View report page

122
Sleep.— Eight hours is needed. If possible, take half an hour's rest
lying down each afternoon.
Teeth.—Clean regularly morning and evening with a tooth brush.
The mouth must be healthy during pregnancy. Teeth that are decayed
should be taken out as soon as possible. There is no danger in having
teeth extracted under gas at this time.
Decay that is just starting can be stopped if taken in time. The
dentist at the Clinic will advise on this point, and will also treat the
gums if they are unhealthy and bleed when brushed. Stumps that are
painless, poison the system and may affect the unborn baby.
Bowels.—The bowels should be regulated as much as possible by
suitable food. Liquid paraffin may be taken to assist them; a dessertspoonful
daily is usually enough. Weak senna tea may be added if
something more is required; soak four pods in a cupful of water for four
hours and drink the water at bedtime. This is better than a weekly dose
of castor oil. Take no other aperient unless ordered by a doctor.
Breasts.—Daily care is needed. Bathe the breasts each evening with
warm water, and see that no milk has dried and sticks to the surface of
the nipples. Dry thoroughly after bathing. Use a dusting powder if
any soreness develops under the breast where it joins the chest. It is a
good plan to use a breast bodice to support heavy breasts, but avoid
pressure on the nipples.
During the last two months the nipples may have a simple ointment,
such as lanoline or vaseline, rubbed in at bedtime. The attention of the
doctor or midwife should be drawn at once to any cracks or soreness, or
to nipples which are flat, turned in, or misshapen.
Seek medical advice immediately if you have:—
Persistent vomiting or sickness.
Bleeding from any part of the body.
Headache.
Giddiness.
Disturbance of sight.
Puffy face, or swelling of the feet or hands.
Discharge or sores of any kind.
Urine less than usual quantity.
Definite pain in any part.
Persistent sleeplessness.
Obstinate constipation.