Baby Buddy App
Best beginnings has co-produced the baby buddy app for parents and parents-to-be. The app has videos on a variety of topics and contains support and advice specifically for fathers. It is free to download and use and it is ad free.
Features engaging and interactive content such as:
- personalised daily updates, advice and bite-sized tips
- a video library containing more than 300 clips
- personal care and support plans
- a free and confidential 24/7 emotional support text line.
Eating well in pregnancy
These HCP resources are about eating well for a healthy pregnancy. They provide information and advice on food and nutrition relevant to pregnant women and pregnant teenagers. They also include recipes and meal ideas to give a practical explanation of what eating well during pregnancy looks like.
Infants & new mums
These are also resources for mothers which summarises the importance of eating well for all new mums and answers some frequently asked questions that new breastfeeding mums might have about eating and drinking well, including ideas for snacks and drinks.
Healthy eating
They have specific resources for pregnancy including information about eating healthily during pregnancy, and how your diet affects the unborn baby's growth and development.
Vitamins and supplements in pregnancy
Information for women about what vitamins are needed during pregnancy and what the current recommendations are about supplements.
Smoking and drinking during pregnancy
Information on drinking in pregnancy, what the current recommendations are and how drinking alcohol can affect an unborn baby's growth and development, as well as the increased maternal risks.
Your guide to a healthy diet in pregnancy
This infographic aims to give professionals and families guidance on a healthy diet in pregnancy.
Eating well in pregnancy
These are parent-facing resources to support women to have a healthy diet during pregnancy.
Limiting your caffeine intake in pregnancy
This resource is to help women calculate their caffeine intake during pregnancy and gives information on how to ensure they are at a safe intake level.
Calculate your BMI
This resource is to help women calculate their BMI during pregnancy and gives information on how to maintain a healthy BMI during pregnancy.
Pregnancy and Oral Health
What you need to know
it is really important to take good care of your teeth and mouth during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can significantly affect your oral health which in turn can cause problems like high blood pressure (preeclampsia) or having a baby too early or too small.
How hormonal changes affect your gums
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can make dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria on your teeth, harder to remove. This can cause more bacteria to build up, leading to gum inflammation. As a result, your gums might become more sensitive, swollen, and bleed easily. This condition, called 'pregnancy gingivitis', affects 60-75% of pregnant women. In some cases, it can develop into a more serious gum disease called periodontitis.
What are pregnancy gum boils?
A pregnancy gum boil is a red, swollen bump on the gums caused by irritation or bacteria during pregnancy. It can bleed and feel uncomfortable but usually goes away after childbirth. Good oral hygiene helps prevent it, and your dentist can offer treatment if necessary.
Increased risk of cavities
Pregnant women are also more likely to develop cavities due to changes in eating habits and morning sickness, which can bring stomach acid into the mouth.
Follow these steps for a healthy mouth during pregnancy:
- have a dental checkup. NHS dental treatment is free during pregnancy and until your baby is one year old. Take your MAT B1 certificate to your dentist as proof of your entitlement to free dental care
- brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to put the bristles of the toothbrush where the teeth and gums meet. This is where gum disease starts. Looking after your gums and keeping them healthy is very important during pregnancy due to hormonal changes
- floss daily. Regular flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria between your teeth and along the gum line, which can reduce inflammation. When flossing inflamed gums may bleed, persisting with gentle flossing can help reduce bleeding over time as your gums get healthier
- limit the number of times you eat sweet snacks each day. Sweet snacks can cause "acid attacks" on your teeth. Drink fewer sugary drinks and eat fewer sweets. Eat more fruit and vegetables
- if you are affected with morning sickness you should rinse your mouth with water after vomiting and then wait at least an hour before brushing. Immediate brushing increases the potential for stomach acid to erode the tooth enamel. Rinsing with water immediately dilutes and gets rid of acid. You can also rinse your mouth with fluoride mouthwash which will help to refresh your mouth and protect your teeth
- seek prenatal care. Follow the advice of your midwife. This is important for the health of you and your baby
it is really important to take good care of your teeth and mouth during pregnancy. Adopting good oral hygiene habits will help you maintain good oral health. Seek the support of a dentist throughout the pregnancy. The dentist will also support with giving oral health advice for your new baby. If you don't have a dentist you can visit www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist. If you have an emergency and you cannot get to see your dentist, call 111.