The end of the first trimester generally signals the end of nausea-infused mornings and you can start enjoying your pregnancy. This is the best time to travel before motherhood starts. For first-time parents, your babymoon is even more special, knowing holidays are never going to be the same again. Take this time to relax and spend some quality time with your partner.

Sassy Mama Tip: Be sure to check in with your doctor or healthcare provider before making your travel plans.

Read More: How To Get A Passport For Your New Baby In Hong Kong

Sanya, China – White-sand beach babymoon destination in Asia

A premier beach destination in China, Sanya has white-sand beaches, and clear blue waters and offers a gorgeous tropical island escape for expecting parents. Pamper yourself at these resorts…

Rosewood Sanya

Launched in the summer of 2017, Rosewood Sanya offers panoramic ocean view rooms and five restaurants and lounges, plus an infinity pool, spa, a health club and almost 2,000 square meters of outdoor spaces.

Rosewood Sanya, 6 Haitang North Road, Sanya, Hainan, China, +86 (898) 8871 6666, sanya@rosewoodhotels.com, www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/sanya

Mandarin Oriental, Sanya

Mandarin Oriental in Sanya combines contemporary design with a laid-back beach chic vibe. It offers everything from spacious suites to luxurious villas and loads of special experiences including beachfront restaurants and a spa.

Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, 12 Yuhai Road, Sanya, Hainan, China, +86 (898) 8820 9999, mosan-reservations@mohg.com, www.mandarinoriental.com/sanya

Goa, India – Budget-friendly babymoon destination in Asia

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beach babymoon, you cannot go wrong with Goa, a coastal state in western India along the Arabian Sea. In addition to its golden beaches and streets lined with palm trees, you’ll also find preserved 17-century churches and Portuguese-style art and architecture, thanks to its long history as a Portuguese colony until 1961.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa offers a luxury seafront getaway with gorgeous suites and sea view rooms that are inspired by Goa’s rich history. Take a look at its special package for Romance at the Taj and its Spa Getaways to find the perfect fit for you!

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Calwaddo, Goa, India, reservations@ihcltata.com, www.tajhotels.com

Hamsa Villas

With lush green surroundings, chirping birds and a fresh sea breeze, Hamsa Villas are a nature lovers’ delight. You’ll also have access to your own private pool, jacuzzi and Yoga room, plus access to The Spa.

Hamsa Villas, 1/272-D, Gauravaddo, Calangute, Goa, India, +91 956 006 2833, goa@hamsavillas.com, www.hamsavillas.com

Prainha Resort

Situated near Dona Paula Beach (also called Lover’s Paradise) Prainha Resort is ideal for couples. You’ll be surrounded by swaying palm trees, warm red rocks and the endless ocean as you sip on mocktails at the beachside restaurant.

Prainha Resort, Jetty Road, Dona Paula, Panaji, Goa, India, WhatsApp: +91 777 401 0131, reservations@prainha.com, www.prainha.com

Read More: Top Philippines Destinations To Visit On Your Next Family Holiday

Singapore – Babymoon destination in Asia within close proximity to the city

A babymoon in Singapore is perfect if you prefer to be near a big city with world-class medical facilities. There are plenty of resorts in Singapore that promise a quiet, romantic retreat.

Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa

The only beachfront resort in Singapore, Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa is within easy reach of the city. Its Rasa Romance package is ideal for couples and includes breakfast and sunset drinks (including mocktails!), plus you can choose your preferred pampering experience – picnic set, foot massages and more!

Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, 101 Siloso Road, Singapore, Toll Free Number: 3069 9788, enquiries@shangri-la.com, www.shangri-la.com/rasasentosaresort

Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

Here, you’ll enjoy a tranquil stay surrounded by lush greenery, wildlife and a refreshing sea breeze from the South China Sea. Check out its A Romance Hideaway package for couples, inclusive of breakfast, an afternoon tea for two and more.

Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa, 099891, Singapore, +65 6708 8310, h9474@sofitel.com, www.sofitel-singapore-sentosa.com

Capella Singapore

Lauded as the best hotel brand in the world (and the best hotel in Singapore!), Capella offers a beautiful escape with its colonial architecture set amidst 30 acres of lush rainforest. There are plenty of experiences for to-be-parents including cooking masterclasses, afternoon tea and spa.

Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island, Singapore, +65 6377 8888, gr.singapore@capellahotels.com, www.capellahotels.com

Read More: Sassy Mama’s Guide To Visiting Singapore With Kids

Malaysia – Luxurious rainforest babymoon destination in Asia

Another great babymoon destination is Malaysia, a country spanning many islands and full of gorgeous resorts to discover.

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi

A vacation at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi feels like stealing into a world of luxury in a midst of a rainforest. Its Island Romance package is ideal for couples and includes lavish experiences including a romantic drawn bath, dining by the beach and a relaxing massage for two.

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, PT 313, Jalan Pantai Kok, Teluk Nibong, Langkawi, KD, Malaysia, +604 952 4888, reservations.langkawi@ritzcarlton.com, www.ritzcarlton.com/langkawi

The Chateau Spa & Resort, Penang

Inspired by an 18th Century castle in France, The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resorts offers expansive views into the sloping hills and beyond. You’ll enjoy impeccable 7-star service upon arrival and be able to indulge in spa treatments and sumptuous dining experiences.

The Chateau Spa & Resort, KM 48, Persimpangan Bertingkat Lebuhraya Karak, Bukit TInggi, Pahang, Malaysia, + 60 (9) 221 3888, www.thechateau.com.my

South Korea – An exciting babymoon destination in Asia to shop and dine

Seoul is a great city break; you’ve got bright neon lights and a bustling atmosphere, but it is also incredibly safe, clean and well-organised. Eat your way around the city and indulge in some classic Korean food while you are there, plus check out these resorts ideal for your babymoon.

Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul

Unwind in this urban oasis with a striking view of Namsan Mountain along with a premium experience and world-class service. You can also book its Winter Holiday package to cap off the year in style with complimentary access to its indoor swimming pool and fitness centre.

Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, 60, Jangchungdan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea, +82 2 2250 8000, clubandspa-seoul@banyantree.com, www.banyantree.com/club-and-spa-seoul

L7 MYEONGDONG

With a cosy atmosphere, L7 MYEONGDONG is ideally situated close to major shopping destinations and tourist attractions. Sip on mocktails at the rooftop bar, dine at its brand new floating restaurant, indulge in a foot spa and enjoy a relaxing stay at its sophisticated suites.

L7 MYEONGDONG, 137 Toegye-ro Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea, +82 02 6310 1000, rsv.L7.mdong@lotte.net, www.lottehotel.com/myeongdong

Editor’s Note: “5 Babymoon Destinations In Asia – Hotels And Resorts For Your Babymoon” was most recently updated in December 2024 by Veena Raghunath, with thanks to Najuka Redkar for her contribution.

The post 5 Babymoon Destinations In Asia: Hotels And Resorts For Your Babymoon appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Deciding to start a family can be an exciting, optimistic and happy time. It can also be stressful, frustrating, heartbreaking and exhausting. If you’ve been trying to conceive for a while, you are probably well into the frustrated stage and looking for answers. While in vitro fertilisation (IVF) isn’t generally the first option for most people who have trouble getting or staying pregnant, going to a fertility specialist who can also perform IVF in Hong Kong could be the right choice if you want to establish a relationship with one doctor or clinic that can see you through your entire journey.

If you have private health insurance or maternity insurance, make sure to speak to your insurance provider to understand what is and is not covered prior to booking any appointments.

Jump To:
What To Know Before You Start
What Is IVF
IVF Clinics In Hong Kong

Read More: Your Guide To Family Health Insurance And Maternity Cover In Hong Kong

What To Know Before You Start IVF In Hong Kong

Figuring Out Your Fertility Issues

Generally speaking, the beginning of this process is the same regardless of which doctor or clinic you choose. You will be best served to have your partner at your first appointment, so the doctor can collect information from you both. The last thing you want is more time lost because the doctor doesn’t have all the right information from the start.

Collecting Your Medical History

Infertility can be due to female factors, male factors or a combination of both, so you’ll both be asked about your medical and sexual history. Make sure you’ve both been honest with one another about your sexual health and past.

Conducting Fertility Tests

Initial tests help piece together what might be causing the fertility challenges. They start out basic – a semen analysis, blood tests for hormones, a transvaginal ultrasound – and then progress depending on the results. Tests to check ovarian reserves and look for any blockages or abnormalities in your reproductive tract are all possibilities.

Read More: Where To Make A Will In Hong Kong

Exploring Assisted Reproductive Technologies In Hong Kong

Pending the results of your tests you might be presented with a progressive approach to help facilitate conception. Your doctor will take into account your medical history, tests, age and the amount of time you’ve been trying to conceive to present you with your options.

These options can range from addressing an underlying medical condition to simple fertility medication (usually oral or injectable hormones), surgery to correct any abnormalities, intra-uterine insemination (IUI, where sperm is placed directly in your uterus at the exact right time) or IVF. In some cases, treatments are combined. In rarer cases, the man might need to have surgery to access the sperm needed to perform IUI or IVF.

There are big decisions to be had, so at this point, it could be worth collating your test results and seeking a second opinion.

Legalities And Paperwork Of Assisted Fertility And IVF In Hong Kong

In order to have IVF in Hong Kong you’ll need to be legally married and produce a marriage certificate (it doesn’t have to be from Hong Kong). If you are unmarried (including same-sex couples), you will need to look at IVF options overseas.

The doctor will review all of the risks with you so you are fully aware. You’ll also sign a consent form stating that you understand these risks. There are also forms to consent to any freezing and storage that might be needed for eggs, embryos and sperm. You’ll need to know what you want to do with any extras and will likely be given the option to dispose of them or donate them for research.

Read More: What It’s Like To Raise Children In A Same-Sex Family

The IVF Process Explained

If it is determined that IVF is your best option, you might feel overwhelmed. Between the cost, time commitment, the emotional toll and the possible frustration, or blame of yourself or your partner (or both), plus the physical side effects for the female partner, there is a lot to deal with. Not to mention you’ve already been trying to have a child for some time now – patience is probably running thin.

You might be tempted to rush the process but don’t forget to take care of yourself mentally and physically. Lifestyle can play a role in fertility success so be sure to address any red flags with your doctor prior to proceeding.

Read More: 10 Practical Tips For Improving Mental Health

What Is IVF?

IVF is basically the process of fertilizing eggs outside of your body to create an embryo that is then transferred to the uterus. Your doctor will work with you to establish a timeframe for the entire process. It will likely be dictated by your natural menstrual cycle.

Your doctor can speak specifically to the success rate that correlates to your age and situation, but generally speaking, the “live birth rate” for IVF in Hong Kong is around 30% per cycle (according to the Hong Kong Medical Journal). However, this is highly variable, and unfortunately, the percentage reduces rapidly the older you get.

Read More: Where To Buy Maternity And Nursing Bras In Hong Kong

IVF Step 1 – Stimulation Of The Ovaries

You will be prescribed fertility medication to trick your body into producing a large number of eggs. The medication is usually self-administered (or you can have your partner do it) via shots in your abdomen or thighs. At set time markers, you will be given transvaginal ultrasounds and blood tests to monitor the progress.

IVF Step 2 – Egg And Sperm Collection

Once the eggs are mature, you will give yourself (or be given) a trigger shot to stimulate ovulation during a set timeframe. Usually, you will have the shot at night and be expected to arrive for egg retrieval at an exact time. Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure and you might be given antibiotics to prevent infection. The procedure is quick but you are given sedation to relax and prevent any possible pain. The doctor will use an ultrasound to guide a hollow needle through the pelvic cavity to pick up the eggs and transfer them for storage or insemination. It is recommended to skip work or other responsibilities after the procedure. Take a sick day and try to relax.

Your partner will be asked to produce a sample of sperm or will have already had any procedures necessary to produce sperm. In some cases that will mean the sperm is cryo-frozen.

Read More: Where To Find Counselling, Psychologists And Therapists In Hong Kong

IVF Step 3 – Fertilisation

Now it is time for insemination; the sperm and eggs are mixed together and stored in a lab dish to promote fertilisation. If there are some male factor issues, each egg might need to be injected directly with a single sperm to increase success. This is called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Once the eggs are fertilised (and it is to be expected that not all of them will fertilise) they are considered embryos. Doctors will then wait 3 to 5 days for the embryo to grow before moving on to the next step. While you are waiting, you will continue to take fertility medication if you are going to have a fresh transfer.

IVF Step 4 — Embryo Transfer

Some doctors like to let your body calm down after the stimulation of the ovaries, especially if you’ve developed any of the possible side effects from fertility medication, such as hyper-stimulation.

If you aren’t waiting, you’ll have a fresh embryo transfer. You’ll be asked to come to your transfer with an excruciatingly full bladder, which is probably one of the worst parts of the entire process (besides all the needles). Then the doctor does an unbelievably fast procedure to place the embryo into an ideal location within your uterus. If you are doing a frozen embryo transfer (FET) your doctor will give you a timeline for the transfer, as well as any medications to continue on.

After the transfer, you can proceed with your day as usual, but it’s best to avoid any strenuous activities. Follow your doctor’s advice.

Read More: Your Guide To Meditation And Mindfulness Centres In Hong Kong

IVF Step 5 – The Wait

The wait will likely be the most excruciating part of treatment. You will continue to take fertility medications to support implantation and will be scheduled to come in for a pregnancy blood test about 10-12 days after the embryo transfer. Someone from the clinic will call you later in the day after you have the blood test in the morning, usually within a specific time frame.

Take into consideration how you will react to the news. Can you handle taking the call at work and getting a disappointing outcome? Can you get positive news and continue on with your workday as normal? Consider taking a half day or working from home if you might be derailed by the news in either scenario. For others, getting on with their day, as usual, might be best.

IVF Step 6 – Next Steps

If you get a positive pregnancy result, you will be scheduled for additional blood tests at specific dates to monitor your hormone levels. That will tell the doctor if your pregnancy is progressing. From there, if all goes as expected, you will have several early appointments to check that the pregnancy is implanted properly and not ectopic and to monitor the progress. So the bright side of all of this is that you will get to see your baby way earlier than “normal.” About 12 weeks into your pregnancy, you will revert to the standard pregnancy care timeline.

If your fertility doctor isn’t going to be the doctor delivering the baby, you would also generally be released from their care at this time and transferred to the obstetrician that you will deliver with.

If the result is not positive, you will want to set up an appointment to decide on your next steps. If you have viable embryos from this round of IVF and your doctor agrees, you can try again for a FET in the next cycle. If you only had one viable embryo and it was used in the transfer, you will need to undergo the entire IVF process again.

Read More: Pregnant In Hong Kong — Delivery Packages In Public And Private Hospitals

What NOT To Say To Someone Trying To Conceive

Hong Kong IVF Clinics

The Council On Human Reproductive Technology has a wealth of information (even if it isn’t presented on a particularly user-friendly website). It also lists all the licensed centres for assisted reproductive treatments in Hong Kong.

Public Assisted Fertility And IVF Clinics In Hong Kong

Hong Kong has three public hospitals that provide IVF services. In order to qualify for public system fertility treatment, it is important to note:

• Couples must be legally married heterosexual couples
• The female partner must be a Hong Kong citizen
• The female partner must be under the age of 40

While subsidised care is available for qualifying couples, patients are still responsible for the cost of medication and laboratory fees. It’s also important to note that the waiting time in the public system can be well over a year. The price range for IVF at public hospitals is based on your treatment plan but could be in the range of $20,000 to $35,000.

• Centre of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology (CARE) — Available at both Queen Mary Hospital and Kwong Wah Hospital. www.hkuivf.hku.hk
• Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Unit — Run from the Prince Of Wales Hospital in Sha Tin. www.ivfhk.com

Read More: Preparing For Birth In A Hong Kong Public Hospital

Private Hospitals And Clinics Offering IVF In Hong Kong

Hong Kong has several licensed private clinics. This option provides the most flexibility, shortest wait times and least stringent requirements but it is much more expensive. Couples can expect to pay upwards of $150,000 for one round of private IVF treatment. You can also use the public hospital private route. The only qualification is that patients must be legally married at the time of treatment and costs are a little lower than the private clinics. Each clinic’s costs vary and are based on your specific treatment requirements so contact them directly for specific, up-to-date pricing.

• Union Hospital Reproductive Medical Centre — Run from the hospital in Sha Tin and the medical centre in Tsim Sha Tsui. www.ivfhongkong.com
• Hong Kong Assisted Reproduction Centre — Central, Hong Kong. www.hkarc.com.hk
• Hong Kong IVF Centre — Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. www.hkivf.com
• Hong Kong Reproductive Medical Centre — Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. www.fertility.com.hk
• IVF Centre — Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Hong Kong. www.hksh.com
• ProlIVFic A.R.T. Centre — Central, Hong Kong. www.pivf.com.hk
• The IVF Clinic at The Women’s Clinic — Central, Hong Kong. www.thewomensclinic.com.hk

Editor’s Note: All licensed clinic information is gathered from the Hong Kong Council on Human Reproductive Technology and is accurate as of November 2024. Please note that we’ve only included public and private clinics that perform IVF. There are other licensed laboratories that perform testing and other services that can be a part of the IVF process. The complete list, including labs, can be found here. Sassy Mama also referenced The American Pregnancy Association website, www.americanpregnancy.org, during the writing of this article. “Hong Kong IVF: What To Know About Assisted Reproductive Technology In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in November 2024 by Carmina Jariel. 

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.

Thanks to Adeline Ma, an IVF and ART consultant specialising in helping women navigate the IVF process in Hong Kong. 

The post Hong Kong IVF: What To Know About Assisted Reproductive Technology In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

During pregnancy, you go through an incredible transformation, and finding clothes that fit your changing body shape yet still make you look and feel amazing, can be a challenge. But just because we have to pack away our pre-baby clothes for now, it doesn’t mean that our style needs to be compromised. Here is our list of maternity wear go-to’s right here in the city (and worldwide that deliver), so that Mamas-to-be can find something to show off that beautiful baby bump in whatever makes you feel your best. There are also some non-maternity wear options that can be worn before, during and after the baby is born.

Read More: Where To Buy Maternity And Nursing Bras In Hong Kong – Online Or In-Store

Embrace – Minimalistic, high quality and comfortable maternity wear

Embrace brings understated luxury to maternity wear – a second skin you’ll be wearing on repeat be it during pregnancy or nursing. Developed in Hong Kong using the finest yarns in the world, Embrace’s fabrics are natural, buttery soft, breathable and made to stretch and shrink with your changing body. Don’t forget to add to cart their best-selling Nursing Bras and Soft Ribbed Nursing Tank before you hit check-out – and enjoy free shipping for orders over $800.

Sassy Mama Tip: From now to 12 November, take a 25% discount on selected items by entering code BF25 at checkout.

Embrace, Facebook: Embrace – Asia, Instagram: @ourembraceasia, www.asia.wearembrace.com

Nothing Fits But – Premium maternity wear label from South Korea

If you’re looking for unique, dreamy designs in comfortable and cool fabrics like organic cotton, and luxurious linens, look no further! NOTHING FITS BUT crafts relaxed and refined clothing for contemporary motherhood.

Nothing Fits But, www.nothingfitsbut.com (free worldwide shipping for orders USD200 and over)

Read More: Prenatal Fitness In Hong Kong – Prenatal Yoga, Pilates And More

Malabar Baby – Kaftan dresses and loungewear

This local brand is best known for its handcrafted collection for babies and children, but they also have a small selection of light and airy cotton kaftans which could be perfect for the Hong Kong heat!

Malabar Baby, www.malabarbaby.com (standard shipping costs USD5)

Read More: “Mum Guilt Is Seriously Real But I Don’t Feel It As Much Anymore.” Anjali Harjani Of Malabar Baby Talks About Life As A Working Mum

She Creates Stories – Breezy maternity wear perfect for Hong Kong heat

For fashionable floaty options, inspired but the Australian coast, She Creates Stories has got you and your growing bump covered. We love the short-sleeved midi dress shown in the main article image, the smock tops and the mummy and me matching swimwear.

She Creates Stories, www.shecreatesstories.com 

Read More: Second-Hand Baby Clothes And Pre-Loved Baby Gear In Hong Kong

Retykle – Pre-loved designer maternity wear

You’re not going to wear your maternity wear forever, so if you’re looking for a more sustainable (and cost-effective) option, Retykle could just be the answer! Stocking pre-loved, quality maternity wear with brands such as Ingrid & Isabelle, Made and Mothers En Vogue to name just a few.

Retykle, 8F, Sing Teck Building, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Hong Kong (by appointment only), 3594 6533, WhatsApp: 5596 3446, www.retykle.com (free shipping for orders $500 and over)

Shopbop – A collection of brands offering maternity wear

A range of contemporary designer labels are available at Shopbop. Including luxurious but functional nursing lingerie by Cosabella, ultra-comfortable denim from Madewell, flattering leggings from SPANX and effortlessly chic styles from HATCH.

Shopbop, www.shopbop.com (free worldwide shipping for orders USD100 and over)

Read More: Your Pregnancy Hospital Bag Checklist And Birth Plan Template

More Places To Shop Maternity Wear In Hong Kong

• ASOS – The Maternity collection includes everything from bump-flattering swimwear in fun prints to floaty smocks and cool athleisure. www.asos.com
• H&M – Limited maternity range available in-store, so we recommend checking out its large maternity collection online to find the best selection. www.hm.com
• Love, Bonito – Comfortable workwear and maternity dresses for special occasions. www.lovebonito.com
• Next Direct – The extensive next maternity collection includes a huge range of easy-to-wear styles available in sizes 8-22. www.nextdirect.com
• Petal & Pup – A stylish selection of bump-friendly dresses, with elasticated waists, flowy bodices and shirred details. www.petalandpup.com
• Zalora – A wide range of affordable high-street brands offering maternity wear. www.zalora.com.hk

Read More: Top Lactation Consultants In Hong Kong In-Person And Online

Editor’s Note: “Where To Shop Maternity Wear In Hong Kong” was originally published by Dervla Louli and most recently updated in August 2024 by Fashila Kanakka. Special thanks to Elle Noble for her contribution. 

The post Where To Shop Maternity Wear In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

At Sassy Mama, we are so proud to support every mama and papa on their parenting journey. With the highs and lows, there is no roller coaster ride in the world that quite compares, and the breastfeeding experience is no exception!

Most of us are well aware of the benefits of this fabulous natural baby food. This magic potion can help protect babies from gastrointestinal infections and skin diseases as breastmilk is rich in antibodies. Breastmilk also helps to strengthen the bub’s immune system. Of course, skin-to-skin contact while breastfeeding is also a great way for bond-building between the mother and her newborn. There are health benefits for mums, too, as it reduces stress levels, helps the uterus contract post-birth, and even helps in the prevention of cancer.

⇓ For everything you need to know about breastfeeding in Hong Kong, scroll down! ⇓

Read More Breastfeeding Stories

The post All About Breastfeeding In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

There’s no rest for the wicked, but as we mamas have found, there’s no rest even for really wonderful mothers either! When you’re running around sleep deprived and covered in curious substances, it can be tough remembering when (and on what side!) to feed the bub, let alone keep track of all those dirty nappies (and nap times).

Luckily, we’ve rounded up our favourite baby tracking apps to chart their development (right from their little heartbeats on a scan to when they are running circles around us!) – something that definitely comes in handy at your next obstetrician or paediatrician visit. In addition to the nitty gritty details about availability and cost, we’ve also enlisted our own team of Sassy Mamas to share how they used the apps to make their first couple of years a little easier. Take a look below!

Read More: Where To Find The Perfect Baby High Chair

Pregnancy and Baby Tracker – WTE – Regularly updated by ‘What To Expect’ Medical Review Board

From the parenting juggernaut behind the massive bestseller the What to Expect series, this customisable pregnancy app includes an award-winning due date calculator and an archive of guides to each month of your child’s development. Once your baby arrives, it not only allows you to record your darling’s sleeping, feeding, and necessary diaper change patterns. There’s even medical advice and playtime ideas for when your brain’s just too tired to come up with another game. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, never fear – you’ll get access to the What to Expect forum where you can ask other parents for help, or just rant to them about the two hours of sleep you got last night. 

Sassy Mama says: “I love What-to-Expect’s Baby Tracking App because the interface is clear and simple to use and navigate around. With my mummy-brain, I find the ‘vaccinations’ button super helpful as it keeps me updated with those necessary (but painful) jabs!” – Min, Sassy Mama Singapore

Download: Free, available on Android and Apple.

Read More: The Fourth Trimester – What To Expect When You’re No Longer Expecting

Baby Centre – Free week-by-week pregnancy tracker with baby name suggestions to height predictors

Baby Centre will truly be your parenting partner right from the get-go. Starting from when you’re even thinking of having a baby – you can use the ovulation calendar and look out for early pregnancy symptoms – to needing tips to deal with pregnancy aches and pains, to settling in to life as a parent. Satiate your curiosity with the Chinese Gender Predictor, read testimonials about coping with miscarriages, and find out which beauty products are safe to use when pregnant. We can’t imagine what you might need from a baby tracker that you can’t get from Baby Centre.

Sassy Mama says: “I still use Baby Centre – their content is also amazing. It helped me during my pregnancy and even now provides some excellent tips to help me understand my 9 year old.” – Mansha, Sassy Mama Hong Kong

Download: Free, available on Apple and Android.

Read More: How To Understand And Cope With Pregnancy Loss

Baby Feed Timer – Newborn app designed by and for breastfeeding mums

Recommended by NHS midwives in the UK, this handy-dandy app is perfect for sleep-deprived mamas who can’t remember their own last name, it reminds you what side to start on, when you’re due for the next feed, and much more. It also keeps track of bottle feedings, pumping sessions, diaper changes, and sleep timings, with in-depth charts and analysis.

Sassy Mama says: “I love how simple and uncomplicated this app is, with giant buttons that are easy to tap with one hand when I’ve got a squirming hungry baby in the other. It also syncs up with other phones so my husband knows when to feed her if I’m out and about.” – Kate, Sassy Mama Singapore

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Apple and Android.

Baby Connect – Baby tracking app for ease of communication between caregivers

Voted “Best Baby Tracking App in 2022”, this is perfect for the mama-on-the-go. Baby Connect allows you to create an online baby tracker that can be updated remotely by anyone you grant access to: your husband, your parents, your helper, etc. so you can be out and about and still not miss a single thing. It even has its own in-app messaging tool! Baby Connect allows you to record nursing times and diaper changes as well as mood swings and milestones, and turn your updates into easily digestible graphs and charts. You’ll even be able to make a profile for your child with relevant information about their allergies, blood type and birthday – everything’s all in one place!

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Android and Apple.

Read More: Postnatal Depression: How To Detect Symptoms And Find Solutions

Baby Daybook – Monitor your baby’s schedule with a user-friendly interface

Now available on Apple – and compatible with Apple Watch and widgets – as well as Android, Baby Daybook is a means of recording your newborn’s every last move, from diaper changes to breastfeeding sessions with the unique option of adding in crucial notes to record irregularities. For mamas with twins or triplets, Baby Daybook’s got you covered with multiple baby profiles that you can sync up with your husband or helper’s accounts so that they know exactly what’s going on every second of the day. With customisable app colours, the team behind Baby Daybook has even been thoughtful enough to develop a darker interface so you don’t wake up your little with a blast of light during their nighttime feedings.

Download: Free, available on Android and Apple.

Read More: Domestic Helpers In Hong Kong

Baby Breastfeeding Tracker – Stay organised with this nursing tracker app

From the minds of American Baby magazine comes the Baby Nursing app, your free, be-all, end-all breastfeeding app… and so much more! With options to chart your baby’s nursing progress as well as relevant doctors appointments and potty breaks, don’t forget to record your milestones with their in-built sound, photo and video capabilities! If you’re absolutely in love with the app, there’s even more paid-for content that will allow you to keep on top of bottle feedings, pumping, sleeping and more. Data can even be exported into a customisable Excel spreadsheet.

Download: Free, plus a paid-for upgrade, available on Android and Apple.

Sprout Pregnancy and Sprout Baby – Multiple apps for tracking different stages of child progression

Sprout is renowned for its physician-recommended baby and pregnancy apps with a number of awards from their fans at Time.com, Babble and even Apple themselves. They’ve got you covered from foetus to baby’s first steps, with an easy-to-use interface and awesome capabilities like multiple child profiles, doctor visit planners and daily tips with their pregnancy and baby trackers. Developed by mothers-to-be and doctors to guide you down the path of motherhood, and after creating a beautiful list of memories with your partner, you can send it off to be transformed into a gorgeous hardbound book for your family to treasure forever. Sprout Pregnancy also comes with a handy contraction time and kick counter.

Download (Sprout Pregnancy): Free trial, available on Apple and Android

Download (Sprout Baby Tracker): Free one week trial, available on Apple and Android.

Feed Baby – Award-winning breastfeeding tracker app for new parents

It’s easy to forget things when you’re operating on infant-oriented sleep, but with Feed Baby at least you can monitor your baby’s meal times, baths, and bottle feeds. This tracker creates colourful timelines, graphs and reports based around your tot’s eating habits, even when they start on solid foods. With customisable themes in powder Vintage Pink, periwinkle Baby Blue or the more solemn Dark Knight, you and your hubby will be able to sync up your data between devices to make sure you both know exactly what’s going on wherever you are.

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Apple and Android.

Baby Tracker: Newborn Log – Highly recommended all-in-one app including baby milestones

Over a million parents have downloaded (and raved about) this app, so it must be worth checking out. The Newborn Log has a comprehensive and convenient feeding tracker that has a notes section for preferences and allergic reactions, it tracks diaper changes and your baby’s sleep schedule that you can share with a caregiver as it allows for syncing among multiple devices without compromising your privacy. Plus, you can make custom categories for your baby’s first smile, tooth, or step, log vaccine shots and temperature checks, and quickly identify patterns and abnormalities with the Data Interpretation section. What more could you need?

Download: Free with in-app purchases, available on Apple and Android.

Read More: Kids’ Sleep: How Much Sleep Children Need And Why

More Pregnancy & Baby Apps: Apps To Help You Through Labour & Contractions

These are specific apps that you will probably need to download only for the last few months of your pregnancy. So that you don’t need to go scouting for recommendations when you’re in your last trimester, we have rounded some of the apps that you should download as you approach your due date.

• Full Term Contraction Timer – Available to download on Apple
• Contraction Master – Available to download on Apple
• GentleBirth – Available to download on Apple and Android
• Freya Surge Timer – Available to download on Apple and Android
• Contraction Timer And Counter 9m – Available to download on Apple and Android

Editor’s Note: “Top Baby Tracking Apps For Pregnancy, Nursing, Bath Time and Diapers” was originally written by Megan Hills in 2016 and most recently updated in July 2024 by Veena Raghunath. Thanks to Nikita Mishra for her contribution.

This is part of a special series, “All About Breastfeeding In Hong Kong“. For more posts on breastfeeding in Hong Kong, click here.

The post Top Baby Tracking Apps For Pregnancy, Nursing, Bath Time and Diapers appeared first on Sassy Mama.

If you’ve been lucky enough to have the experience of being a new mum, you know that sleep deprivation can feel like torture. After even a few nights of snatched shut-eye, you’ll be bleary, teary, and in need of help, and that’s nothing to be ashamed of! We’ve bring you the best confinement ladies, night nurses, maternity nurses and pui yuet services in town.

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To Postnatal Recovery In Hong Kong

Who is a Confinement Lady or Pui Yuet?

What comes to mind when you think “confinement lady”? Is it a dreadful image of a nurse enforcing traditional Chinese confinement practices like not washing your hair for a month or not going out? You’re likely not alone.

Contrary to the name, a confinement lady is simply a trained caregiver to take care of postpartum mums and newborn babies.

According to Parachute, one of the reputed maternity services listed below,

“While many confinement nannies are of Chinese background and excel in preparing nutritious soups, some speak English and offer tailored services to Western clients. It is important to meet with the confinement nanny personally to communicate your postpartum and childcare expectations, and make sure she is someone that will get along with everyone in your family.”

Read more: Living With A Confinement Nanny: An Expat’s Post-Baby Guide

Booking Your Maternity Nurse

It is recommended that mums get their super-organised hats on and start looking for a maternity nurse at least six months in advance as they get booked up quickly, plus it takes time to find the right maternity nurse for you. Again, make sure you meet with them so you know that you’ll feel comfortable with them and know that you share similar childcare ideas as they’re likely to become a very important part of your life… and in some cases will even live with you!

Top Confinement (Pui Yuet) Services, Maternity Nurses And Night Nurses In Hong Kong

Parachute – Platform to connect parents with confinement nannies in Hong Kong

Pregnant for the first time in Hong Kong? If you are worried about newborn care, postpartum recovery and more, consider hiring a confinement nanny. In traditional Chinese culture, new moms observe one month of confinement with strict dos and don’t, but nowadays, the focus is less on restrictions and more to give new mums the right nourishment, time to rest, recover and bond with her newborn. Parachute has more than 100 qualified confinement nannies on its platform, where you can browse their bio, qualifications, availability and price. Parachute also covers your employees’ compensation insurance!

Parachute, 2/F, the Desk, Strand 50, 50 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 5978 3897, hello@parachuteforparents.com, www.parachuteforparents.com/en

Combined Women’s Specialist Clinic – Postpartum confinement care from Chinese practitioners in Hong Kong

The experienced Chinese practitioners at the Combined Women’s Specialist Clinic can customise a postpartum confinement plan based on your postpartum condition and using their expertise. The plan can  help restore physical health, while also addressing any existing ailments. The registered professionals here also offer services like Chinese medicine consultations, postpartum nursing, and prescriptions.

Combined Women’s Specialist Clinic, Room 701-2, 7/F, Grand Centre, 8 Humphreys Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2376 7228, www.combinedwomen.hk

Read More: Chinese Soups That Help Breastfeeding And Postpartum Replenishment

Sunlight – Reliable confinement service in Hong Kong

Worried about finding the right confinement lady for your family? With over 600 nannies available, Sunlight ensures a thorough nanny interview process and offers a free replacement during the probation period should any issues arise. The service scope includes everything from preparing baby products and hospital supplies to infant care and maternity care as well as help with alleviating postpartum blues.

Sunlight, various locations across Hong Kong, www.sunlight.hk

Read More: Where To Buy Maternity And Nursing Bras In Hong Kong

Smart Baby Care – Postnatal care providers and confinement services by the Employees Retaining Board (ERB)

At Smart Baby Care, you’ll find professional and thoughtful helpers who will help you raise healthy babies and prepare postnatal menus for the speedy recovery of your mind and body. Everything from milk feeding, napkin changing and cleaning the umbilical cord to helping you with breastfeeding, preparing bath water and relieving emotional stress will all be taken care of.

Smart Baby Care, Unit 521 & 522, 5/F Citimark, No. 28 Yuen Shun Circuit, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, www.erb.org/smartbabycare

Read More: Do You Really Need A Post Natal Women’s Health Check?

OT&P Annerly – At-home postnatal training for your helper

If you’re looking to train your helper with how to take care of your baby, Annerly at OT&P Healthcare provides postnatal home visits for support and teaching for helpers at home. This includes education on how to care for a newborn baby, bathing, sterilising bottles, safe sleeping, feeding and more.

OT&P Annerly, 19/ F Chun Wo Commercial Centre, 25 Wing Wo Street Central, Hong Kong, www.annerley.otandp.com

Read More: The Best Baby Strollers In Hong Kong And Where To Buy Them

The Family Zone – Confinement cooking classes and maternal recovery support

The Family Zone ensures a smoother transition into motherhood offering everything from lactation consultation and advice on infant nutrition to maternal recovery. It also offers private confinement cooking classes for helpers where they will learn to prepare traditional dishes specifically designed to nourish and air a new mother’s postnatal recovery.

The Family Zone, 9453 5544, www.thefamilyzonehk.com/postnatal

We have also been told that The Methodist Church can provide a list of maternity nurses as part of their social services division. The website is all in Chinese so it might be best to enquire in person (or bring along a friend!).

It may also be worth trying any of Hong Kong’s private or public hospitals to see if they can provide any assistance or advice, especially as part of their post-natal services if you gave birth there.

Read More: Pregnant In Hong Kong – Delivery Packages In Public And Private Hospitals

Editor’s Note: “Confinement Nannies, Night Nurses And Maternity Services In Hong Kong” was first published by Hester Aba in 2016 and most recently updated in March 2024 by Najuka Redkar. 

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