'A healthy, happy pregnancy is a healthy, happy baby in the making'.
This is the sentiment behind Pregnancy Education Week 2005, held from February 12 to 20.
Pregnancy Education Week (PEW) is recognised on the national calendar and plays a vital role in informing, encouraging and assisting pregnant women and their partners in attending classes for childbirth preparation.
The Childbirth Educators Professional Forum (CBEPF), in conjunction with HuggiesR Freedom* as a proud supporter of this initiative, is striving to educate parents-to-be on the benefits in attending childbirth classes.
"Learning to live healthily and happily during pregnancy is not only a wonderful opportunity for parents-to-be, but can also have a tremendously
positive effect on the unborn baby," says Lynne Bluff, director of CBEPF.
"Childbirth Educators provide the relevant knowledge needed for peace of mind."
Topics discussed include hospital care, pregnancy nutrition, birth options and postnatal care.
The philosophy taught at childbirth education classes is one of 'informed choice through the knowledge of alternatives', explains Lynne.
"The teaching should cover the pros and cons of all options for the birthing process, allowing parents to make informed decisions."
"We believe an educated mom is in a position of strength, enabling her to make the best possible choices for her unborn baby," says Bridget Barnes,
brand manager for HuggiesR Freedom*.
"We're proud to be supporting this significant initiative, and stand by the sentiment that a healthy, happy and informed mum is able to nurture a healthy, happy baby."
What to expect from childbirth education classes
Today's childbirth educators deliver vital information in an enlightening, socially interactive method, with special emphasis on involving dads-to-be.
Practical advice on how to bath your baby, nappy changing and breastfeeding is also given.
Not only do these classes offer a special focused time to bond with your partner and unborn baby, but also provide a place where long-term friends
can be made, in comparing labour methods, encouraging and supporting each other in the trying times of early parenting, and swapping tried and tested tips on every available subject.
A social responsibility programme during Pregnancy Education Week
As proud supporters of Pregnancy Education Week 2005, the makers of HuggiesR Freedom* disposable nappies have undertaken to donate two disposable nappies for each and every birth in SA during Pregnancy Education Week (PEW). It is
estimated there are over 15 000 births per week.
Looking for provincial beneficiaries for the donation of disposable nappies
HuggiesR Freedom* are appealing to the public and non-profit organisations to submit their suggestions of charities that deal specifically, if not exclusively, with abandoned newborns. From these submissions, one charity per province will be selected as a beneficiary - after an evaluation
process. The donation of an estimated 30 000 nappies will be divided among the nine charities.
"We would like to offer these nappies to local provincial charities that touch the hearts of communities through their efforts in seeing to the
health and well being of abandoned newborns," says Barnes.
"We hope to help keep as many babies as possible dry and comfortable in their first weeks of
life."
To submit your suggestion of a local non-profit organisation that caters specifically for deserted newborns, please included their NPO number,
contact details under the subject title "NPO" to [email protected]
or send details on a post card to PO Box 5950 Rivonia 2128. Entries close February 28.
For more information on Childbirth Education Classes, please call 072 351 0051.