A video series for mothers.

Key Takeaways

• Pap smears are a form of cervical cancer screening — A Pap smear is used to check for changes in the cervix as part of cervical cancer screening.
• Dr Shilla discusses Pap smears with her postnatal patients — For Dr Shilla, women's healthcare does not simply end after childbirth. She routinely discusses cervical screening with her postnatal patients as part of their ongoing women's health care.
• Being sexually active matters when discussing cervical screening — Dr Shilla highlights sexual activity as an important consideration when discussing when cervical screening should begin.
• Don't wait until later in life to think about cervical screening — Cervical screening is an important preventive health measure. Speak with your doctor about when screening is appropriate for you rather than assuming it is something that only needs to be considered when you are older.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Feeling anxious during your first pregnancy is completely normal. Every pregnancy is different, and it's natural to have questions and concerns, especially when everything is new.
• Not every symptom is a cause for alarm. Many common pregnancy symptoms are expected, but it's important to know when something doesn't feel right and seek medical advice.
• Avoid comparing your pregnancy with others. Every mother and every baby are different. Comparing experiences on social media or with friends may create unnecessary worry.
• Ask questions whenever you're unsure. No concern is too small. Your obstetrician is there to guide and reassure you throughout your pregnancy.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels unusual or you're worried about your baby's wellbeing, don't hesitate to contact your doctor or seek medical attention.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• Breastfeeding has benefits for babies — Breast milk provides nutrition for babies and breastfeeding can offer important health benefits.
• Breastfeeding may support a baby's immunity — Dr Shilla discusses the potential immune benefits of breastfeeding and shares her own observation of breastfeeding her child.
• Every mother's breastfeeding journey is different — Although breastfeeding can be beneficial, not every mother is able to breastfeed successfully or comfortably.
• Mothers should not feel pressured to breastfeed — Breastfeeding should not come at the expense of a mother's wellbeing. Mothers who are unable to breastfeed should not be made to feel guilty or inadequate.
• A mother's wellbeing matters too — Dr Shilla raises an important question: if breastfeeding is severely affecting a mother emotionally or mentally, we also need to consider the impact on the mother.
• Ultimately, ensuring baby is fed is important — The conversation should not simply be about whether a mother breastfeeds. The wellbeing of both mother and baby matters.

Relevant FAQs

Key Takeaways

• A C-section is major abdominal surgery — A C-section is not simply an "easier" alternative to vaginal birth. It is a major surgical procedure and requires appropriate recovery and care afterwards.
• Recovery can be more challenging — Mothers are recovering from surgery while simultaneously caring for and adjusting to life with a newborn. The physical recovery from a C-section can therefore bring its own set of challenges.
• An emergency C-section is not a failure — Some mothers may feel disappointed or believe that they have "failed" because they were unable to have the vaginal birth they had hoped for. A change in the mode of delivery does not mean that a mother has failed.
• The way you deliver does not determine your strength as a mother — Whether a baby is delivered vaginally or through C-section, childbirth requires tremendous strength.

Relevant FAQs