Consider Sibling Rivalry at the time of pregnancy

At the time of pregnancy, parents should consider that bringing a newborn baby home for the first time is a challenge for any parent- even more so if you already have an older child who may be confused, anxious or horrified at having to share your love and attention with someone else.

Parents often expect sibling rivalry to occur shortly after the baby's arrival. In fact, it is more likely to occur when the baby starts to become mobile. The jealousy begins when the older child sees the new baby sitting in the highchair that once theirs, wearing their old clothes or playing their old toys. Perhaps more worrying for the parents is when the older child shows outright resentment and tried to hurt the baby, usually when they think no one is watching. Your anxiety for your baby's safety is understandable, and unfortunately it only increases the pressure you're already facing. But however badly your child may react to the baby's arrival-and remember that plenty of children take it in their stride- there are ways to help him or her cope with their feelings of jealousy and hurt, and thereby reduce the stress at home.

During your pregnancy, talk to your child positively about the new baby and involve then in the preparations. Take your child to the doctor when you go for checkups, shop for baby things together and let them help set up the nursery.

Emergency signs and sex during pregnancy

The following symptoms require immediate medical attention. Report to your doctor or contact the hospital if you experience any of these during pregnancy.

SYMPTOMS

• Blurred vision
• Severe abdominal pain or cramp
• Vaginal bleeding
• Fluid leakage
• Frequent, painful urination
• Swelling of hands, face, and ankles
• Sever nausea and vomiting
• Increased temperature or fever (at or above 38 C)
• Absent or reduced (less thank 10 kicks in 12 hours after week 28)
• Sever headache

Emegency tip: Write down important numbers like your doctor's and your relatives'which could prove valuable when an emergency arises.

SEX may be more pleasurable for you during pregnancy due to hormonal and physiological changes. However, the various discomforts experienced during pregnancy may lessen your interest in sex.

As your pregnancy progresses, you may be apprehensive about having sex, but it is important to remember that sex during pregnancy is safe for most women. However, it is advisable to refrain from sex during advanced pregnancy (past 36th week)

You may also need to discuss with your doctor whether sex is safe for you if any of the following apply:

• low lying placenta (placenta praevia)
• family history of miscarriage
• previous history of premature labor
• history of mulitiple births
• bleeddubg during intercourse