Oh! Baby!

Smoking During Pregnancy

2008-05-23T11:41:00.003-05:00

If this article were like most I've found, I would be saying "You should quit smoking. THE END." However we all know that in some cases that isn't going to happen. So first let's discuss what will happen to baby when mom smokes according to the Surgeon General:

Smoking causes blood vessels to constrict. This includes blood vessels in the umbilical cord, which provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby. The result is usually an underweight newborn. This is bad because babies born with less fat have a more difficult time regulating their temperature. Maintaining adequate body heat is essential to the health of a baby. Low birth weight is a leading cause of death for babies born in the United States.
Decreased oxygen and nutrients to baby during development could result in devastating birth defects or possibly learning disabilities later in life.
Babies of moms who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to die of SIDS.
Babies of moms who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to be born prematurely.
Babies of moms who smoke are more likely to have decreased lung function. Decreased lung function would lead to less oxygen getting to babies brain and other organs.
Daughters of mothers who smoke during pregnancy are more likely to begin smoking later in life, even if mom quits.

Now then. In my experience as a nursery nurse, I can also give you first hand information about newborns born to smoking mothers. The baby is born addicted to nicotine. After baby is born, he/she will go through withdrawal just as any smoker would. Usually mom hasn't had a cigarette for a while by the time baby is delivered, so even as the baby is born, he/she is already in the throes of withdrawal. Baby will shake uncontrollably, cry more often and be inconsolable. Withdrawal will interfere with breastfeeding, and possibly even bottle feeding. This is important as dehydration in an infant can happen very fast, and have devastating effects. Withdrawal from nicotine will also interfere with mother infant bonding. In my experience mothers of withdrawing infants send their babies to the nursery more often and for longer periods of time. Baby cannot be comforted by anyone.

Now then. I can hear you sitting there saying "Well So-and-So smoked during her pregnancy and her baby was fine." That very well may be true. Maybe that baby was lucky. However are there learning difficulties? Behavior problems? Was baby sick a lot? If so, those problems could be due to mom's cigarette use during pregnancy.

However, even after having all this information, you simply feel that you cannot quit smoking. Ok. Let's deal with that.

Decrease your smoking by at least half. If you have a hard time with this try chewing nicotine gum at times. Nicotine isn't good for baby, but it's better than all the other poisons baby's getting from the cigarette. (never wear a nicotine patch and smoke, this will cause heart problems)
Start smoking outside. This decreases the amount of smoke in your home in preparation for when baby comes home, and probably will automatically decrease the amount you smoke.
Even if you smoke outside, consider wearing an over shirt while smoking to decrease the amount of smoke in your clothing.
If you are breastfeeding, the baby will get nicotine and other poisons through the breast milk. HOWEVER. The benefits to breastfeeding outweigh the risks here. Don't smoke an hour before feeding the baby or pumping, this will decrease the amount of contaminants in the breast milk.
Be aware that quitting smoking at any point during pregnancy will decrease risks for your baby.

Your Baby's Hearing

2008-01-18T21:51:00.000-06:00

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be screened for hearing loss and has presented the goal of 100% of newborns to be screened during the newborn period. This screening will detect possible hearing problems, and give an opportunity for an early start to helping babies with hearing loss learn to communicate.

There are many reasons an infant may not immediately pass a hearing screening after birth. These include middle ear fluid, an ear canal blocked with debris, environmental influences during testing such as a fussy baby or environmental noise, or a possible hearing problem. Should your baby not pass an initial screening, this only indicates that further testing is needed.

Did you know?

*Newborn and infant hearing loss is estimated to occur in as many as 4 per 1,000 births.

*50% of infants with hearing loss and deafness are normal, full term babies.

*Infants can be fitted for hearing aids as early as 1 month of age.

*Without screening hearing problems typically are not detected until a child normally learns speech, at two to three years of age.

*Detecting hearing problems at birth may help prevent the occurrence of developmental and social problems later in childhood.

*The screen causes no discomfort to your infant.

There are general hearing milestones most babies encounter as they grow. Watch for these developmental signs as your baby gets bigger!

By 4 months, baby should sometimes:

*Startle or jump to sudden loud sounds.
*Stir or awaken from sleep when there is a loud sound.
*Be calmed when you speak.
*Respond to speech by gurgling or cooing.

By 8 months, baby should sometimes:

*Turn toward a new or interesting sound.
*Smile or turn to you when her name is called.
*Make several different babbling sounds.
*Enjoy a rattle or soft music toy.

By 12 months, your baby should sometimes:

*Respond by stopping or looking sad to "no-no".
*React when his name is called.
*Turn her head toward the side where sound is coming from.
*Try to imitate sound, rhythm, and pitch.
*Dance and make sounds to music.

By 12-15 months, first true words should appear.

Answers To The Questions You Don't Want To Ask

2007-09-08T17:19:00.000-05:00

1. What do people mean when they say I'll lose all modesty when I have a baby?

Well, they're probably overstating. You'll get the modesty back. However, when you have a baby you need to realize that your va-jay-jay, as it were, is going to be the girl of the hour. It will seem as though EVERYONE is 'down there' at one point or another. Nurses and Doctors will need to do vaginal exams with their gloved fingers to determine how much your cervix is dilating (often called "checking the cervix"). Some women want to be checked often to gage their progress, some women want left alone. However embarrassing, this will need to be done while you are in labor.

When you are fully dilated, often the nurses will place your legs in stirrups, and shine a bright light RIGHT THERE. While you are pushing the staff can monitor how well you are pushing, as well as progress made not only by vaginal checks, but also watching the perineum for crowning (when the pressure baby's head causes the perineum to bulge out, and the labia to separate, revealing the first peek at baby's head!).

Even after delivery, if you are breastfeeding, the staff will need to watch your breastfeeding attempts. This is the only way to help the process if need be, and report to the physician and pediatrician how well baby is nursing. Staff may even need to touch your breast in order to help baby latch on correctly.

So, while there is usually every effort made to maintain your privacy, when you have a baby, there will be a certain amount of exposure going on.

2. Am I going to poo on the delivery table?

Um, maybe. This doesn't happen often, but it does happen. While pushing you are using the same muscles you do when having a bowel movement. It feels like you are having a bowel movement even if you aren't.
However. If a mom does poo, it's always just a small amount, and the caregiver will just quickly wipe it away, and no one really gives it a second thought. Mom usually isn't even aware of it, nor is anyone else.

3. Are my breasts supposed to be leaking while I'm pregnant?

Yes, they are. This is just the body getting ready for baby breastfeeding. It normally begins around 5 months, and generally is only in very small amounts of clear, yellow, or white fluid.

4. Am I going to get aroused while breastfeeding?

Maybe at first. And if you do, it's NORMAL. Breastfeeding should be a pleasurable experience, our bodies are made that way. It doesn't mean anything subconscious is going on, and soon your body will be able to distinguish that pleasurable feeling associated with the closeness and nurturing of your baby from the times of intimacy.

Have more questions? Ask away in the comments, I'll do my best to give you answers to any "embarassing" questions you might have!

What Should You Bring To The Hospital?

2007-08-25T20:07:00.000-05:00

While this list can vary greatly from person to person, there are some basic items and ideas which will make your stay more comfortable. Make up your bag a couple of weeks before you're due, even if you are having a planned C-section (babies don't always like to follow our plans!). This way you won't have to worry about the details when the big moment arrives. Be sure your support person knows where this bag is as well!

Insurance information
Lotion or oil for massage during labor
Toothbrush, mouthwash
Hairbrush
Other toiletry items for mom(shampoo, deodorant, etc.)
Warm socks
Relaxing music (check to see if your facility has a CD player, or bring your own)
Bathrobe
PJ's
Bras (consider nursing bras if you are breastfeeding)
Topical pain relieving spray such as Dermoplast for after vaginal delivery
Change of clothes for your support person
Clothing to wear home (something you wore in your 5th or 6th month of pregnancy)
Camera
From home snacks or change for the vending machine
If you are breastfeeding, consider a Boppy style nursing pillow
Deck of cards, books, movies (check if your facility has VCR or DVD players)
Overnight maxi pads (hospital may supply these, but your own brand may be more comfortable)
Several pair of underware you won't mind throwing out (post delivery flow can be quite heavy, you might ask your facility if they provide disposable underware)
Body Pillow
Two outfits for baby
blankets
Baby Book (ask the nursing staff to put in baby's footprints! Most nurses would be happy to do it . . . don't count on good hand prints though . . . those are tough to get!)
Baby Mittens or socks to prevent baby from scratching face
Baby nail clippers (hospital staff generally are not allowed to clip baby's nails, and NEVER use adult clippers)
List of phone numbers of people you will want to call
Cell phone, you won't be able to call long distance from most hospitals
Car seat-be sure to try it out in your car first to be sure it fits properly!

Most hospitals will provide diapers, baby wash, baby lotion, etc. If there is a specific brand you would like to use however, be sure to bring your own.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

2007-08-10T21:18:00.000-05:00

Did you know decay can happen to your baby's teeth within hours?

Baby bottle tooth decay is the leading cause of dental problems for children 3 and under. When sugary liquids like milk or juice are in the mouth for prolonged periods of time (like when baby is sleeping), the decay can occur rapidly, cause severe pain to your baby, and cost upwards of $2,000-$3,000 to treat.

Primarily this decay occurs when a baby is put to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice. Normally, while awake, saliva will wash away sugars and acids in the mouth that can cause decay. However while baby sleeps, saliva production is reduced. Babies who are put to bed with a bottle may not swallow the liquid quickly, rather the juice or milk drops slowly into the mouth, possibly for hours, and collects around the upper teeth, where it dissolves enamel and causes decay.

PREVENTION

If you must put your baby to bed with a bottle, fill it with water.
If your drinking water isn't fluorinated, talk with your doctor or dentist about fluoride tablets or drops.
Use a clean pacifier, never dip baby's pacifier in sweet substances.
After each feeding, gently clean baby's gums and teeth with a water dampened washcloth or gauze pad.
When most of baby's teeth have appeared (about age two) begin gently brushing baby's teeth with an age appropriate toothbrush (extra soft) and a small amount of training toothpaste at bedtime.
Make a dental appointment with your dentist by age three, when all of baby's teeth have erupted. If you notice dental problems before then, take baby to the dentist immediately.
Begin weaning baby from the bottle at around her first birthday. Most babies wean easily with the help of a soft tip sippy cup.

Remember that teeth are vulnerable to decay as soon as they appear. Protect your baby's teeth from the start, make sure everyone who cares for your baby knows about proper bottle feeding practices.

Postpartum Depression

2007-06-20T15:56:00.000-05:00

Depression occurring during pregnancy or even up to a year after delivery is called postpartum or perinatal depression. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common complications during and after pregnancy. Postpartum depression is especially not recognized die to other normal pregnancy changes causing similar symptoms, such as tiredness, insomnia, increased emotional reactions, and of course changes in weight.

Severity of symptoms range from "baby blues" to postpartum psychosis.

The baby blues generally happen in the days after childbirth and go away in a few days. Symptoms include sudden mood swings, sadness, sleeping problems, irritability, restlessness, anxiety, and loneliness. These symptoms aren't severe, and don't require professional treatment. During this time, the new mom should nap often, when the baby does. Ask for help from friends and family, and get support from other moms.

Postpartum depression can occur anytime within the first year after childbirth. Some symptoms are the same as having baby blues, only on a larger scale. In addition, postpartum depression includes the feelings of guilt and worthlessness. This depression affects mom's well-being and prevents her from functioning well for a longer period of time. As this type of depression will not go away on it's own, the new mother will need treatment by a doctor. If left untreated, this depression can last for years.

Postpartum psychosis occurs in 1 or 2 out of every 1000 births, and usually begins in the first 6 weeks after birth. Usually women who have bipolar disorder or other psychiatric problems are at higher risk for developing postpartum psychosis. Symptoms may include delusions, hallucinations, sever sleep disturbances, and obsessive thoughts about the baby. She may have rapid mood swings, and thoughts of hurting herself or her baby. Postpartum psychosis obviously needs to be treated by professionals.

Women who experience any level of depression often don't' tell anyone about their symptoms. They may feel they are unfit mothers, and are ashamed, guilty or embarrassed by their symptoms. However perinatal depression can happen to any woman, those affected can still be fantastic mothers with help and support.

Speak to your doctor or midwife if you are having symptoms of depression while you are pregnant or after you deliver your baby. Your doctor or midwife can give you a questionnaire to test for depression and can also refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in treating depression.

Here are some other helpful tips:

* Try to get as much rest as you can. Try to nap when the baby naps.
* Stop putting pressure on yourself to do everything. Do as much as you can and leave the rest!
* Ask for help with household chores and nighttime feedings. Ask your husband or partner to bring the baby to you so you can breastfeed. If you can, have a friend, family member, or professional support person help you in the home for part of the day.
* Talk to your husband, partner, family, and friends about how you are feeling.
* Do not spend a lot of time alone. Get dressed and leave the house. Run an errand or take a short walk.
* Spend time alone with your husband or partner.
* Talk with other mothers, so you can learn from their experiences.
* Join a support group for women with depression. Call a local hotline or look in your telephone book for information and services.
* Don’t make any major life changes during pregnancy. Major changes can cause unneeded stress. Sometimes big changes cannot be avoided. When that happens, try to arrange support and help in your new situation ahead of time.

True Labor VS Braxton Hicks

2007-06-07T19:10:00.001-05:00

The beginning of labor is different for every woman, and every pregnancy!

How can you tell the difference between your body's "practice contractions" known as Braxton Hicks, and The Big Show? Braxton Hicks contractions can sometimes be very difficult to differentiate from real labor, and sometimes can only be determined by a vaginal exam. The main difference is Braxton Hicks contractions will not dilate your cervix or help baby drop lower into the pelvis in preparation for birth as true labor will. Remember, if there is any doubt, call your caregiver or hospital.

Some basic differences between the two:

Braxton Hicks contractions may subside after you drink a couple glasses of water, empty your bladder, and lie on your left side for an hour or two. True labor will persist after these interventions.
Usually Braxton Hicks will remain irregular and short, true labor contractions may begin as irregular contractions, but will become more regular, longer, closer together, and stronger with time.
In true labor, contractions may become stronger while walking, and do not cease while resting. Braxton Hicks contractions will not be affected by walking, and resting might make them stop.
You may feel nauseated, have diarrhea, or vomit with true labor. With Braxton Hicks you will not.
There may be bloody show in true labor as your cervix dilates, this won't be present with Braxton Hicks unless you have had a recent vaginal exam.
Braxton Hicks contractions are often felt in the top of the uterus or in the groin area. True labor often starts in the lower back and radiates to the front.

How To Time Your Contractions:

First write down the time at the beginning of one contraction and again at the beginning of the next. The time between actually includes the contraction itself, and the time in between contractions. So if your contraction lasts 60 seconds, and there are four minutes until the next one, your contractions are 5 minutes apart.

A good rule of thumb:

First time mom's should come to the hospital or call their caregiver (if a home birth) when contractions reach three to five minutes apart for a full hour.
For veteran moms, come to the hospital when your contractions have been five to seven minutes apart for a full hour.

Most mothers are more comfortable spending the beginning part of labor at home, rather than in the hospital. However, if at any time you feel you need to be checked out by the hospital or your caregiver do so! Don't be embarrassed or upset if you are told you're having 'false labor', or are in the very early stages of labor. That baby will arrive eventually, I promise!

Preventing Infant Abduction In Hospital and Out

2007-05-25T11:52:00.000-05:00

Preventing infant abduction has become paramount in most hospital Mother/Baby Units. However parents know they cannot rely on hospital staff alone for their baby's safety. What can a parent do once home to keep baby safe? Please keep in mind these safety tips from The National Center For Missing and Exploited Children:

At the Facility:

At some point before the birth of your baby, investigate security procedures at the facility where you plan to give birth to your baby and request a copy of the facility’s written guidelines on procedures for “special care” and security procedures in the maternity ward. Know all of the facility’s procedures in place to safeguard your infant while staying in that facility.
While it is normal for new parents to be anxious, being deliberately watchful over the newborn infant is of paramount importance.
Never leave your infant out of your direct line-of-sight even when you go to the restroom or take a nap. If you leave the room or plan to go to sleep, alert the nurses to take the infant back to the nursery or have a family member watch the baby. When possible, keep the infant’s bassinet on the side of your bed away from the door(s) leading out of the room.
After admission to the facility, ask about the facility’s protocols concerning the routine nursery procedures, feeding and visitation hours, and security measures. Do not hesitate to politely ask direct questions and settle for nothing less than an acceptable explanation.
Do not give your infant to anyone without properly verified identification as issued by that facility. Find out what additional or special identification is being worn to further identify facility personnel who have authority to transport the infant. Speak to a person in authority, such as a unit director or charge nurse, if you have any questions or concerns.
Become familiar with the staff who work in the maternity unit. During short stays in the facility, ask to be introduced to the nurse assigned to you and your infant.
Question unfamiliar persons entering your room or inquiring about your infant—even if they are in the facility’s attire or seem to have a reason for being there. Immediately alert the nurses’ station.
Determine where your infant will be when taken for tests, and how long the tests will take. Find out who has authorized the tests. If you are uncomfortable with anyone who requests to take your infant or unable to clarify what testing is being done or why your infant is being taken from your room, it is appropriate to go with your infant to observe the procedure. Or if you are unable to accompany your infant, have a family member go along.
For your records to take home, have at least one color photograph of your infant (full, front-face view) taken along with footprints and compile a complete written description of your infant including hair and eye color, length, weight, date of birth, and specific physical characteristics.

At the Facility and at the Home:

At some point after the birth of your baby, but before discharge from the facility, request a set of written guidelines on the procedures for any followup care extended by the facility that will be scheduled to take place in your home. Do not allow anyone into your home who says that he or she is affiliated with the facility without properly verified identification as issued by that facility. Find out what additional or special identification is being worn to further identify those staff members who have authority to enter your home.
Consider the risk you may be taking when permitting your infant’s birth announcement to be published in the newspaper or online. Birth announcements should never include the family’s home address and be limited to the parents’ surname(s). In general, birth announcements in newspapers are not endorsed by most experts.

At the Home:

The use of outdoor announcements such as signs, balloons, large floral wreaths, and other lawn ornaments are not recommended to announce a birth because they call attention to the presence of a new infant in the home.
Only allow persons into your home who are well-known by the mother. It is ill advised to allow anyone into your home who is just a mere or recent acquaintance, especially if met briefly since you became pregnant or gave birth to your infant. There have been several cases where an abductor has made initial contact with a mother and infant in the healthcare-facility setting and then subsequently abducted the infant from the family home. If anyone should arrive at the home claiming to be affiliated with the healthcare facility where the infant was born or other healthcare provider, remember to follow the procedures outlined in number 10 above. A high degree of diligence should be exercised by family members when home with the infant. The bottom line is, the infant’s family is the domestic security team, and all family members should be sensitive to any suspicious visitors.

In addition there have been cases in which initial contact with a mother and infant was made in other settings such as shopping malls or bus stations. If you must take your infant out, whenever possible, take a trusted friend or family member with you as an extra set of hands and eyes to protect and constantly observe the infant. Never leave a child alone in a motor vehicle. Always take the child with you. Never let someone you don’t know pick up or hold your child.

These tips are excerpted from For Healthcare Professionals: Guidelines on Prevention of and Response to Infant Abductions.

Copyright © 2005 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. All rights reserved.

Seat Belt Safety While Pregnant

2007-05-09T12:31:00.000-05:00

Protecting yourself in the car means protecting your baby as well. Did you know the biggest danger to an unborn baby in a car crash is injury to the mother? However if you are in a wreck, even a fender bender, be check out at your nearest emergency room. It is possible for baby to become injured while you are ok.

A lap shoulder belt is necessary to provide the maxium protection. Both lap and shoulder belts should be snug.

Wear the diagonal strap between your breasts, moving the strap around the side of your bump.

Make sure the lap strap sits comfortably under your bump. If it is over your belly button then it is too high. It should go from hip bone to hip bone, as low as possible. Check frequently while driving to be sure both belts remain in place.

Sit back as far from the steering wheel as possible, and tilt the wheel toward your chest. A crash or even sudden stop could cause you to hit the wheel and cause injury to your baby.

Let others do the driving as much as possible during the third trimester!

Reducing the Risk of SIDS

2007-04-26T09:58:00.000-05:00

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under the age of 1. It is a blanket term for "We don't know why this healthy baby went to sleep, and didn't wake up" After more than 40 years, researchers still don't have the answer. However, we do know more about ways SIDS might be prevented:

1. It is believed that babies are less likely to die of SIDS if they sleep on their back.

There has been a DECREASE IN SIDS since the recommendations of placing baby on her back to sleep have come out!

If your child has a health condition which prevents him from sleeping on his back, talk to your health care provider.
Millions of babies around the world now sleep on their backs, health care workers have NOT seen an increase in choking or other related problems.
Although back sleeping is best, you MAY place baby on her side to sleep. Do make sure her lower arm is forward to prevent her from rolling onto her tummy.

DO give baby "tummy time" while he is awake, this is good for baby!

2. Bedding ~ Baby needs a firm mattress or other firm surface to sleep on

Don't let baby sleep on a water bed, sheepskin, pillow, or other soft materials.
When baby is very young, do not place stuffed animals, fluffy blankets, comforters, or pillows in the crib. Babies have been known to smother with items like these.

3. Temperature

Babies should be warm, but not too warm. Keep the temperature in baby's room at a level which is comfortable to you. The rule for clothing is-the same amount of layers or thickness of clothing you have on ~ plus one (usually a onesie is sufficient as your added layer). Blankets Count!

4. Smoke-free

NO ONE should smoke around your baby. This means in the same house. If you or anyone in your home smokes, take it outside. It is also a good plan to cover yourself with a jacket, or extra shirt while you smoke, to remove when you come in. This might help in reducing the amount of smoke which stays in your clothing.
Babies exposed to smoke have an increased risk for SIDS.

5. Regular doctor/clinic visits

If your baby seems sick, call your health care provider right away. Make sure baby gets her immunizations on schedule

6. Prenatal Care

Early and regular prenatal visits with a health care provider reduces the risk of SIDS.
SIDS risk is higher for babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy.

7. Consider a pacifier

New studies are suggesting that babies who sleep with pacifiers may have a reduced risk for SIDS

8. Get certified in CPR ~ a good suggestion for ANY parent.

9. Talk to your health care provider if you feel your baby could be high risk.

Today there are many types of monitors that will alert you if baby stops breathing.

Sadly, there are still more questions than answers when it comes to SIDS. Boys are more likely to be affected than girls, no one knows why. Family history of SIDS may increase baby's risk, again, no one knows why.
So while we may not know what causes it, you have been prepared with the tools to possibly prevent it. Like any other diseases or injuries which concern you, worrying will not help. Being prepared will. Do not let the fear of SIDS interfere with the joys of parenting your baby!

Stretch Marks ~ That Badge of Motherhood We Can Do Without

2007-04-23T09:41:00.000-05:00

Google "prevent stretch marks", and you will find lotions, oils, ointments, massage gloves, and just about everything under the sun claiming to do the trick. But do they work?

Sadly, probably not. So far the only thing medically proven to prevent stretch marks are good genes. Pregnant bellies are going to expand, and stretch marks occur at a deep level of skin, where lotions etc. will be of no consequence. Does this mean throw out the cocoa butter? Nah, a stretching belly will appreciate a little moisturizing, it just won't work miracles. That's what you're doing inside that ever expanding waistline.

The good news about stretch marks (which can appear not only on the tummy, but sometimes on breasts, thighs, hips & bootie) is that they fade. Firstly, they appeared on skin that has been stretched to max capacity. So just like that belly tattoo, they will shrink considerably within the days and weeks after delivery. Within months after pregnancy, the marks will lighten from the dark purple or red color to almost match normal skin tone (usually lighter).

Umbilical Cord Care

2007-04-15T22:14:00.000-05:00

One of the many strange and fascinating things about your baby is the umbilical cord. On a newly born baby, it's a hard, white, rubbery tube right at baby's diaper line. For a day or so after birth, it still has a clamp in place. What are you supposed to do with this thing??!!
Yeah, it looks a little "gross", but consider that the umbilical cord has been providing your baby with all of the nutrition and oxygen she needed all this time! Plus within weeks it will produce a very cute little belly button.

There are varying schools of thought on cleaning the newborn's cord. For a long time, hospitals used a blue dye to help speed drying and prevent infection. Several years ago, most changed to rubbing alcohol for cleaning. Currently, many physicians feel that cleaning the umbilical cord with water will produce the same desired effect. As the days pass, the cord will become darker in color, and hard. No matter what you use to clean baby's cord with, there are a few simple things to keep in mind:

~It's most important to clean the cord at the base, where it attaches to the skin of the abdomen. ~It's not unusual for a drying cord to ooze a small amount of yellow drainage, or even a little bit of blood.
~If there is a foul odor, or an increase in drainage, notify your pediatrician.
~If there is active bleeding, call your pediatrician. (remember, it will ooze a small amount of blood)
~Don't submerge baby in water until after the cord has fallen off AND healed, usually about 3 weeks.
~You will need to keep the baby's diaper folded down away from the area to prevent irritation. ~Take care when changing clothing, make sure the hardned cord doesn't get caught while removing clothes.

There is a practice referred to as "Lotus Birth", in which the cord is NOT cut, leaving baby attached to the placenta, until it separates naturally. You can learn more about that here.

Breast Feeding Tips

2007-04-14T13:16:00.000-05:00

You have chosen to breastfeed! Good for you and good for your baby. Breastfeeding has been purported to be The "Natural" Way to feed your infant. The Natural Way . . . that just sounds as though baby is going to pop right out and latch on doesn't it? As many seasoned nursing mothers can tell you, if only it was that easy!

The first few weeks of breastfeeding are more of a learning period for mom and baby both. Most babies are not born knowing how to breastfeed, it's up to mom to teach them. The word to remember during this time is Patience. Learning to nurse is a lot of repetition and perseverance on both parts.

Initially, when preparing a newborn to breastfeed, you want baby awake and hungry. You need to be "tummy to tummy", meaning your infant should be in straight alignment facing you, he/she shouldn't be turning the head to reach the breast. There are several different positions to choose from while breastfeeding. The traditional "cradle" hold, the "football" hold (tuck baby under your arm like a football), or lying "side to side" (mom and baby on their sides facing one another). It's best to try each of these positions to find whats best for you and baby.

Always bring baby to the breast, rather than pulling your breast to the baby, or leaning forward to the infant. You want baby to open his/her mouth as wide as possible, this is wider than you'd think. The reason for this is baby needs as much of the breast in the mouth as possible. Milk flow results from compression of the areola (brown skin around the nipple) as well as sucking. The infant's lips should be flared out around the breast to allow for the best possible suckling. If baby's mouth is not positioned properly, insert your finger between your breast and baby's mouth to break the suction. This will prevent sore nipples, and allow you to reposition and try again. During the first few days, don't be surprised if you have to remove baby and try again several times during a feeding. Don't allow your infant to nurse if they are not latched on to the breast properly. Not only can this cause sore nipples for mom, but decreased amount of milk for baby.

However if baby won't latch on there are several things to try. Is baby awake? Try removing some blankets or clothing, and stroking baby's feet or back (never stroke the cheek, this will cause the infant to root in the wrong direction). The nursing mother's nipples do need to be erect to stimulate the infants suck reflex. Rubbing a cool washcloth on the nipple may help.

Many mother's are concerned that "baby isn't getting anything". Rest assured, he is! The first milk from mom is called colostrum, and is full of nutrients for baby. There isn't much of this colostrum, but there doesn't need to be. They are built this way, remember, baby hasn't had anything in her stomach but amniotic fluid yet anyway. If you are consistent with breastfeeding your baby regular milk should come in within a week. The condition of mom not being able to produce enough breast milk is extremely rare, and not likely in most cases. Milk production operates on a "supply and demand" system. Your body will produce the milk as dictated by your nursing habits.

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to bond with your baby. Especially in the beginning, be sure that nursing time won't be interrupted by anything. Get comfortable and relaxed. Be sure to have anything you'll need close at hand such as a drink, snack, music, etc. Even a newly born infant can see about a foot away, the perfect distance between mommy's face and her nursing bundle of joy. So make a lot of eye contact with your baby. In just a few months, you will laugh with delight as your baby looks into your eyes, and is too busy smiling at you to nurse!

Simple things to keep on hand:

*Breast pads to take care of embarrassing leaks, some of these come as gel pads you can refrigerate to soothe sore nipples.

*Nipple cream for sore nipples. Be sure it is specifically for breastfeeding moms, therefore safe for baby to have in his/her mouth.

*Water. Breastfeeding is thirsty work!

*Extra pillows to support you and/or baby while nursing. Many mom's have found the horseshoe shaped breastfeeding pillows are fantastic.

Optional items:

*Breast pump. Even if you plan on breastfeeding only, consider having a breast pump. Pumps can increase your convenience, allow other family members to share in feeding baby, and allow you to store breast milk in case you will be away from baby for a period of time.

*Pacifier. If you child is a firmly established breast feeder, chances are negligible that a pacifier will interfere with nursing. However it could prevent baby from using mommy as a pacifier! Sucking is not only a hunger reflex, but a natural way for infants to soothe themselves. You don't want baby breastfeeding out of boredom.

No matter what, enjoy your baby. Take heart that you have chosen the least expensive, best food, and most comforting choice for your baby.

That Oh So Soft Baby Skin!

2007-04-14T13:12:00.000-05:00

You have done it. You spent 9 months creating a beautiful, perfect human being. You toiled through labor, or maybe even the rigors of a C-section and brought to the world another life. You are presented with your little miracle, and wonder what's with the little bumps? Are these splotches birthmarks? This is your guide to baby's skin.
Many of us imagine a newborns skin to be perfectly flawless. However you will find that most newborns come with with tiny white bumps called "milia". These bumps are comprised of dead skin cells trapped in the pockets of the skin, most commonly on the nose, cheeks and chin. Milia are not painful or harmful to your baby, and they will disappear usually in a few weeks. Never squeeze or try to scrub away these little white spots. This could lead to scarring or infection.
On occasion, an infant may develop baby acne. These outbreaks will manifest as whiteheads and blackheads. This is often a result of hormonal changes during baby's development, and will go away on it's own within a few weeks. Again, do not try to "pop" or scrub away the acne spots. This will only irritate baby's skin further and possibly cause infection.
Your infant may have a birthmark called a "stork bite" or "salmon patch". This is a red discoloration generally found on the forehead, eyelids, or the nape of the neck. This spot may grow darker when baby cries or becomes tired. Stork bite birthmarks are created by distended blood vessels, and will most likely fade by the age of 18 months. The only exception are those marks on the nape of the neck. While they may remain present through adulthood, these patches are normally covered by the hair.
If you are a woman of color, you may be surprised that your baby is so light. Melanin in the skin won't develop completely for a day or two. The best indicator for your babies skin tone is along the pinnae of the ear.
Another skin consideration for ethnic newborns is what is referred to as a Mongolian Spot. This is a flat, irregular birthmark commonly found at the base of the spine which may be gray, black, or even blue in color. These spots are simply a concentration of melanin which require no treatment, and normally disappear by age 7-13.
Diaper rash is a common skin problem in newborns. Be sure to clean your infant thoroughly with each change. There are lots of nooks and crannies to check, and always clean your baby girl from front to back to avoid infection. If baby does get a diaper rash, the important factor in healing is to keep the area dry. You should allow baby to spend some diaper free time, and use a diaper cream when the diaper is on. Don't scrub at reddened areas, this will only irritate and possibly open the skin. Rinse with warm water to clean using a bulb syringe, or if baby is old enough, sitting in a tub of warm water will soften the soiled area enough to gently clean and blot dry.
So now that you have the scoop on common marks and changes with baby's skin, How to take care of it? Babies need bathing only about once or twice a week. As tempting as it is to bathe your cutie everyday, frequent bathings can dry out baby's skin. You know that newborns skin is very delicate and sensitive, so be sure to use products specifically for baby. However the market is flooded with products for baby that are loaded with extra fragrance and artificial coloring. There are fragrances to help baby sleep, wake baby up, clear his nose, or just smell in general. Keep in mind that these products will not only exacerbate sensitive skin issues, but it's doubtful they will live up to their claims. Besides, there is no better fragrance than that "new person" smell!

Should You Have An Epidural?

2007-04-12T16:22:00.000-05:00

When it comes down to it, there is no right or wrong answer. There are a number of factors to consider, and your choice should reflect those that you feel are most important to you.

Epidural Pros:
*Compared to other pain relieving drugs given during labor, such as Demerol or Stadol, an epidural will have the least effect on your baby. The medication given through the epidural does not reach baby, as IV medications do. IV medications can cause temporary respiratory depression and/or a lethargic newborn. These symptoms will persevere until the narcotic clears baby's system. Severe reactions of this type would require additional drugs to reverse the narcotic effects.

*Having an epidural can greatly reduce stress and fear for a laboring mother. It enables mom to concentrate entirely on the work to be done (pushing etc.) when the time comes, rather than the pain.

*Reducing pain while allowing mom to remain alert. An epidural should only work from mid-abdomen down, it will not cause sleepiness or sluggishness as narcotics will.

*Greatly assists in allowing the laboring mother to get the rest she needs prior to the exhaustive process of birth.

Epidural Con's:
*Invasive procedure, can lead to additional medical problems such as infection, severe headache if the spinal fluid is accidentally reached, allergic reaction to epidural medications, back problems.

*Placing the epidural requires mom to curl forward as much as possible, and stay as immobile as possible for several minutes. This can be fairly uncomfortable for a pregnant woman, much less one in labor.

*Many women will not be able to feel or move their legs while the medication is working. Not only somewhat disconcerting, but this temporary "paralysis" can impede mom's ability to push during delivery. Many doctors will turn off epidural pumps at the completion of dilatation for this reason.

*An extremely rare complication consists of the epidural medication migrating up above the diaphragm/lungs, essentially precluding the laboring mom's ability to breathe on her own. This complication is easily dealt with by medical personnel, by manually ventilating or "bagging" the mother until the medication wears off-but of course this is very frightening for the patient.

*Some women feel their need for any pain medication, epidural or IV, makes their birth experience a "failure". This is especially true for those who have planned a natural childbirth.

Like any decision in pregnancy, labor, delivery, and later raising your child, the decision to have an epidural is a personal one. Be prepared to be flexible when the time comes. In my experience some women who were sure they would need an epidural sailed through labor and delivery without one. Other times I have seen laboring mom's who were determined to have no drugs at all requesting an epidural fairly early on in labor. No matter what your choice, I wish you a happy, healthy delivery!