

1. Exercise. Getting your self good and tired out can't hurt your chances of getting some quality shut eye. It's also been shown that regular exercise can reduce the frequency of leg cramps, which many women are more prone to during pregnancy. Just don't exercise within a couple of hours of bedtime — that rush of endorphins and adrenaline can keep you awake long after you've hit the sack.

2. Relaxation. You should incorporate some forms of relaxation into your day, and particularly as part of your bedtime routine. Yoga is a good form of both exercise and relaxation, just be sure that you're following a prenatal routine. Meditation, a hot bath, or even reading a book are all ways that you can relax before going to sleep. Relaxation can help you leave the stresses and worries of the day out of the bedroom, allowing you to sleep better at night.

3. Sleep-Friendly Diet. While you're cravings may be telling you to indulge in that enchilada, you'll regret that choice when you're up with a case of raging heartburn. Anything spicy, fatty or acidic are not foods that promote sleep during pregnancy. In order to avoid heartburn, upset stomach or constipation in the middle of the night, don't eat within two hours of going to bed. Try propping yourself up with pillows to sleep in a semi reclining position, and be sure to keep some antacids near the bed in case you have to pop a couple in the middle of the night. Also, either cut caffeine completely from your diet, or limit your intake for several hours before bedtime. Try drinking some caffeine-free herbal tee or a warm cup of milk before going to bed to relax you. If you find that you experience nausea at night, keep some crackers next to your bed. Some women find that their prenatal vitamins make them feel nauseous — if this is the case, decide if you'd rather have your sleep and take them during the day or if you can sleep through the nausea.

5. Stay Hydrated. Be sure to keep yourself well hydrated throughout the day, and even at night. Even though this may mean that you have to take a couple extra potty breaks in the middle of the night, staying well hydrated may mean fewer headaches, less swelling, etc.

4. Napping. Believe it or not, one to two catnaps during the day can actually improve your sleep during pregnancy. Avoiding becoming overtired keeps you relaxed, and your body doesn't put out adrenaline to keep you moving when you should be sleeping.

5. Routine. Get yourself into a regular nighttime routine. By going to bed the same time every night, your body will become accustomed to a regular bedtime.

6.Comfortable Bed. Pregnancy may be the time to get that new mattress you and your husband have been wanting. Although the softness should fit your preference, it should provide good, even support of your body — no waterbeds! A good mattress can make all the difference in getting quality sleep during pregnancy, so if you can, don't skimp on the mattress. If you have anything smaller than a king or a queen sized mattress, you may also want to upsize — women tend to take up a little more space when pregnant for lots of reasons! Choose comfy bed linens that will breathe well, and layer blankets for those hot flashes pregnant women tend to get.

7. Pajamas. If you sleep in pajamas, you may need to get some maternity pjs for added comfort. Sleep shirts, elasticized pajama bottoms shorts all work well. Since pregnant women often experience hot and cold flashes due to hormones and poor circulation, wear breathable cotton so you stay warm, but not overheated.

8.Support Pillows. Women no longer have to resort to creative pillow arrangements to comfortably sleep during pregnancy. While the old pillow-between-the-knees-pillow-under-the-belly-pillow-behind-the-back trick may work in a pinch, there are many maternity pillows on the market that do the job of two to three separate pillows. The body pillow is long enough to hug and support your belly, and maybe your knee. A wrap-around maternity pillow is long for hugging and supporting the belly, but curves up between your knees to help align your hips and spine for better comfort. A pregnancy wedge can support either your belly or back.

9. Room Temperature. Your husband will be jumping for joy now that you want the room to be a little cooler than usual. With all that extra heat your body is generating cooking up that baby, you may find that you're more comfortable turning down the thermostat. You can always pile on an extra blanket if you find yourself a bit chilly in the middle of the night.

10.Sleep Positions. By your second trimester, you'll find that sleeping on your belly is no longer an option, and sleeping on your back is no longer safe for your baby. Get used to sleeping on your left side, which is the safest position for sleeping during pregnancy. This allows the maximum flow of blood and oxygen to your baby. It is safe to sleep on your right side as well, and this may be necessary if you need to change positions periodically.

http://www.pregnancyetc.com/10-tips-for-better-sleep-during-pregnancy.htm