The National Childbirth Trust 11 Newsletter.pdf · The difference between expectations and the...
40
The National Childbirth Trust East Cheshire Branch Wilmslow, Poynton and Macclesfield Winter 2011 Inside: Tongue tie Edible Christmas gifts NCT Birth Companions © NCT Alexandra House, Oldham Terrace, London W3 6NH, Reg. Charity No. 801395
Transcript of The National Childbirth Trust 11 Newsletter.pdf · The difference between expectations and the...
The National Childbirth Trust East Cheshire Branch Wilmslow, Poynton and Macclesfield
Winter 2011
Inside: Tongue tie Edible Christmas gifts NCT Birth Companions
© NCT Alexandra House, Oldham Terrace, London W3 6NH, Reg. Charity No. 801395
Contents
3
Disclaimer Any views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) or the Editor. The information in this newsletter is intended for the use of NCT members only in connection with NCT activities and may not be used for any commercial purposes. The conditions of the Data Protection Act 1998 may apply. The appearance of an advertisement in this newsletter does not imply endorsement of the advertiser or its products and services by the NCT, nor does it constitute a recommendation. The NCT does not accept liability for any loss, injury or damage arising out of goods or services sold through any advertisement in this newsletter. Any discount offered to NCT members by any advertisement is done so entirely at the discretion of the advertiser. NCT will not compensate any member who is refused a discount from a third party. The National Childbirth Trust (HQ), Alexandra House, Oldham Terrace, Acton, London W36NH. Enquiry Line Tel: 0300 00770 Website: www.nct.org.uk Registered Charity Number
801395
Winter 2011
Regulars
Welcome from the Chair & Editor ............................ 4
Branch contacts ...................................................... 5
Branch news ........................................................... 6
NCT East Cheshire diary ....................................... 19
Breastfeeding support ........................................... 26
National NCT contacts .......................................... 35
National NCT news ............................................... 36
Advertising rates ................................................... 38
Features
Health: Tongue tie ................................................. 10
Local groups: PND support ................................... 13
Pregnancy & Birth: NCT Birth Companions ........... 14
Birth Story ............................................................. 23
letter ............................................. 27
Out & About: NCT coffee mornings ....................... 29
Seasonal: Edible Christmas gifts ........................... 30
Book review........................................................... 32
Cover photo
Holly and Indi meet a friend in the snow.
If you would like to send a photo for the cover of our
next edition (Spring) please e-mail
Welcome
4
Letter from the Chair
Hello and welcome
to the latest edition
of our newsletter.
Christmas is my
favourite time of
busy time for our
branch. After the
fun we had at the
summer party, we have our Cheeky
Monkeys Christmas Party on Sunday 4
December at Festival Hall, Alderley
Edge. It would be great to see you there,
even if you have a young baby it will be
an opportunity to meet other local
parents and admission for u
free. Full details are on page 6.
meeting on 8 December at the Flower
Pot Pub in Macclesfield. We will do a
review of this past year and set out our
plans and aims for the next 12 months. If
you have ever thought you might like to
get involved with your branch or just
fancy a drink and a bite to eat do come
and join us; everyone is welcome. Again,
details are on page 6.
If you are unable to make either of the
above, we hope to see you some time in
2012 and wish you a very merry
Christmas and a peaceful (we live in
hope) New Year!
From the Editor
Welcome to the
winter newsletter.
that this time last
year I was tapping
away at the
computer with a
newborn in my arms, and even more
inconceivable to think that this is now
my ninth newsletter!
As I write, there are only five weeks
started my Christmas shopping. I may
enlist the help of my toddler to make
some edible Christmas gifts (see
page 30)
treat with grandparents.
In this edition we also have a very
interesting article from one of our
members on tongue tie an issue
not heard much about until recently. If
newsletter about an experience that
touch
-life
experiences.
All the best for 2012.
NCT East Cheshire Committee & Contacts
5
The persons listed below are all volunteers who currently run the East Cheshire branch committee. They will do their best to help you and answer any questions you may have.
Branch chair Stacey Davies
Advertising Breastpump agent
Dipika Morgan [email protected]
Breastfeeding counsellor Annie Brown 01625 428 096
Bumps and Babies coordinator Sarah Ensor [email protected]
Maternity sales Rachel Cuthbert [email protected]
Membership coordinator Jo Thorp [email protected]
Nearly New Sales coordinator Denise Dickens [email protected]
Newsletter editor Lynn Hall [email protected]
Parent support Emily Dzelzainis [email protected]
Student postnatal leader Liz Fickling [email protected]
Publicity officer Gemma Kerr [email protected]
Treasurer Amanda Watmough [email protected]
Valley cushion agent, homebirth support, trainee antenatal teacher
Holly Platt Wells
Website coordinator Ellen Brown
Branch telephone 0844 243 6115 Option1: Local events and general enquiries Option2: Nearly New Sales Option3: Branch newsletter enquiries and advertising Option4: Membership secretary Option5: Bra / breast pump
Antenatal and Postnatal class bookings: Amanda 0844 243 6971 / [email protected]
Web: www.nct.org.uk/branches/east-cheshire
Friends of East Cheshire NCT (Facebook)
@eastcheshirenct (Twitter)
NCT East Cheshire News
6
Cheeky Monkeys Christmas Party
We are busily preparing for our Cheeky Monkeys
Christmas Tea Party on 4 December at Festival Hall, Alderley Edge, 11am
1.30pm. art and crafts by Creation Station, a mini raffle,
party food, entertainment provided by Jo Jingles, and a visit from Father
Christmas. Ticket prices are £3 per child or £7 for a family ticket for four.
Admission for under 1's is free. You can buy tickets via PayPal at our website
below, at one of our groups, or at the party itself.
www.nct.org.uk/branches/east-cheshire/cheeky-monkeys-christmas-tea-party
Book give away
We have a free book to give away! If you would like to enter the
prize draw to win When Your Baby Cries: 10 Rules for Soothing
Fretful Babies (and Their Parents!) by Deborah Jackson simply e-
mail [email protected] Book
subject line and your name and address in the body of the e-mail.
All entrants will be drawn from a hat on 1 January 2012 and notified within 48
hours. We thank Printer & Martin for their generosity in donating this prize.
Committee members recruiting soon
Are you interested in getting involved in the running of your branch? Several
members of our current committee will be stepping down this time next year and
then to ensure that the branch remains active. Without volunteers the branch
cannot function, so even if you can only spare a little
bit of your time
do something worthwhile at the same time.
Our AMM will be held on Thursday 8 December at the Flower Pot Pub, 1
Congleton Road, Macclesfield, SK11 7UF at 8pm. All members are welcome, so if
join us.
Branch business will be dealt with at the start of the evening, followed by some
pre-Christmas jollity (a.k.a. drinks and nibbles) from about 8.30pm. If you
make still love to see you.
NCT East Cheshire News
7
NCT Early Days (postnatal) courses
These groups provide a relaxed, friendly and supportive atmosphere in which to
talk openly about your life as a mum. You will get to meet other mums with babies
of a similar age, make friends, develop new ideas, gain support and
encouragement and have a hot drink!
Led by an NCT trained Postnatal Leader, these courses are designed to support
you to become the parent you want to be. The Postnatal Leader will not act as an
expert or dispense advice, but will help you decide what is best for you, your baby
and your family. Each session is planned based on what you, as new parents,
want to talk about.
Topics covered may include:
The difference between expectations and the reality of parenthood
Making time for you
Daily patterns
Returning to work, or not
The change in your relationship with your partner, wider family and friends
Upcoming dates for NCT Early Days courses run by our very own postnatal
teacher Liz Fickling are:
18 January 15 February 2012 (five sessions of two hours)
2 May 23 May 2012 (four sessions of 2½ hours)
Bumps & Babies group in Wilmslow
basis. This group has been meeting on a Friday morning 10am 11.30am but we
need more volunteers to keep the group going. Please get in touch if you would
like to help out.
Breastpump agent
The branch now has a breastpump agent who has two Medela Symphony
machines for hire. They are high-quality hospital-grade pumps. For more
information please contact Dipika Morgan on 01625 420129 or 07766 716638
NCT East Cheshire News
8
Gemma Kerr East Cheshire Branch
Nearly New Sale 12 November 2011
All expectations were surpassed on my first time volunteering at our Nearly New
went on behind the scenes and at the actual sale. The organisation of the
clothes, equipment and toy rooms, the checking of goods for quality, the moving
of goods to the rooms for displaying; at times you could not move due to the sheer
volume of items being brought in by our sellers. You have to take into account
that all the work for this is done entirely by volunteers.
The rooms were brimming with bargains by the opening of the sale. We had
eager buyers waiting outside and queuing down the road. Once through the
doors they were buying anything from a few items to taking home all the
essentials for a newborn at bargain prices.
We had a fantastic range of homemade cakes donated kindly by our sellers and
drinks on our refreshment stand. Our stand also included a seating area for a
welcome rest for buyers and a great opportunity to enjoy a tasty treat or two!
The Nearly New Sales are our biggest fundraisers and without our volunteers,
sellers and eager buyers we would not be able to raise funds for the NCT, so a big
thank you to all who contributed to an outstanding sale.
Our next Nearly
New Sale will be
back at the
Wilmslow
United
Reformed
Church on 12
May 2012. We
look forward to
seeing you
there.
Health
10
Shelley Metcalfe East Cheshire Branch
Tongue Tie
When Sam, our first son, was born
three years ago, I was supremely
confident I would breastfeed him. I
had been to the prenatal
breastfeeding sessions, had read up
on tips and techniques and had a list
of local counsellors and support
groups to turn to should
things get tricky. Having
seen some friends
struggle, I knew it might not
be easy. But understanding
the benefits to Sam, I was
absolutely determined that
I would overcome any
problems and feed
successfully. Reduced risk
of serious diseases? Fewer
coughs and colds? Lower
risk of eczema and asthma? Three
more IQ points?! Count us in!
Things didn't quite go to plan. When
Sam was six days old, I developed
mastitis in five places and despite
treatment, including antibiotics, I was
admitted to hospital just a week later
to have five large abscesses
surgically removed.
I will spare you a detailed description
of the pain and the gore, but suffice to
say there was plenty of both!
Following the operation, I needed
daily visits to the hospital or doctor to
have wounds dressed and to check
for new abscesses forming. It was no
longer possible to feed my baby, but I
had to continue to express until my
milk dried up to prevent the mastitis
recurring. Despite this, a
few weeks later the
abscesses returned and I
had to have further
surgery. I had a total of
nine abscesses removed
and it was three months
before I recovered.
This time was incredibly
difficult for all of us. For a
week after each operation
I was unable to lift my baby. Not only
was I distressed about the time I had
to spend away from my tiny son while
being treated, but I also carried an
enormous amount of guilt for my
failure to breastfeed.
During my illness, I received a huge
range of conflicting advice and
opinion as to what could have caused
my condition, how it should be
treated, and whether or not it might
recur with future children.
Health
11
When I became pregnant with Tom,
our second son, I was again
determined to breastfeed. I had done
the research and had an armful of
different approaches to try latch,
positioning, diet, timings,
supplements, creams... you name it. I
also had breastfeeding support lined
up, and antibiotics on standby from
my GP. Surely we could crack it this
time!
Just as it had been with Sam,
breastfeeding Tom was incredibly
painful. Still, I persevered, but when
Tom was just a few days old, blocked
ducts started to appear again. I was
alert to the tell-tale signs - small,
tender, pre-mastitic lumps - in a way
that I hadn't been with Sam, and
immediately called the lactation
consultant I had on standby.
This lady was the first person to
suggest that my son(s) might have
tongue tie (also known as
ankyloglossia). Sure enough, when
she checked Tom's mouth, it turned
out that he had an 85% posterior tie.
At no point previously had anyone
suggested that tongue tie might be at
the root of my breastfeeding
problems. With my permission, she
carried out a very simple procedure
called a frenetomy to divide Tom's
tongue tie.
Health
12
This was very quick and although
Tom cried briefly he stopped as soon
as I fed him (breastmilk and saliva aid
healing of the mouth). Breastfeeding
was immediately less painful. Tom
was able to open his mouth wider and
get a better latch. It was remarkable,
like feeding a different child.
I was given clear instructions for
aftercare, including tongue exercises
for Tom for the first two weeks, and
was advised to take him to a cranial
osteopath. With this I successfully
breastfed exclusively for the early
months of Tom's life. I only wish that I
had been advised differently when
trying to feed our first son.
Tongue tie is not uncommon.
Estimates suggest that approximately
one in 20 babies has it. My
grandmother tells me my uncle had
his 'snipped' at birth - apparently
midwives would keep a fingernail long
and sharp to routinely sweep under
the tongue of newborns. Although for
many it causes no problems at all, for
some it can make breastfeeding
difficult (and it can even affect speech
in later life). So if you think that your
baby might have tongue tie, do speak
to your midwife or health visitor (some
areas provide frenetomies on the
NHS) or a qualified lactation
consultant. You might find that it
makes breastfeeding a completely
different experience.
Tongue tie symptoms can include
Sore, damaged, cracked or
squashed nipples
Frequent or long feeds
Blocked ducts or mastitis (caused
by poor drainage)
Reduced milk supply
Difficulty latching on
Clicking noises while feeding
Fussiness
Poor weight gain
To find a local lactation consultant or
tongue tie divider go to
www.lcgb.org/
Pregnancy & Birth
14
NCT Birth Companions service coming soon to East Cheshire
NCT is launching a new Birth Companions service providing one-
to-one support for parents from late pregnancy, through labour,
birth, and into the first few hours with their new baby.
Amy Smith, of Buxton, is currently
training to become an NCT Birth
Companion, and will bring this service
to the North West for the first time.
Rebecca Wierenga, who helped
develop the course, says,
Birth Companion can support you
whether you choose to give birth at
home, in a birth centre, or in hospital.
She will be the constant presence
during your labour which so many
women and their partners find
invaluable. She is on hand to listen to
you, support your decisions and help
you understand what is happening.
She is there to help you have the kind
Research has shown that women who
receive continuous support in labour
are more likely to give birth
spontaneously, less likely to use pain
medications, more likely to be
satisfied with their birth experience
and have a slightly shorter labour.
NCT-trained Birth Companions are all
qualified professionals who have
completed a nine-month course,
developed by NCT in partnership with
the University of Worcester. The new
service will be available for a fee for
mothers and couples.
An NCT Birth Companion will:-
Meet with you three times before
the birth
Pregnancy & Birth
15
Help you to put together a birth plan
whether you are going to have your
baby at home, in a birth centre or in
hospital
Stay with you throughout your
labour and birth and communicate
with medical and midwifery staff so
you can focus on your own needs
Support you emotionally, offer you
comfort measures such as
massage, and help you use active
birth skills, breathing and relaxation
Support your partner during the
labour
Meet with you again after the birth
to discuss your labour with you.
As the final part of her training with
the University of Worcester and the
NCT, Amy must support a woman
(and her partner) through labour. If
you are due to give birth between
February 2012 and mid-April 2012
you would be entitled to this service at
a reduced rate of £250.
Amy says,
NCT Birth Companions service to the
North West for the first time. The
course at the University of Worcester
has been brilliant and I am looking
forward to supporting local women
and their partners to achieve the type
of birth that they want. I wish that this
service had been available when I
had both of my babies as I have seen
firsthand the strength, and belief in
their own ability to give birth, that a
woman and her partner can gain from
having a birth companion
If you would like to find out more, or to
book an NCT Birth Companion,
please contact Alison Green at
[email protected] or on
07525 403674.
www.eastcheshire.nhs.uk
PND Support Group
17
Learning to smile again
Becoming a mum is arguably the most profound, life-changing
old adage but nobody can prepare you for it,
and for some it can be an overwhelming experience.
Up to one in four women is affected by postnatal issues anything from mild
a -blown postnatal depression, which can be
incredibly debilitating.
Two mums from Macclesfield have come together, with the support of Health
Visiting services, to make a difference at a community level and set up a support
group the SMILE Group (Supporting Mums in Living with their Emotions) for
mums in Cheshire.
The group meets every Friday from 10am
Centre, inviting mums affected by postnatal issues to chat and relax with people
going through a similar experience.
Group founder Natalie Nuttall
my son and realised there was no support available at a community level, which
seemed ridiculous given that there are at least three groups in Cheshire for
breastfeeding support.
ave a very switched-
heard anecdotal evidence from mums who have struggled to get clear and
consistent guidance, at a time when they feel most vulnerable.
a place where
they can be honest and open about their experience also a platform for
raising
the PND agenda in antenatal sessions, as well as trying to join up health services
The SMILE Group is also liaising with other charities and support groups across
the UK specialising in postnatal issues to try and join the dots and ensure more
consistent support for mums when they need it most.
For more information follow @thesmilegroup or contact
01625 378081
Diary
19
Regular Events
Bumps & Babies
We meet on Wednesdays during
term time at Fun4All in Macclesfield
10am 12 noon. Great for toddlers
and young children to burn off some
steam on the two play frames but also
ideal for mums and younger babies to
relax on the sofas and enjoy a coffee
and chat. No need to be an NCT
member just sign in on the NCT
Bumps and Babies sheet at the
entrance desk and come and join us.
Free entry for children under 3 with
the Bumps and Babies group. Normal
Fun4All admission charges apply for
children over 3.
See our NCT EC News page for
further information about our group in
Wilmslow.
Coffee Mornings
Coffee mornings or
afternoons are
give the host a call to check details
and to find out the
like to host a coffee morning please
let us know.
Antenatal & Postnatal Classes
NCT antenatal classes help parents-
to-be prepare for birth and early
parenthood. Sessions for first-time
parents are held in Macclesfield,
Tytherington and Wilmslow.
The contact details for anybody
wishing to book courses are:
0844 243 6971
Coming up...
Cheeky Monkeys Christmas Tea
Party
Sunday 4 December
11am
Festival Hall, Alderley
Edge
Thursday 8 December
8pm
Flower Pot Pub, 1 Congleton Road,
Macclesfield, SK11 7UF
Baby First Aid Courses
Coming soon!!
Dates and further information to be
included in the spring newsletter. For
enquiries before then please e-mail
newsletter@eastcheshire-
nct.org.uk
Diary
20
December 2011
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
1st
2nd
5th 6
th
Sarah coffee
afternoon
2 4pm
Macclesfield
01625 427 134
7th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
8th 9
th
12th
Stacey coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Tytherington
07717764968
13th
14th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
15th 16
th
19th 20
th
morning
10 12 noon
Wilmslow
07870656906
21st
22nd 23
rd
26th 27
th 28
th 29
th 30
th
Diary
21
January 2012
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
2nd 3
rd
4th
5th 6
th
9th
Ellen coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Macclesfield
01625 423 178
10th 11
th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
12th 13
th
16th
Gemma coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Macclesfield
07505965249
17th 18
th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
19th 20
th
23rd
24th
25th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
26th 27
th
morning
10 12 noon
Wilmslow
07870656906
30th
Emily coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Wilmslow
07843693582
31st
Diary
22
February 2012
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
1st
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
2nd
3rd
Sarah coffee
afternoon
2 4pm
Macclesfield
01625 427 134
6th
Ellen coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Macclesfield
01625 423 178
7th
8th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
9th 10
th
13th
Emily coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Wilmslow
07843693582
14th
15th
HALF TERM
NO BB&T THIS
WEEK
16th 17
th
20th
Stacey coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Tytherington
07717764968
21st 22
nd
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
23rd 24
th
27th
Gemma coffee
morning
10 12 noon
Macclesfield
07505965249
28th 29
th
Bumps, Babies
and Toddlers
Fun4all
Macclesfield
10 12 noon
Birth Story
23
Natalie Lane East Cheshire Branch
I had spent years dreaming of being pregnant and being a mother,
but to date nothing has been close to what I expected neither
pregnancy, nor birth, nor life with a baby.
I was disappointed when I had to
finish work earlier than planned due to
problems with my blood pressure. It
seemed unnecessary to waste
maternity leave on time at home
without the baby. However, once
Wimbledon started and I spent
afternoons lying on the sofa with a
multipack of Dairy Milk watching the
tennis the timing seemed pretty good.
My husband was impressed that
assuming our little one came on time
his paternity leave would coincide with
the Tour de France.
Having not lived in Macclesfield for
long I decided to try and get out and
meet people. Bumps and Babies at
Fun4All was a great starting point and
I have loved meeting people with
children of varied ages always willing
to talk about them. I went along with
my bump on Wednesday 22 June
which was the day before my due
date. I was putting in miles each day
at this point to try and get little one
engaged. As I was leaving everyone
kindly said that they hoped not to see
me next week and that the next time
they would see me I would no longer
be pregnant. Anyway another week
passed and I waddled my way back
again the following Wednesday.
Something had happened at 2.30 that
morning but I believed that when your
for something else. I was wrong. My
forewaters had gone and there was
meconium in them. I continued to
leak slowly all day. I phoned my
husband to say that I was going to
phone the hospital for some advice
and could he come home in case they
asked me to go in. He sounded calm
but hopped on the next train. It is a
good job he did as the midwives told
me to head into hospital so that they
could check me over. They said not
as though we would be staying.
Upon arrival at the hospital and after
uncomfortably handing across several
soaked pads for scrutiny, I was told
that they wanted to examine me to
check whether I had an infection or
whether my waters had gone. Given
how I was feeling at this stage I was
taken aback when the midwife
informed me that I was 5cm dilated
and that they would like to move me
Birth Story
24
to a delivery room. We called my
aunt and got her to bring our bags
and some food. This was at about
7pm. By 9pm we were in the delivery
room with a load of snacks and a Tour
de France magazine. I felt as though
I was floating. The adrenalin had
really kicked in and I was bouncing
around the room. I ran around the
delivery room checking everything out
like a kid in a sweet shop. I then sat
bouncing on the ball while we
watched some Have I Got News For
You repeats on Dave. We had been
toying with the name David and I felt
that we should definitely go for it if the
TV channel got me through the birth.
I soon forgot about TV. The midwife
informed me that they wanted to
speed things along because of the
meconium and I was put on a drip and
constantly monitored. This was a bit
disappointing as I had been hoping
for a water birth. At the time I felt
completely spaced and overexcited
need to induce me.
At about 10pm I got going with the
gas and air and things were really
picking up. I was quite impressed by
the monitor showing the contractions
although I was still waiting for them to
look regular as described in our
pregnancy classes. I was still
bouncing on the ball at this point and
having quite a good time. Gareth, my
husband, was a star. The monitor
allowed him to track the contractions
and he alternated between offering
me a damp flannel, lip balm and apple
juice. He also kept reminding me to
breathe, which was more useful than I
would have expected.
I got quite excited about trying out all
the different labour positions. I paced
the floor a bit, leaned on the bed and
then leaned over the back of it. I was
disappointed when I was told to lie on
my back. I did question why it was
necessary but the midwife told me
that they were struggling to tell the
I still
that I should listen to her. It was only
afterwards that I found out that they
that was why it was considered
at the time and am amazed by how
calm Gareth was. He also knew that
both of our heart rates were higher
than the midwives were comfortable
with at several points. Everyone was
so calm that it never occurred to me
want it in an ideal world.
Fortunately I was just reaching the
end of my tolerance for the gas and
air and contemplating having to have
a different type of pain relief when we
progressed to pushing and the pain
Birth Story
25
want to use the word pain here. I
definitely remember the earlier part
with the contractions as pain but it
was different during pushing. I am not
sure what would be the appropriate
term though. It felt pretty primal, as I
am sure the noises were. It was now
around 2am and I was feeling
exhausted.
Pushing lasted for a little over an
hour. Part way through I asked
whether we could have a ten-minute
break, just a quick pit stop for me to
gather myself. I really seemed to
think this was an option but my body
As with the contractions I was just
reaching the point where I thought
was told that they could see the head
and the baby would be out with the
next push. The final push was
brilliant. It really was a whoosh
that I can recollect vividly.
My birth plan had asked for
skin to skin immediately so I
was surprised when the baby
was whisked away. A little bit
of oxygen and a once over by
the paediatrician and he was
back with me for a quick hug.
This was cut short when I started
throwing up but fortunately Gareth
stepped in and took over the skin to
skin then. I was very surprised when
the midwife informed me that I would
now need to prepare for my stitches.
I was completely unaware that I had
torn. I still find it amazing that
something like that can happen to you
without you knowing.
Time became a bit of a blur then but I
remember having just enough energy
for two lines on the phone to my mum
I often now find myself amazed by the
fact that this real person is all our
making. He is three months old now
and changing daily. I have found
motherhood extremely challenging but
I would hate to have missed any of
ggles.
Breastfeeding Support
26
Wilmslow Bosom Buddies Wednesday 10.30am 12 noon
Tel. 01625 374180 You will meet other mums who are feeding their babies, and a health visitor will be there to support and advise. Bollington Bosom Buddies Fridays 10.30am 12 noon The Coach House, Bollington Medical Centre, SK10 5JH Tel. Sara 01625 576517 [email protected] Weekly mum-to-mum breastfeeding support group run by breastfeeding counsellors. Pregnant & breastfeeding mums welcome. Macclesfield Cherubs Breastfeeding Support Group Thursdays 10 11.30am Ash G s Centre, Ash Grove, Macclesfield, SK11 7TD Tel. 01625 374484 Cherubs Breastfeeding Support Group Wednesdays 12 noon 1.30pm Hurdsfield Children's Centre, Hulley Road, Macclesfield, SK10 2LW Tel. 01625 378 081 Weekly support groups run by health visitors, midwives and breastfeeding peer supporters. Poynton Breastfeeding Support Drop In Wednesdays, 11am 12 noon
Tel. 01625 383 090 If you are aware of any changes that have been made to these groups please let us know
so we can update our information ([email protected]) NCT Breastfeeding Helpline 0300 330 0771 8am 10pm, seven days a week Call our Breastfeeding Line to talk to a qualified breastfeeding counsellor for information and support to help you breastfeed successfully. We can also help if you are using formula or want to switch from formula to breastfeeding or breastfeeding to formula. Other support networks National Breastfeeding Helpline 0300 100 0212 La Leche League 0845 120 2918
Work
27
interesting discussions and prompted the following response from
one of our readers.
It was with great interest that I read the accounts of returning to work in the last NCT
East Cheshire newsletter.
I have two children (6 and 3) and have worked for the last 5 ½ years. I returned part time
to work when my first child was 10 months old, mostly for financial reasons, but I was
also concerned that my skills would quickly become outdated. It was very difficult, but I
loved my job and was gratified with high levels of success and a great childminder.
I was, and still am, part of a strong friendship group formed during NCT antenatal
classes. We spent lots of time together in the early days and so when I returned to work
I felt left out and missed my friends terribly. When I fell pregnant with my second child I
left work as early as possible and spent a year enjoying time with my oldest child and
then my second.
When my daughter was seven months old, my maternity leave was up and I had to
return to work, but I felt that I could no longer commit in the same way. Luckily I was
offered an alternative role which also happened to be something I had worked towards
since starting my career ten years earlier. I jumped at the chance and created a job that
suited me perfectly. My children went to a nursery. My boss was extremely flexible. I
played around with my hours, working start of the week, end of the week, long days, and
shorter days. I was able to drop my eldest child at school and pick her up. My childcare
costs were reduced because I fitted my job around free pre-school sessions. A perfect
scenario! I had it all.
So why have I just made a huge monumental life-changing decision and handed my
notice in? Because despite changing my job to suit my current needs, I constantly felt I
was missing out on my children days.
I myself am a childcare child. In the seventies, my mum returned to work. Although I
had better financial quality of life, including nice holidays (most of which I cannot
remember), the memory of being left behind has never left me. I recognise how precious
to my children this time in their lives is, and although they will always be my children, in
later years we will enjoy different experiences together and they will need me in different
ways. At the moment it is these few short years when they are little that are so precious
and cannot be got back.
Work
28
Although I only worked part time, on my days off I constantly played catch up at home
with household chores and being like a super mum, paying back what I felt my children
were missing out on. I was constantly exhausted and very often poorly. At work I would
think of home and at home I would think of the things I had to do at work. In the years I
worked I was offered fabulous promotions that before children I would have strived for,
but without regret I can say I turned down every one.
I have thirty years to make a career for myself and enjoy being me and the benefits of
working. I have only one more year left before my daughter starts school. So suddenly,
or how hard
children and be a mum. I am now having a gap year from my career and hope to
return, part time again, when my youngest starts school. I have no promise of a job and
have terminated an eleven-
had sleepless nights about my decision and financially it will be hard, but when or if I am
able to return to work, perhaps some of that guilt and emotional loss will be gone and
both I and my children will be happy.
Out & About
29
Emily Dzelzainis East Cheshire Branch
Relocation, relocation How the NCT helped me to settle into my new life in Wilmslow
My husband, 13-month-old son and I moved
up to Wilmslow from London at the end of
October 2010. Having come from an area in
happening for young children I was excited
to move to somewhere which was practically
overflowing with activity in comparison.
I was eager to settle into things quickly so
did lots of research into groups in the local
area and soon had a diary full of things to
do. Whilst Charlie had a great time at all of
the activities we went along to I found it a bit
more difficult. Charlie was going through a
phase where I had to watch his every move
actually finding the time to get into a
meaningful conversation was tricky to say
the least. I am also not the most confident
person in the world so found it quite
with people.
To say I was starting to feel down-hearted
would be a slight exaggeration but I was
starting to worry that it would take me quite
a bit longer than I anticipated to settle in.
My sister suggested getting in touch with my
local NCT branch to see if they were doing
anything that I could go along to. I had been
a member of the NCT when I was in London
ng going on
in my area so I never got involved with
them.
I sent a short e-mail to the address on the
website and within no time had received a
response. There seemed to be lots going on
that I could go along to which was great and
gave me a bit of encouragement.
I went along to the get together at Fruit
Cake cafe in Alderley Edge and had a great
time. Everyone who went along was really
friendly and it was nice to sit down and have
a coffee and a chat. I left the group feeling
much more positive and excited about the
prospect of going along to more NCT get-
togethers in the future. A week or so later I
went along to a coffee morning in Wilmslow
which was also really nice and again a good
chance for me to really sit down and get to
know people. After that I became a regular
at the Fruit Cake meetings on a Friday and
would go to any coffee mornings that I could
get to. I have also got involved with the
committee which has been great fun and
another good way to meet people.
I can honestly say that getting involved with
the NCT has had a huge impact on how well
I have settled into Wilmslow life. I have met
some great people through the groups and
the committee has given me something
other than my now two year old to focus on.
To anyone who has thought about going
along to a coffee morning or one of our
highly enough. You will meet some
absolutely lovely people who could
eventually become good friends and will
always be greeted by a friendly and
welcoming environment. Plus there is
always tea and cake on supply which is
definitely a bonus in my books.
Seasonal
30
Louise Simpson Wokingham & District Branch
Edible Christmas Gifts
These are simple ideas for gifts that toddlers and young children
should be able to make with adult supervision.
Stuffed dates
Ingredients
Marzipan yellow or white (small
block)
Dates stoned are easier to work
with (small packet)
Food colouring (optional)
Equipment
Knife
Rolling pin
Bowl
Method
1) First colour the marzipan. Divide the marzipan between colours that will be
used. Knead a few drops of the colour into the marzipan. It is best to do this in
a bowl as it can be very messy.
2) Take the dates and using the knife (a job for the adults) make a slit lengthways.
Take care not to cut through the date.
3) Make small sausages with the marzipan.
4) Insert marzipan sausage into slit in the date.
5) Put stuffed dates into a decorated box for a lovely home-made gift.
Peppermint creams Ingredients
250g icing sugar
Half an egg white
2 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp peppermint
essence
Food colouring (green
and red are festive)
Equipment
Sieve
Scales
Mixing bowls x 3
Knife
Baking tray
Cling film
Rolling pin
Small pastry cutters
Seasonal
31
Method
1) Weigh icing sugar into mixing bowl.
2) In another mixing bowl mix the egg white, lemon juice and peppermint essence
together then pour into the sugar.
3) Mix using the knife then use your fingers to mix until smooth (should be very
messy!).
4) Divide the mixture between two bowls and add a couple of drops of food
colouring to them. Alternatively leave uncoloured.
6) Mix and then use fingers to kneed further (this will be extremely messy if food
colouring has been used). Add more icing sugar if it gets too sticky.
7) Roll mixture out after first putting icing sugar on worktop and rolling pin
to stop it sticking. Roll out to ½ cm thickness.
8) Cut out shapes, place onto a clingfilm-covered baking tray and leave to
dry.
9) Place in a decorated box.
Review
32
Stacey Davies East Cheshire Branch
Unconditional Parenting: Moving from Rewards and
Punishments to Love and Reason Alfie Kohn
Atria Books
I bought this book, along with several
others, when my second son was
around two months old and my first son
was having difficulty adjusting to our
new arrival. I was looking for some
ideas as to how I could help him cope
in the short term and perhaps improve
myself as a parent in the process. I
believe this book helped achieve both.
Alfie Kohn is a parent who believes that
western style of parenting is not
conducive to the rearing of well-
rounded, confident, caring and
responsible children. In fact, he feels
that that some techniques are
potentially damaging.
Khon invites the reader to consider how
how most punishments are, in one way
or another, a form of love withdrawal (I
found his argument on this so
convincing that before I had even
finished reading the introduction I
my son).
He writes about two kinds of love:
conditional and unconditional. The first
love by doing something we want them
to do, acting in a way we deem
appropriate or by meeting our
standards. Unconditional love does not
hinge on the way a child acts, how
successful they are or whether they do
exactly as we ask as soon as we ask.
He believes that we ought to love our
children for who they are, not what they
do, and that most importantly the child
feels unconditionally loved.
Kohn talks about how conventional
punishments and rewards do not work.
Studies have shown that both children
and adults alike are less likely to be
successful at many tasks when they
are offered a reward for them.
to result in temporary obedience, for
example, if you do x, I will give you y.
The child will only comply to receive the
reward, not because he thinks that he
should comply, and will not be
motivated to do the right thing. Making
children aware of the consequences of
their actions, asking them to put
Review
33
would feel if your brother took your
to be a more caring and responsible
individual.
Kohn explains that toddlers often have
tantrums because we want them to do
something that they do not want to do
and they have difficulty expressing this.
As the adult, we make the majority of
the choices that will affect them on a
day-to-day basis, but the author
suggests that where possible we invite
the child to make some choices for
themself, so that they feel that they
have some control over what happens
learn to make good decisions is by
making decisions, not by following
directions.
I found this book fascinating and would
often read passages aloud to my
husband as they made so much sense
yet were so simple and obvious in
hindsight. However, there are areas
that go a little too far in my opinion. I
judgement. If I like a painting my son
has made at pre-school I will tell him I
think he did well! I also think that
sometimes the author puts too much
enough on those of the parent.
Parenting is a tough job and sometimes
we have to refuse a request for the
sake of our sanity. Nevertheless, I
have taken on board many of the points
made in this book and have
incorporated them into my parenting
style with some success, which will
hopefully continue.
.
About the NCT
35
Founded in 1956, we are a UK-wide
membership charity, which means that
every postcode 'belongs' to one of our 314
branches, where the volunteers who
organise branch activities are the backbone
of the NCT. There are about 4,000
volunteers who hold positions such as
branch chair, secretary, treasurer,
membership secretary, postnatal co-
ordinator, newsletter editor, fundraising co-
ordinator and so on.
The NCT is at the forefront of influencing
and devising policy relating to pregnancy,
childbirth and early parenthood and
undertakes campaigning and lobbying for
better maternity care and other support for
parents-to-be and new parents. We provide
evidence-based information about
pregnancy and birth, for example through
the Bumps and Babies magazine which is
freely available from maternity units, GPs
surgeries, Sure Start/Children's Centres etc.
Individual parents may order a copy via our
website www.nct.org.uk
We provide antenatal classes, Early Days
postnatal courses and drop-ins and
breastfeeding support through branch
activities such as open houses, bumps and
babies groups, branch newsletters and so
on. All these things together offer
opportunities for people to make friends,
build confidence and enjoy their new role as
parents.
National Contacts
NCT Website www.nct.org.uk NCT Switchboard 0844 243 6000 (tel) 0844 243 6001 (fax) NCT Membership 0844 243 7000 NCT Enquiry Line 0300 33 00 770 NCT Breastfeeding Line 0300 33 00 771 (8am-10pm 7 days a week)
NCT Pregnancy & Birth Line 0300 33 00 772 (9am-8pm Mon-Fri) NCT Early Days Line 0300 33 00 773 (9am-1pm Mon-Fri) National Experience Register Line 0300 33 00 774 NCT E-groups www.nct.org.uk/info-centre/getting-help/egroups NCT Shop www.nctshop.co.uk
National NCT News
36
NCT
plunge for NCT and leap out of a plane to raise essential funds to help our work supporting new
parents?
Becoming pregnant and preparing for parenthood is an exciting time, but it can also bring with it
many challenges. As parents, we often find that we receive information from all different
directions. Friends, family, and companies too, everyone has an opinion or advice to give.
NCT needs your support to continue to provide unbiased information and support that parents
can rely on. By joining Team NCT you can ensure that other parents receive the essential
support and information they need to make the transition to parenthood a positive one.
£4.80 sponsorship could fund a call to our Pregnancy and Birth Helpline.
£25 sponsorship could pay for an hour of NCT Practitioner support for a new mum in need.
£140 sponsorship could fund a subsidized antenatal course for a parent from a low-income
family or a young parent.
take the plunge once again: "It was amazing! Just amazing. I loved every minute (except
perhaps the minute just before we jumped) and as soon as I landed I wanted to do it again. If
you get the chance then DO it!"
at www.nct.org.uk/jump or get in touch at [email protected]
New national statistics on home birth
Statistics released in November by the Office of National Statistics have shown that in England
16,919 women (2.5%) had a home birth in 2010, out of 679,638 births, down from 2.7% of home
births in 2009.
Elizabeth Duff, Senior Policy Adviser for NCT says,
reduction in the number of women giving birth at home in England, as we know that up to 11%
National NCT News
37
of pregnant women plan and hope for a home birth. The benefits of one-to-one care from a
known and trusted midwife, no travelling in labour and the chance to give birth in a private,
relaxing, family environment make home birth an attractive choice for many women.
from government that all women should be offered this choice. NCT has commended the
port of choice and control for service users and urges policy makers
to set out a detailed plan for maternity care which honours this pledge.
alongside options to book for care at a birth centre and at a hospital maternity unit. NCT calls on
every NHS Trust and Board to ensure that choice of place of birth is available to all women.
With many maternity services overstretched, we need to see sufficient numbers of midwives to
NICE caesarean guidelines
New guidelines have been published by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
(NICE) regarding caesarean sections.
Belinda Phipps, Chief Executive of NCT, has said in response to this:
services recognise that women and their partners want to be safe and to feel safe during their
birth. They also want their birth to be a positive experience, one that starts them off as parents
in a way that gives them confidence and a feeling of being in control.
and long-term consequences for both of you.
with respect, and are offered support and information tailored to their concerns, very few of
them will choose a caesarean birth unless there are clear health reasons.
NHS trusts should plan services to avert preventable complications from developing, to reduce
avoidable obstetric interventions and to prevent trauma to women and babies. If caesarean
rates go up following the change to the guidelines, it will be evidence that women are not getting
the quality of midwifery support they need to instill confidence and feelings of safety while giving
birth.
"NICE guidelines have been invaluable in raising awareness about the need to justify the use of
major surgery. The updated recommendations on caesarean birth are welcome, as they mean
many women can now safely choose a vaginal birth instead of being advised to opt for a
surgical operation. We are also glad that this new guideline emphasises the need for good
communication between women and health professionals, and does not suggest that caesarean
should be offered
Information for Advertisers
38
NCT East Cheshire Newsletter Advertising Rates
The NCT East Cheshire branch covers the Wilmslow, Poynton and Macclesfield area. Our newsletter is published four times a year and currently has a print run of 350. The newsletter is distributed to our members; pregnant women in the area via local midwives; local health professionals; and other interested parties, such as prospective members, antenatal and postnatal groups. If you are interested in advertising with us please get in touch to discuss your requirements: [email protected]
One Issue Yearly (four issues) 10% discount
Full Page Back Cover (colour) £60 £216
Full Page Inside Front / Back Cover (colour) £55 £198
Full Page (B&W) £40 £144
Half Page (B&W) £25 £90
Quarter Page (B&W) £15 £54
Prices exclude VAT at 20%
NEXT ISSUE: Spring 2012 (due out end of February) COPY DEADLINE: 25 January 2012
Please e-mail copy to [email protected] as a Word file or include the text in your e-mail.
