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If you are thinking about having a baby, or could become pregnant, you need to know about iodine supplements. In Australia and New Zealand there has recently been a re-emergence of iodine deficiency. Iodine is an essential mineral that we get from the food we eat. While dairy foods and seafood are good sources of iodine, the amount of iodine in our diet depends on how much iodine is in the soil. A diet low in iodine may lead to a number of health problems. Iodine is particularly important for pregnant and breastfeeding women, the developing baby in the womb, babies and young children.

01 Aug 2020... It is common for the perineum to tear during a vaginal birth. Most often a tear will simply need to be stitched and will heal well, others will need more attention and time to heal. This information gives advice about how to care for yourself after a third or fourth degree tear.

01 May 2021... This fact sheet explains the possible health effects of IVF (in vitro fertilisation) and ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). Ask your doctor about the best options for you.

01 Jan 2011... Information pamphlet warning women of the extremely high levels of iodine in seaweed soup, this soup is often given to pregnant and breastfeeding women from Korea, Japan and some parts of China in the belief that it increases breastmilk supply. This soup can have iodine level hundreds of times higher than the recommended daily intake. High levels of iodine intake can cause hypothyroidism in newborn babies.

01 Dec 2019... This resource summarises what to bring to the hospital when having a baby. This is essential to ensure women are prepared in advance of what they need to organise so they and their partner or support person feel prepared and that their hospital stay is as comfortable as possible with all they need.

This translated NDSS fact sheet provides information on gestational diabetes in women who are pregnant. It explains who is at risk, why and how to manage gestational diabetes and the importance of healthy eating and physical exercise and other pregnancy related information on gestational diabetes.

If you have recently been diagnosed with gestational diabetes (GDM), you probably have a lot of questions. This short video will step you through the most up-to-date information about diet and GDM before you see the dietitian and diabetes educator.

All pregnancies are different. Regardless of your size, what's most important is a healthy rate of growth for your baby.

If your baby’s movement pattern changes, it may be a sign that they are unwell. Around half of all women who had a stillbirth noticed their baby’s movements had slowed down or stopped. This resource explains how often your baby should move and what you should do if it changes.

Apnoea of prematurity is a breathing pause that can occur in premature babies. This resource provides advice for parents on the management of apnoea of prematurity.

01 Jan 2019... An introductory video explaining how pregnancy begins, what effects your chances of getting pregnant and an overview of the female reproductive system.

01 Aug 2019... You have been given this factsheet because your baby has been born with genitals that look a bit different (atypical). These genital differences are sometimes referred to as 'intersex variations', 'differences of sex development' or 'variations in sex characteristics'. This fact sheet provides information for families to fully understand the issues and risks associated with your child's specific intersex variation in order to make informed decisions about their best care and treatment.

Breastfeeding and childcare provides information for both parents and childcare providers, and outlines the rights of mother and baby regarding breastfeeding and childcare.

01 Sep 2021... Picture cards with illustrations to explain breastfeeding positions to try for comfort and attachment. Suitable for 0-3 months.

01 Jan 2021... It covers the basics of breastfeeding, how and when to feed the baby, explains the normal breast changes and what is not normal when breastfeeding. The resource also provides the contact numbers on where to get help when needed.

01 May 2017... This translated 16 page booklet is for mothers who are starting to breastfeed. In it you will find information on how to get started and how to avoid common problems.

01 Apr 2018... There are a number of things that you can do before you get pregnant, and in the early weeks, to encourage a healthy pregnancy. Taking care of yourself in early pregnancy is very important. Read this fact sheet for tips to show you how.

01 Jan 2020... Explanation of gestational diabetes (GDM) and the importance of diet in managing this condition. It also includes culturally specific information for women from Arabic, Chinese, Persian and Vietnamese backgrounds.

01 Aug 2019... The Newborn Intensive and Special Care (NISC) nurseries at the Women's provide the best possible care for babies. To maintain the highest level of care we are continually updating our practice by carrying out careful research studies.

01 Sep 2018... Jaundice in newborn babies is a yellow colouration of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Visible jaundice occurs in one third to a half of normal newborn babies. It usually does not cause problems and generally fades by the end of the first week after birth. If the jaundice appears within 24 hours of birth, or is still present after 2 weeks, contact your doctor or local hospital.

This information is about what happens when it is certain that you have had, or are going to have a miscarriage.

A translated NDSS fact sheet that advises women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes on the best preparation for a healthy pregnancy before falling pregnant. It advises on contraception, planning for pregnancy, being pregnant with diabetes and unplanned pregnancy. It also includes a pregnancy planning checklist.

01 Jul 2022... Vaccinate for free when pregnant. This brochure provides information about whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination in pregnancy.

01 Aug 2019... You have been given this fact sheet because your baby or child has been diagnosed as having a variation in sex characteristics. This means your child was born with naturally occurring characteristics that do not fit the typical definitions for male or female bodies. These differences are also sometimes referred to as 'intersex variations', 'differences of sex development' or 'conditions associated with reproductive development'. Different people prefer different terms.

The brochure informs the community about what Vitamin D deficiency is, and the potential risks for mothers and their babies. It also explains where to get Vitamin D levels checked and how to increase levels if they are low.

This brochure provides an overview of the most common techniques involved with assisted reproductive technology (ART), including IVF, artificial insemination, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).

01 May 2021... This fact sheet describes fertility treatment options. Ask your doctor about the best options for you.

01 Aug 2022... This brochure provides evidence-based information about the effects of drinking alcohol during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, when planning a pregnancy and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

28 Jun 2022... Monash Health has developed fact sheets about looking after yourself and your baby. It includes information on your health in the first six weeks after giving birth, info on your newborn baby and caring for your baby.

01 Nov 2019... Learn about pregnancy care, where to give birth and the costs involved.

The Australian Dietary Guidelines say that everyone should eat one or two fish meals per week for good health. The good news is that it is safe for everyone to eat 2-3 serves per week of most types of fish. Shark, marlin and swordfish should only be eaten once a week by the general population because they have levels of naturally occurring mercury.

01 May 2021... A translated fact sheet about 'morning sickness' that can occur at any time of the day. The cause is unknown although it has been linked to changes in the levels of various hormones during pregnancy. This fact sheet describes what it is, what can be done to help it, some suggestions to reduce the severity of your symptoms, and foods to try. It also includes information about hyperemesis.

01 Feb 2021... This information sheet for women is about perineal tearing during childbirth. It explains what can be done to reduce the risk of a third or fourth degree perineal tear.

01 Aug 2018... Preeclampsia is an illness that occurs during or immediately after pregnancy. It can affect both the mother and the baby.

01 Feb 2021... If you have a third or fourth degree perineal tear during childbirth, this information sheet will help you understand the treatment and follow-up care you should receive to support your recovery.

Information with tips on how to get pregnant and stay healthy during pregnancy.

Easy English book about your choices when you get pregnant.

New research shows that going to sleep on your side from 28 weeks of pregnancy halves your risk of stillbirth compared with sleeping on your back.

This flyer explains the risks of smoking whilst pregnant including miscarriage or stillbirth, your baby may be born premature (before 37 weeks’ gestation), Sudden Unexplained Death of an Infant (SUDI or cot death), or low birthweight and breathing problems.

01 Dec 2021... A fact sheet about breastfeeding with illustrations.

03 Dec 2021... If you are breastfeeding, it's recommended you get vaccinated against COVID-19 at any time. The World Health Organisation also encourages women to continue breastfeeding after vaccination - as some research suggests that antibodies can pass through breastmilk and protect babies against COVID-19.

This resource provides information for pregnant women on the type of movements they should expect from the foetus during pregnancy.

01 Feb 2020... These four parenting booklets (antenatal stage, 0-2 months, 2-4 months, 4-6 months) provide useful information to support breastfeeding, tummy time, healthy infant feeding practices, sleep and mother's wellbeing.

01 Feb 2020... These four parenting booklets (antenatal stage, 0-2 months, 2-4 months, 4-6 months) provide useful information to support breastfeeding, tummy time, healthy infant feeding practices, sleep and mother's wellbeing.

12 Dec 2019... The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is recommended for screening for depression in the antenatal and postnatal periods. The following translations have been linguistically validated (forward and back translations) by Western Sydney Local Health District Translation Services. Please be aware that scores used to identify possible depression in migrant and refugee women are generally lower than those used in the general Australian population. Use the following guide for screening: The EPDS is a screening tool not a diagnostic one and designed to identify those who require a more comprehensive mental health assessment. Complete the first antenatal screening as early as practical in pregnancy and repeat screening at least once later in pregnancy. Complete the first postnatal screening 6-12 weeks after birth and repeat screening at least once in the first postnatal year. For a woman with an EPDS score between 10 and 12, monitor and repeat in 2-4 weeks as the score may change subsequently. Arrange further assessment of perinatal women with an EPDS score of 13 or more. For a woman with a positive score on Question 10, undertake or arrange immediate further mental health assessment, and if there is any disclosure of suicidal ideation, take urgent action in accordance with local protocol. Use appropriate antenatal or postnatal NSW Health forms.

If you are thinking about having a baby, or could become pregnant, you need to know about folic acid. Folic acid is important to the healthy development of babies in early pregnancy.

01 May 2016... Taking care of your gums and teeth during pregnancy is important for you and your baby.

This factsheet is a guide to a healthy pregnancy. It provides advice on a healthy lifestyle, vitamin & mineral supplementation, medications, immunisations, blood tests, health check-ups, family history, social situation and mental health.

01 Aug 2017... This translated video provides information on involving health services early and fully understanding your childbirth options to give a great start to a rewarding birth experience. The video outlines the who's who during pregnancy, birth and newborn care, and helps to understand which records and paperwork are required as well as payment options for having a baby and newborn care in Victoria.

01 Feb 2021... Preparing formula and sterilising bottles fact sheet provides important information for mothers who choose to formula feed.

01 Apr 2022... The influenza vaccination in pregnancy gives protection to your baby. You pass on protective antibodies to your baby through the placenta by getting vaccinated. It also reduces your chances of experiencing stillbirth and other complications.

01 Apr 2020... Harmony Alliance, in collaboration with The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), have produced the factsheet providing information on COVID-19 (coronavirus) to pregnant women.

01 Aug 2017... Newborn babies often appear to have a yellowish tinge to their skin. This is called jaundice. It happens when a chemical called bilirubin builds up in the baby's blood and tissues. In most babies jaundice is a normal event and not serious. It will nearly always disappear gradually within days without the need for any special treatment.

01 Aug 2018... Sometimes it is necessary to help a women to start her labour using artificial methods. This is called induction of labour. This information may help you and your family make a choice about induction of labour and to answer some of the questions you may have.

01 Oct 2019... Is shisha harmful to me, my baby or my young children? YES! Shisha smoke is toxic. It contains chemicals, including carbon monoxide and tar, which are bad for your health and those around you. Smoking shisha can lead to problems in your pregnancy. It can also harm your baby and young children.

01 Apr 2018... There are a number of things that you can do before you get pregnant, and in the early weeks, to encourage a healthy pregnancy. Read this fact sheet for tips to help you in early pregnancy.

12 Sep 2022... Information on perinatal depression and anxiety (PNDA), including who can get it, what to look out for, postnatal psychosis, effective treatment and where to get help.

01 Sep 2019... This booklet is for people who have an unplanned pregnancy and are unsure of what to do.

21 Mar 2021... Self-care strategies for parents and caregivers of young children to help them stay in good physical and mental health, including information on exercise, sleep, diet and mental health.

12 Dec 2019... The Edinburgh Depression Scale - Antenatal is recommended for screening for depression in the antenatal and postnatal periods. The following translations have been linguistically validated (forward and back translations) by Western Sydney Local Health District Translation Services. Please be aware that scores used to identify possible depression in migrant and refugee women are generally lower than those used in the general Australian population. Use the following guide for screening: The Edinburgh Depression Scale - Antenatal is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one, designed to identify those requiring a more comprehensive mental health assessment. Complete the first antenatal screening as early as practical in pregnancy and repeat screening at least once later in pregnancy. Complete the first postnatal screening 6-12 weeks after birth and repeat screening at least once in the first postnatal year. For a woman with an EPDS score between 10 and 12, monitor and repeat in 2-4 weeks as the score may change subsequently. Arrange further assessment of perinatal women with an EPDS score of 13 or more. For a woman with a positive score on Question 10, undertake or arrange immediate further mental health assessment, and if there is any disclosure of suicidal ideation, take urgent action in accordance with local protocol. Use appropriate antenatal or postnatal NSW Health forms.

01 Oct 2021... The videos have been produced with support from 1800 My options and The Victorian State Government to explain:- your legal right to abortion in Victoria, - the types of abortion available, - how to get an abortion, and - who to contact.For more information, or to find a service near you, call 1800 My Options (1800 696 784) or visit www.1800myoption.org.au.

01 Feb 2020... These four parenting booklets (antenatal stage, 0-2 months, 2-4 months, 4-6 months) provide useful information to support breastfeeding, tummy time, healthy infant feeding practices, sleep and mother's wellbeing.

A translated booklet with information about breastfeeding and postnatal care. The contents of the booklet includes the impact of feeding choice, signs of correct attachment, breastfeeding issues, taking care of you and taking care of your baby.

Translated information about venous leg ulcers and how wearing compression stockings can prevent them returning.

A translated fact sheet outlines that it is quite normal to have a few discomforts in early pregnancy. Sometimes they can become quite severe, and you may need to talk to your doctor about what to do. This fact sheet includes common discomforts such as morning sickness, heartburn, cramps, vaginal thrush and other discomforts.

01 Aug 2020... After the birth of your baby, you may have difficulty emptying your bladder or have changes to the normal urge to pass urine. If the bladder is not emptying properly then the urine that is left behind can build up over time, this is known as Urinary Retention.

This translated information is for women having an epidural during labour. It explains what an epidural is, why you are having one and how it is administered.

01 Oct 2018... What is preeclampsia, the symptoms, how it affects mother and baby, cure/treatments and where you can find further information.

01 Apr 2021... Information about how alcohol crosses the placenta, the risks of drinking during pregnancy (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), and advice for a healthy pregnancy.

This factsheet is to help understand more about antenatal or postnatal anxiety and depression concerns and where to go for further information and help.

01 Aug 2019... This information sheet discusses the services and tests you may need before you attend hospital for your first antenatal care clinic appointment. It is aimed at women who will have their baby at the Royal Women's Hospital but has information that may be applicable to all pregnant women.

These four parenting booklets (antenatal stage, 0-2 months, 2-4 months, 4-6 months) provide useful information to support breastfeeding, tummy time, healthy infant feeding practices, sleep and mother's wellbeing.

01 Oct 2019... Breastfeeding confidence is a quick guide on the essentials of breastfeeding.

01 Jun 2016... A translated resource for pregnant women who may be experiencing problems with bladder and bowel control. The resource covers information such as how to know when there is a problem, likelihood of getting bladder and bowel problems, having caesarean births and information on pelvic floor muscles.

01 Sep 2016... Genetic Alliance (GA) brochure describing what is a genetic condition and detailing the services we provide. Our aim is to facilitate support for those affected directly or indirectly by genetic conditions throughout Australasia. GA provide peer support to families and individuals affected by a genetic condition.

01 Jan 2020... Explanation for Group B streptococcal (GBS) in pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. Includes information about the testing procedure at Mercy Health Services.

01 May 2018... This translated list is for women who are coming to the Royal Women's Hospital to have their baby, outlining what to bring with them.

Healthy eating in pregnancy means lots of fruit, vegetables and foods with calcium, protein and iron. Avoid sugary, fatty foods, and drink plenty of water.

01 Oct 2017... This is part of a series of videos about periods, pregnancy and contraception, for newly arrived migrant and refugee women in Australia. This video provides general information, please speak to a health professional for appropriate individual advice.

01 Aug 2019... Some simple translated steps we recommend for after you have given birth. These will improve your postnatal recovery, including immediately after birth and longer term exercises and tips.

01 Jun 2016... This translated document describes what nocturia is and its causes, which include (but are not limited to) heart problems, kidney problems, and diabetes (type 1 and 2). It also covers issues with lowering intake of liquids, what a person should do and how it can be treated.

01 Jun 2016... The document explains how to keep your pelvic floor muscles strong. The floor of the pelvis is made up of layers of muscle and other tissues. These layers stretch like a hammock from the tailbone at the back, to the pubic bone in front.

01 Jun 2016... The document explains what is a vaginal (or pelvic organ) prolapse is.

01 Apr 2021... Reducing third and fourth degree perineal tears information sheet. The information sheet aims to encourage shared decision making, informing women about their risk of a tear and what can be done to reduce their chance of experiencing a third or fourth degree tear. The information is designed to be given to women at an antenatal appointment between 30-36 weeks. It has been developed by a consumer working group with medical and midwifery input.

01 Aug 2012... A guide to introducing solid foods to babies 0 to 12 months.

This factsheet explains what choices you have if you have an unplanned pregnancy, in Easy English with a lot of illustrations.

01 Aug 2019... Sometimes during late pregnancy changes may occur that can concern some women. Many of these concerns can be discussed with a midwife at their next clinic appointment however some may need immediate attention. This information explains when to call your hospital for more advice.

03 Sep 2022... The resource provides information about what to expect at the start of labour and when to present at the hospital.

01 Nov 2016... Whooping cough vaccine given to the mother when she is pregnant is the best way to stop babies from getting whooping cough. This resource addresses common questions around the use of this vaccine in pregnant women.

14 Jul 2022... Are you pregnant? Vaccination against COVID-19 is recommended at any stage of pregnancy. Pregnant women have a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 compared to the general population, and their babies have a higher risk of being born prematurely. Vaccination is the best way to reduce these risks.

14 Nov 2022... This resource answers some commonly asked questions about breastfeeding. Why is breastfeeding important? What rights do breastfeeding mothers have? What does it mean if someone cannot breastfeed? Where can I seek help about breastfeeding?

14 Nov 2022... This resource answers some commonly asked questions about pre-natal care. What is prenatal care? Why is prenatal care important? What happens at prenatal visits? What are the benefits of prenatal care?

13 Jun 2023... This video created for the Karen community, talks about what to do when you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. It covers topics such as: confirming your pregnancy, looking after your body, caring for your mental health, work and finances, what to expect at different stages of pregnancy, labour and birth, life with a new-born, and caring for your baby's health and development. See the transcript in English below.

Reproductive coercion and abuse is a behaviour aimed at establishing power and control by interfering with a pregnant person’s reproductive autonomy, controlling and /or interfering with the person’s decision making and access to options regarding their reproductive health and reproductive choices.