Hegenberger Medical, Author at Hegenberger

What is a Birth Plan & how it can be beneficial

June 22, 2023 10:10 am Leave a Comment

Bringing a new life into the world is indeed a miracle and an incredible experience for expectant families. As the D-day comes closer, the idea of labor and delivery starts becoming a little daunting for women. To combat this overwhelming feeling, it is a great idea to have a plan in place to document your birth preferences. This plan is known as a “birth plan”. In this blog, we will unearth the importance and advantages of having a birth plan.

A birth plan is a document that outlines your preferences and expectations for giving birth and post-natal care. It is your roadmap for childbirth and includes things like the location for delivery, types of pain management preferred, and any special requests you may have. A birth plan can either be brief or more detailed and is flexible to change depending on your priorities during labor.

To make a birth plan, it is vital to have a clear head and focus on what is essential to you. Do note that not all birth plans are the same, and everyone’s preferences are unique. It is advisable to talk it out with your partner and choose a healthcare provider, before your labor. This way, you can be informed of your options and make decisions based on having all the available information.

Here are some of the advantages of having a Birth Plan

• Reduces stress: Having a birth plan will help ease any distress or anxiety that comes with unknowns associated with labor and childbirth.

• Provides a clear picture: It will help your healthcare providers understand your needs, desires, and expectations.

• Gives a sense of control: When you have a birth plan in place, it is easier to have a sense of control and ownership of your pregnancy experience.

• Helps make informed decisions: A birth plan can increase your knowledge about childbirth and choose the best care options for you and your baby.

Communicating your Birth Plan

Once you have your birth plan in place, it’s essential to go over it with your healthcare provider. They can provide input on the feasibility of your requests and compatibility with your birth setting. It will help ensure that your plan links well with their standard of care, and they will assist you in any way possible.

Flexibility is key

It is essential to keep an open mind and remain flexible. The birthing process can be unpredictable, and things may not go according to your plan. It is important to remember that the sole goal is to ensure the safe delivery of your baby and to make the birth experience as comfortable as possible.

A well-designed birth plan can aid in making childbirth a beautiful experience. With the help of a birth plan, mothers-to-be can be aware of what they want and expect while reducing stress and increasing control. In the end, it’s all about creating a birthing experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Remember, every pregnancy and birth are unique, and if you achieve everything on the plan it is not a failure.

Please see link below for Hegenberger Medical’s customized birth plan which you will find on our E-Learning Platform.

https://institute.hegenbergermedical.com/birthplan/update

The information found anywhere on this website, including but not limited to text, graphics, images and any other material therewith is for information purposes only. No material on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Always seek the advice from a registered health care professional if you have any questions regarding any medical concerns or conditions. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Linea Nigra………. What is this line on my tummy?

June 8, 2023 9:52 am Leave a Comment

As if morning sickness, hormonal shifts, and frequent bathroom runs aren’t enough, pregnant women have to deal with yet another strange pregnancy symptom: Linea Nigra. It’s that dark line that appears on the pregnant belly and extends down towards the pubic bone. Linea Nigra can make you feel like your bump is a little strange but don’t worry, it’s all normal. In this blog post, we’ll explore what causes Linea Nigra and what it means for your pregnancy.

First things first, what is Linea Nigra? The word “Linea Nigra” is a Latin term that translates to “Black Line”. It is a line that runs vertically down the belly and usually appears at the second trimester of pregnancy. Most often, the line starts from the belly button and continues down towards the pubic bone, but some women may experience a Linea Nigra that extends up towards the chest or in a sideways direction.

So why does Linea Nigra occur? The exact reason behind Linea Nigra is not known, but it is linked to the increase in hormones during pregnancy. The melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which is responsible for the body’s melanin production, is elevated in pregnancy. This causes the skin to produce more pigments, resulting in darker skin around the nipples, genitals, and on the belly in the form of Linea Nigra.

Although Linea Nigra may look alarming, it is totally harmless and will disappear once you’ve given birth. For some women, the line may not completely fade, but it will likely be much fainter than during pregnancy.

Interestingly, Linea Nigra has been observed in other mammals as well. In cats, the line is known as “midline abdominal pigmentation” and in dogs, it is referred to as “breed-standard brindle striping.” However, in these animals, the line is permanent, unlike in humans.

Although Linea Nigra is harmless, it’s important to remember that changes in pigmentation during pregnancy can be a symptom of some rare medical conditions like cholestasis, which can harm the baby. So, if you experience itching or abnormal discomfort, consult your midwife or OB-GYN.

Linea Nigra is yet another unique pregnancy symptom that many mothers face. Though its true cause is still unknown, it’s believed that hormonal shifts during pregnancy play a role. It may be a bit alarming, but don’t worry, it’s usually nothing to worry about. If you’re still unsure, discuss it with your healthcare provider to ensure that you and your baby are healthy. Remember, Linea Nigra is not permanent and will eventually fade away after giving birth. So relax and cherish this special time in your life.

Rooming-in: How Long Should You Keep Your Baby in Your Room After Birth?

May 25, 2023 11:12 am Leave a Comment

Midwives and doctors usually advise new parents to keep their baby in the same room as them for the first few months after birth. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), this practice reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by up to 50 percent. However, some parents wonder how long they should room-in with their baby. Could it be a year? Six months? Perhaps three? In this blog post, we’ll explore this topic in-depth, so you can make a well-informed decision for you and your baby. Within the blog we talk about room sharing but to be clear co-sleeping is absolutely not recommended your baby should always be placed on their back in their own crib or cot.

The AAP recommends that babies sleep in their parent’s room for at least the first six months and, if possible, up to one year. Room-sharing helps reduce the risk of SIDS, but it appears that the benefits are particularly significant during the first six months. It’s worth mentioning that studies have shown that the risk of SIDS is highest during the first few weeks of life, so it’s particularly important to keep your baby close during this time.

Although there isn’t an exact timeframe for how long you should keep your baby in your room, it’s essential to have their safety as your top priority. Experts recommend that you share your room with your baby until they’re no longer at risk of SIDS, which is usually around six months. You can, however, continue to enjoy room-sharing for longer if you think it’s right for you and your family.

Some parents decide to extend the time frame beyond the recommended six-month period, while others decide to move their baby into their own room after just a few weeks. It all comes down to how you feel as a parent and what works for you and your baby. It’s essential to keep in mind that every family is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.

Besides your personal preference, there are several other factors that can influence your decision about how long to room-in with your baby. For instance, if your baby has a medical condition or if you’re breastfeeding, you may want to sleep in the same room for longer. On the other hand, if your baby has a loud cry, you might prefer to move them to their room earlier, so that everyone can sleep better.

When you’re ready to move your baby to their own room, you can do so gradually. Spend time with them in their room during the day, and let them get used to the environment. You could also sleep in their room for a night or two before making the move permanently. Remember that your baby has been used to your presence, warmth, and voice, so moving them to a new environment can be a daunting experience. Be patient and supportive, and soon enough, they’ll adapt to their new sleeping arrangements.

Rooming-in with your baby is a personal decision that depends on your individual circumstances and preferences.

Smoking and Pregnancy: Separating Myth from Reality

May 10, 2023 10:28 am Leave a Comment

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re either pregnant or a midwife looking after a pregnant patient who smokes. Either way, you are in the right place if you want to find out whether smoking really does affect an unborn baby. In this post, we’ll lay out the truth about the effects of smoking during pregnancy; both for the mother-to-be and the baby she’s carrying. As it turns out, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. You may be surprised by what you learn!

First, let’s address the myth that smoking just stunts your baby’s growth. It’s true that smoking is detrimental to the growth of all kinds of body tissues, including those in the womb. However, it’s not just about slow development. Smoking during pregnancy has been linked to a range of serious health problems for the baby, from premature birth to miscarriage, stillbirth, and low birth weight.

For example, the carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke deprives the baby of oxygen, which can disrupt its growth and development. This can also result in the baby being delivered early, which can cause issues like breathing difficulties or developmental problems in later life. In fact, some sources suggest that a third of all premature births worldwide are caused by smoking.

Second, tobacco smoke contains more than 4,000 different chemicals, many of which are harmful to both the mother and the baby. When pregnant women inhale these chemicals, they can cause long-term damage to the developing fetus. The most worrying of all these dangers is the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). While the exact cause of SIDS is still unclear, several studies have indicated that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of this tragic event.

Third, smoking doesn’t just endanger the baby’s life during pregnancy, it can affect the child’s health for many years to come. Children born to smoking mothers are more likely to suffer health problems like asthma, bronchitis, learning difficulties and even heart disease. They also tend to have lower IQs and are more likely to develop behavioral problems.

Fourth, it’s important to note that even passive smoking can be harmful to the developing fetus. If you’re around someone who smokes for any length of time, you and your baby will breathe in the same toxic fumes as the smoker. This is why pregnant women are advised to stay away from smoky environments during pregnancy.

In conclusion, you should know that smoking during your pregnancy can be very harmful to your developing baby. The harsh reality is that smoking while pregnant is the leading preventable cause of infant mortality, and the consequences can be dire. Even moderate smoking is risky, as it can cause problems that last well beyond childbirth. So if you are a smoker, the best gift you can give to your baby is to quit smoking as soon as possible. If your struggling with this health professionals understand you and are here to help you. Make the most of smoking cessation teams that can assist you with prescriptions for nicotine replacement therapy in the form of patches, gum, amongst other options.

Remember you are twice as likely to succeed at quitting if you get some support from a trained advisor.

As a midwife, it’s important to provide clear guidance to your patients about the dangers of smoking and to support them in their efforts to quit. With a little willpower and the right support, any pregnant mother can kick the smoking habit for good.

Fitness in pregnancy

April 27, 2023 11:09 am Leave a Comment

Congratulations on your pregnancy! You’ve just received the best gift of your life. Every pregnant woman wants to carry their baby to term safely and healthily, and to do this, you need to stay fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated are important, but exercise is also essential. It can keep you fit, promote good sleep, reduce stress, and prepare you for childbirth. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best exercise to do while pregnant.

Walking

Walking is easy, safe, and one of the best exercises to do during pregnancy. It’s low-impact and can help to maintain your cardiac health. Walking for at least 30 minutes every day can help you stay active and maintain a healthy weight. It also helps to improve your mood, boosts your energy, and reduces stress levels. You can even walk with your partner, family, or friends to keep yourself motivated.

Yoga

Prenatal yoga is a gentle and safe way to stay active during pregnancy. It’s effective in reducing stress and anxiety levels, improving posture, and strengthening the muscles. Yoga helps you to stretch your muscles, reduces leg cramps, and backaches. It also helps prepare you for labor and childbirth. You can attend prenatal yoga classes or practice it at home by following instructional videos.

Swimming

Swimming is a safe, low-impact exercise that can help to relieve back pain during pregnancy. It’s an enjoyable way to work your heart and lungs, and it’s also a safe way to stretch and tone your muscles. Swimming can also help to reduce swelling in your feet and ankles. It’s important to swim in a heated pool and avoid diving, jumping, or deep-diving.

Stationary Biking

Riding a stationary bike is a low-impact form of exercise that can help to improve your cardiovascular fitness. It’s easy on your joints and provides a good workout for your legs. Cycling can also help to relieve lower back pain, improve your mood, and boost your energy levels. It’s important to adjust the bike seat to support your growing belly and avoid overheating.

Strength Training

Strength training can help to maintain your muscle mass and improve your strength during pregnancy. You can use small weights or resistance bands to work your muscles. Strength training helps you prepare for the physical demands of labor and delivery, and it can also help to reduce your risk of gestational diabetes. Make sure to talk to your doctor or midwife before you start a strength training program.

Conclusion:

Staying active and fit during pregnancy is important for the health of you and your baby. Walking, yoga, swimming, stationary biking, and strength training are all excellent exercises that can be safely carried out during pregnancy. Always remember to talk to your doctor or midwife before starting any exercise program, and be sure to listen to your body, rest when necessary, and stay hydrated. With regular exercise, you can take care of your mental and physical health and prepare for a smoother delivery and postpartum recovery. Joining a prenatal class allows you the opportunity to meet likeminded friends and offer you support throughout your pregnancy journey!

Why does pee happen when I sneeze post childbirth?

April 19, 2023 11:14 am Leave a Comment

Have you ever been in the middle of a particularly powerful sneeze when, suddenly, you feel that oh-so-familiar sensation of pee escaping your bladder? If so, then you are not alone. After childbirth, many women experience urine leakage—also known as stress incontinence—when they sneeze, cough, or laugh. It’s normal and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Here’s what you need to know about stress incontinence post childbirth.

What is Stress Incontinence?

Stress incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine during activities such as coughing, laughing, or sneezing. The reason this happens is because pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the muscles in your pelvic floor that keep your bladder closed until you’re ready to use the restroom. Common causes include pregnancy hormones that relax the muscles in your pelvic floor; pressure on the abdomen from a growing baby; and labor and delivery trauma (episiotomy and tearing).

Can Stress Incontinence Be Cured?

The good news is that stress incontinence can often be cured with lifestyle changes like pelvic floor exercises (sometimes known as Kegel exercises) these are exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that support the bladder, uterus and bowel. Pelvic floor exercises involve repetition of both sustained and rapid voluntary contractions of the muscles throughout the day, therefore exercising and strengthening them back to pre-pregnancy strength. If you continue to have concerns about your symptoms of stress urinary incontinence, make enquiries about getting a referral to a specialist pelvic floor physiotherapist, they will be able to personalize care specially to your needs., and if needed they will be able to advice you with a referral to a urogynecologist. A urogynecologist will be able to examine you further and advice on treatment both conservative or surgical. Remember there is lots that can be done to improve/cure stress urinary incontinence.

Why Wasn’t I Warned About This?

Unfortunately, this is a common concern among new moms who weren’t warned about this possibility before giving birth. It’s important for midwives to talk about issues like these so that new mothers can prepare for them ahead of time and make informed decisions about their health care plans post childbirth. With more awareness around stress incontinence post childbirth, we can help empower new mothers to take charge of their own well-being!

Conclusion:

No one should have to go through life feeling embarrassed because they wee when they sneeze after having babies – it’s completely normal! While it may seem daunting at first, there are plenty of solutions out there that can help relieve the symptoms of stress incontinence post childbirth such as lifestyle changes like pelvic floor exercises or physical therapy/surgery if needed. Remember – knowledge is power! So, use your knowledge to improve your own health, pelvic floor muscles are like any other muscles if you exercise them well, they will work harder for you.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy: What you need to know

April 11, 2023 1:34 pm Leave a Comment

Pregnant women often experience pelvic pain, which can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. While it is often assumed that this pain is part of the normal pregnancy process, there are actually several different causes and treatments available. In this blog we will explore the various causes of pelvic pain during pregnancy and how they can be treated.

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: The most common cause of pelvic pain during pregnancy is symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD). SPD occurs when the ligaments around the pubic symphysis—the joint between the two halves of the pelvis—become stretched or weakened due to increased weight or pressure from a growing baby. This can cause sharp or burning pains in the area, as well as difficulty walking or standing for long periods.

Another common cause of pelvic pain during pregnancy is round ligament pain. The round ligaments are two bands of tissue that support the uterus and connect it to the front and back walls of your abdomen. As your baby grows, these ligaments stretch and weaken, causing sharp or dull pains in your lower abdomen or pelvis. This type of pain usually occurs when you move suddenly or shift positions quickly, such as getting up from a seated position too quickly.

Finally, some pregnant women may experience sciatica—pain that radiates down one leg due to pressure on a nerve in the lower back—due to their changing posture and center of gravity during pregnancy. Sciatica can be quite painful but is usually temporary and will resolve itself soon after delivery.

Conclusion: Pelvic pain during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors, including symphysis pubis dysfunction, round ligament pain, and even sciatica in some cases. While it is important to seek out medical advice if you are experiencing any kind of pelvic discomfort while pregnant, there are also natural remedies that can help alleviate some symptoms at home such as restorative yoga poses, stretching exercises, heat therapy using heating pads or hot water bottles applied directly over sore muscles, massage therapy with an experienced expert who specializes in prenatal massage therapy techniques for expectant mothers, ice therapy for inflammation reduction (using cold packs over sore areas), and even meditation for relaxation purposes should all be considered before more invasive medical treatments become necessary. Many women will find a pelvic support belts very helpful. With proper care and attention pelvic pain does not have to be an issue throughout your entire pregnancy journey!

What is my risk of pre-eclampsia and what can I do about it?

March 30, 2023 11:25 am Leave a Comment

What is pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a condition which occurs only during pregnancy, affecting 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide¹. It is defined as high blood pressure with leaking of protein from the kidneys into the urine. This makes it a multi-system disorder, which means it affects the heart and blood vessels, the kidneys, the liver and the placenta from functioning effectively. Pre-eclampsia can be mild, moderate or severe depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms, which include headache, fluid retention leading to swollen limbs and face, acute abdominal pain and visual disturbances such as flashing lights or black spots. As a result, mothers who have been diagnosed with pre-eclampsia are classed as ‘high-risk’ and need to be diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. Sadly, the condition not only affects the mother, but also the baby, with risk of growth restriction, preterm birth and stillbirth more likely¹.

What causes it?

The origin of this disorder is the subject of much debate amongst midwives and obstetricians, and if often referred to as the ‘disease of theories’². Only officially recognised as a separate condition from epilepsy in the 18^th century, the current accepted theory is that the condition originates from the placenta during its implantation into the lining of the womb. If the placenta’s blood vessels penetrate the lining of the womb insufficiently, resulting in shallow implantation, this leads to a chain reaction of blood vessel dysfunction throughout the mother, which affects large vessels which control blood pressure, causing it to go up, but also small vessels like capillaries, causing them to leak fluid and cause water retention in the mother’s limbs². What triggers this cascade of events is still unclear, but likely to involve an excessive or atypical maternal immune response. Researchers are still actively working to find out why these immune responses happen and if they can be prevented.

Who is at risk?

In terms of conception, mothers who have conceived using donor eggs are at increased risk of pre-eclampsia as there is a different immune response compared to a conception using her own eggs. The mother’s physical health such as kidney problems, pre-existing high blood pressure and kidney problems, auto-immune disease, polycystic ovaries and diabetes can all increase the risk of pre-eclampsia. Maternal lifestyle choices, such as excessive iron levels, bacterial and viral infections, obesity and mental stress can all increase risk of pre-eclampsia².

Genetics seem to also play a role in risk, with pre-eclampsia running in families. Mothers who were diagnosed with pre-eclampsia are more likely to have daughters who will also suffer from pre-eclampsia. More recently, genetic studies show that it can also be inherited from the paternal line so a family history of both parents is needed to accurately assess risk¹.

How do I know if I have it?

This condition occurs in the second, but more commonly in the third trimester of pregnancy. Your midwife or doctor will be providing regular check-ups for the signs of pre-eclampsia (such as measuring your blood pressure and checking your urine for protein). You should be aware of the symptoms and monitor these at home, attending your local hospital triage unit if you have any of the following symptoms: severe headache or upper abdominal pain, swelling of arms/legs/face or visual disturbances. It is important to seek care immediately to treat the condition.

What can I do to reduce my risk?
Your midwife or doctor will perform pre-eclampsia screening at your first appointment of the pregnancy and inform you of your risk. If you fall into the high-risk group, you will be advised to take low-dose aspirin between 6-13 weeks. There is good evidence³ to show that in first time mothers, this intervention can reduce your baby being born premature and having a poor outcome. If you are genetically pre-disposed to pre-eclampsia, it may not stop you from developing the condition but it may stop some of the more severe consequences. As Aspirin is not licenced for pregnancy over the counter, you need to obtain a prescription from your healthcare provider. There are some medical conditions in which taking Aspirin is contraindicated, so always discuss with your doctor about your risks.

References:

Giannakou K, Evangelou E, Papatheodorou SI. Genetic and non‐genetic risk factors for pre‐eclampsia: umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of observational studies. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2018 Jun;51(6):720-30.
Jauniaux E, Steer P. Predicting pre-eclampsia: 100 years of trying and failing. BJOG-An International Journal Of Obstetrics And Gynaecology. 2016;123(7):1066.
Hoffman MK, Goudar SS, Kodkany BS, Metgud M, Somannavar M, Okitawutshu J, Lokangaka A, Tshefu A, Bose CL, Mwapule A, Mwenechanya M. Low-dose aspirin for the prevention of preterm delivery in nulliparous women with a singleton pregnancy (ASPIRIN): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet. 2020 Jan 25;395(10220):285-93.

Episiotomy

March 21, 2023 2:17 pm Leave a Comment

What is an Episiotomy

Normal birth can cause tears to the vagina and the surrounding tissue, usually as the baby’s head is born, and in a small number of cases, these tears extend to the back passage. These more complicated tears are repaired in the operating theatre under anaesthetic and can take longer to heal. An episiotomy is a procedure which aims to prevent complicated tears from going through into the back passage¹.

Why might I need an Episiotomy?

An episiotomy is usually performed shortly before the baby’s head is delivered, during the pushing stage of labour. The midwife or doctor will inject local anaesthetic into the vaginal muscle close to the perineal body (area between vagina and anus which is 1.5-5.5cm long), in a ‘mediolateral’ angle downwards away from the anus.

This is to enlarge the vaginal outlet and reduce vaginal tissue stretching and tension during the birth. In some countries, a ‘routine’ approach is taken where all women undergo an episiotomy, whereas others, like the U.K, U.S.A and most of Europe take the ‘selective’ approach and only perform episiotomies on women at imminent risk of severe perineal tears involving the back passage².

Selective or Routine Approach?

The answer is largely based on which country you give birth in. China has a 100% episiotomy rate for first time mothers as it takes the ‘routine’ approach, whereas Finland has one of the lowest rates at 9.1% due to its ‘selective’ approach. It is important to remember that sometimes episiotomies are also performed to enlarge the vaginal outlet for instrumental delivery with forceps or vacuums caps, as well as expedite delivery due to maternal or fetal complications during labour¹.

Tears to the vagina and surrounding tissue occur in up to 85% of normal births, however, the vast majority of these tears are uncomplicated (i.e. involve the skin only or the vaginal muscle only rather than the internal or external anal sphincters). Some uncomplicated vaginal tears, such as those involving the skin only do not need to be sutured, or those involving the vaginal muscle only may not need as many stitches. However, an episiotomy is always surgically repaired, thereby guaranteeing stitches are needed for the mother. The side-effects of suturing after an episiotomy may include severe pain, bleeding, infection, pain during sexual intercourse and long-term pelvic floor disorders, which is classed as severe perineal trauma. Despite geographical differences in clinical practice, there is good quality evidence available via the Cochrane Review¹ which shows ‘selective’ episiotomy reduces severe perineal trauma by 30% compared to ‘routine’ episiotomy. So, the rationale for conducting routine episiotomies to prevent severe perineal trauma is not justified by current evidence and does not have any significant benefits to mother or baby for low-risk women aiming for a vaginal birth.

Conclusion

If you live in a country which performs ‘routine’ episiotomies, you will have dedicated time antenatally to discuss this issue with your midwife or doctor. However, if your local maternity care provider practices ‘selective’ approach, you may not have the opportunity to discuss risks and benefits during the pushing stage of labour. This is why it is important to have access to unbiased evidence-based information in order to make an informed decision about your birth plan before labour.

References

Jiang H, Qian X, Carroli G, Garner P. Selective versus routine use of episiotomy for vaginal birth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2017, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD000081. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000081.pub3
Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists. Third-and fourth-degree perineal tears, management (green top guideline no. 29).

Mail on Sunday article – Hegenberger Retractor can prevent debilitating complications in childbirth

February 27, 2023 4:12 pm Leave a Comment

We are so excited to share with you that the Hegenberger Retractor has been featured in the Mail on Sunday health pages on Sunday 26th February 2023!

Daily Mail Online | Wishbone device that treats injuries to mothers in childbirth could be rolled out in NHS nationwide

Roughly eight in ten women who give birth vaginally suffer a tear in the pelvic tissues. In about a third of cases, the tear affects muscles in the pelvis and/or back passage. Forty per cent suffer a pelvic floor condition that can last a decade.

Patient testimonies are also positive. One woman involved in a trial during her second birth in 2020 said: ‘I suffered tears in my perineum muscle [the area between the vagina and back passage] in both of my births. The first time was a real struggle. But the second time, when I was treated using the Retractor, it barely felt like I had any stitches. In just days I felt back to normal.’

Read the full article by clicking on the picture below

Tears, sweat and birth – Is tearing normal?

12:20 pm Leave a Comment

Blog Introduction: Having a baby is an exciting time for most new parents – but it’s also a time of confusion and trepidation. One of the biggest worries for many mothers-to-be is whether their body will “tear” during childbirth. It’s completely normal to be concerned about this, after all, no one wants to suffer from the pain and inconvenience of tearing during labour. But understanding what’s happening can make all the difference in how you approach your birth.

What is tearing?

Tearing is when the skin between the vagina and anus (known as the perineum) stretches or rips during childbirth. It can happen because of pressure on the area as your baby’s head comes through the birth canal. The amount of tearing varies depending on several factors such as how quickly your baby was born, what position your baby was born in, or if they were delivered with forceps or vacuum extraction.

The severity of tears can range from small grazing that require only minor stitches to more severe tears that may require surgery to repair them. For more severe cases, a doctor may need to administer an epidural or spinal anaesthetic so you won’t feel any discomfort while they stitch you up. Fortunately, these types of tears are rare and most women will experience either no tearing at all or only mild to moderate tearing which can be stitched by your midwife and will heal without intervention within a week or so.

How can I avoid tearing?

Although there is no surefire way to avoid tearing, there are several steps you can take before giving birth to reduce your risk:

•Practice perineal massage in preparation for delivery. This helps stretch out your tissues and make them less likely to tear during childbirth;

•Stay active during pregnancy – engaging in light exercise such as walking helps keep your pelvic floor muscles strong;

•Make sure you’re well hydrated – drinking plenty of water will help keep your tissues properly lubricated;

•Choose positions that put less pressure on your perineum – you may want to find a position where your midwife is well able to visualise the perineal area and is able to support it when your baby’s head crowns.

•Consult with a midwife who can advise on techniques such as warm compresses and massage which can further reduce tearing during labour.

Conclusion: For most women, some degree of tearing is unavoidable–it’s just part of giving birth! But don’t let fear stop you from enjoying this special moment – with a little preparation beforehand, you’ll feel confident knowing that whatever happens, it’s perfectly normal! With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a safe and comfortable experience when it comes time for delivery! Good luck!

Women’s Hour episode with Malene Hegenberger and Marie Louise

February 22, 2023 4:02 pm Leave a Comment

BBC Womens hour spoke to Malene Hegenberger (inventor of the Hegenberger Retractor) and Marie Louise (The Modern Midwife) to talk about tearing during childbirth and how the Hegenberger Retractor can help with postpartum repairs.

As experienced midwives and mothers, they discussed smashing the taboo of “Talking about tearing” and perineal trauma as a result of childbirth.

To quote Marie “We finally shed a light on a topic that’s been in the dark ages for way too long!”

More than 85% of women having a vaginal birth suffer some degree of perineal trauma (a tear or episiotomy). It is estimated that at least one third of women in the UK and US require perineal suturing following birth.

Malene Hegenberger is the second woman in 200 years to invent a new obstetric device. She shared why she’s so passionate and how it feels to be the second woman to do it.

To quote Malene “I want to be a role model for other midwives, that if they have a brilliant idea, they should take it on”

Click the image below to listen to full segment

Product Review – Jim Greenberg, Chief of Gynecology Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School

3:58 pm Leave a Comment

We are delighted to share the product review featured in the OBG management magazine written by Jim Greenberg, Chief of Gynecology Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, Boston Massachusetts!

Progress is definitely being mad but despite positive reviews and excellent feedback, our biggest challenge remains: establishing an accepted change in practice amongst clinicians.

I think the review outlines the case for change very well in the following paragraphs….

“𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐞`𝐬 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭-𝐞𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐝𝐨 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐰𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐯𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬. 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐰𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐯𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫:

𝟏. 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐬.

𝟐. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐰𝐧 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬.

𝟑. 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧.

𝟒. 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫.

𝟓. 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐲 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐥𝐞.

We also quite liked the final line of the summary.

“𝐈 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧.”