03_BT_March 2022

March 2022
Malaysia RM6

Happy and Healthy Together
With the vaccine well underway for both adults and kids, things are slowly getting
back to normal. Nevertheless, it is still important to remain vigilant and take all the
necessary steps to protect ourselves from the coronavirus infection.
Taking care of ourselves, our families, work-life, and household responsibilities has
become a priority, and it is no easy feat to manage them together. In this new
normal, children are staying at home most of the day while more parents are
choosing to work from home. Thus, parenting is at its peak for most of us now.
Ensure you are on top of all your child’s health and strictly adhere to the authorities’
health guidelines, especially when you have infants in your care. Teach your children
about wearing a mask and make it a habit before going out.
For moms-to-be, being pregnant at this time means taking extra precautionary
measures to ensure you and your baby are healthy. Apart from good physical health,
your mental well-being is important too. Stay away from negative news about the
pandemic and surround yourself with positive vibes for a healthy pregnancy.
What we are going through is something no one really thought would happen.
Regardless, let’s continue to fight against this contagious disease and give our family
a healthy, happy home!
Till we meet again next month!
Much love
Lily Wong
Regulars
Editor’s Note
06 BT BUZZ:
The latest news and views on
pregnancy and infant health
Bump to Birth
10 9 Months:
Vegan Pregnancy: Is it healthy
or harmful?
14 Post Natal Care:
Skin problems after childbirth
BT Guide
24 How to help your baby sleep better
contents MARCH 2022
Baby & Toddler
32 Health & Medical Diary:
9 things you should know about the
common cold in babies
Special Feature
36 Ovarian health and fertlity
Life & Style
42 FEATURE:
Should you get a maternity health
insurance plan?
44 BT Recommends:
Best baby wipes for sensitve skin
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Our Experts
Consultant pediatrician
Dr Livia Chow Huey Ling
With more than 7 years’ experience as a Paediatrician, Dr Livia is adept in management of a wide range
of paediatric diseases as well as paediatric intensive care management. In addition to that, with more
than 2 years’ experience in neonatology, she is proficient in newborn resuscitation, management of
premature babies and its related conditions, newborn intensive care and newborn medical screening.
Her last appointment was as a Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist in Hospital Sultanah
Aminah, Johor Bahru. Now she is practicing at Pantai Hospital Ayer Keroh.
Dietitian Ms Lee Eek Mui
Graduated from Universiti Sains Malaysia with a Bachelor of Health Science (Honour) in Dietetic and
has since been placed for training in various organizations. She is a member of Malaysian Dietitians’
Association and International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism. She joined Pantai Hospital Ayer
Keroh as clinicial dietitian in 2011 and currently she is Senior Dietitian-in-charge.
Consultant pediatrician Dr Yeoh Tze-Hau
Dr Yeoh Tze-Hau graduated from Manipal University in 2011 and obtained his postgraduate
qualification in Paediatrics from the Royal College of Paediatrics & Child Health, UK (MRCPCH) in
2017. He has worked in 4 different hospitals in Klang Valley and East Malaysia and has experience
managing children from birth until adolescence. He is certified in Advanced Paediatrics Life Support
(APLS) as well as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). He will start his service in Tung Shin Hospital
beginning June 2021.
Consultant pediatrician Diana Bt Osman
Doctor Diana Bt Osman completed her undergraduate studies in India in 1988 and obtained her
Post-graduate master in Paediatric from University Malaya at 2010. Doctor Diana has a special interest
in Hemophilia and Thalassaemia and has undergone many short training in both sub. Today, she is a
Consultant Paediatrician who is now practicing in Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre.
Fertility & Conception Dr Agilan Arjunan
Dr Agilan Arjunan, a Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist, graduated from University of Malaya
and obtained his specialist degree from Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, London.
Armed with his passion for laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, he pursues his dream in helping couples to
conceive and build their families through the latest technology of reproductive techniques. He is also
passionate in disseminating knowledge in the field of fertility and hopes readers can differentiate facts
from myths.
Early Childhood Education Daisy Ng
Daisy is a mother of two and Founder of Trinity Kids Malaysia. A dedicated practitioner in early
childhood education, she has been featured on BFM, The Edge, NTV7, The Star and given talks on
related topics. As a certified Dr Sears Health Coach in children/family nutrition and ante-natal wellness,
Daisy actively promotes a wholesome and non-processed diet in Malaysia’s schools. An avid reader and
writer from a young age, she now writes about topics in early childhood education, child development
and nutrition.
CONSULTANT PEDIATRICIAN Dr. Margaret Kannimmel
Dr. Margaret Kannimmel is a graduate of University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia and MRCP
(United Kingdom). A member of the Malaysia Pediatric Association, Dr. Margaret has over 32 years
of experience as a Medical Doctor and over 27 years as a Pediatrician. Currently she is a Consultant
Pediatrician at Columbia Asia Hospital Setapak.
4 BabyTalk | March 2022

BT Buzz
Infants Born Amid the Pandemic Have Lower Developmental Scores
According to a new study, babies born during the pandemic’s first year - even to
moms who did not have COVID during pregnancy - scored lower on a screening
test of social and motor skills than pre-pandemic babies. The study, which included
255 babies born at a New York-Presbyterian’s Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital
and Allen Hospital between March and December 2020, was published in the
journal JAMA Pediatrics. “Infants born to mothers who have viral infections during
pregnancy have a higher risk of neurodevelopmental deficits, so we thought we
would find some changes in the neurodevelopment of babies whose mothers had
COVID during pregnancy,” says Dani Dumitriu, MD, PhD, assistant professor of
paediatrics and psychiatry at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and
Surgeons and lead investigator of the study. Other factors, including fewer playdates
and altered interactions with stressed caregivers, may help explain why babies born
during the pandemic have weaker social and motor skills than babies born before the
pandemic. The researchers will continue to follow these infants in long-term studies.
Source: Science Daily
Olive Oil as a Dairy Substitute
Substantially Reduces the Risk
of Disease
A recent study has found that olive oil is an excellent
alternative to full-fat dairy. Instead of margarine, butter, or
other saturated fats, using olive can help reduce the risk of
cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory disease, dementia, and
other diseases. In an editorial published in the Journal of the
American College of Cardiology which supported the study,
it was reported that people who consumed the highest
levels of olive oil had a 19% lower risk of dying from heart
conditions, a 17% lower risk of dying from cancer, a 29%
lower risk of dying from neurodegenerative disease, and an
18% lower risk of dying from respiratory disease mortality
compared with those who never or rarely consumed olive oil
in place of saturated fats.
Source: CNN Health
Neonatal Deaths are One of the
Top 10 Causes of Death
In 2019, the top 10 causes of death accounted for 55%
of the 55.4 million deaths worldwide, World Health
Organization (WHO) reports. The ten leading causes of death
globally are:
1. Ischaemic heart disease
2. Stroke
3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
4. Lower respiratory infections
5. Neonatal conditions (birth asphyxia and birth
trauma, neonatal sepsis and infections, and preterm
birth complications)
6. Trachea, bronchus, lung cancers
7. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
8. Diarrhoeal diseases
9. Diabetes mellitus
10. Kidney diseases
The world’s biggest killer is ischaemic heart disease,
responsible for 16% of the world’s total deaths. Since
2000, the most significant increase in fatalities has been
for this disease, rising by more than 2 million to 8.9 million
deaths in 2019. Meanwhile, neonatal conditions are ranked
5th. However, deaths from neonatal conditions are one of
the categories for which the global decrease in deaths in
absolute numbers over the past two decades has been the
greatest: these conditions killed 2 million newborns and
young children in 2019, 1.2 million fewer than in 2000.
Source: World Health Organization (WHO)
6 BabyTalk | March 2022

Advertorial
MUMMYCARE:
SHOPPING MADE
MEMORABLE FOR
PARENTS
Shopping for your baby will always be a joy for new
parents. Mummycare, the largest baby store in Sarawak,
has been synonymous with this joy felt by families in East
Malaysia for the past 25 years.
are the first in town to start this convenient
Drive-Thru service, catering to parents’
day-to-day needs almost instantly when
the pandemic hit Kuching. Until today,
this service continues to serve parents
who prefer to shop from home, which
saves time and keeps themselves and their
loved ones safe.
Mummycare was established in 1996 by
Ms Alicia Voon and started as a single
store at Wisma Saberkas, Kuching. Ms
Alicia was determined to provide a onestop
solution for all mommies in Kuching
at that time.
Mummycare has since relocated to its
13,000 square feet flagship outlet at
CityOne Megamall, Kuching. Widely
acknowledged as the largest baby store
in Sarawak, it has earned its reputation
for numerous reasons; one of them is its
amenities. Mummycare is well-equipped
with everything that ensures a joyful
shopping experience. Expect to find the
convenience of baby-friendly facilities,
such as a clean and cosy nursing room as
well as a diaper changing station.
An Engaging Shopping
Experience
Shoppers can find a plethora of mommy,
baby, and nursery products within this
outlet. The product range is constantly
expanding and includes brands from all
over the world, and the store offers some
of the best and latest imported baby
products. Rest assured, shoppers will also
get the best value for their money here.
On top of this, Mummycare also provides
car seat installation services when you
make your purchase.
In 2008, Mummycare went on to
develop a Malaysian brand, Bumble Bee,
aimed at providing good quality yet
affordable range of baby beddings and
100% natural latex mattresses. Bumble
Bee has already recently garnered
awards of its own as well. You can find
this quality brand in many department
stores, online stores, baby boutiques,
and even in some hospitals.
As early as Jan 2020, Mummycare has
started to plan for the Personal Shopper
Drive-Thru service, responding proactively
to the worrying pandemic situation. They
Warm and Friendly
Customer Service
Mummycare has always believed in
offering the best shopping experience
for all expectant families, new moms,
and experienced parents. This is why
the award-winning store has a team of
staff who are fully trained in all aspects
of customer service and product
knowledge to ensure that shoppers are
satisfied and happy.
Over the years, Mummycare has
developed a close relationship with
customers through its membership
program that was introduced back in
2000. Thanks to the advent of social
media channels, Mummycare has also
been engaging actively with its followers,
which adds to their warm and personalised
customer service.
Mummycare is the winner of
the 2021 BabyTalk Readers’
Choice Awards (Baby Store
(East Malaysia) category).

Advertorial
The Perfect Bedding for
Babies
Renowned and award-winning brand
Bumble Bee offers 100% knitted cotton
beddings for babies and children, with a
suitable thread count to meet the demands
of modern families who wish to create a
pleasant and comfortable environment for
their baby to sleep or relax in.
Bumble Bee's selection of bedding
products is based on high-quality
standards with numerous benefits such
as a lightweight feel, smoothness,
comfort, durability, as well as superb
breathability. The materials are also safe
and easy on the baby's skin. In addition,
the breathable feature prevents little ones
from perspiring heavily. At the same time,
its fine fibres are exceptionally longwearing,
keeping the bedding products
in their original form for a longer period,
even after numerous washes.
Bumble Bee 100% knit cotton beddings
include cot bumpers, comforters, fitted
crib sheets, pillow, and bolster cases. For
more design varieties, Bumble Bee provides
multiple themed bedding sets for babies
with a range of colourful, visually appealing
styles. It's perfect for your baby and as a
gift for your loved ones too!
A Mattress Created
Specially for Babies
As your baby spends almost all his time
sleeping, the mattress is an essential part
BUMBLE BEE:
BABY BEDDING
AND MATTRESS
FOR YOUR
BABY'S ULTIMATE
COMFORT
Newborn babies sleep more than 16
hours a day! Sleep is a crucial aspect of
a child's growth and development. One
area to be particularly careful about
is your baby's sleeping environment,
which includes comfortable bedding
and high-quality mattresses.
of a baby's bedding. Safety, comfort, and
quality are important features to look for
when choosing a baby mattress.
Together with Getha, our country's leading
manufacturer of 100% natural latex foam
mattresses, Bumble Bee mattress is
designed to be naturally hypoallergenic,
anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-dust
mite. Providing ultimate support for a
newborn up to a toddler, it is the ideal first
bed for your precious little one.
The 100% natural latex mattress features
specially moulded pinholes with millions
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keeping the mattress cool for your baby's
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syndrome (SIDS).
Bumble Bee mattress comes in various
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not limited to 60cm x 120cm x 7.5cm and
71cm x 132cm x 10cm, which are suitable
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Bumble Bee mattresses come with a
5-year warranty. Rest assured, this is
everything parents could ask for in a
reputable, high-quality baby mattress.
Strategic Partner:
Bumble Bee is the winner in
two categories in the recent
BabyTalk Readers' Choice
Awards 2021: Baby Latex
Mattress and Baby Bedding.

Bump to Birth
9 Months
Vegan
Pregnancy:
Is it Healthy
or Harmful?
A well-balanced diet comprising essential food groups is
important during pregnancy. Proper intake of macro and
micronutrients ensure the health of both the baby and
mother. However, many mothers who are vegetarians or
vegans may be concerned that their plant-based diets would
not be suitable at this time.
According to the American Dietetic
Association, well planned vegetarian
diets are safe for all age groups and
physiological conditions, including
childhood, adolescence, pregnancy,
and lactation. However, the German
Nutrition Society does not recommend
vegetarian or vegan diets during
pregnancy, lactation, and childhood,
due to the inadequate supply of
essential nutrients.
In this article, let's look at the
benefits and risks of a vegan
pregnancy so you can make the best
choices during this time.
Vegan Diet Benefits for
Mom and Baby
Vegan diets, which contain only food
types made from plants, are known to
offer a variety of benefits. The good
news is these healthy effects can also
benefit pregnant women. For example,
vegan diets consisting of high-fibre
meals have been shown to reduce
the risk of gestational or pregnancy
diabetes. A higher fibre intake also
helps with relieving constipation – a
common complaint during pregnancy.
Some studies report a lower risk of
caesarean section (C-section) delivery,
maternal or infant mortality, and
postpartum depression in pregnant
women on a vegan diet. Further studies
reveal that preeclampsia appears to be
lower among vegans.
TAKE NOTE:
If you decide to take a
multivitamin and mineral
supplement, select one
specifically for pregnancy.
Make sure it does not contain
vitamin A, as high levels of
vitamin A during pregnancy
can harm your baby.
Source: www.nutrition.org.uk
10 BabyTalk | March 2022

Bump to Birth
9 Months
Risks of Vegan Diets
During Pregnancy
Any diets that
restrict certain
foods would affect
pregnancy in
negative ways. This
includes poorly
planned vegan or
vegetarian diets, which
lack important nutrients
like vitamin B-12, iron, DHA, protein,
and calcium.
Vitamin B12, which is not available via
a plant-based diet, can cause serious
birth defects, including spina bifida
(deformation of the baby's spine),
anencephaly (born without parts of
the brain and skull), and encephalocele
(sac-like protrusion of the brain).
Various studies on protein deficiency
during pregnancy also found a range
of health issues in babies and moms.
Apart from being underweight, infants
may also develop kidney problems.
Additionally, protein deficiency during
pregnancy leads to fat accumulation
in the liver and an increased risk of
liver damage in mothers. The lack of
other vital nutrients like iodine, iron,
folate, calcium, and zinc can also cause
anaemia, haemorrhage, and even
death in mothers.
Guidelines for a
Healthy Vegan
Pregnancy
The key to a safe and successful
vegan pregnancy is to ensure your
diet is well-balanced and contains a
variety of essential nutrients. Always
talk to your doctor before choosing
any kind of diet. It's also a good idea
to consult a dietician on how you
can get enough nutrients for you and
your baby.
Here are some
key tips to make
sure a vegan diet
sufficiently meets
your nutritional
requirements
during pregnancy:
• Aim for balance and variety
when preparing your daily
meals
• Meet your increased energy
needs with nutritious foods
with higher caloric density.
For example, fortified vegan
milks such as soy, rice,
or almond, nuts and nut
butters, dried fruits, natural
fats like avocado and olives,
soy products, and bean dips
are excellent and delicious
high-energy foods.
• Consume sufficient protein.
High-protein plant foods
include beans, lentils, and
peas, as well as grains like
brown rice. Vegetables
like spinach, broccoli,
edamame, potatoes, sweet
potatoes, brussels sprouts,
and artichokes also contain
protein. Most pregnant
vegans may require protein
supplements to complement
their daily diet.
• B12 is important in a
vegan pregnancy. The
recommended intake is 2.6
micrograms per day. While
vitamin B12 is included
in all standard prenatal
supplements, you can also
boost your intake with
common B12-fortified
foods like breakfast cereals,
soy and other plant-based
milks, nutrition bars, and
meat substitutes. There's
a misconception that
tempeh, sprouted beans,
sea vegetables, and algae
are reliable sources of B12.
However, they are not -
these foods may contain
B12 analogues, which
actually block vitamin B12
absorption.
• Get enough iron. You would
also need to consume
vitamin C to maximise iron
absorption. Good vegan
sources of iron are spinach
and other leafy greens, dried
fruits, baked potatoes, beans
and peas, tofu, seeds, nuts,
and soy milk.
• Take omega-3 fatty acids
daily as the required intake
is nearly double the amount
of non-pregnancy needs.
Good vegan sources of
these fats include flaxseeds
and their oil, leafy green
vegetables, soy products, soy
milk fortified with DHA,
walnuts, and canola oil.
• Stay hydrated – your fluid
needs also increase during
pregnancy. Water is the
best, but you can also drink
soups and other healthy
beverages. However, limit
coffee and sugary drinks.
• Exercise daily. Walking
and yoga are excellent
forms of low-impact
workouts for
pregnant
women.
TAKE NOTE:
Vegan diets tend to be high in folate; however, to be on the safe side, moms-to-be should take a supplement
or use fortified foods that provide 400 micrograms of folate daily.
Source: vrg.org
12 BabyTalk | March 2022

Bump to Birth
Post Natal Care
Pregnancy brings about so
many changes. The skin is
especially susceptible to a
myriad of conditions that,
while common, are not too
pleasant. When you think
it’s all over and your skin
would return to its normal
state after having your baby,
other skin woes may start
popping up. Fortunately,
postpartum skin problems
can be treated easily. Here
are the most common skin
conditions after giving birth
and how new mothers can
remedy them.
8 Common
Skin Problems
After Childbirth
and What You Can Do
About Them
14 BabyTalk | March 2022

Bump to Birth
Post Natal Care
By: Dr. Peter Ch'ng Wee Beng
Dermatology
Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur (GHKL)
Common Postnatal
Skin Issues
1. Stretch Marks
One of the most common
skin conditions after childbirth
is stretch marks. “Some of
the skin changes during
pregnancy will continue
after giving birth – for
example, stretch marks.
This condition is due
to the stretching of the
abdominal skin within a
short period of time and
hormonal changes,” says
Dr Peter Ch’ng Wee Beng, a
Dermatologist at Gleneagles Hospital
Kuala Lumpur (GHKL).
2. Hyperpigmentation
Any black splotches you had during
pregnancy will typically vanish after a
few months. They are usually visible
on the face and around the nipples.
Melasma (also known as chloasma)
is a type of skin pigmentation
change that usually fades when
your hormone levels return to
normal, and your body stops
creating as much melanin.
According to Dr Ch’ng,
hyperpigmentation is due to
hormonal changes. For melasma,
however, it is caused by cumulative
ultraviolet damage since young,
genetics, and the ageing process.
3. Lumps and Bumps or Skin Tags
Skin tags usually go away after delivery,
but if there’s still extra skin hanging
around a few months later, you should
schedule an appointment with your
dermatologist to get them removed.
The procedure is simple and painless
(similar to removing a wart).
4. Saggy Skin and Persistent
Abdominal Fat
Saggy skin is a common skin complaint
amongst new moms. The skin extends
during pregnancy to accommodate the
increasing bump. Hormonal changes
will cause the belly to shrink from the
minute the child is born. However, your
womb (uterus) will not contract to its
pre-pregnancy size for another six to
eight weeks. The extra fluid in your
body accumulated during pregnancy
will gradually drain. As a result,
many women notice that the skin
surrounding their stomach is loose after
giving birth.
16 BabyTalk | March 2022

Bump to Birth
Post Natal Care
5. Spider Veins and
Varicose Veins
Spider veins are
usually a transitory
side effect of
pregnancy. When
your blood
volume returns
to normal after
delivery, they
usually diminish.
This can happen in
three or four months.
However, they may not always go away
completely. Dr Ch’ng explains that spider
veins and varicose veins often arise from
increased pressure to the leg veins due to
weight gain.
Following pregnancy, when progesterone
levels return to normal, varicose veins in
some women tend to improve. However,
varicose veins can also persist in certain
women after childbirth and worsen with
subsequent pregnancies, regardless of
which category you fall into.
6. Hair Loss
Telogen effluvium is the term for an
increase in shedding hairs after giving
birth. Postpartum hair loss is also
known as ‘wimpy buns’. It usually starts
one to six months following childbirth.
While it can continue up to 18 months,
most women notice that their hair
returns much sooner.
“Telogen effluvium is caused by
psychological or physical stress after
delivery,” Dr Ch’ng says. “Therefore,
we have to make sure that the patient
is not anaemic or have low iron levels
during pregnancy and delivery. Some
of the patients can develop thyroid
disease during pregnancy, and that
itself can also cause hair loss.”
7. Underlying Medical Illnesses
Once your baby is born, your immune
system returns to its pre-pregnancy
state. Certain underlying illnesses can
pop up during this time, including skin
diseases. “Underlying medical illness
may worsen during pregnancy because
of changes in the immune system,” Dr
Ch’ng says. Psoriasis, for example, is
a common condition that flares up or
worsens after giving birth.
8. Contact Skin Allergy
Contact dermatitis is a red rash caused
by an allergic reaction due to contact
with certain substances. The rash can
be itchy, but it isn’t contagious or lifethreatening,
although it can be rather
bothersome. Drugs, soaps, cosmetics,
perfumes, jewellery, and plants can
trigger allergic responses.
“Sometimes, patients may develop
drug allergies as a result of the drugs
administered during delivery,” Dr Ch’ng
adds. “Occasionally patients may also
develop contact skin allergy to liniments
or “urut” during confinement.”
Liniment is a medicated topical
preparation formulated into lotions or
balms for application to the skin. It is
also sometimes called a heat rub.
Treatments and
Natural Remedies
Most postpartum skin problems tend
to resolve on their own in a matter
of time. If they don’t, consult your
healthcare provider. Here are some
medical recommendations by Dr Ch’ng
to treat various skin problems after
giving birth.
• Stretch marks:
Moisturise, and if it
persists, we may
recommend lasers
or ultrasound
devices to tighten
the skin.
• Melasma: We
need to prevent the
condition from getting
worse by UV avoidance. We
can also improve the condition with
a combination treatment of oral,
topicals, and lasers.
• Lumps and bumps: These
can easily be removed
via lasers if they
are cosmetically
affecting the
patients.
• Saggy skin:
Lifting energybased
devices such
as micro-focused
ultrasound with direct
visualisation can help.
• Fat: For skin fat, it can be removed
using a device that cools the fat and
gradually induces the fat cells to die.
• Spider veins: Vascular lasers are an
effective treatment for this condition.
• Acne: Products with physical
treatment are usually
recommended. Sometimes patients
may need oral treatment such as
antibiotics and retinoids.
• Telogen Effluvium: DO NOTHING.
Most of the time, it will grow back
on its own within six months.
• Contact skin allergy: Stop using the
liniments that cause the problem –
you may also need topical steroids.
In addition, you
can follow
home
remedies for
sustaining
your skin
health.
Have a
cardio routine
to burn fat
and help tone
muscles. Drink
a lot of fluids and consume
foods rich in protein and
fats. Oil massages and
skin spa treatments as
per the recommendation
of your dermatologist is
good as well.
“Depending on the skin
condition, for oily skin
patients, I’ll tell them to use
a cleanser during the day to
reduce oil followed by a sunblock. At
night I’ll ask them to use a hydrating
cleanser with moisturisers,” Dr Ch’ng
advises. “Sometimes, we may add
on a night cream that contains
retinoids. But for some
patients with dry skin, it’s
best to concentrate on
moisturising the skin
and if it is on the face,
use non-comedogenic
products.”
18 BabyTalk | March 2022

Brand Story
Lil Unicorn:
The quality
education your
child deserves
A quality foundation ensures a strong, reliable building, one
which will stand tall and proud for decades, even centuries
to come. This principle can also be applied to the effect
early education has on the lives of an individual. A strong
foundation will ensure a better life for students, and not
just during the duration of their schooling. On that similar
note, a weak and faulty foundation, which is sadly what
we’re facing today in our education system, would sooner
or later cause a person to run into difficulties during their
schooling years . This can be demotivating, frustrating,
and a pain to undo.
Category of “Best Early Childhood Education
with Entrepreneurship, Best Finnish Asia
Hybrid Kindergarten & Best Preschool
(Entrepreneur)”

Brand Story
BabyTalk recently had the opportunity to
catch up with two prominent siblings in
the education industry. They are Ms Anne
and Ms Melinda, founders of Lil Unicorn
Academy, and through our conversation,
we learned more of what the ideal
schooling environment should be like,
particularly at the early stages, or during
one’s early education. For those who are
not aware of this, these ladies have a rich
background in teaching children, whereby
Ms Anne was also quoted as saying
“There are individuals whom I have been
teaching throughout their entire schooling
life!” Her sister, Ms Melinda, who took
up teaching Math and Science subjects
in Singapore, happens to also be a civil
engineer by qualification. Read on to see
how this has played its own special role
in the school’s success.
How Lil Unicorn came to be also has a
rather interesting air to it, for the founders
did not decide to start from ‘the bottom’,
so to speak, or at the kindergarten and
preschool levels. Rather, they were already
trying to make some changes among
secondary school students before that.
“As we were attempting to clean up that
ecosystem, we could not help but notice
that this group of students are really
suffering as a result of a poor education
foundation,” Ms Anne explained. As they
worked backwards from secondary and
primary school levels, they were still not
truly aware yet of the ‘damages’ to be
uncovered ahead as a result of inadequate
earlier education.
“When we opened our schools and saw
what was coming in at the primary level
itself, we knew we had lots to undo, plus,
we have to offer families a better
foundation for their kids down from the
kindergarten level to start making a
difference,” Ms Anne shared.
The way kids were
meant to learn
They knew what they had to do and how
they wanted it done, and they also knew
that they had to step away from the
traditional ways if they were to help kids
excel. Since they already know that the
entire system wasn’t doing well in the
first place, conventionally trained
teachers would not have been right for
the job, that was for sure. So, imagine
if you will, the subject of Math, for
instance, being taught to kindergarten
kids by an engineer. Before we get to
that, did you know that there are very
few math-inclined people out there
compared to people who are not great
at math? Yes, studies show that 80% of
all people are not math-inclined. The
issue is, alarmingly, most of our math
curricula are created for schools by the
math-inclined. This means that most
students learning math are doomed to
failure or poor performance!
As a result of her research into how kids
learn best, Ms Melinda came to know
that kids tend to pick up lessons quicker
and more successfully when they are
initially introduced or exposed to
something, physically. In other words,
they need to hold, touch and see
something first before getting to the
pictorial aspect of it, and then only can
they fully grasp the abstract part of it. A
simple example was how Ms Melinda
herself introduced mathematics to her
then preschool daughter. “I would do
something like actually give her two
objects, sweets as an example. I would
then give her three more, and ask her
how many she had then. She would start
to count them and conclude that the
answer is five. Only after that will other
aspects of the subject, such as pictorial
and abstract come in,” she generously
shared. “Here’s the problem; the standard
way of teaching Math was created by
math-inclined people, hence they are
mostly, if not fully, abstract (as in, they
are taught from the beginning itself in
symbols such as 2 + 3 = 5),” revealed Ms
Melinda, a math-inclined engineer herself.
Another conventional method of teaching
is through rote learning and memorisation,
and if we look at the Math subject, you
can see how this isn’t going to end well.
“Memorising may work during the earlier
stages of learning mathematics, but when
students start to learn algebra, for
instance, they’re bound to run into serious
challenges which will negatively affect
their performance,” Ms Melinda went on
to explain. After offering more
comprehensive explanations of how
mathematics should ideally be taught to
kids, Ms Melinda added, “Imagine how
easy math can be for school children as
they grow older with all the proper
foundation laid out!” “In the meantime,
in our kindergarten, the little ones are
already sorting out their x’s and their
x-squares without issue,” Ms Anne
quipped with a smile! Well, that is the
power of quality education delivered by
quality educators, if you ask us. And, do
keep in mind that this is just one example,
out of one school subject, whereby they
all need to be rectified for children to be
successful learners.
Lil Unicorn: The best of
the East and the West
Finland has one of the best education
systems in the world - a fact well-known
by many. As explained by Ms Anne, the
aim at Lil Unicorn was to merge the best
practices from the East and West to come
up with a curriculum that works, while
still maintaining important education
elements that most Asian parents are
reluctant to do away with. Ms Anne went
on to explain that the solutions to the
education issues we’re facing in the East
should ideally come from the East. “We
cannot fully adopt the whole idea of how
they teach over in the West and implement
it here, for that would not work,” she
stated. Hence at Lil Unicorn, what they’ve
done is anchored the best practices taken
from Finland to what we already have
here. It’s also where techniques come to
play, such as techniques in counting, as
well as memorising, to the point of being
able to use them for a lifetime!
The way Ms Anne and Ms Melinda see
it, and we tend to agree fully, the old
system has failed. And leaving things be
when it comes to kids’ education will just
keep reaping the same old results of them
suffering throughout their schooling years
and beyond, being miserable, with low
self confidence, and with very little sense
of creativity. They’ll also be losing out a
lot, especially in the Western world where
one would need to be able to converse
well and sell their ideas. The Eastern way
of education focuses a whole lot on
academic rigour, without much room left
over for social and emotional growth -
which are actually very important for the
complete development of children.
Children need to enjoy their lessons and
have a sense of fun while learning. At Lil
Unicorn, adopting some best practices
from the Finnish education system means
that fun and zest are now introduced into
the curriculum, allowing kids to enjoy
their schooling so much that they don’t

Brand Story
realise that they are actually learning and
excelling, even in complex lessons such as
algebra and add-math.
Speaking of algebra and add math, at Lil
Unicorn, the Mortensen Math method is
implemented and taught, and the school
has been witnessing resounding success
with preschool children excelling in levels
of math that even many adults still fail at!
We were also made to understand that
there were other factors behind the choice
of partnership with the Finnish, instead
of any other country excelling in children’s
education. As clarified by both sisters,
that’s because they were the only one, in
terms of a potential partner, who was
willing to listen to the needs of Asians,
and cooperate to create a curriculum that
works. “They did not try to force their
ways onto us, and instead, were willing
to work hand-in-hand with us, and with
what we had in mind for Lil Unicorn. As
a result it is such a joy to be in partnership
with Dr Kati Rintakorpi, and Taina Mikkola
as we realised our vision for what we
wanted for our school.” Ms Anne declared.
what’s with the name “Lil Unicorn”. Well,
for those who are not aware of this, in
the venture capital industry, ‘Unicorn’ is
the term used to describe a startup
company with a value of over $1 billion.
From an education aspect, teaching kids
the concepts of entrepreneurship is akin
to giving them a shortcut, by means of a
mindset to a life of success. They are
exposed to the spirit of an entrepreneur
to impact the necessary changes that need
to happen; at the same time, be sustainable
and empower the community and the
world around them. Isn’t this like looking
for a unicorn? Well, it’s easy now to see
the reason behind the name “Lil Unicorn”,
isn’t it?
The entrepreneurship program opens up
their minds to all the possibilities of their
futures like no other curriculum can, and
it instills the thirst for knowledge and
learning which follows them into their
adulthood. And may we remind, yet again,
that the curriculum does not call for an
overload of homework and unnecessary
stress on growing children, but instead,
there is a sense of looking forward to
school, and always, always anticipating
the lessons to come. How cool is that?
It wasn’t easy at first to gain parents’
trust in this curriculum, as pointed out
by the founders. This is Asia after all, so
when there’s a whole lot of fun involved,
less homework, and students seem to be
enjoying themselves, with no schoolrelated
stress whatsoever, Asian parents
start to wonder if something is amiss.
“Stressing on the fact that our curriculum
is part Finnish helps, considering that
Finland is rated top in childhood
education,” Ms Anne reminded. Plus, let
it also be known that the lessons are
never dumbed down for the kids, and
this also pleases parents. In fact, there is
actually a healthy level of academic
rigour, whereby students of Lil Unicorn
Academy do truly emerge smarter, more
confident and knowledgeable. Plus, they
did not have to sacrifice their childhood
for this outcome!
Behind the name and
its mission
Lil Unicorn is known for its Entrepreneurship
program for kids, for which it has also
earned accolades from our Readers’
Choice Awards. In fact, Entrepreneurship
is the epicentre of the curriculum here at
Lil Unicorn. But one may be wondering,
Give them a call at : 019-927 3830 or bcmc@aceedventure.com. For more
information and/or to enrol your child into Lil Unicorn.

Are you a new parent who is sleepdeprived
after countless nights of taking
care of your newborn? If you have not
had a good night’s sleep, you are not
alone. Many new parents struggle to
put their baby to sleep, and it is totally
normal. Do not despair. Once you
understand more about the sleeping
habits of an infant and how to work
around that, putting your baby to sleep
will be less challenging.
“Sleep is a normal physiological
but intricate process that plays a
major role in the rejuvenation of
our body, particularly the brain.
It enhances the synaptic strength,
promotes neuroplasticity, and
rapid brain development,” says Dr
Goh Chun Hwee, a Paediatrician
at Pantai Hospital Ampang (PHA).
“Naturally, sleep is important for
babies as they require longer sleep
time to accommodate the demand
of the exponentially growing brain
tissues. Hence, it’s important to ensure
adequate sleep time for your child.”
24 BabyTalk | March 2022

By: Dr Goh Chun Hwee
Paediatrician
Pantai Hospital Ampang (PHA)
Sleeping Problems in
Babies
Dr Goh advises parents to pay
attention to the signs below, which
indicate that a baby isn’t sleeping well
or have trouble sleeping:
• Waking and crying in the night
after sleeping through the night
• Crying when you leave the room
• Refusing to go to sleep without a
parent nearby
• Clinging to the parent
Apart from the signs above, babies
also show different signs of sleeping
problems at different stages.
0 to 3 Months Old
During the newborn stage, babies
are still adjusting to a regular
sleeping pattern. Newborns usually
sleep about 14 to 17 hours a day,
waking up frequently for feedings
both day and night. Up until the
second month, your baby should get
8 to 9 hours of sleep at night and 7
to 9 hours of daytime sleep. When
he is 3 months old, he will need
around 14 to 16 hours of sleep in a
24-hour period.
Sleeping issue: Refusing to sleep on
the back
What it looks like: You notice your
baby refuses to sleep on her back
when you put her to sleep. The truth
is, babies generally feel more secure
sleeping on their stomachs. However,
the only downside is that this position
often leads to sudden infant death
syndrome (SIDS). Thus, it is always
better to put your baby on her back
to sleep.
How to solve it: Swaddle your baby
and give her a pacifier at bedtime.
“The main idea of swaddling is to
simulate an in-utero environment
where the foetus is snugged tightly
in a womb. This provides a soothing
and secure environment for babies
who are adjusting to life outside
the womb,” Dr Goh says. “As a
result, fewer unnecessary wakeups.
In addition, researchers found
swaddling increases a baby’s total
amount of sleep as well as non-rapid
eye movement (NREM) or light sleep
compared with when they were not
swaddled, which leads to longer
undisturbed sleep duration.”
Sleeping issue: Your baby stays up
all night
What it looks like: In general,
babies can’t differentiate day and
night. You will notice your baby
sleeps a lot during the day and stays
up all night long.
How to solve it: There are a few tips
to help your baby tell the difference
between AM and PM, such as keeping
your baby’s room dark when she naps
and limiting daytime naps to 3 hours.
26 BabyTalk | March 2022

4 to 5 Months Old
Your baby should be sleeping about
12 to 16 hours a day, with 2 to 3 naps
during the day and then another 9 to
11 hours at night.
Sleeping issue: Irregular sleeping
routine
What it looks like: Once your baby
is happy with her routine and sleeps
well at night, do not try to change
her schedule. However, there is an
exception. If your baby seems to
be napping less during the day and
fussing more, it is advisable to include
some naptime.
How to solve it: Play some quiet
music, give her a bedtime story
or even a body massage. Create a
routine before bed, and your baby will
fall asleep faster.
Sleeping issue: Sleep regression
What it looks like: Your previously
sleepy baby will now be fighting to
stay awake. This situation happens
because of sleep regression -- your
little one starts to be aware of the
surroundings and will be too keen
to play.
How to solve it: Develop a bedtime
routine -- the feeding, the bath, and
the lullabies. Also, do not force your
baby to stay awake during the day
because this will agitate him. An
over-tired baby will have a harder time
falling asleep. However, this phase is
only temporary. So hold on tight!
Dr Goh shares his advice on sleep
regression: “Have you ever had the
experience whereby your baby, who
was already capable of sleeping
through the night consistently,
suddenly reverted to a previous
state of restless nights, shorter
naps, difficulty falling asleep, and
frequent nighttime awakening?
This phenomenon is known as sleep
regression, a perfectly normal stage
in a newborn’s development.
It is usually transient, lasting around
2-4weeks and commonly seen in the
fourth month, the eighth month,
and the twelfth month of life. Each
of these periods is unique and
has its own cause, duration, and
characteristics. Parents should not
be worried as it is often a sign of
normal cognitive brain development
of a baby.
However, it could also be associated
with discomfort during teething,
sudden growth spurts, change in
routine, environment, or lifestyle,
stress, and sickness. if your baby
experiences sleep regression, stay
calm, be consistent with your
bedtime routines, and comfort your
baby as necessary.”
28 BabyTalk | March 2022

6 Months Old and Above
Your baby would sleep for 10 to 11
hours and takes almost 3 naps during
the day. By 9 months, your baby will
sleep longer at night, needing only
2 naps during the day. Around 12
months, you can expect your baby to
only take one long afternoon nap.
Sleeping issue: Your baby can’t sleep
independently
What it looks like: Your 6-monthold
still needs to be fed or rocked to
sleep. Your baby eventually needs to
learn the skill of falling asleep herself
by giving her sleep training.
How to solve it: Revamping the
bedtime routine. For
example, you can
breastfeed your baby
for 30 minutes
before her nap
or bedtime.
When you notice
her getting
sleepy, give
her a pacifier
and move
her to the
crib. Practice
this for a few nights and she will
eventually get used to it.
SLEEPING TIPS FOR BABIES
Have a regular bedtime routine
Parents need to establish a consistent
bedtime routine by carrying out
calming activities such as bathing their
baby, singing lullaby or storytelling.
“It’s a common practice for parents
to put baby to sleep while holding
them in the arms, rocking back and
forth. This soon creates a pattern as
your baby may begin to expect to be
in your arms in order to fall asleep.
When your baby briefly awakens
during a sleep cycle, they may not
be able to go back to sleep on their
own,” Dr Goh explains.
“The idea of a bedtime routine is to
help your baby learn to self-comfort
and sleep on their own. After the
newborn period, most experts
recommend allowing your baby to
become sleepy in your arms, then
placing them in the bed while still
awake. This way, your baby learns
how to go to sleep on their own.”
Learn to notice when your baby
gets sleepy
There are many telltale signs that
your baby is tired and needs to sleep.
According to Dr Goh, there are six
common signs that your baby is
becoming tired and ready to sleep:
yawning, droopy eyes, rubbing eyes,
reduced activities, increased fussiness,
and pulling or tugging their ears.
Ensure baby’s room is safe and
conducive for sleep
Babies sleep best in a dark, quiet,
and cosy room. Remember to set the
light to dim and make sure the room
environment is the same as bedtime.
This environment will soothe your baby
to sleep. You should decide on your
baby’s sleeping arrangement in the
long run by 3 months of age. If you
can’t make a decision, practise the
ABC’s of safe sleep – that is, babies
should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and
in a Crib.
Dr Goh shares a few guidelines on
how to create a safe, comfortable
environment for your baby to sleep:
• Total darkness in the room during
sleep to promote melatonin
production in the baby’s brain
• Avoid using smartphones, tablets,
and any electronic devices with
led screens as the brightness may
disrupt the baby’s circadian rhythm
by falsely mimicking daylight
• White noise mimics sounds your
baby heard in the womb and
encourages them to calm down. For
example, shushing sound, ocean
waves, raindrops, or the flowing
sound of a river
• Empty crib with no gap between
the mattress and side of the crib to
prevent entrapment
• Keep the crib clear of objects that
may pose a suffocation hazard.
Loose bedding, blankets, quilts, soft
toys, stuffed animals, toys should be
avoided in cribs. As a rule of thumb,
keep the crib simple and clean!
• Pay attention to the room
temperature. Find an optimum
temperature suitable for your baby
and yourself. A good starting point
would be setting the temperature at
22-25°C.
• Keep your baby away from cigarette
smoke exposure as it increases the
risk of SIDS.
30 BabyTalk | March 2022

Baby & Toddler
Health & Medical Diary
9 THINGS
YOU SHOULD KNOW
ABOUT THE COMMON
COLD IN BABIES
There’s a reason why colds are called
“common”. According to the American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), many
healthy children have eight to 10 colds
and other viral infections in the first
two years of life (or six to eight colds in
the first year). Newborns are at higher
risk for colds and other infections for
the first four to six weeks. All babies
are born with some immunity to illness,
but it takes time for infants to fully
develop their immune system to fight
the germs.
Generally, a common cold is a viral
infection of the nose and throat. There
are more than 200 different viruses that
can cause a cold. The most common
virus is rhinovirus, while others include
the coronavirus, parainfluenza,
adenovirus, enterovirus, and respiratory
syncytial viruses.
1How do babies catch
a cold?
Viruses that cause cold are usually
spread through skin-to-skin contact,
droplets transmission from coughs or
sneezes, and contact with an object
that has been contaminated.
Babies often pick up colds from personto-person
contact – for example, at
a daycare or from family members.
When someone who is sick coughs
or sneezes, droplets carrying cold
viruses from the cough or sneeze may
reach another baby’s nose or mouth.
Babies can also catch a cold from older
brothers and sisters who bring the virus
home from school or from grown-
32 BabyTalk | March 2022

Baby & Toddler
Health & Medical Diary
Dr Diana Bt Osman,
Consultant Paediatrician
Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre, Klang
ups who were in close contact with
someone who carries the cold viruses.
Cold viruses can also land on surfaces
such as toys and tables. When babies
touch these surfaces and then put their
hands in their mouths, they give the
cold virus an easy entry route.
2What are the
symptoms?
Common cold symptoms often include
a tickly throat, a runny or stuffy nose,
and sneezing. Nasal discharge may be
clear at first but can thicken and turn
yellow or green. Other symptoms may
include low-grade fever, irritability,
difficulty sleeping, and trouble
nursing or taking a bottle due to nasal
congestion. However, babies usually
feel quite well and have normal energy
levels.
3How does a cold in
babies start?
Babies may seem fussier than usual
during the first three days, with a lowgrade
fever and a slight decrease in
appetite. They may also start to have
a runny nose with clear mucus, which
usually occurs on day two or three.
During the middle phase of a cold, the
fever will subside, but the mucus can
thicken and turn light yellow.
4How long does it
last?
A common cold usually lasts for seven
to 10 days but can extend up to 14
days. The incubation period for a cold
is between one and four days. It is
typically most contagious a day or two
before symptoms appear but can be
passed along when the cold is already
underway. Once the runny nose dries
up, it is less contagious. Colds typically
go away on their own after a few days.
However, if unusual symptoms develop
or a baby is less than one month old,
you need to visit a paediatrician for a
thorough diagnosis.
5How does a common
cold affect babies?
Babies can develop complications from
a common cold, which include acute
ear infection (otitis media), wheezing,
acute sinusitis (usually when they are
older), as well as other infections like
pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and croup.
6What are the
treatments?
Most cases of common cold get better
without treatment. While medications
can help in relieving some of the
symptoms, they will not make a cold
or flu go away any faster. In addition,
antibiotics are usually not required
unless the congestion develops into
an ear infection or pneumonia. Doctors
typically prescribe paracetamol to
reduce fever, a saline nasal spray
to clear nasal mucus or a nasal
decongestant spray to relieve nose
blocks. However, cough medicines
are only suitable for kids above two
years old.
7When should you
consult a doctor?
Even if cold symptoms are mild,
it’s recommended that you see a
healthcare professional if your baby is
below one year old and presents with
these symptoms:
• fever
• vomiting and unable to nurse
• reduced urine output (sign of
dehydration)
• inactive, drowsy, and sleeps much
more than usual
• fast, rapid, or noisy breathing
• cough that worsens after a few
days or persists for more than five
days
• rashes, red eyes, or develops eye
discharge
• pale or bluish skin
• irritable and fussy
• has thick, green nasal discharge
8How can parents
manage their baby’s
cold at home?
Common cold in babies can be
managed at home. However, parents
must be aware of signs that indicate
a worsening infection (as mentioned
above) and immediately visit a doctor
or paediatrician. Here are some
helpful tips in managing a baby’s
common cold at home:
• If a child has a low-grade fever, a
sponge bath with lukewarm water
can help
• Breastfeed as often as possible to
keep babies hydrated
• For babies who can take solid
food, a light diet like porridge and
soups is recommended
• Nasal saline or saline gel, or a
cool-mist vapouriser can help a
stuffy nose
• Make sure your little one gets
plenty of rest
9What are the ways
to prevent the
common cold in babies?
There is no vaccine for the common
cold. The best defence is precautions
and frequent hand washing, which
also includes keeping your baby away
from anyone who is sick, cleaning
your baby’s toys and pacifiers
frequently, and washing your hands
before feeding or touching your baby.
34 BabyTalk | March 2022

Special Feature
OVARIAN HEALTH
AND FERTILITY
Optimal ovarian health is crucial when you want to successfully conceive a child.
In this interview with Baby Talk, Dr Ida Lilywaty Md Latar, an Obstetrics and
Gynaecology (O&G) Specialist at Pantai Hospital Cheras (PHC), shares her thoughts
about ovarian health and how it impacts fertility.
36 BabyTalk | March 2022

Special Feature
By: Dr Ida Lilywaty Md Latar
Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G)
Pantai Hospital Cheras (PHC)
Why is ovarian health important?
Can you talk about its function and
how it affects a woman’s overall
health and fertility?
The ovaries are two small rounded female organs in the
pelvis. These are attached on each side of the uterus, near the
opening of the fallopian tubes. The ovaries contain female
gamete cells, called the oocytes or the eggs.
Ovaries are important for a woman’s ovulation. The ovary
releases the egg, which potentially may be fertilised by a
sperm resulting in pregnancy. It also produces the female
hormones: oestrogen and progesterone.
These two hormones are essential in stimulating the
development of secondary sexual characteristics. Besides
facilitating pregnancies, they also assist in birth and lactation
for women. As women age and go through menopause, the
number of oocytes depletes progressively, and subsequently,
ovaries stop producing these hormones and releasing eggs,
physiologically leading to menopause.
What are some common health issues
or diseases associated with ovaries?
Common health problems include ovarian cysts, which can
be benign or malignant and can lead to a medical emergency
such as ovarian torsion, rupture, or bleeding inside the cyst.
Another common health issue that has been increasing in
incidence among women globally due to current lifestyles and
obesity is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Primary ovarian
insufficiency leading to premature menopause is also another
common problem.
On the other hand, patients with PCOS commonly have a
history of irregular or infrequent menses with accompanying
acne and hirsutism (increase in body or facial fair) due to
hormonal imbalances.
As for those with ovarian cancer, it is unfortunate that more
than two-thirds of ovarian cancer are detected at later stages.
Patients would show symptoms like abdominal discomfort
due to accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, pressure
symptoms, and other constitutional symptoms like loss of
weight and appetite.
What are some signs that point to
problems with the ovaries?
Signs vary according to the diagnosis. Frequently, ovarian cysts
are found during routine follow up and annual check-ups.
These cases are physiological, needing only regular monitoring.
Larger ovarian cysts can cause discomfort or pain, which
can be severe and acute, especially in ovarian accidents like
torsion, rupture, or haemorrhage. Other types of ovarian
cysts like endometrioma may present with menstrual pain in
various severity.
38 BabyTalk | March 2022

Special Feature
WHAT IS PCOS AND What are the
treatments available?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occurs when a woman’s
ovaries or adrenal glands produce more male hormones than
normal. PCOS causes small cysts to grow on the peripheries
of the ovaries.
Symptoms include irregular/infrequent menstrual periods,
excess hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism) and acne
or oily skin. Often women with PCOS are obese, and most of
them may have issues with fertility. Women with PCOS are
at higher risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heart disease
and high blood pressure.
PCOS is diagnosed via the typical clinical presentation
mentioned above with supporting features of polycystic
ovaries on pelvic ultrasound and some hormonal blood
test changes, especially in severe cases. There is no cure
for the disease, but diet, exercise, and hormonal medicines
like birth control pills to balance hormonal levels can help
control the symptoms.
Can you explain more about ovarian
cancer? What are the preventive
steps?
Ovarian cancer is one of the commonest cancers in women
worldwide. Unfortunately, unlike cervical cancer, there is
no reliable and efficient screening test for this cancer. More
than 75% of women present late with significant symptoms,
leading to a poorer prognosis. Thus, recognising the risk
factors among us is crucial.
Up to 25% of ovarian cancers result from an inherited
mutation in specific genes. In view of this, knowing the
patient’s background or family history and informing the
healthcare provider regarding this significant history may lead
to earlier assessment and detection of ovarian cancer.
Using birth control pills for five or more years, for example,
has been associated with lower chances of getting ovarian
cancer, and this has been used as a preventive measure
among the high-risk group.
Women who give birth after the age of 35 or who never have
carried a pregnancy have a higher risk of ovarian cancer, so
completing family earlier may reduce the risks, especially in
high-risk groups. Some studies suggested that breastfeeding
itself reduces the risk of ovarian cancer.
Can you provide tips on improving
ovarian health?
A healthy lifestyle is crucial in maintaining ovarian health,
as this is closely related to a woman’s metabolism issues. A
balanced diet and regular exercise prevent obesity, which may
be the precursor of PCOS and hormonal imbalances.
A healthy lifestyle also includes avoiding smoking and alcohol
intake. Regular health check-ups, especially in high-risk
women, are also important to detect earlier ovarian issues, as
frequently, ovarian diseases are detected incidentally.
Effective family planning is also one of the factors that may
lead to improved ovarian health as it may reduce the risks
of ovarian cancer by avoiding pregnancy at a later age.
Breastfeeding should also be encouraged as one of the
preventive measures for ovarian cancer.
40 BabyTalk | March 2022

Life & Style
Feature
SHOULD
YOU GET A
MATERNITY
HEALTH
INSURANCE
PLAN?
These days, having a baby is a huge
commitment. Apart from the responsibilities
as parents, there is also the financial
aspect of pregnancy, childbirth, and so on
to consider. Here’s where having health
insurance for maternity purposes can help
alleviate some of your burdens as you
welcome your bundle of joy to the world.
42 BabyTalk | March 2022

Life & Style
Feature
Basic health insurance policies usually
only cover certain medical emergencies.
Therefore, if you are planning to
conceive, it’s worth considering
women-specific health insurance,
which often includes maternity and
baby care benefits.
Women-specific policies are designed
to cover specific female healthcare
needs that standard health insurance
plans may not provide. For example,
female-related illnesses, maternity care,
newborn baby coverage, and more.
For moms-to-be (and even dads-to-be),
ladies-exclusive insurance that includes
maternal coverage provides something
for parents to fall back on should
unexpected medical expenses during
pregnancy or labour arise.
For instance, Prudential’s PRULady
policy covers all mothers-to-be against
pregnancy complications and their
children against congenital illnesses
such as spina bifida, cleft lip, ventricular
septal defects, and others. The coverage
also accounts for unfortunate conditions
resulting in the loss of a child, including
disseminated intravascular coagulation
(after seven months of pregnancy),
ectopic pregnancy, eclampsia, late
miscarriages after the 18th week, and
death of a foetus or an infant after 30
days of birth.
The plan also includes childbirth
benefits, which you can claim up to
three times. On top of this, you are
also provided coverage for a wide
range of female-related illnesses.
These include female cancer (breast,
cervix uteri, fallopian tube, ovary,
uterus, or vagina/vulva) and systemic
lupus erythematosus with severe
kidney complications and age-related
conditions such as osteoporotic fracture
and rheumatoid arthritis.
Other women-specific health policies
may also incorporate coverage for
infertility. For example, PersonaLady
policy from Etiqa and Lady Protector
from Great Eastern offer compassionate
cash compensations to assist those
who can no longer get pregnant due
to accidents that cause injury to their
reproductive organs (ovaries or womb).
Before deciding on the right
maternity benefit plan, consider
these important factors:
• Identify your financial budget
and how much you can invest
in a health insurance policy.
This will help you select the
right amount of premium.
• Check with your agent or
the insurance company on
the waiting period of the
maternity plan.
• Be aware of the health
insurance provider’s
network of healthcare
institutions or hospitals.
• Read the policy terms
carefully to avoid any disputes
or inconveniences that may
arise during claims settlement.
BabyTalk | March 2022 43

BT Recommends
BEST BABY WIPES
FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Baby wipes are essential to keep your baby clean in an instant. While there are many
types to choose from, always go for those made from gentle ingredients, so they don’t
irritate your baby’s skin. Here are five recommended baby wipes that are specially
formulated for an infant’s sensitive and tender skin.
Bambo Nature Premium Baby
Wet Wipes
These gentle wipes are a must-have to keep your
baby clean from head to toe. Made from soft, nonwoven
materials, these hypoallergenic and chlorinefree
wipes do not contain perfumes, parabens,
dyes, and optical brighteners. Moreover, they are
eco-friendly, vegan, and dermatologist-tested.
bambo-nature.my
Drypers Antibacterial
Sanitising Wipes
Formulated to kill 99.9% of germs, these handy
antibacterial wipes are dermatologist-tested,
fragrance-free, paraben-free, and alcohol-free.
That’s not all – the wipes also nourish and soothe
baby’s skin – thanks to a combination of Calendula
Officinalis flower extract and Vitamin E. Suitable for
daily use and newborns.
www.drypers.com.my
Brown Baby Wet Wipes
Are you looking for quality wipes? These wipes
will check all the right boxes. Ideal for newborns,
babies, toddlers, and even adults, they are made
using food-grade ingredients and a seven-stage
water purification system. These Korean-made
wipes also come with premium embossing and are
hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested.
mumberainbow.com
Bzu Bzu Anti-Bacterial Wipes
If you need wipes that are safe for your baby’s
body and face, these wipes ensure they are gentle
enough for your precious one’s daily use. They
are formulated with natural ingredients, including
Okura and artichoke extract, with added Vitamins
B and E to form a protective layer on the skin while
providing a moisturising effect.
bzubzu.my
Fiffy Antibacterial Hygienic
Wipes
Cottony soft and versatile, each wipe is infused
with aloe vera extract and vitamin E for extra
moisturisation to gently soothe baby’s dry skin. It
also contains an antibacterial agent that can kill off
99% of germs and bacteria without irritating the
skin. In addition, the wipes are free of fragrant,
alcohol, paraben, and phenoxyethanol to protect
your baby from harmful chemical ingredients
www.fiffybaby.com
44 BabyTalk | March 2022