Background: The significance of parenting practices for children’s development and health has gained increased attention, aligning with life course perspectives on health. Adverse childhood experiences are widespread and linked to impaired parenting in adulthood. Understanding how expectant parents reflect on their childhoods, and how such reflections can be fostered as part of antenatal care, is essential for supporting healthier caregiving and helping to break cycles of intergenerational adversity. Objective: This study aimed to explore pregnant women’s perspectives on parenting and sources of support in light of their childhood experiences, including responses to a key question about what they want to pass on to their child. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in 2022 among pregnant women recruited through social media platforms, including Facebook groups and Instagram accounts. The Pearson chi-square test was used to examine associations between the assessment of childhood and 4 parenting-related variables. Free-text responses were analyzed for content, categorized, and quantified. Results: Among 1402 pregnant women across Norway, 10% (139/1393) reported difficult childhoods. Among them, 28.1% (39/139) felt that their upbringing would significantly influence their parenting, compared to 15.9% (171/1074) of those with good childhoods (P

Former First Lady Pohamba donates to expectant mothers at Outapi Hospital NBC Online Thu, 05/15/2025 - 14:31

Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you should give up your fitness routine. Staying active during pregnancy offers numerous benefits, including improved mood, better sleep, reduced discomfort, and smoother labour and delivery. However, it’s important to exercise safely and make adjustments as your body changes. Here are some essential tips for working out while pregnant. First, get medical clearance Before starting or continuing any exercise routine, consult your healthcare provider. Some conditions, like placenta previa, pre-eclampsia, or a history of preterm labour, may require modified or restricted activity. Focus on low-impact exercises High-intensity workouts may need to be adjusted as your pregnancy progresses. Opt for safer options like: Walking: A gentle, effective cardio workout Prenatal yoga: Improves flexibility, balance, and relaxation Swimming: Supports joints while providing resistance Stationary cycling: Low-impact and reduces fall risk Pilates: Strengthens the core and pelvic floor Avoid risky movements Certain exercises can be harmful during pregnancy. Steer clear of high-impact sport, exercises with a high fall risk (e.g. horseback riding or gymnastics), heavy weightlifting or exercises that strain the core (e.g. crunches), and hot yoga or workouts in extreme heat, because you risk overheating. Listen to your body Pregnancy is not the time to push through pain. Warning signs to stop exercising include dizziness or shortness of breath, chest pain or contractions, vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage, and severe headaches or muscle weakness. If you experience any of these, stop exercising and contact your doctor. Modify as your pregnancy progresses As your belly grows, your centre of gravity shifts, increasing the risk of falls and strain. Adjust workouts by using a stability ball for support, reducing weights and focusing on form, and avoiding lying flat on your back after the first trimester. Stay hydrated and eat well Pregnancy increases your need for fluids and nutrients. Drink water before, during, and after workouts, and ensure you’re eating enough to support both your activity level and your baby’s growth. Don’t skip warm-ups and cool-downs Gentle stretching before and after workouts helps prevent injuries and muscle soreness. Focus on hip openers, gentle back stretches, and deep breathing. – IOL Lifestyle The post Staying fit during pregnancy: Essential tips for expecting mothers appeared first on The Namibian.