Pregnancy and BF

Question 1

Elevit Pregnancy Multivitamin

Answer 1

Ingredients: Folic acid (800 microg), Iron as Ferrous Fumarate (60 mg) and Iodine (220 microg)
Indication: Pre-conception and pregnancy multivitamin
Instructions: Take 1 tablet ONCE daily whilst trying to conceive, throughout pregnancy and into breastfeeding.
Begin Elevit at least 4 weeks prior to conception

Question 2

Management nocturnal muscle cramps

Answer 2

Mainstay of treatment is non-pharmacological –> stretching exercises, hot showers/baths, ice massage, regular exercise, adequate hydration

Minimal evidence for the use of magnesium, calcium, vitamin B or vitamin C supplements

Question 3

Management pruritis

Answer 3

Shower oils/soap alternatives
Moisturisers (e.g. QV cream)
Hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching
Sedating antihistamines

Question 4

TravaCalm Natural

Answer 4

Ingredients: Ginger 500 mg
Indication: Morning sickness
Instructions: 1 to 2 tabs OD as required (maximum of 2 tabs daily in pregnancy due to increased risk of blood coagulation)

Question 5

Management lactation problems

Answer 5

Refer to lactation consultant, maternal and child health worker or midwife

Question 6

Canestan Cream

Answer 6

Ingredients: Clotrimazole 1% cream
Indication: Breast and nipple thrush
Instructions: Apply to the affected area BD to TDS. Continue for 2 weeks after symptoms disappear to avoid recurrence.

Question 7

Management mastitis

Answer 7

Referral to a doctor is commonly required for course of Abx.

Can provide simple analgesia to help with pain and associated fever.