Search Results

Motherhood is a journey filled with love and laughter, but also demands, sacrifices and plenty of exhaustion. When you focus on what truly matters – connection, love and growth, you’ll be able to find a more balanced and fulfilled life. 1. Take a Well-Deserved Break   Instead of stressing about a spotless house, how about visiting a cafe  or a library to enjoy some quiet time with a good book or engage in your hobby such as gardening or baking? 2. Try Journaling  Every day, write down the things you do. Today, I made a tuna avocado sandwich for breakfast, juggled three meetings at work, bleached my husband's shirts and even squeezed in a 30-minute workout before dinner! Little accomplishments like these remind me of how much I'm doing for my family... 3. Recharge with Quiet Time    Take small steps you can control like unplugging your phone for family time and setting up a bedtime routine. When we make a conscious effort to recharge, we show up as our best selves for both our family and ourselves. 4.  Exercise for Calm  Incorporate standing exercise  into your routine because exercise not only keeps us fit, but also releases those happy endorphins, keeping us in a positive frame of mind. 5.   Connect with Nature  This can nurture your soul and help you gain a fresh perspective on what truly matters. Walk the parks , explore trails  or even have a picnic  at a nearby park or reservoir. 6.    Energise with Music  Whenever you do chores around the house, playing some relaxing music or your favourite tunes can make the job seem less tedious. 7.    Relax with a Cuppa After that, how about enjoying a cup of Chamomile Rose Tea or your favourite brew? And let the soothing aroma encourage mindfulness and relaxation. 8.   Reflect on Priorities & Set Actionable Goals Aligned with Your Values  One of my values is personal growth because life is constantly changing. For this year, I'm learning astrology (Action) to understand the influence of celestial bodies (Goal) and also playing the guzheng (Action), a traditional Chinese instrument, to appreciate traditional music (Goal). 9.  Volunteer Your Time Lend a helping hand at a charity or participate in community service . It can be extremely fulfilling and give you a sense of purpose as well as new opportunities to meet new people and build your social circle. 10.  Ask for Help When You Need It  Remember that it's okay not to have all the answers and that it's okay to ask for help from friends and family and your community whenever you need it. Have fun with your new-found peace!

R and her partner were getting married soon. In their thirties and eager to start a family after the wedding, they decided to check on their fertility. Their tests came back normal, which was reassuring. But then R asked an important question: “What about preconception care?” I smiled and said, “Think of your body like a garden. Before you plant the seed, you need to prepare the soil.” R nodded, unsure of what that truly meant—until we began discussing nutrition. Key Nutrients to Support Conception 1.  Folic Acid Perhaps the most essential preconception nutrient, folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby’s brain and spine. These defects can develop very early—often before you even realize you're pregnant. All women of childbearing age are advised to take at least 400 micrograms daily. Recent studies also show that early folic acid supplementation is associated with improved neuropsychological development in children, including better verbal skills and behavior. Importantly, no negative effects were observed, even at higher doses. 2.  Iron Iron supports healthy blood and helps prevent anemia. Low iron before pregnancy can lead to fatigue and increases the risk of complications. Great sources include red meat, leafy greens, lentils, and fortified cereals. 3.  Calcium and Vitamin D Babies need calcium to build strong bones and teeth. If you’re not getting enough, your body may draw calcium from your bones, increasing your risk of osteoporosis later in life. Including calcium-rich foods—like dairy products, leafy greens, or fortified plant milks—along with vitamin D (which aids absorption) is essential. 4.  Iodine Crucial for both thyroid health and brain development, iodine is another key nutrient. Women trying to conceive should aim for 150 micrograms daily, easily obtained through iodized salt, dairy, or prenatal vitamins. 5.  Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA/EPA) These healthy fats support fetal brain and eye development. Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are excellent sources. For vegetarians, algae-based supplements offer a plant-friendly alternative. 6.  Zinc Zinc plays a role in hormone production and ovulation. It can be found in nuts, seeds, whole grains, and meats. 7.  Vitamin B12 Vital for red blood cell formation and nervous system health, B12 is especially important for those on vegetarian or vegan diets, where it can be harder to obtain from food alone. R had a blood test and was surprised to learn her iron and folic acid levels were low. She began incorporating more spinach, lentils, fish, and the occasional steak into her meals. She also added fortified almond milk to her daily routine and made time for afternoon walks to soak up natural vitamin D. A referral to a dietitian helped her create a balanced meal plan filled with whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Four months later, R felt healthier, more energized, and confident. While pregnancy can take time, she knew she was doing something powerful—laying the groundwork for a strong beginning.

As a first-time mum, I wanted to do it right. I did a lot of reading, which inevitably led to information overload, self-doubt, and confusion. If this sounds like you, don't give up. The First Time Breastfeeding is something that mothers should consider for at least the first six months for optimal health and development of the baby. However, any mummy who cannot do it due to reasons or circumstances beyond her control should not feel any guilt. As per the textbook, I put my baby to my breast right after he was born. Luckily, my baby took to the nipple quickly, but there wasn’t any milk. Nurses consoled me that there was colostrum and I should be patient and wait a day or two for the milk flow to come. My baby was born small at 2.5kg, which was below the 90th percentile of weight for all babies. Finally The Milk Came... For the next four days, I persisted in breastfeeding, but there was still nothing. I grew increasingly anxious as my baby’s weight dropped from 2.5kg to 2.1kg. I considered starting formula milk as I couldn’t bear to see him getting any smaller. I called a lactation consultant who was due to visit me at home at the end of the fourth day. However, just before she was due to arrive, the milk finally came. What a relief it was! Experimenting With Feeding With my baby being small, I wanted to compensate by feeding him more. I stuck to what was taught in most books: feeding my baby at 2.5 to 3-hour intervals, 24 hours non-stop. With each feed, my baby would nurse for 20-30 minutes each time. However, he didn’t keep the milk in. He would regurgitate a lot during burping. It was overwhelming as I had no way of knowing for certain how much he was drinking and whether it was enough for him. A Task That Was Laborious But Rewarding In addition, I had totally underestimated how laborious the task was. It was definitely more exhausting than any full-time job. Fortunately, the breastfeeding process did get easier, more routine, and more predictable with time. It was also emotionally soothing while I connected with my baby. When my baby turned 5 and a half months old, he started semi-solid food feeding with ease. I continued to breastfeed my boy for a year before weaning him off. Bonding With Baby & Learning A New Skill Breastfeeding is indeed challenging especially during the first month. Both my baby and I had to come to grips with life, with each other, and learn a new skill too. I was adjusting to life as a new mum, even with my second baby and third. Each of my babies’ feeding patterns was a little different. How much and how often my baby feeds depended on my baby’s needs. I slowly learned that as long as both baby and mum are healthy and feeling happy, the feeding schedule is working fine. The important point is to remain relaxed, calm, and to nurse gently. Nursing in various positions such as side-lying, or investing in a nursing pillow or nursing chair can also be useful. However challenging breastfeeding was, the experience was equally rewarding. I believe that breastfeeding has, in part, helped all my three boys become both emotionally secure and physically strong young men. It was also a precious time in my life to build that emotional bond with my baby, and weaning him was an equally emotional and bittersweet process. In the years to come, I will always remember my breastfeeding journey with much joy. And I hope you do too. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help with parentcraft and baby matters.

M and her husband sat attentively as I explained the biopsy results. She had a precancerous lesion of the cervix caused by an HPV infection. Turning to her husband, I said, "HPV is very common among married couples. You should consider getting vaccinated too." He frowned. "Isn't that just for women?" "Men can get HPV too," I explained. "It can lead to throat, anal, and even penile cancer." "But what if I already have it?" he asked. "Maybe," I admitted, "but this isn't just about now—it's about protecting your future and your wife’s." Low Awareness of HPV in Men A Singapore study revealed that awareness of HPV infection in men and the benefits of vaccination is low among young adults. In 2022, researchers conducted a self-administered e-survey over three months. They collected demographic data and assessed HPV literacy among young adults aged 15–24 via a secure electronic platform. The findings? Only 1 in 10 men had received the HPV vaccine, and the majority were unaware that HPV could infect men. What is HPV? HPV is an extremely common virus that affects both men and women. There are over 100 strains of HPV, and while many are harmless, some can cause serious health issues, including: • Genital warts • Throat, penile, and anal cancers Approximately 80% of people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. The virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including all forms of sexual activity—not just intercourse. While condoms reduce the risk, they do not offer complete protection, as HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Most HPV infections clear on their own, but when they persist, they can lead to serious complications. Why Men Should Get the HPV Vaccine The HPV vaccine isn’t just for women—it’s strongly recommended for men as well. The vaccine is given in two or three doses and protects against the strains most likely to cause cancer and genital warts. It’s safe, effective, and offers long-term protection. Benefits of HPV Vaccination in Men: • Protect Yourself – Reduces the risk of HPV-related cancers and genital warts. • Prevent the Spread – Lowers the chances of passing HPV to partners. • Safe & Effective – The HPV vaccine has been extensively studied and has a strong safety record. M’s husband sat in thought for a moment before smiling. "Alright. If it helps keep us both safe, I’ll do it." HPV is not just a women’s health issue—it’s everyone’s concern. Protect yourself and your loved ones. Get vaccinated.

In today’s busy world, many families struggle to connect with each other while balancing work, school and social activities. Engaging in meaningful conversations can be a challenge, but studies show that effective parent-child communication significantly enhances emotional well-being of children and strengthens family relationships.  Tips For Better Parent-Child Communication Active Listening Understanding Non-verbal Cues Kids often express themselves through body language, tone and facial expressions. For instance, a child may say they are happy, but their slumped shoulders and lack of eye contact can signal something different. Recognising these non-verbal cues can provide an inkling to your child's emotions and feelings. Practicing Reflective Listening Reflective listening involves repeating back what your child says to confirm understanding. You might say, "So, it sounds like you're worried about the test." This shows that you are engaged and care about their feelings.  Creating a Safe Space for Open Dialogue Create an environment where your kids feel safe to express themselves. Emphasise empathy and non-judgment, and encourage your kids to share without fear of criticism or ridicule. Going Beyond "How was your day? " Asking Open-Ended Questions To encourage more engaging conversations, ask open-ended questions. Instead of asking, "Did you have fun at school?", try "What was the best part of your day?" Open-ended questions invite children to share more details and their thoughts. Clarifying Questions When you want to understand better, use clarifying questions. For example, if your child mentions something upsetting, ask, "Can you tell me more about what happened?" This demonstrates genuine interest. Avoiding Interruptions and Judgments Give children space to express themselves fully. Avoid interrupting or judging what they say. Instead, listen actively to foster a non-threatening dialogue. Tailoring Your Communication to Your Child's Age Toddlers With toddlers, keep language simple and use lots of non-verbal cues. Kids at this age benefit from play and companionship. Storytelling is another effective way to reach toddlers and enhance their communication skills. Tweens and Teens As children grow into tweens and teens, they seek independence and may shut down during conversations. Many teens feel misunderstood by their parents at times. Recognise their need for autonomy while maintaining open lines of communication. Customise Your Communication Style Each child is unique. Pay attention to individual personalities and adjust your communication style accordingly. Some children are more verbal while others might express feelings through creativity or silence. Managing Conflict and Difficult Conversations Staying Calm Under Pressure In difficult discussions, keeping calm is essential. Model healthy conflict resolution by taking deep breaths and maintaining a composed demeanor. This sets an example for your child. Using "I" Statements When expressing feelings during conflicts, use "I" statements instead of "You" statements. For instance, say, "I feel upset when my concerns aren’t heard," instead of "You never listen to me." This helps communicate feelings without blame. Finding Common Ground and Compromise Foc us on finding solutions rather than assigning blame. Ask your child what they think could work and work together to come to an agreement. This collaborative approach reinforces teamwork and understanding. Building Strong Family Bonds Creating Regular Family Time Set aside dedicated time each week for family conversations. Whether it’s a family dinner or game night, this time fosters meaningful connections.  Engaging in Shared Activities Participating together in activities like cooking or playing a game, strengthens relationships. Shared experiences naturally lead to discussions and bonding moments. Expressing Appreciation and Affection Regularly express love and appreciation. Compliments and affectionate gestures reinforce positive communication patterns and strengthen emotional ties.

The first sign that you are pregnant is usually after you have missed your period. Some women with irregular cycles may only realise after a couple of months.  How Is Pregnancy Calculated? The start of pregnancy is calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period. A full term pregnancy is 40 weeks. However delivering any time between 9 to 10 months is typically considered normal. Pregnancy is also divided into three stages called Trimesters with each trimester being a set of three months. So if you are three months pregnant, you are 12 weeks into your pregnancy.  Here’s a quick look at how your baby is growing every month inside your womb.  For easy reference, the size of the foetus is compared to a fruit or vegetable.  Week 4 Size: About the size of a poppy or chia seed (0.1cm) Development:  Eyes and limb buds start to appear Heartbeat and blood circulation start Week 8  Size:  About the size of a blueberry (1cm) (less than 1g) Development:  Eyes, ears, mouth and nose are distinct  Brain cells are generating Kidneys starting to form Intestines begin to develop Liver starts producing blood cells Pancreas begins forming insulin All four chambers of the heart are developed Week 12 Size:  About the size of a lime (5.4cm) (14g) Development:  Fingers and toes are still webbed, but distinguishable Heartbeat detectable Kidneys produce urine Vocal cords are formed Arms are proportional to body Legs may not be proportionate yet Week 16 Size:  About the size of an avocado (11.6cm) (100g) Development: Facial muscles are developing so expressions like squinting and frowning can be seen on a scan Genitals become distinguishable Legs are longer Eyebrows and eyelashes are more distinct  Week 20 Size: About the length of a small banana (25.6cm) (300g) Development: Baby’s movement can be felt Sucking and grasping movements can be seen on a scan  Permanent teeth are forming inside the gums Heart beats at the rate of 120-160 beats per minute Week 24 Size:  As long as a corn on the cob (30cm) (600g) Development: Skin is red and wrinkled Foetus gains weight Eyebrows and eyelashes are clearly seen Eyelids are separated, but remain shut Week 28 Size:  About the size of a big eggplant (37.6cm) (1kg) Development: Eyes start producing tears and nose can smell Brain grooves and folds are still developing Fat deposits under the skin Nervous system starts controlling a few body functions Week 32 Size:  About the size of a large grapefruit (42.4cm) (1.7kg) Development: - Stronger kicks and movements can be felt Baby sleeps more Baby attains a head-down position Lungs continue practicing rhythmic breathing Kidneys are fully developed  Week 36 Size:  About the size of a large honeydew melon (47cm) (2.5kg) Development: Skull bones remain soft to allow easy passage through birth canal Fully formed limbs and nails Baby can move neck well Blood vessels are fully developed Earlobes have soft cartilage Week 40 Size: As big as a small pumpkin (51.2cm) (3.4kg) Development: Baby is fully grown and is ready to be delivered For more detailed information on your baby’s week-to-week development and pregnancy diary, there are many good apps that you can download and use. Here are some suggestions: WhatToExpect Pregnancy & Baby Tracker -WTE Asianparent: Pregnancy + Baby Ovia Pregnancy & Baby Tracker 280days: Pregnancy Diary App

Did you know that parenting styles need to change as children grow?  There are 4 distinct stages according to our children’s ages and changing needs, in which our parenting approach will determine how we foster a strong bond and connection with our children. Discipline Years (Ages 1-5) These are the foundation years of our children’s development. Boundaries have to be set to ensure safety and self control. For example; not sticking their fingers into power sockets or throwing their food. It’s exhausting for parents, but the outcome is that you would have demonstrated the significance of adhering to rules and respecting boundaries. Teaching Years (5-12) Your child is growing more independent at this stage. To enable them to better  understand the reasons behind the rules you have set, explaining the “why” is crucial. Just saying “No!” will not help them make good choices and form good habits.  Dealing with a Tween at this stage can be particularly challenging. Best to approach with compassion when discipling during this phase. It requires patience and clear communication.  Guiding Years (12-18) This is the stage when children start making choices. Friends, music, school activities, clothes etc. The role of the parent will become more of a coach, mentor, guide. You need them to trust you. It is necessary to be non-judgmental and objective in order to keep an open channel of conversation with them. They need to feel comfortable confiding in you.  Friendship Years (18 and above) This is when your child has grown into an adult. What they become is ultimately a reflection of the formation you provided. You hope they will reiterate what you taught them with their own children. You want to share in each others’ experiences just like friends.  Parenting is not always about being authoritative and commanding. It is a complex web of love, patience, firmness, compassion, strictness, trust and faith and our goal is to equip our children to become resilient and trustworthy individuals.

Creating a safe environment for your baby is crucial especially when your little bundle of joy is so fragile in the early months after birth. There are also different challenges to watch out for when your baby is busy exploring every nook and cranny of your home.  The Living Room Furniture To keep your baby safe, anchor tall furniture like bookcases and entertainment units to the wall. Statistics show that falls from furniture are common injuries among children. Creating a designated play area with soft flooring or play mats can help reduce the risk of injury during playtime. Electrical Outlets and Cords Child-proof outlet covers are available in various stores. Use cord clips or zip ties to keep electrical cords hidden and out of reach. Consider using cord concealers to prevent curious hands from tugging on them. Toys Check toy safety guidelines when selecting toys for your baby. Common choking hazards include small toys, marbles, and balloons. Opt for age-appropriate toys and ensure they are stored safely and out of reach when not in use. The Kitchen Stoves and Hot Surfaces Install stove-knob covers to prevent accidents. Keep hot food and drinks out of reach and place them in a secure spot away from the edge of countertops. Kitchen-related injuries are a serious concern, making awareness essential for safety. Cleaning Supplies and Chemicals Store cleaning supplies and chemicals in locked cabinets. Child-proof cabinet locks are widely available and provide peace of mind. Ensure that toxic substances are always stored securely. The Bathroom Water Safety Always supervise your child around bathtubs, toilets, and sinks. Use non-slip mats in the bathroom to prevent falls. Consider toilet lid locks as an extra measure to prevent accidents. Medications and Cosmetics Keep medications and cosmetics in child-proof containers.  The Bedroom Crib and Bedding Adhere to safe sleep practices recommended by baby experts. Choose a sturdy crib with a firm mattress and fitted sheets. Avoid soft bedding to reduce the risk of suffocation, and always place your baby on his/her back to sleep. Windows Install window guards and other safeguards especially if you live on a high floor. Ensure that windows are properly secured and never leave furniture near windows that a child could climb on. Balcony and Outdoor Areas Secure balcony railings and install child-proof gates for outdoor areas. Always ensure that external doors and windows are locked to prevent unsupervised access. Other Outdoor Hazards Plants, Insects, and Sunlight Be aware of poisonous plants and insects in your surroundings. Dress your child in protective clothing and apply sunscreen to prevent sunburns, especially during outdoor play in hot sunny Singapore.

She listened to me attentively. She had just been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) . J, a 20-year-old university student, had been experiencing irregular periods for the past two years. Her cycles occurred once every 2 to 3 months. The menstrual flow could be scanty and prolonged. Occasionally, it was heavy with clots. Her BMI had shot up from 23 to 29 over the last year. The fatigue, mood swings, and weight gain had taken a toll on her, both physically and emotionally. PCOS and Weight Gain PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting many women worldwide. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, elevated male hormone levels, and multiple small, underdeveloped cysts in the ovaries. Among the array of symptoms, menstrual issues are one of the most distressing concerns, impacting a woman’s quality of life. One of the key contributing factors is obesity or excess body weight. The Relationship Between PCOS, Weight, and Hormones Women with PCOS usually experience insulin resistance, where their bodies become less responsive to insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. This leads to higher insulin levels in the bloodstream, which, in turn, triggers the ovaries to produce more male hormones (androgens). The normal hormonal balance necessary for ovulation is thus disrupted, leading to irregular periods. Insulin resistance is also closely linked to weight gain, especially around the abdomen, which further exacerbates the hormonal imbalance. Excess weight amplifies the symptoms of PCOS because fat tissue is hormonally active. The more body fat a woman carries, the greater the disruption in hormone levels. Additionally, women with PCOS often find it challenging to lose weight due to the metabolic and hormonal hurdles associated with the condition, creating a vicious cycle of weight gain and worsening PCOS symptoms. Impact of Weight Loss on Menstrual Health in PCOS Research shows that weight loss in women with PCOS can significantly improve menstrual health, restoring regular cycles, promoting ovulation, and enhancing overall reproductive health. A loss of 5% to 10% of total body weight can lead to significant improvements in menstrual health for women with PCOS. Weight reduction helps lower insulin levels, which in turn reduces androgen production by the ovaries. This rebalancing of hormones can lead to more regular ovulation, allowing women to experience more predictable menstrual cycles. A regular menstrual cycle is not only crucial for reproductive health but also for overall hormonal balance and well-being. It improves mood and self-image, boosts energy levels, and reduces the severity of PCOS symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth (hirsutism). Additionally, reducing body weight lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other metabolic disorders J's Journey to a Healthier Lifestyle J started to change her diet, replacing processed foods and sugary snacks with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. She joined a gym, taking up yoga and light cardio exercises, and though it was a struggle at first, she felt her body slowly adjusting to the new routine. She found that spreading out her meals throughout the day, avoiding large amounts of carbohydrates, and focusing on healthy fats helped her feel more balanced and less sluggish. With the change in lifestyle and medications, J started to notice small changes after two months. She had more energy, and her clothes fit a little looser. At her six-month follow-up, J was beaming with her progress. She had lost 10% of her body weight, and her hormone levels were improving. “How do you feel?” I asked. “I feel… balanced,” J said with a smile, and it was true. The fatigue had lessened, her mood swings were less frequent, and most importantly, her cycles were regular. It wasn’t just the weight loss that had changed her—it was the way she had taken ownership of her health.She found that spreading out her meals throughout the day, avoiding large amounts of carbohydrates, and focusing on healthy fats helped her feel more balanced and less sluggish.

Being a new parent is a joyful experience, but very often, you'll find you and your spouse overwhelmed and having little time for each other. Sleep deprivation can hit hard, affecting mental health and overall well-being for both new mums and dads. Self-care then becomes a  necessity and finding ways to carve out "me time" can lead to happier parents and, in turn, a more content baby. Tips For Finding "Me Time" As A New Parent Finding time for yourself and your spouse may seem impossible, but it's achievable with some creative planning. Here are a few suggestions: Time-Blocking : Set specific times during the day dedicated purely to self-care. Leverage Support Systems : Family, friends and babysitters can provide crucial support. Negotiate Responsibilities : Discuss with your partner who can take over certain tasks to free up time. By implementing these tips, you can gradually reclaim your personal space, allowing you to breathe and recharge. Maximising "Me Time" On A Typical Busy Day Short Bursts of Self-Care : Even five minutes of deep breathing can be refreshing. Mindfulness & Meditation : Techniques like guided meditation can help reduce stress levels. Engage in Hobbies : Dedicate a few minutes each day to something you love like reading or crafting. Maintaining Intimacy & Bonding as New Parents New parenthood can put a strain on romance. However, maintaining intimacy is crucial for a healthy relationship.  Schedule Date Nights: These can be simple, like watching a movie at home after the baby sleeps. Express Affection: Small gestures like holding hands or hugs go a long way. Open Communication: Regularly checking in about each other's feelings and needs helps manage expectations. Making an effort to stay connected strengthens your bond and supports your journey through parenthood. Seeking Professional Help When Needed It's important to recognise signs of postpartum depression and anxiety as a new mum. Fathers too can face emotional struggles. Remember to seek professional help or join support groups when you or your spouse feel overwhelmed.  Prioritising Self-Care for a Happier, Healthier Family Making time for self-care can ultimately result in improved mental well-being, a stronger couple relationship and a happier, healthier family.

Preparing for childbirth can be overwhelming. And a well-packed hospital bag can definitely make your birthing experience a lot smoother and more comfortable.  For You: Mom-to-Be Loose-fitting comfy pyjamas:   Opt for breathable fabric like cotton and ones that allow easy access for breastfeeding.  Two to three sets should be sufficient. You'll usually be discharged within one to two days after vaginal birth or two to four days if you had a Caesarean. If you have other medical issues, the doctors may advise you to be hospitalised longer for evaluation and observation.  * https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/what-to-expect-after-labour Nursing bras:  Choose styles that provide support and comfort during recovery. Going-home outfit:  Look for something soft and easy to wear, keeping in mind the unpredictable nature of postpartum bleeding. Toiletries Having your personal toiletries on hand can make hospital stays feel more like home. Pack the following essentials: Toothbrush & toothpaste Body wash, shampoo & conditioner Perineal  care products:  Think about bringing witch hazel pads and Dermoplast spray for comfort after delivery Lip balm:  Labour can dry out your lips, so pack along a moisturising lip balm. Some mothers require specific skincare products to address postpartum skin changes.  Medical Records Ensure you have all the necessary documentation in a clear plastic folder for easy accessibility. Include: NRIC  Prenatal records                                                                                                         For Baby: Your Little One Clothing For newborns, lightweight clothes are best in hot and humid Singapore. Pack around 2-3 outfits such as onesies made of cotton to keep your baby cool and comfortable. Diapers & Wipes Diapers: Consult your pediatrician for preferred brands of diapers and wipes. Some hospitals provide diapers during your stay, but it’s wise to bring extra supplies for the journey home. Wipes: Choose hypoallergenic options that are gentle on sensitive skin. Swaddles & Blankets Choose swaddles and blankets that are breathable and suitable for hot weather. Lightweight muslin swaddles are fantastic options. Always check the sizes to ensure they fit your newborn comfortably. For Your Partner/Support Person Snacks & Drinks Keep energy levels up with healthy snacks like: Granola bars, nuts or dried fruit Hydration:  Bring water bottles or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated during the stay. Entertainment:  Books, magazines or the latest drama series and movies downloaded onto tablets can provide a welcome distraction. Don’t forget to pack : Camera or smartphone:  For capturing those first precious moments. Phone charger:  Making sure devices stay charged. Note -taking materials:  To record any special moments or instructions from your doctor/gynae Nursing Supplies If breastfeeding is the plan, consider the following: Nipple cream and nursing pads Comfortable nursing pillow Postpartum Essentials Maternity pads Peri bottles Comfortable underwear A well-packed hospital bag can alleviate some of the stress of giving birth. Start early and give yourself plenty of time.

E was diagnosed with CIN1, a precancerous condition of the cervix caused by a persistent infection with HPV. When I told her husband that he should also receive the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, his expression shifted from surprise to disbelief. "Me? Doc, why would I need it? I don’t have any symptoms. I’m fine," he said. I had anticipated this reaction. "You may not have symptoms, but HPV affects men too. You could have the virus without knowing it. It’s the same virus that’s causing these changes in your wife’s cervix," I explained. How Common is HPV Infection Among Men? Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Globally, about one in three men is infected with HPV, with HPV 16 being the most common type. This means men are susceptible to HPV throughout their lives. What Are the Advantages of HPV Vaccination? HPV poses significant health risks to men, including various cancers and other conditions. It is crucial for men to receive the HPV vaccine not only for their own health but also to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect public health. Benefits of the vaccine include: Prevention of Future HPV Infections The HPV vaccine protects against several high-risk strains of the virus, including those that cause cancers and genital warts. Even if you don't have symptoms now, you could still be exposed to HPV in the future. The vaccine can help protect you from acquiring new strains of the virus. Protecting Your Partner HPV is highly contagious and can spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Even using condoms doesn't fully protect against HPV, as the virus can infect areas not covered by the condom. Although the immune system may clear some HPV infections naturally, vaccination can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus between you and your partner. This is especially important since some HPV strains cause persistent infections, which can lead to more severe cervical abnormalities, like in E’s case. Reducing the Risk of HPV-Related Cancers HPV is linked to several cancers in men, including penile, anal, and throat cancers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 70% of throat cancers in the United States are caused by HPV. This is particularly concerning as the incidence of HPV-related throat cancers in men has been rising in recent years. Unlike cervical cancer, which has routine screening methods like Pap tests to detect precancerous cells, there is no regular screening for these cancers in men. This makes prevention through vaccination even more crucial. These cancers often develop silently over time, so while you may not have symptoms now, vaccination reduces the long-term risk of these serious conditions. Prevention of Genital Warts Another significant benefit of HPV vaccination for men is the prevention of genital warts. HPV types 6 and 11 cause about 90% of genital warts, which, while not life-threatening, can cause discomfort, emotional distress, and require medical treatment. Vaccination can prevent the development of genital warts, improving quality of life. HPV Infections Are Often Asymptomatic You can have HPV without knowing it. The absence of symptoms doesn’t mean you haven’t been exposed or won’t be exposed in the future. The vaccine is preventive and works best when given before exposure, but it can still protect against strains you haven’t encountered yet. How Effective is the Vaccine? HPV vaccines are highly effective at preventing infections from the most dangerous strains of the virus. They cover HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for most HPV-related cancers, as well as types 6 and 11, which cause genital warts. Even if you’ve been exposed to one strain, the vaccine can still protect against others. While the vaccine is most effective when given at a younger age (before sexual activity begins), adults up to age 45 can still benefit from it. Conclusion After discussing the benefits, E’s husband understood the importance of getting vaccinated and received three vaccination shots over six months.