By: Melissa Stevens
Excitement and apprehension can go hand in hand when you’re pregnant, so it helps to feel like you’re in the know about pregnancy-related matters. This year’s Maternity + Baby event – the third annual event of its kind – promises to be a one-stop shop for all the information and products you need. Presented by Healthy Matters, it will feature maternity experts addressing key topics of interest for expectant parents, along with exhibitors showcasing an array of relevant goods and services.
Specialist advice and support
Healthy Matters informs and connects people on the key topics surrounding maternity and babies, and kids’ health and parenting, through events and specialist guides. Healthy Matters co-founder Amelia Dionne-Charest said her own experience inspired her to create an event covering all aspects of having a baby in Hong Kong, and addressing the common questions of mamas- and papas-to-be. “So many contacts and friends asked me questions – from the medical fees to expect, to the differences between private and public pathways,” she says. “Plus, I was thinking of having a second child but was having a hard time finding independent and reliable local resources. I didn’t want to base critical decisions on hearsay or trends but on facts, expertise and trustworthy information.” And so Maternity + Baby was born (pardon the pun!).
Learn, explore and connect
If you’re a new parent, expecting, or even just planning a family, at the Maternity + Baby event you can connect with other new and future parents in a welcoming environment and get all the latest info and advice you’ll need to navigate the journey from pregnancy to baby’s first year.
Event guests includes top doctors and health experts covering topics such as medical treatments and psychological support for fertility; advice for fathers on how to support their partners; and an examination of private versus public maternity care, as well a panel discussion on childbirth pain management. Speakers include obstetrician gynaecologists Dr Patrick Chan and Dr Michael Rogers, Dr Zara Chan, anaesthetist Dr Assad Hussain, pediatrician Dr Oliver Tang and midwife Hulda Thorey.
That’s not all; there will also be an exhibition hall jam-packed with the latest products, gadgets and services designed to make new parenthood easier. A huge range of premium vendors are showcasing must-have items, with loads of exclusive discounts on offer. There are some special new features too, all designed to make sure you can relax and make the most of the event; highlights include a pampering station for mums-to-be, and a family lounge offering refreshments and other perks and surprises. Amelie says Healthy Matters also plans to release the first edition of its new publication, The Hong Kong Maternity Guide, at the event, so you can take away a wealth of information to refer to!
Maternity + Baby Event Details
When: 9.30am to 4.30pm, 21 October
Where: JW Marriott Hotel, Hong Kong
Web: healthymatters.com
Admission is free when you register online. The first 200 attendees will receive a premium goodie bag packed with quality products, and all attendees will get a free copy of The Hong Kong Maternity Guide.
This article first appeared in the Aug/Sep edition of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue!
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