BABYCARE

Caring For Your Babies Umbilical Cord Area

2008-08-03T22:31:00.000-07:00

Your newborn's umbilical-cord area requires special care until it heals. Don't be afraid to clean your baby's cord: the quicker the base dries, the sooner the cord will fall off. You should clean the area each time you change your baby's diaper. To clean the cord safely, take a cotton swab, cotton square or cotton round and clean around the base of the cord.
Remember to avoid covering the cord with the diaper, because the cord area should be kept dry and clean at all times. If the diaper is too high, fold it down on your baby before securing. You can also buy special newborn diapers that have a cut-out space for the cord. The cord area should heal in about seven to ten days.
Warning Signs
Call your baby's pediatric caregiver if you notice that the umbilical cord stump:• is soft • has a strong odor • is streaked with red around the navel, or is discharging fluid
It is normal for a few drops of blood to appear when the stump separates.

Newborn Skin and Common Conditions

2008-08-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

Your newborn's skin is a unique and essential shield that offers protection from the outside world. It plays an important role in maintaining health, and in defending against irritants, toxins and infections. Skin also regulates your infant's internal temperature, and is a tool for exploring the world through touch.
Protect the Protector
For all that it does to protect, your infant's skin needs its own protection. New learnings from fundamental research on infant skin show that infant skin absorbs and loses moisture at a faster rate than more mature skin. In a recent clinical study, 90 percent of mothers thought their infant's skin was not dry, when in fact 60 percent of their infants had signs of dry skin! It's a good idea to protect your infant's skin and keep it healthy, soft and supple by applying a moisturizer frequently, especially after a bath or diaper change.
Made for Infant Skin
It is recommended that you use a moisturizer that is made specifically for your infant's special needs. Your infant's skin is thinner, and it is also more vulnerable to friction (chafing), detergents and other harsh agents. Baby Lotion is hypoallergenic and gentle enough for a baby's delicate skin. It contains no harsh ingredients and can be used every day to moisturize, soften and protect her skin from dryness. Use it after your infant's bath or anytime your infant's skin needs extra moisturizing.
Special Cleansing Needs
Because your infant's skin is exposed to urine, stool and spit-up milk, it needs to be cleaned often. Always make sure you're using a cleanser that is formulated for her skin.

Importance of bonding

2008-08-03T22:29:00.001-07:00

The quality of a baby's initial attachment is extremely important. It lays the foundation for your baby's ability to learn, develop confidence, and to form healthy relationships.
• Bonding builds trust Through talking, sharing, touching, playing and any forms of bonding, a baby learns the basics of how to relate to others. As a baby begins to coos back when you communicate with him/her, he/she starts to see you as a trusted person. It's from this emotional connection that babies can begin to develop a sense of who they are and the feelings of security and trust they need to grow up confidently around other people.
• Bonding builds love. Every time you feed the baby, touch him/her, play with him/her, read to him/her and love him/her, he/she is stimulated and feels the love. As the baby gets older, he/she will be very capable of loving other people. Thus, creating a strong, loving bond is vital to a baby's emotional growth.
• Bonding builds sense of security. By promptly responding to your baby's needs in a loving manner will help develop a secure attachment between you and the baby. Imagine a baby crying out loud in his/her crib and no-one is attending to him/her. The emotional connection between the parents and the baby seems broken by the attitude of the parents. The baby would feel insecure as the supposedly most trusted people in his/her early life could not provide him/her with his basic needs: "attention" and "love". Let's hold, talk, sing, rock, read, cuddle and do whatever you can to interact with your little ones. The bonding experience will certainly strengthen the loving relationship between you and your babies.

Importance of bonding

2008-08-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

The ways babies bond

2008-08-03T22:28:00.000-07:00

When you're a new parent, it often takes a while to understand your newborn's true capabilities and all the ways you can interact:• Touch becomes an early language as babies respond to skin-to-skin contact. It's soothing for both you and your baby while promoting your baby's healthy growth and development.• Eye-to-eye contact provides meaningful communication at close range.• Babies can follow moving objects with their eyes.• Your baby tries — early on — to imitate your facial expressions and gestures.• Babies prefer human voices and enjoy vocalizing in their first efforts at communication. Babies often enjoy just listening to your conversations, as well as your descriptions of their activities and environments.• A breastfed baby will receive regular close contact with her mother, helping an early bond to develop. Unfortunately, this is not always easy, so speak to your health visitor if you need any help or assistance.• Massage provides a more structured method of touching your baby and a way of promoting physical and mental growth as well as the parent-baby bond.• Regular activities such as nappy-changing time are a wonderful time to show your baby just how much you love him. Talk to him, kiss his tummy, tell him what lovely dimples he has and how much you love his smile. This will take your mind off what a messy job it is and show that you love him, no matter what.• Life is getting faster and faster, but slow and steady is best for baby. Stop and spend time with your baby. Relax and enjoy yourself. Your baby will love you no matter what.• Take time for yourself. An exhausted mom will not enjoy her baby. While your baby is asleep or someone is looking after him/her, treat that moment as a special break for you. Have a nice bath, take a quick nap, watch your favorite TV show, read and write emails, do some gardening or anything that you enjoy doing without your baby. You'll find that this special break (no matter how short it is) will help to rejuvenate yourself so that you can go back and be ready to enjoy your baby.

Bonding with your baby

2008-08-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

Bonding is defined as the intense attachment that develops between parents and their baby. Bonding is unlike anything you have felt ever before holding your baby in your hands. It is created in a thousand instances of everyday activities -- when you feed to your baby, when you talk to your baby, when you sing a lullaby for him/her, when you respond to her cries by holding him/her in your hands, when you give him/her a shower, or when you change his/her diaper. It is bonding which makes a mom to wake up in the middle of night to feed her baby. In addition to bringing your new family together, bonding will provide your baby with the basis for healthy emotional and physical development.
Research has shown that bonding fosters a sense of security and positive self-esteem and provides an excellent first model for intimate relationships forged later on in life. But bonding doesn't happen in a split second, nor does it have to occur during a particular and critical window of time. Researchers say there is a "sensitive period" in the moments immediately after birth when mothers and newborns seem particularly primed to tune into each other. But this doesn't mean that if you miss this period, you lose the opportunity to develop a close relationship with your child. For many parents, bonding is a byproduct of everyday caregiving. You may not even know it's happening until you observe your baby's first smile and suddenly realize that you're filled with love and joy.
Bonding is really a continuation of the relationship that began during pregnancy. The physical and chemical changes that were occurring in your body reminded you of the presence of this person. Birth cements this bond and gives it reality. Now you can see, feel, and talk to the little person whom you knew only as the "bulge" or from the movements and the heartbeat you heard through medical instruments. Bonding allows you to transfer your life-giving love for the infant inside to caregiving love on the outside. Inside, you gave your blood; outside, you give your milk, eyes, hands, and voice—your entire self.
Most infants are ready to bond immediately. Parents, on the other hand, may have a mixture of feelings about it. Some parents feel an intense attachment within the first minutes or days after their baby's birth. For others — especially if the baby is adopted or has been placed in intensive care — it may take a bit longer.

Q: What are some of the first signs of labor?

2008-08-03T22:24:00.000-07:00

A: Sometimes when you're in prenatal classes other women will scare you to death by talking about their 32-hour labors. What you sometimes don't figure out until later on is that they sometimes start the clock running the moment they experience a bit of early labor. The early labor phase tends to be the longest phase of the first stage of labor. It can last for hours or even days.
So these are the kind of symptoms you're likely to experience as your earliest warnings that this is the real thing and you're going to get to meet your baby relatively soon:
Backache
Menstrual-like cramping
Indigestion
Diarrhea
A feeling of warmth in the abdomen
Bloody show (the passage of blood-tinged mucus)
A trickling or gushing sensation if your membranes have ruptured
Bear in mind you may only have a couple of these symptoms, so don't wait for them all to occur. A lot of women also report feeling restless, edgy, and generally uncomfortable as their body prepares for labor.

The Labour Room (Q & A)

2008-08-03T22:23:00.000-07:00

Q: What is the shortest period of time you know between the first sign that my body is going into labor to the moment I meet my baby?
A: The length of labor can vary widely and also depends on whether this is your first baby or not. If this is your first baby, you will have plenty of time between the signs of early labor and when your baby arrives. An average first labor runs about 12 hours; however, the range can be as much as two hours to 24 hours plus. A second or subsequent labor averages about half that 12 hours, with the range being anywhere from 30 minutes to 12-15 hours.
So you can see, if this is your first labor you will have lots of time, even once you've entered a more active phase of labor where your contractions are strong and regular. If, on the other hand, this is not your first baby, and you delivered very quickly the last time, you and your doctor may want to consider strategies, including the possibility of inducing your labor to help guarantee that your baby is born in the hospital and not prior to your arrival.

Aware Of The Pregnancy Risk Factors

2008-08-03T22:21:00.004-07:00

There are several pregnancy risk factors that each expectant mother is expected to be aware of. For example, pregnancy and depression is very usual. Some of these factors can even adversely affect the development of the fetus into a healthy baby. Again, you might find some of these factors that are within your control while there are other factors as well that may not be under your control. Following are some of those important pregnancy risk factors. In order to make things much easier for you, it is important for you to understand these things. Smoking
How many times have you heard in your life that smoking is injurious to your health? Pregnancy is something that must be dealt with much care and precaution. Therefore, needless to say that when you are pregnant, do not smoke. Smoking during pregnancy is not only injurious to your health but also for the upcoming baby. When you smoke during pregnancy, the quantity of oxygen that the baby receives is decreased. This, in turn, maximizes the possibilities of bleeding, miscarriage, and morning sickness. Again, when you smoke, you also inhale certain chemicals that may also cause certain other health problems both for you and for your baby. Other possible consequences may also include pregnancy high blood pressure, premature birth, reduced birth weight, stillbirth, and more risk of SIDS. Alcohol
Consuming alcohol during pregnancy is more dangerous than smoking. Medical problems, low birth weight, and behavior abnormalities are some of the possible consequences of consuming alcohol during the pregnancy. Therefore, an expectant mother should stop drinking as soon as she gets the knowledge that she is pregnant and is responsible for a life that is growing inside her.
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Drugs And Herbal Remedies
Sometimes, certain drugs and herbal remedies may also cause certain complications during pregnancy and must be treated an important pregnancy risk factor. Therefore, make sure that you are taking only those medications that has been prescribed by your doctor or health care provider. If you take medications without consulting your doctor, this may sometimes adversely affect the growth of the unborn baby. Exercise During Pregnancy
Exercise during pregnancy is important as it can make things much easier fro you at the time of labor. But, you must keep in mind that only those exercise that your doctor has approved for and that fits on your medical and health condition is the right for you. Always remember that exercise must be of mild nature as over-exertions may be very dangerous both for you and for your baby. It is important for you to start with light exercises and reduce the intensity of exercise when you are close to labor. Walking, swimming, and yoga are some of the good pregnancy exercises and they usually do not cause any pregnancy risk.
There are various other pregnancy risk factors as well that seek your careful consideration. For example, multiple sex partners can increase risk of STD's and increased pregnancy morning sickness. The mother's age is also an important factor. You must keep in mind that pregnancy before 15 years and after 35 years is riskier. Some other factors include heart disease, excessive stress or depression, asthma, and bleeding.

Exercising After Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:21:00.003-07:00

Generally most women can begin a formal exercise program within 6 weeks of giving birth, though this time frame might be slightly longer for some women, including those recovering from a C-section. Most women recovering from a C-section will be able to exercise after there incision has healed and their doctor has cleared them for exercise.
Just how soon you begin an exercise program will depend in part on how you feel. If you had an easy delivery with no tearing and few interventions and regularly exercised prior to birth, you may feel up to some light exercise within 2 weeks of giving birth.
If this is the case, your doctor will probably allow you to engage in some light activities, including walking. Strenuous activity should generally be avoided however until several weeks after birth.
For some women however, even light exercise in the weeks following delivery is not possible. If you had an episiotomy or tore severely while delivering for example, your body may not physically be ready for a formal exercise program for at least 4-6 weeks after birth (note… this is also how long most physicians recommend that women abstain from intercourse!).
How soon you begin exercising thus depends on your body and your unique situation. Be sure you consult with your physician before embarking on a new exercise program regardless of your activity level before and during pregnancy.
Let’s say that one more time because it is important… YOU MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU WANT TO EMBARK ON AN EXERCISE PROGRAM. Your body goes through a lot of physical trauma when you deliver a baby. Starting an exercise program too soon will delay your recovery and could potentially injure your body permanently. It may also take you longer than six weeks to heal fully if you start exercising too soon.
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Now, if you feel better and capable of working out before you hit the six week mark, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Most will encourage light exercise including walking, and some may encourage other types of activity particularly if you were active before you got pregnant.
Each and every individual is unique and different, thus their ability to return to a regular exercise routine will vary after delivery. It is important that you listen to your body.

Exercising After Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:21:00.001-07:00

Reasons to Exercise During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that exercise is good for your health. Exercising during pregnancy can have additional benefits. Generally, exercise should be light, especially during the first few weeks of pregnancy while your body adjusts to the changes. Heavy exercise can divert blood flow from crucial areas and most women that exercise regularly should tone down their workouts during pregnancy.
Walking, swimming, and yoga are two popular exercise activities suitable for pregnant women. Other forms of exercise like weight lifting are okay too as long as it is not too strenuous. Most experts recommend exercising 3-4 times a week, unless a medical condition prevents it. If in doubt, always consult a physician first. Listed below are some of the top reasons for exercising during pregnancy.
Exercise can reduce the length of labor and reduce recovery times. The right exercise routines will increase stamina needed for delivery.
Improve emotional health - exercise lowers stress and improves emotional health and can make it easier for the new mother to get through the experience of pregnancy.
Exercise can help with weight management after the child is born. A common concern with most mothers is losing weight after pregnancy. Exercising during pregnancy can make postpartum weight loss easier.
Exercise is good for your unborn baby. By keeping your body healthy, you are also helping out your baby.
Reduced pregnancy side effects - Symptoms like headaches, fatigue, swelling, and constipation are common in pregnant women. Exercising has been shown to reduce the occurence of these symptoms.
Decrease risk of premature birth - exercise has been shown in studies to decrease the risk of premature birth by about 50%.
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Make sure to drink plenty of fluids before exercising, have a nutritious diet, and avoid over exertion. Also, listen to your body - if you start feeling sick or nauseous, then you should stop and rest.

Safe Exercise During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:19:00.000-07:00

How to Remain Fit While Pregnant
Exercise is healthy and even more so for pregnant women. They should start at the early stages of their pregnancy to prepare the body physically for the added work of the pregnancy, labour and delivery. Follow the tips below for a full body pregnancy workout that is also safe exercise during pregnancy.
Do prenatal exercises which will help strengthen the body structure providing physical comfort, support and good posture.
A brisk walk every day in the fresh air helps to keep muscles in tone. Wear sensible shoes and keep abreast of the distance walked and the weather conditions.
For a more strenuous pregnancy workout than a brisk walk, try activities like running, bike riding and playing tennis. These may be continued after being guided by good judgement.
Use your heart rate as your exercise guide. To check your heart rate, count your pulse for 10 seconds after you stop exercising and multiply this number by 6 to obtain the number of beats per minute. This should be used to monitor your body’s response to exercise. Ensure you remain within 60-65% of your maximum heart rate.
The same exercise routines time after time can become monotonous and boring . A good way to make the safe exercise during pregnancy more exciting and something to look forward to is by adding music. Take your set of headphones to the gym or switch on your stereo at home while doing your workout. Music helps in calming you down and also aids in relaxation. You can also arouse your body with the energy of sounds.
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Frequent breaks should be taken during the pregnancy workout to avoid overheating which may harm the unborn baby and you should also be careful to limit strenuous exercises while pregnant.
Here are some exercise guidelines which should be followed:
Ensure you remain within 60-65% of your maximum heart rate.
Drink as much water as you can during and after exercise.
Avoid oxygen deficiency by not exercising to the point of being totally out of breath. You should be able to talk normally and even sing!
Avoid extreme tiredness by not exercising to the point of exhaustion. Limit stretching and bending exercises from the 26th week of pregnancy until delivery.
Take extra care when exercising in hot weather as when doing strenuous exercises your core body temperature can rise. Excessive heat is unhealthy for you and the baby.
Choose an exercise that is non-weight bearing such as swimming late in pregnancy because of increased pressure and discomfort.
Try to exercise regularly at least three times per week. Avoid vigorous exercise when ill or during hot, humid weather. Always exercise on a wooden floor or a tightly carpeted surface. Avoid extreme stretching exercises due to the relaxation of connective tissue. Undertake a five minute warm up such as slow walking before a vigorous pregnancy workout.
Pregnant women should follow a non weight bearing exercise such as swimming or cycling on a stationary bike which tend to have fewer injuries. When looking to begin safe exercise during pregnancy, it is always a good idea to discuss any planned exercise with your doctor before you begin.

Pregnancy Exercise - Do But Do Not Overdo

2008-08-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy exercise is very important for the pregnant woman in order to keep herself healthy throughout the incredible journey of pregnancy. It is not good to be lazy just because you are pregnant. You should keep in mind that taking precautions is something different and becoming lazy is something different. If you want a comfortable delivery of the baby, you must do some pregnancy exercise. Researches and statistics have shown that those woman who were doing certain exercises during pregnancy experienced less labor pain and more comfortable delivery. What is more, such a woman is also very much likely to enjoy faster recoveries after the birth of the baby. You should understand that pregnancy exercise is not only beneficial for you but it is also very much beneficial for the new arrival. However, at the same time, it is equally important for you to understand that you are not overdoing these exercises. Moreover, whatever exercise during pregnancy you choose to go for, make sure that your doctor has approved for the same. Benefits of Pregnancy Exercise
The pregnancy exercise if done properly carries a wide array of advantages for both the mother and the upcoming baby. It does not only make the process of delivery much easier fro you, but it also helps you in getting much relief from fatigue and other discomforts that you may face during the pregnancy period. A proper pregnancy exercise also strengthens your back muscles and provides the much needed stress relief. Moreover, it reduces fat and most importantly, it usually results in a faster recovery after the birth of the baby. You experience less labor pain because the pregnancy exercise helps you strengthen your muscles. The list is not over yet. A proper exercise during pregnancy throughout your pregnancy also helps you regain your stamina and energy levels faster, which is very essential for you to look after the new arrival.
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Which pregnancy exercise is the best?
Those exercises during pregnancy that your doctor approves and best fit your health and medical condition is the best for you. There are various kinds of exercises that you may choose from. However, you must keep in mind that not all sorts of exercises fit in every circumstance. There might be a pregnancy exercise that is best for your pregnant friend, but that not be a best choice for you. You should choose those pregnancy exercises that are less likely to cause any kind of injury and help promote your physical fitness. Some of the best exercises during pregnancy can be listed as follows.
Walking,
Swimming,
Stretching
Yoga,
Dancing
Stationary cycling, and
Low impact prenatal aerobics
Walking is supposed to be best pregnancy exercise among all the exercises. However, when you are taking this exercise, it is also important for you to drink good quantity of water in order to stay well-hydrated.

Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:16:00.002-07:00

Stretch marks are the common term for striae, imperfections in the skin. They appear as red lines on skin that has been thinned out. They are slightly depressed compared to other skin and may have a different texture.
Stretch marks commonly appear on the skin of pregnant women as their skin is stretched rapidly as a result of pregnancy. Typical areas they can be found on are the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs and buttocks.Who will get stretch marks?
It is thought that stretch marks are genetic, or rather, that the type of skin that you inherit determines your susceptibility to stretch marks. The darker your natural skin tone is, the less likely that you will develop them. If your mother had stretch marks you will most likely have them too, although it does not hurt to try and prevent them.How to avoid them
Keeping hydrated is one way to avoid stretch marks, as this helps your skin expand without tearing. You can also use specially formulated creams that are available over the counter. They help retain moisture and promote healing in your skin. Common ingredients include cocoa butter, vitamin E and lanolin.How to treat them
If you do get stretch marks, there are several approaches you can take.
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You can wear them proudly as a badge of motherhood and know that around 75 percent of all pregnant women get them.
You can strategically dress to hide them; Bathing suits on the market today come in enough styles that you should be able to find something suitable.
You can continue the use of stretch mark cream to encourage your skin to rebuild.
You can cover them with waterproof body makeup. It comes in many different skin tones and can be found on the Internet or at select beauty counters.
You can have them removed with laser surgery.
You can have them removed with blue light therapy.
You can have a dermatologist prescribe Retin-A cream (if you are not nursing or pregnant).
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.

Sleep Problem During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:16:00.001-07:00

You knew that after the baby is born that you will be getting less sleep every night than you were before. But you probaby did not expect that you would not be able to sleep while you were pregnant!
Early in your pregnancy your body protected the growing baby by requiring that you sleep a lot. But later in your pregnancy you find it difficult to get a good night’s rest.
Getting a good night's rest while you are pregnant can even have an impact on your labor.Causes of restless sleep
Many factors work together to keep you awake at night. Common reasons are:Trouble getting comfortable
As the size of your baby increases, it becomes harder to find a comfortable position to sleep in, particularly if you used to be a back or stomach sleeper. Pregnant women should sleep on their left side. This is because your liver is on your right side, and lying on the left takes the pressure of your uterus off of that organ. Lying on your side also helps your heart to function properly; lying on your back puts pressure on the large vein that carries blood from your legs back to your heart.
If you frequently find yourself turning over onto your back in the middle of the night, put a pillow behind your back to prevent yourself from turning over. Using a pillow at the small of your back will also remove some pressure off of your back. Experiment with pillows and find what works for you. Try using a full body pillow while lying on your left side with your knees bent. A small pillow under your belly bump may relieve some discomfort too.
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Trips to the bathroom
Pregnancy increased the volume of blood that you have in your body by 30 to 50 percent. Your kidneys are working overtime to filter that extra blood, and this process results in that much extra urine. Another reason for increased trips to the bathroom is that the weight of your growing baby puts pressure on your bladder.Breathing trouble
You may be experiencing shortness of breath as your growing uterus moves upward into your diaphragm, resulting in less space for your lungs. You also require more oxygen while you are pregnant which requires you to breathe at a faster rate.

Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:15:00.003-07:00

Many women experience round ligament pain starting in their second trimesters of pregnancy. It can be felt as a short, stabbing pain if you suddenly change position, or it may feel like a dull ache that stays with you after a particularly active day. Typical areas of complaint are the lower abdomen and groin.
The round ligaments surround and support the uterus in the pelvis. As the uterus expands during pregnancy, the ligaments stretch; the stretching is what causes the pain. There is a ligament on each side of your pelvisTips to ease the discomfort of round ligament pain
If you are diagnosed with round ligament pain, try these tips to relieve some of your discomfort:
Avoid sudden movements
Shift positions slowly
Apply warm compresses or a heating pad to the area
Hold the area if you think that you are about to sneeze or cough
Rest as much as possible
Try a warm bath to relax the ligaments
Lay in bed on your side with your knees drawn up slightly. Place a pillow under your stomach and one behind your back to relieve some of the pressure.
Or you can just wait, as stretch marks become less noticeable over time.

Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:15:00.001-07:00

Restless Legs During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

Restless Leg Syndrome is described as the uncontrollable urge to move your legs to relieve deep tingling, crawling, or burning sensations. While little research has been done on Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) in pregnancy, some researchers estimate it to occur in up to 20% of pregnant women during their last trimester of pregnancy.
The symptoms generally manifest themselves while you are at rest, like trying to fall asleep or sitting at a desk. While moving around will temporarily relieve symptoms, they will return as soon as you try to rest again. This is a leading cause of sleep problems and fatigue in pregnancy.Causes
There is no known cause for RLS in pregnancy, but certain factors will put you at greater risk for developing the symptoms.
The biggest risk factor is having immediate family members who have suffered from RLS, as half of all pregnant sufferers have the syndrome in their immediate family. Some other theories summarizing why pregnant women suffer from restless leg syndrome include the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy, iron deficiency, circulatory changes, and folate deficiencies.Treatment
Most of the traditional treatments for RLS are not safe for pregnant women, including most prescription medications. However, iron supplements often prove to relieve symptoms—even in women who are not iron deficient. Drinking caffeine or taking antihistamines can make the symptoms much worse or more frequent, so these substances should be avoided.
It also helps to stay active until you’re ready for bed, rather than relaxing (by sitting or laying down) near bedtime. The longer you are inactive the worse the symptoms become, so waiting until you’re ready to sleep before you lay down will increase your chance of falling asleep and staying asleep. Massages, stretches, breathing or relaxation exercises, hot baths, or cold packs may also help relieve the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome in pregnancy. For most women, the symptoms will disappear shortly after delivery.

Pubic Pain During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:13:00.000-07:00

Pubic pain (Symphsis Pubic Dysfunction - SPD) is a common ailment of pregnant women.What causes it?
When pregnant, a woman's body releases massive amounts of the hormone, progesterone, which in addition to other functions, is responsible for the softening of tissues and joints in the pelvis.
As the pelvis is a ring structure, once the softening occurs and it becomes wider, this may cause some instability. This can make certain tasks such as rolling over, and opening one's legs, excruciatingly painful.
Some cases of pubic pain are a result of shoulder dystocia during childbirth - stuck shoulders.Managing the pain
Many women opt to wear a trochanter (pelvic support) belt to relieve the discomfort. These belts work by holding the bones in place, reducing the instability.
Kegel exercises and pelvic tilts are effective in decreasing the level of pain, as these help to strengthen the muscles of the pelvis, which helps to stabilize the area.
Applying warmth to the affected area may also be of some benefit.

Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:12:00.000-07:00

Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy is commonly called morning sickness, although it can occur at any time of the day. The majority of pregnant women have some nausea or vomiting in the first trimester, usually starting at about six weeks. Morning sickness then increases until letting up at around 14 weeks. This is not to say that it can not come and go or last for the entire pregnancy for some women.Causes
The exact cause of morning sickness is not known but some factors are thought to contribute to it. The factors are:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hGC) levels rise during the time that morning sickness is the worst. The hormone is thought to somehow contribute to nausea.
Estrogen levels also rise during early pregnancy and are thought to add to feelings of nausea.
Enhanced sensitivity to smells experienced by pregnant women may trigger the gag reflex.
Progesterone production from the corpus luteum (the follicle from which the egg was expelled).
Some women are more predisposed to having morning sickness than others. Factors include:
Carrying a girl
History of migraines
Multiple pregnancy
History of motion sickness
Morning sickness in previous pregnancy
Morning sickness with birth control pills
Your mother had it
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Morning sickness remedies
If morning sickness has got you down, try these tips:
Arise slowly from bed in the morning and eat a few crackers before you get up.
Don’t let your stomach get empty. Eat small frequent meals.
Have high protein snacks.
Avoid smells that offend you and get plenty of fresh air.
Don’t eat greasy or spicy foods.
Drink plenty of water.
Suck on hard candy. When to call the doctor
If morning sickness goes beyond occasional vomiting you may need to see your doctor. Call your doctor if you can not keep anything down for 24 hours or if you begin to lose weight. Also call your doctor if your urine is dark colored, your heart is racing, or you throw up blood. If severe morning sickness is diagnosed by your doctor, treatment may include medication, hospitalization, or IV fluids.

Why Do I Have Hot Flashes During Pregnancy?

2008-08-03T22:11:00.000-07:00

If you’re experiencing hot flashes during pregnancy, you’re not alone. Anywhere from 50% - 70% of women experience hot flashes or night sweats during pregnancy. Most women experience the sensation of increased warmth while pregnant. You may find yourself kicking off the covers in the middle of the night or trying to squelch an unquenchable thirst. If kicking off the covers is accompanied by soaked sheets, consider yourself normal.
As in menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate during pregnancy. Some studies show that low levels of estrogen are the root cause of hot flashes, but many more studies prove that it’s not a low level, but rather a fluctuating level of estrogen that set them off.
In pregnancy your body is going through so many changes that a hot flash or two may not concern you. But if these hot flashes become embarrassing or unbearable it’s time to seek treatment. Hot flashes during pregnancy must be approached differently than in menopause. Since pregnancy has its own set of "do’s" and "don’ts" hot flash treatment must be handled with caution.
You must find a natural treatment for your hot flashes during pregnancy. That means that hormone therapy and the use of herbs are out. For obvious reasons you don’t want to introduce hormones to control your hot flashes during pregnancy. But staying away from herbs may not be so obvious. Since herbs are natural it seems that you should be able to use them. Not so. Herbs can do all sorts of things to the body and when you’re pregnant, plus interact with other medications you may be taking. Now is not the time to begin experimenting.
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More natural and simple strategies will ease your hot flashes during pregnancy. Begin by wearing layers. Simply slip your sweater off when you begin to feel too warm. Don’t be shy about turning on a fan or turning down the thermostat. When you cool down, readjust the temperature. And do always carry a beverage with you. Not only are the fluids good for you, but they will help fight off your hot flashes during pregnancy.
If the experience of hot flashes during pregnancy is just one more symptom to make your life miserable during pregnancy, hang in there. It does get better. Visit a support chat room or a local support group. It’s amazing what a relief and comfort it is to talk with someone experiencing the same symptoms, aches and pains, and hot flashes as you are.

Heartburn During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:10:00.002-07:00

Heartburn is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Although is has nothing to do with the condition of your heart, it does cause a burning sensation in the center of your chest. It may happen after eating or between meals, and be accompanied by burping and a feeling of indigestion.Causes
It is caused by pregnancy hormones that relax the stomach and intestinal muscles, causing slower movement of food through the stomach. The food and gastric acids remain in the stomach for longer periods of time. The relaxing action of the hormones on the stomach also can cause acid to travel back up the esophagus and cause heartburn. Later in pregnancy heartburn is worsened by the upward pressure of the expanding uterus.Treatment
To help with heartburn, try:
Eating small frequent meals so your stomach does not get overloaded.
Don’t lie down for 30 minutes after eating.
If your heartburn is happening later in pregnancy, try getting on your hands and knees to allow your stomach more room to process the food. Being in this position pulls the uterus away from the stomach.
Pay attention to what foods are aggravating your heartburn and avoid them. Typical culprits are spicy or greasy foods.
Eat small portions of fatty foods as they take the longest to digest.
Coat your stomach with some milk or ice cream before you eat.
Take your liquids away from mealtime to avoid over loading your stomach.
Before meals, take a commercial antacid made from calcium. Ask your healthcare provider first though, as some preparations are not recommended during pregnancy.

Managing Headache During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:10:00.001-07:00

One of the common phases people, especially of women, is headache during pregnancy. Considered as a common complaint during pregnancy, specifically during the first and third trimesters, doctors say it is rarely a signal of a serious problem. During pregnancy, experts say that the possible cause of headache during this time is quite uncertain.
In the first trimester, headaches occur because of hormone changes you experience while in the third trimester, headaches are felt because of your having to carry additional weight and changes in your usual posture.
Aside from these, experts suspect that eating cold foods, added caffeine intake, sleeplessness, general fatigue, sinus congestion, allergies, eyestrain, stress, depression, hunger, and even dehydration.
The most common form of headache experienced during pregnancy is migraine that occurs when the blood vessels in the brain constrict and dilate. Experts say that about one in every five women experience migraine headache at least once in their lifetime and about 15 percent of them get migraines for the first time when become pregnant.
Most pregnant women agree that migraine is characterized by severe throbbing pain in the head and is accompanied by vomiting and dizziness. Although headache during pregnancy is normal, you don’t have to endure it if you cannot really tolerate the throbbing sensation. The most common practice in relieving headache during pregnancy is by taking in pain medications.
Doctors say that acetaminophen is safe to take in as long as proper dosage is administered. But, aside from acetaminophen, painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and most prescription headache medicines are restricted to women who are pregnant. Make sure that you consult your physician first what are the safest medications you can take in if you can no longer tolerate the pain.
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Aside from taking in prescription medication, here are some other ways to relieve headache your experience during pregnancy:
Find out what are the possible causes that trigger the throbbing pain. Stress is actually one of the most common factors that triggers headache during pregnancy. What you can do is to recognize what are the things that stress you out and find a way to avoid them. Aside from identifying and accepting the reasons why are you stressed out, you can also minimize stress by eating regularly and drinking plenty of liquids. You should also rest and exercise whenever you can. Aside from resting, try indulging to relaxing activities such as by meditation, listening to music, or writing. Also avoid taking in or eating products that may cause headache such as alcohol, foods has MSG, artificial sweeteners, aged cheese and cultured dairy products and the like. If possible, try to stay away from people who are stressful and always keep the communication lines between you and your partner open.
Try using compresses to relieve the pain. Apply a warm or cool compress to your forehead or the base of your neck can indeed do wonders for migraines.
If possible, take a shower as often as you can. Since cold showers help constrict dilated blood vessels in the body, it is a simple and easy remedy for headaches. If it’s not possible to take a shower, make sure that you can splash cool water on your face to relieve the pain.
Indulge into a relaxing and soothing massage. A full-body massage administered by a trained therapist can do wonders in untangling the knots of pain in your head during pregnancy. Ask him/her to concentrate on the neck, shoulder, and back muscles to relieve the stress.
Make sure you don’t get hungry or thirsty. Low blood sugar usually causes headaches. Make sure that you have enough sugar to keep you going. Aside from taking in foods, supply yourself with lots of liquid, especially water to keep you well-hydrated.

Gingivitis During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue. It is not painful in the early stages and therefore goes undetected. It is a common condition caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Signs and symptoms
Gum tissue will appear red rather than pink, may be swollen, and bleed easily. It is usually painless. The gums may be moveable rather than tight against the teeth. Pregnancy gingivitis is typically seen in the second month of pregnancy, being at its worst at the end of the pregnancy. Gums may remain swollen for months after delivery. The severity of pregnancy gingivitis depends upon the condition of the mouth before pregnancy. A woman who has gum problems before pregnancy may see her gingivitis worsen dramatically.Causes
During pregnancy hormones are produced that are necessary for the continuation of the pregnancy. These hormones, as a side effect, make the gum tissue over react to the bacteria in plaque. Since pregnancy makes a woman’s gums are more sensitive to plaque, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene while pregnant.To avoid developing pregnancy gingivitis
Brush your teeth every day at least once using fluoride toothpaste.
Select a toothbrush that is soft and has rounded bristles, and fits into all the areas of your mouth.
It should take you two to three minutes to effectively clean your mouth.
Floss daily to remove plaque in between your teeth.
See your dentist regularly, even during pregnancy.

Gas During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

Many pregnant women have gas and bloating at some point during their pregnancy. Excess gas can cause abdominal pain and discomfort.Causes of pregnancy gas
Pregnancy hormones cause the muscles of your digestive tract to relax, slowing down digestion and causing gas to build up in your system. Excess gas can cause you to be bloated and uncomfortable, and it can cause you to burp and pass gas.
As your pregnancy progresses your uterus crowds your digestive system. This may result in a bloated feeling after you eat. This crowding also contributes to heartburn.Foods that promote gas
Symptoms may be worse after a big meal or after you eat certain foods. Foods that are likely to cause gas are:
High starch foods like potatoes and pasta
Fiber rich foods like oat bran and beans
Cabbage, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, broccoli, asparagus
Onions, pears and artichokes
If you are marginally lactose intolerant, you may have gas from the addition of these foods to your pregnancy diet.
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Treatment
What can you do to reduce the amount of gas you produce?
Swallow less air. Take your time when you are eating your meal. Chew your food thoroughly, and do not carry on a conversation during your meal.
Eat several small meals instead of less frequent larger meals.
Drink from a cup, not a bottle or a straw. Do not gulp as you drink.
Avoid carbonated beverages, chewing gum, and hard candies.
Eliminate fried and fatty foods from your diet.
Drink plenty of fluids to aid digestion.
Exercise regularly to keep your system moving.
Do not use any over the counter products to treat gas or bloating without talking to your healthcare provider first, some are not safe to take during pregnancy.

Constipation During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:07:00.002-07:00

Constipation troubles about half of all pregnant women at some point during pregnancy. Constipation is a condition marked by abdominal discomfort, infrequent bowel movements, and difficult passage of hard stools. Causes
Constipation early in pregnancy is usually due to pregnancy hormones. They slow the movement of food through the intestines which causes more water to be drawn from the stool. This results in a firmer stool which due to the slower action of the intestines is hard to pass. Later in pregnancy constipation is aggravated by extra pressure on the large intestine from the growing uterus. Iron supplements may also contribute to constipation.Treatment
To treat constipation, try:
Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet. Fiber moves through the intestines without being digested. Along the way it absorbs water. This assists in moving the stools along and makes passing the stool easier.
To add more fiber to your diet, eat plenty of:
Whole fruit – prunes, pears, figs, apricots
Vegetables – carrots, zucchini, cucumbers, celery
Whole grains – bran cereal, whole grain bread
Legumes – all types of beans and peas
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You can also purchase over the counter fiber supplements to enhance the amount of fiber in your diet. Aim for 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day.
Increase your intake of fluids. The addition of fiber to your diet requires that you also increase the amount of fluid in your diet. If you do not have enough fluids in your system, you can actually make constipation worse. Drink 10 to 12 cups of water per day to ensure you are consuming enough fluids.
Increase your exercise. Regular exercise benefits all of your body, including the regularity of your intestines. Schedule 30 minute exercise periods 3 times a week.
Don’t ignore your internal signals. When you have the urge to move your bowels, do not ignore it. If you do, the signal will become weaker over time, and make constipation worse.
During pregnancy it is not recommended that you take laxatives or use mineral oil to relieve constipation

Breast Changes During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:07:00.001-07:00

One of the first things that you notice when you become pregnant is changes in your breasts. Hormones produced as a result of pregnancy increase blood flow to the area and cause changes in the breast tissue. The changes make your breasts feel like they do before you get your period, but worse – swollen, sore, and sensitive to touch. The changes begin a few weeks after conception and last through the first trimester.
Your breasts will also get bigger, starting at about the 8th week of pregnancy, and continuing through your pregnancy. You can expect them grow a cup size, maybe two if this is your first pregnancy. Your breasts in early pregnancy are storing fat and the milk glands are developing in preparation for nursing. As your breasts increase in size, the skin will feel tight and itchy as the skin is stretched, and you may develop stretch marks.
Increased blood flow to the breasts results in the veins becoming more prominent, and visible through the skin. Your nipples and areolas will grow larger and become more pigmented. You may also notice that the small bumps on your areolas - which are called Montgomery’s tubercles and are oil producing glands – grow in number. Colostrum
Most women begin to produce colostrum around the third month of pregnancy. Colostrum is the first milk that your baby will get when he begins to nurse. You may leak colostrum and it can appear thick and yellow early in pregnancy to colorless around the time of delivery.
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Breast Care
The best thing you can do is to wear a support bra, one with no underwire. Under wires can put pressure on milk glands and interfere with milk production. Go to a maternity store or a department store to get fitted for a proper support bra. Choose a cotton bra over one that is synthetic – cotton is comfortable and breathable. Get a maternity sleep bra for support at night.
In your third trimester, get a selection of nursing bras, if you will be nursing. Select a bra that fits you when the chest band is in the tightest position, so you will have room to grow. If leaking is a problem, use breast pads in your bra. Change them several times a day, and allow your nipples to air dry at each change. When you bathe, do not use soap on your nipples so they do not get dried out.

Braxton Hicks contractions During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:06:00.001-07:00

Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic tightening of the uterine muscles. They are considered practice contractions and they help your body prepare for childbirth. Braxton Hicks contractions assist in toning the uterine muscle, promote blood flow to the placenta, and soften the cervix.When do they start?
Although they begin very early in pregnancy, most women do not detect them until late in the second trimester or early in the third trimester. Some women never detect them. They may occur throughout the pregnancy increasing as it gets closer to your due date.Signs and symptoms
The contractions may last from 30 seconds to as long as five minutes. They are not painful except for towards the end of pregnancy, when they are considered false labor. They should be irregular in their intensity and timing. Braxton Hicks contractions should be infrequent and should taper off, not increase in intensity or duration. Trigger factors
There are factors that may trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, they are:
You are very active or lift something heavy
The baby is very active
You have a full bladder
You are dehydrated
Sexual intercourse
Touching your stomach
Or towards the end of pregnancy, your weekly doctor exam
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Treatment
If the contractions are making you really uncomfortable, try these techniques to lessen the discomfort of the contractions.
Take a bath or do something that relaxes you.
Change your activity. If you have been lying down, become active. If you have been active, lay down.
Drink some water to see of the contractions are because you are dehydrated.
Have some warm milk or herbal tea. How to distingush from labor
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor. There are things you can do to alleviate the contractions - real labor will not stop because of a change in activity. True labor pains will grow consistently longer, stronger and closer together. If you are unsure if the contractions are preterm labor, contact your doctor right away. If the contractions increase in intensity or are closer together, or if changing your activity does not cause them to taper off, call your doctor immediately.

Back Pain During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:05:00.000-07:00

The majority of women who are pregnant will suffer from back pain at some point during their pregnancy. There are various causes of back pain during pregnancy. Most cases of pregnancy backache are nothing to worry about.Types
The three types of backaches associated with pregnancy are:
Pain in the lower back that happens when you are sitting or standing
Pain that is felt in the back of the pelvis and the buttocks
Pain that is felt while in bed in the lower back Causes
Backaches during pregnancy are usually due to:
Strain on the muscles of the back from the extra weight associated with pregnancy
Posture changes as a result of the extra weight – your center of gravity moves forward and can strain the lower back
Abdominal muscles that are weakened or stretched, as the abdomen supports the back What you can do
You may not be able to completely avoid back pain during pregnancy, but you there are things you can do to reduce the discomfort you experience. Try these tips:
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Maintain good posture at all times, keeping your hips tucked forward and your back straight
Wear sensible, low heeled shoes that have arch support – no high heels!
Do not lift any heavy objects. If you are lifting an object off the floor, bend at the knees, rise up slowly and maintain a straight back
Keep frequently used items in an easily accessible place so you do not have to do a lot of bending and stretching
Do not stand for long periods of time, as this puts too much strain on the body. If standing is unavoidable, place one foot up on a footstool to relieve some of the pressure, and alternate feet occasionally.
Sleep on your left side for best circulation, with pillows between your legs to support your back.
Sleep on a firm mattress to support your back while you sleep. If your mattress is too soft, place a board in between the mattress and box springs to give more support.
Support your growing belly with an abdominal support girdle.
For pain relief, try a heating pad and cold compresses.
Check with your healthcare provider to see what exercises they recommend to safely strengthen the muscles of your abdomen and back.
Have your partner roll a tennis ball up and down your back for a relaxing massage. When to call the doctor
You should call your doctor anytime you think something just isn’t right, and when:
The pain is severe
You have a fever
You are in the second or third trimester and you are having lower back pain. You might be having preterm labor.
Pain that seems to radiate out from a set point
Numbness, weakness, or tingling in your legs. (end)

Ankel swelling During Pregnancy

2008-08-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

A common discomfort of pregnancy, ankle swelling develops in about 3 out of 4 pregnancies. Ankle swelling is often worse later in the pregnancy, at night, and in hot weather. Most cases of ankle swelling that develop during pregnancy will resolve after delivery. Ankle swelling is also known as edema.Causes
During pregnancy the body manufactures extra blood and other fluids to support the baby’s growth. The average amount of fluids the body accrues is around 6.5 Liters. Some of this extra fluid settles in the feet and legs due to the effect of gravity on the body. The weight of the growing uterus is also a factor in ankle swelling. The uterus puts pressure on the veins of the legs, and decreases their ability to return blood to the heart resulting in fluid buildup in the legsSymptoms
You may have ankle swelling if your feet and ankles are:
Swollen
Have skin that is tight in the area
The skin may appear shiny
The skin may appear purplish in color Treatment
To treat swollen ankles during pregnancy:
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Stay off your feet as much as possible
Take periodic breaks if you must stand, and elevate your feet above the level of your heart
Sleep on your left side to improve circulation
Use a footrest when sitting and do not cross your legs
Stay cool in warm weather
Use a swimming pool that it at least 4 foot deep. The water will help support the weight of the baby and improve circulation
Wear loose fitting clothing
Talk with your health care provider about using support hose
Do not wear tight fitting socks or hose that have tight elastic bands around the foot or ankle area
Wear comfortable, loose fitting shoes
Exercise regularly to improve circulation
Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
Increase the amount of fluids you take in. This will help to flush out impurities and improve blood flow. When to call the doctor
Swollen ankles are typically of little concern, but you should call your doctor immediately if you have:
Swelling that comes on suddenly or is very severe, as it could indicate preeclampsia.
Ankle swelling that is accompanied by swelling of the hands and face
Swelling that is only in one leg, ankle or foot
Pain or tenderness in only one leg.

Tragic Abuse: Shaken Baby Syndrome

2008-07-30T00:22:00.000-07:00

Legal and medical discussions concerning the Shaken Bay Syndrome controversy have created questions about its diagnosis, and even its existence, leading to a consideration

of potential false shaken baby syndrome cases and re-evaluation of the criteria for the violation of shaken baby syndrome laws.

Shaken Bay Syndrome (SBS) is the result of shaking or hitting the head of an infant or small child in a whiplash-like motion. It causes acceleration-deceleration injuries and can be fatal, or cause permanent neurological damage. Ten to 12 percent of child abuse deaths are attributed to SBS.

When retinal hemorrhages and subdural hematomas are found in a child there is an immediate referral to child protective services unless the caretaker's explanation is consistent with a two to three story fall or a 35 mile per hour unrestrained vehicle accident. If the caregiver says the injuries were the result of a short fall or another event less likely to result in death, and the physician thinks it improbable, it is likely to be deemed child abuse.

The website www.sbsdefense.com provides defense attorneys, medical experts, concerned family members and those falsely accused of child abuse with a user-friendly look at the diagnosis and prosecution of cases involving allegations of SBS. It points out th e dangers of mistaken shaken baby syndrome diagnoses.

Brains Not Fully Developed

The brains of young children are not completely developed and suffer injury when shaken. The effects often do not show up until later, when the educational demands on the brain increase.

Less severe cases of SBS may not be seen by doctors and thus may never be diagnosed. Severe cases result in death or dramatic neurological consequences. In severe cases the child usually becomes unconscious and has a rapidly escalating and life-threatening central nervous system dysfunction.

Can Be Hard to Diagnose

Head injury to infants and toddlers can be hard to diagnose, contributing to the shaken baby syndrome controversy, because symptoms are often not specific to the injury. Vomiting, fever, irritability and lethargy are symptoms of many diseases in children. When caretakers do not provide a history of injury, or the victim cannot speak, a head injury can be misdiagnosed as something less serious.

Children who suffered SBS have a number of disabilities that have to be addressed in the educational setting. Developmental disabilities are severe, with chronic mental or physical disabilities, or both, occurring before the age of 22. Developmental disabilities usually occur indefinitely and limit a victim's participation in three or more of the following major life activities: self-care, mobility, language, learning, self-direction, independent living and economic self-sufficiency.

Parents of SBS children should contact their local school system and ask to have their child assessed. The assessment process should include a multidisciplinary team of professionals, observations by professionals who have had experience working with your child, an examination of your child's medical history and information and observations from the family.

Continue to: Suspected Signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome

Taking the Right Steps for a Child Proof Home

2008-07-30T00:21:00.002-07:00

Young children can and do get into sticky situations. In selecting the appropriate child safety product, parents seek to avoid these dangers and to allow their young children to

safely explore their environments. Many things in the grown up world are dangerous to toddlers. One of the best devices to keep children out of harm's way and in a home's safe zones is the child safety gate.

These simple gate units allow parents to cordon off danger areas and are a key element of child safety at home. Gates consistently rank at the top of most lists of child safety devices and child safety tips. Creating a child proof home is not a difficult task, simply one that requires some diligence on the part of the parents and the application of a critical eye to familiar surroundings.

Kitchen

The kitchen can be a little shop of horrors for curious children. Never leave children alone in the kitchen. Burners, shiny knife blades and hot water all spell disaster at the tiny fingertips of a child. Keep small appliances like can openers toward the back of the counter and make sure dangling cords are out of the reach of children. (It's a good idea to unplug appliances that are not in use. Coil the cords and tuck them safely inside or behind the unit itself.)

Plastic bags should never be left lying around since they are a source for accidental suffocation. Store bags in secure bins that are out of reach. Take caution with knives. Put them on the top rack of the dishwasher or in a designated silverware basket, with the blades pointing down. If you have small children, don't use knife blocks and if necessary, put the knives in a drawer secured with a childproof latch.

Kids are just about as bad ad dogs to want to shift through trash. Use a covered wastebasket and potentially one that latches in some way. The last thing you want are tiny hands coming into contact with the razor sharp edges of cut can lids.

Living Room/ Bedrooms

Take extra precaution in the living room that none of your furniture can be tipped over and that tripping hazards have been minimized. It's a good idea to put soft covers on the edges of coffee tables and other pieces with sharp corners. Never store a TV on a high shelf where it can be pulled over.

Continue to: Best Child Safety Devices for Protecting your Child

Learn the Basics of Baby Massage

2008-07-30T00:21:00.001-07:00

Baby massage has been in practice since ancient times and every premature baby massage article research review would extol the benefits of attending baby massage

classes, and of using a baby massage kit. Babies love to be massaged, and all that a parent would require from a baby massage gallery, would be a soft warm towel, and some baby oil or lotion. Reading a baby massage research review would make first - time parents realize that a massage could mean anything as simple as a gentle after-bath rub, or a more organized infant massage.

The parent or caregiver could view a baby massage DVD on the techniques of a good baby massage, and attend baby massage classes where parents could watch baby massage for dummies to hone their skills.

Basic Baby Massage Techniques

A baby massage could vary from a casual tender rub down of baby's soft skin, to a more practiced, and focused massage. The basic technique for a message would deal mainly with how much pressure to use on baby's tender muscles and skin. To learn this would be first to close one's eyes and gently press the eyelids without feeling any discomfort. That is the amount of pressure that a parent or c aregiver must use when massaging baby. In the small areas, use little gentle strokes with the fingertips to caress baby's skin. In the larger areas, the palm of the hand can be used to massage baby's muscles softly under the skin. While massaging babies:

Head

Tenderly touch the forehead, the temples and work a gentle path down to the base of the cranium. Then with feather-light strokes, tenderly stroke the eyebrows, the eyelids, the cheeks and baby's little nose. Softly stroke the area around the mouth, and the ears.

Jaws

Very, very gently touch the front part of the neck, lightly stroking a path to the back part where baby' skin can be massaged lovingly. Then slowly move down to the shoulders, and placing both hands on them, tenderly caress baby's soft skin from the neck down to the shoulders in the direction of the chest

Shoulder And Arms

Encircling baby's arm in the shape of a ring with the fingers and thumb, begin lightly to stroke around the armpit, and then gently caress down along the arm. The elbow is a very sensitive area, so the parent has to exercise extreme caution while touching baby's skin. Baby' wrists can be exercised gently by practicing little turning motions carefully.

Stomach

Moving the hands in a clockwise direction starting from below the ribs, gently massage the abdomen using a tender circular motion, and excluding the genitalia area.

Legs

Pressing the thighs gently against the body, tenderly flex baby's legs and knees. Lightly stroking each leg with the whole hand, use gently pressure on baby's soft thighs.

Heels and Feet

A really good foot massage not only helps relax baby, but is also known to reduce and settle stomach pain. The parent can start by first applying gentle pressure on each toe, then giving the whole foot a soft press, and finally return to the toes again, gently caressing them. At the heels, slow, circular motions can be applied.

Back

Gently turn the baby on to the stomach. Always moving in one direction, apply deliberate and slow movements that include baby's head, neck, back and legs. Lightly stroke baby's neck, shoulders and back, using the fingertips to massage with circular movements. Remember not to massage the spinal cord, only place the hands gently over it; so that baby can feel the comforting warm sensation. Placing the hands at the top of baby's legs, use gentle soft strokes to work a path down towards the foot. Then start all over again, from the head to the toes, repeating the massage.

Continue to: Benefits and Essentials of Baby Massage Classes

Feeding Time! Bottle Baby Basics

2008-07-30T00:20:00.000-07:00

Baby Bottles are of many shapes, sizes and materials - and could be either plastic or glass baby bottles. Of these, Avent bottles and Playtex baby bottles are the most

popular especially the Playtex Ventaire baby bottle and are considered to be among the best baby bottles currently being manufactured.

Typically baby bottles are designed to feed an infant, and come equipped with a nipple or teat. Choosing the right bottle for baby may require some research and browsing around, and testing for the right fit ( glass baby bottles that are of a compact size with flat sides are so much easier for baby to grip), but is well worth the time and effort spent. In fact, a well chosen bottle can help prevent baby suffering a stomach upset and a host of other problems. Ultimately, how you intend using the bottle will help you identify which bottle is correct for you.

Basics of Bottle Feeding

A really good baby bottle and correct feeding techniques can help prevent baby from gas pain, throwing up, and from burping:

Choosing a Bottle

While searching for the best baby bottles, choose those that have unique air flow systems so as to minimize any discomfort baby mig ht experience while feeding. Choose nipples that have the slowest possible flow, as babies could choke and take in too much air if they drink too much milk too fast. Before you actually buy the bottle, ask yourself the following questions:

How often do I intend to use the bottle? What would I be filling in it, and how would I be cleaning it?
Do I prefer using disposable bottles?
How many bottles would I need, and of what size?
Does my baby tend towards swallowing too much air while feeding?
Does my baby suffer from too much colic?

Temperature of the Bottle

The temperature of the bottle is very important. It is important that the bottle of baby formula or breast milk is at the temperature that baby prefers - this could even be room temperature before you feed your infant. Remember never to microwave the bottle since this could produce hot spots that could burn baby. The bottle could be heated either by using a bottle warmer bought from a store, or by the old fashioned method of filling a large bowl of water from the hot water tap, placing the bottle in it, and then reducing the water flow to a trickle so that the bottle is soon brought to a preferred temperature. To be always cautious, check the warmed formula by placing a bit on your forearm, before feeding it to baby.

Positioning Baby

Positioning baby for a feed is equally important. Hold the baby in a slightly upright position on your lap, with the head comfortably nestled in the crook of your arm. Keep switching sides, so that both sides of baby's brain are stimu lated. Use a pillow to support yourself, so that you do not suffer a sore back and stiff shoulders and neck later on. Make eye contact with baby and talk to baby tenderly; as feeding time is an ideal time to bond with baby.

Giving the Bottle

Glass baby bottles must be kept tilted at a 45 degree angle while feeding baby, to help guard against gas pain and throwing up. Ensure that both the neck of the bottle and the nipple are full of milk; since this helps reduce air swallowing by baby. To end a feed or to remove the baby bottle, gently pull the bottle and nipple from baby's mouth. After 10 minutes or so, baby will be full, and now needs to be burped. Gently place baby on your shoulder, and with soft touches, pat or stroke baby's back. Always use a bib, since with the burp; baby also brings up a little milk.

Propping the Bottle

Never prop a bottle for feeding baby; as this could lead baby to choke. Bottle feeding baby should be a nurturing and fulfilling experience for both mother and infant. Propping a bottle deprives baby of the warm feel of mother's body.

Continue to: Features and Uses of the Best Baby Bottles

Best Start for Your Baby: Proper Nutrition

2008-07-30T00:19:00.002-07:00

Breast feeding a baby is the best way to avoid dietary deficiencies and to provide the child with foundational eating habits that will be the blueprint for their nutritional patterns

later in life. Proper baby nutrition also determines how well a child grows and develops and consequently is a major source of concern for new parents charged with feeding an infant for the first time. Conflicting baby nutrition advice, a plethora of available products, and the pressure to do the job right can make meeting the basic infant nutrition requirement a nightmare for new parents when feeding time should be a loving, bonding experience.

Things to Keep In Mind

First of all, all babies are different; that's kind of what makes them so loveable. The downside of that is that it's your responsibility to get to know your baby. Figure out whether Baby prefers peaches to strained peas, or if Baby spends more time eating than sleeping.

As new parents, you may not really know what to do. You may even feel jumpy at the prospect of holding a baby. But, all you need is some support and advice. Soon, you will find that your baby has become a source of joy to you.

Apart from holding the bab y, you should also concentrate on nourishment. Trust your own judgment regarding food choices. Part of trusting your judgment is not allowing food to become a bargaining chip between you and your child.

Nutritional Intake

The old saying "Eating for two" is a true one. Good nutrition begins in the womb with what Mommy eats. It's also true what your Mother told you about breast milk. You both finally agree about something! Doctors the idea that breast feeding a baby offers the best and most complete food for good development. Babies can get nutritional benefit from even a few breast feedings, although most babies graduate to bottle feeding at between four and six months old.

Is Your Baby Satiated?

It is natural for new mothers to be concerned if their babies are getting enough food. There are a few signs that you will learn to recognize to tell you if your baby has had enough to eat. Is your baby producing more than six diapers a day? If so, it's a good indicator that your baby is indeed well fed. It is important to remember that a baby should be fed when he is really hungry and not at your own convenience.

How do you ascertain your baby's hunger? If they put up a fuss or cry suddenly, you may suspect that your baby is hungry. Some babies also tend to suck on their lips and to put their fists in their mouths.

Your baby may exhibit signs of hunger this week at a give time and next week at the same time show no interest whatsoever in food. What could be the reason for this? Your baby is growing. Yes, babies tend to grow in spurts. So, you don't really have to panic at their wavering interest in food. Their appetite will return, usually with a vengeance.

Continue to: Baby Nutrition Advice & Bottle Feeding and Nutrition

Critical Steps to Evaluate Child Care Options
Safe and Enjoyable Tips for Baby's Bath Time
Tips to Find Gifts for New Mothers
When It's Time To Leave The Diaper Behind: Potty Training

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Learn the Basics of Baby Massage

2008-07-30T00:19:00.001-07:00

Baby massage has been in practice since ancient times and every premature baby massage article research review would extol the benefits of attending baby massage

Basic Baby Massage Techniques

Head

Jaws

Shoulder And Arms

Stomach

Moving the hands in a clockwise direction starting from below the ribs, gently massage the abdomen using a tender circular motion, and excluding the genitalia area.

Legs

Pressing the thighs gently against the body, tenderly flex baby's legs and knees. Lightly stroking each leg with the whole hand, use gently pressure on baby's soft thighs.

Heels and Feet

Back

Calming New Parent Fears: The Basics of Baby Care
Feeding Time! Bottle Baby Basics
Taking the Right Steps for a Child Proof Home

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Critical Steps to Evaluate Child Care Options

2008-07-30T00:18:00.000-07:00

With so many parents working outside the home to support the family, baby care centers have quickly become a hot button issue. Seventy percent of families use child care

resources, and with such a variety of choices available, making the final decision can be stressful. Then, there are the home-based options, which are Mom and Pop versions of preschools. No matter what your choice, make sure that your kids are not deprived of a variety of child care activities.

For your own peace of mind, you need to ensure that the child care options you decide on will make you child happy and safe. Health and safety in child care is paramount. Ensure that the children stay clear of infections. Do you know that toys can also cause an infection? Make sure that the toys at the child care facility are disinfected on a regular basis. Know your John or Jane. This is the first step in choosing child care centers. The setting should match your child's interests, behavior, temperature likes and any special needs.

This is also a big deal for you. For many parents the first day of child care marks the first time that they have been separated from their child. Be sure to look into ch ild care centers that are congruent with your beliefs and comfort level, which may not start out too high. This will help you settle between an in home (nanny child care) and a larger facility, like a preschool. And does the center offer evening child care programs? Don't forget to clarify this essential aspect.

With all these questions and consideration, you may be asking yourself how in the world you make a choice. The answer is slowly, surely, and methodically.

Making the Choice

Make a list of the qualities for which you are looking. Do you want a center with a religious background or with none? How does this child care provider discipline, if at all? What kinds of child care activities are offered at this facility? Check off points on your list and make notes about things you want to consider or further questions you want to ask.

If you've decided on home nanny child care, The International Nanny Association suggests that at least two interviews should be conducted before making the job offer. How can you interview your potential nanny? First, satisfy your curiosity on why your nanny is interested in working with young children. Does she have a convincing reply about why she left her previous job?

Request references and make sure that you follow up on them. Is the prospective nanny a creative person who will positively influence your child with interesting projects and innovative play activities? What is the candidate's discipline policy? Do you have a particular discipline regimen you want the nanny to follow? If so, have you explained this fully? Do you want the nanny to be a strict disciplinarian or a "buddy" for your children?

Continue to: Tips to Find the Best Child Care Centers

Best Start for Your Baby: Proper Nutrition
Safe and Enjoyable Tips for Baby's Bath Time
Tips to Find Gifts for New Mothers
When It's Time To Leave The Diaper Behind: Potty Training

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Basic Babby Care

2008-07-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

There is absolutely no doubt that all parents in the world love their kids. The most important point is, do they know how to take care of their babies? This is important because love is something else and proper care of your newborn baby is something else. Unfortunately most of the younger parents don't know much about baby care. It's important to educate them about the proper techniques to be adopted to take good care of their newborn babies.

Having a new baby is a wonderful experience but can be a terrifying. Many new parents face the arrival of their new baby with great anxiety. The responsibility of caring can be overwhelming.

Following things are very important in baby care:

Parents should know the importance of breast feeding. It is very good for baby's health and mostly advised by the doctors. Always have your baby in a capsule when you travel by car. Use a safe stroller, pram for your baby. Put your baby to sleep on their back, and keep fluffy toys out of the cot. Proper and long sleep is very good for the baby. Give your baby a comfortable and noiseless environment. Keep your baby wrapped in a blanket or shawl for comfort and warmth.

Bathing your baby is also important because keeping your baby clean is of vital importance from health point of view. Use a small tub for baby bathing and wrap your baby in a thick towel soon after the bath for protection from cold. Always bath your baby inside the house in a safe and warm place.

Changing diapers is also very important. Baby can not sleep with a wet diaper. You can also use baby lotions to protect soft skin of your baby.

Parents must give a special consideration to their newborns dresses. Baby clothes not only provide baby a protective shield but good and colourful baby clothes look beautiful. People like to see babies in nice clothes.

With love
Cheeky Brats UK

What should parents do now for child safety this school year?

2008-07-30T00:16:00.000-07:00

Watch Out for School Buses, School Zones

Parents typically do a great job of preparing their child for school throughout the year with appropriate clothes, necessary supplies, and even the perfect backpack. But one area that is often lacking, transportation experts say, is child safety driving awareness around school zones, school buses, and child care centers.

Child safety should be the first and foremost consideration when determining how a child is dropped off and picked up from school or daycare. Yet the very parent who is most tedious about exercising safety precautions around their own child is often the first to zoom off from the curb after making the safe drop-off, and potentially endangering other children in their haste to leave.

Educators have a challenge at the beginning of every school year, and rely on parents to partner with them to ensure children arrive and depart safely from school every day. Daycare centers or pre-schools (or any facility providing care to young children) indicate the same concerns. Motorists are so worried about their own child's safety and about being on-time for school and work, that they commit safety infractions afterward. School officials report double-parking, speeding through school zones, not being on the lookout for children darting between cars or careening off their bicycles, or even committing a U-turn on a two-way street to turn the car into the direction they want to go.

Daycare centers face the very same issues, as parents return to a school-year work schedule, and are often trying to get both school-aged children to their campus on time and then drop-off a younger child at a child care setting before going to work. The extra drop-offs and fall routine add stress, time management issues, and as a result, child safety concerns to boot.

Parents should check with their child's school or child care provider to learn child safety procedures and routines. By the same token, educators and providers should take extra precautions and initiatives to familiarize parents with child safety tips and guidelines. Each year, tragedies are reported of children getting injured or even tragically killed by darting between cars, not using a cross-walk, or motorists simply not being observant enough.

What should parents do now for child safety this school year?

* Familiarize yourself with school or provider drop-off and pick-up practices and then be sure you always follow them.

* Discuss the rules with your child and practice with younger ones.

* Resist the urge to speed or make any traffic rules exception because you are running late.

* Know all traffic rules concerning school zones and traffic flows.

* Refrain from using your cell phone, palm, or any other distraction while around school zones.

Baby Clothes - Hints and Tips

2008-07-30T00:15:00.001-07:00

Baby clothes are really expensive, and because your child grows so fast in the first couple of years, these clothes are going to have a very short life. To maximise the wear we need to look at how we take care of them, how we can get wear from them, for longer and how we might save money, if we buy the right things initially.

Buying

The first thing to remember when buying children's clothing is, they must be comfortable to wear, easy to put on and above all else, washable.

Buy clothes with elasticated waistbands and trousers or skirts with shoulder straps. This makes letting down or adjusting easier.

Buy socks without shaped heels they can then grow with your child. Try to stick to one or two colors and brands � this way you will always have a replacement if you lose one.

Put extra buttons on dungaree, skirt or dress straps � This way you can lengthen them as your child grows.

Always try to buy natural fibres, rather than man made .The man made fibres don't breathe as well as natural fibres and this can cause your child to get too hot, especially in summer.

Maximizing Wear

Sleep suit getting too short? � For comfort cut off the feet and you will get another month s wear, at least.

Add another tier to a tiered skirt, by using identical or contrasting material.

Trousers or jeans that have become too short, or worn at the knees � can be cut down and made into shorts for the summer.

Make summer pyjamas by cutting off the arms and legs of a pair of winter pyjamas.

Don't throw away an expensive jacket if your child has out grown it � remove the sleeves and turn it into a smart waistcoat for your child.

When you've let down a pair of jeans or dungarees, you can normally see a white line where the fabric has been creased. Make it less noticeable by blending it into the fabric by running a dark blue crayon along the line. A fountain pen or indelible marker also works.

Care Washing Tips

One tip that seems obvious but is often ignored � the manufacturers washing instructions that you will find in the garment labels. Manufacturers of fabric spend vast amounts of money to find out what are the best washing conditions for their goods. So always try and wash as instructed, it does help clothes last longer.

Use a fabric protector to spray collars, cuffs and knees of garments, any spills will form into beads and can be easily wiped clean.

Get grimy soiled socks clean by soaking them in a water and washing soda solution before washing.

White cotton socks can be revitalised by boiling them in water with a slice of lemon.

Instead of bleach add vinegar to the water as an alternative.

Sneakers can be kept looking new by spraying them with starch before wearing them for the first time � this will stop dirt from getting embedded.

A soap filled scouring pad is great for sneakers or any fabric shoes.

Rub white shoes with a raw potato cut in half, or alcohol, before cleaning. Keep them white by spraying with hairspray � This prevents the polish from coming off and keeps them looking new.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
John tries to combine his role as a SAHD with work as a freelance writer. Home is a small village in West Yorkshire England, where he lives happily with his wife and two young daughters. (Georgia who is nearly 3yrs and Olivia aged 16 months.)

His articles have appeared in online publications in countries ranging from India to the USA. He is a member of The Association of Freelance Writers.

If you have any comments on this article or would like further information please feel free to contact him atjaybee@writeme.co.uk.

Rock-a-bye Baby: Choosing a Baby Swing

2008-07-30T00:14:00.002-07:00

Swinging is considered a standard form of play for older children, but some infants just don't like it. While an outdoor baby swing may be exactly what your baby craves, before

you run out and buy the best baby swing on the market, you may want to borrow a baby swing seat to see if it is an activity your child will enjoy.

A good quality, safe baby swing may be one of the most expensive investments you'll make during the first few months of parenthood. Take your time in selecting one. There's a lot of buzz contained in baby swing reviews and great argument over which one is the best baby swing of all. With so many options - a Graco baby swing, a Fisher Price baby swing, wind up baby swings - many new parents find themselves confused. The following list mentions some good quality baby swings worthy of consideration and may help you to settle on one or two units to examine before making your final purchase.

Fisher Price 3-in-1 Cradle/Swing

The special thing about this swing is that it offers two different swinging directions for variation. There's the normal forward / backward motion, but if Baby isn't into that there's also the side-to-side motion. The two variations maximize the chance of Baby actually liking the swing. The removable seat is detachable and doubles as a carrier.

The Cradle / Swing is almost like a big furry TV chair for babies. There's an activity bar and the swing can go in three speeds. Be cautious never to leave the baby alone in the swing. The unit is battery operated and can be used until the baby reaches twenty-five pounds. This Fisher Price baby swing is one of the creme de la cr�me devices in this genre

Swing n' Meals High Chair and Swing

Another Fisher Price baby swing, the Swing n' Meals has lost some points for the large storage space it requires. On the upside, Fisher Price diligently worked to upgrade the model. Another bonus is that once Baby is too big for the three speed, open top swing, it can still be used as a high chair via a super easy conversion. The unit has machine washable, removable padding and is height adjustable when used as a high chair.

Graco Open Top (3 Speed)

The open top models are among the fine st units in the Graco baby swing family. The Open Top allows the baby easy access in and out of the swing. There are four comfy reclining positions and a toy bar making this outdoor baby swing highly entertaining. (Some models even play music.) The Graco Open Top is also offered in a two-speed configuration and both models can run for two hundred hours on just one set of batteries.

Graco Wind Up Swing

This Graco baby swing is traditional, not as pricey but certainly a good value. Wind ups offer the option of fifteen or thirty minutes of consistent swinging. Naturally there is a toy bar to occupy Baby's time and a vinyl reclining seat. The only problem is that when the swing runs down the baby may wake up or become cranky and fussy when the motion stops.

Continue to: Best Baby Swing available in the Market

Baby Monitors
Want Peace of Mind? Use a Wireless Nanny Cam
Baby Strollers Are Not Created Equal: Which Ones Are Best?
Safety First: Finding the Right Car Seat for Your Baby
Babies Love Them, Parents Dread Them: Baby Pacifiers

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Babies Love Them, Parents Dread Them: Baby Pacifiers

2008-07-30T00:14:00.001-07:00

According to most of the world's parents pacifiers have single-handedly destroyed children's teeth. Renowned brands like Avent pacifiers and Gerber pacifiers have taken

steps to bring down these complaints. But, why do parents complain in the first place? These pacifier produced overbites are a particular thorn in the side since the end up costing thousands of dollars in dental surgery and braces years down the road. Not only that, parents also face the day the toddler pacifier goes away with dread.

But does the pacifier really deserve its bum rap? The infant pacifier is recommended by the American Association of Parents as a preventative tool against sudden infant death syndrome. So maybe they're not so bad after all. Yet, there's still some work that should go into selecting an infant pacifier.

Choosing a Pacifier

Some babies don't like pacifiers and won't take one, thus it's cheaper not to invest in a lot of pacifiers before the baby's born. Use only one-piece pacifiers. Be sure to use real pacifiers, not the generic ones like bottle nipples. Check if the nipple is firmly attached to base of the pacifier. Babies are curious and may pull on the nipples wi th a tug of their hand. Note that liquid pacifiers may indeed look smooth but are considered to be harmful if the baby bites on it.

Now, let us move on to the dreaded deal with tooth troubles. There's actually a remedy for such problems with an orthodontic pacifier. These pacifiers are rounded at the top and flat at the bottom to prevent orthodontic problems later in life. For best results, limit the amount of baby/pacifier quality time.

Rounded pacifiers, on the other hand, are more traditional and the baby simply may be more traditional. There are also a wide array of options between silicone and latex pacifier. The silicone pacifier boasts of many advantages. For starters, the silicone pacifier is harder for the baby to bite through, is easily cleaned and doesn't retain odor.

Pacifier Safety

Just like with any other child care product, infant pacifiers and toddler pacifiers should be used with safety in mind. Don't tie pacifier to the baby. It might look adorable and keep the pacifier from getting lost, but there are many ways that a string around the baby's neck can cause a tragedy. Only purchase pacifiers that are 1.5 inches across, otherwise you're buying a choking hazard. Stay abreast of pacifier recalls also. Since your baby is constantly preoccupied with pacifiers, he might get affected by rashes. So, make sure that you look for pacifiers that vent holes in the shield. Pacifiers are of different colors and styles. Since some babies need night time entertainment, look for glow in the dark pacifiers. How do you clean the pacifier? Dishwasher, of course. And pacifiers may also be boiled.

What if your baby keeps losing pacifiers? Keep pacifiers handy wherever you take the baby. Do you take the baby along while traveling? Then, keep the pacifier in a car. Is your baby getting restless in the nursery? Then, keep pacifiers in the nursery. Or better still, you could place your baby's favorite style in the diaper bag and take it wherever you go.

Continue to: The Best Infant Pacifier to Choose and Use

Baby Monitors
Want Peace of Mind? Use a Wireless Nanny Cam
Baby Strollers Are Not Created Equal: Which Ones Are Best?
Safety First: Finding the Right Car Seat for Your Baby
Rock-a-bye Baby: Choosing a Baby Swing

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Ease Your Child's Teething Discomfort

2008-07-30T00:13:00.000-07:00

There is no set pattern as to when baby teething begins and ends. While one baby may cut a tooth overnight with no pain, another may go through a long, painful and drawn out experience of infant teething.

Sometimes you will see a lump in the gum for a few weeks while at other times there is no clue a tooth was coming until it actually appears. On average, the first tooth comes in during the seventh month, but it can happen as early as three months or as late as 12 months. In rare cases it occurs earlier or later.

Twenty "First" Teeth

There are 20 "first" or "baby" teeth, 12 fewer than the 32 permanent adult teeth. Most children have their full primary set of teeth by two or three-years-old. They usually last until the child is about six, when they start to come loose and fall out as the second teeth start pushing through the gums.

Incisors, two central bottom and two central top teeth, usually appear at six to seven months, followed by two more incisors on both the top and bottom at seven to nine months. The first molars usually appear between 10 to 14 months. These are the double teeth used for chewing. The canines, or pointed teeth, usually arrive at 15 to 18 months and the second molars at two to three years. They are the second set of double teeth at the back of the mouth.

Teething Symptoms

Symptoms of teething vary from child to child and may include the following:

Irritability - Fussiness may occur when a tooth rises closer to the surface. Pain and discomfort can be worse with the first teeth to appear and then later when the molars arrive, because of their size. Every child will react differently.
Drooling - The baby may sometimes cough or gag due to the extra saliva. Unless the baby has signs of a cold, flu or fever, it is nothing to worry about.
Chin rash - If the baby drools a lot, the cons tant contact with saliva could cause the skin around the chin and mouth to get irritated. To help prevent this, wipe your baby's mouth and chin gently throughout the day.
Biting and gnawing - A teething baby will gnaw and gum down on anything she can get her mouth around. The counter pressure created from biting helps relieve the pressure coming from under the gums.
Cheek rubbing and ear pulling - Gum pain could travel to the ears and cheeks, particularly when the back molars are surfacing. Bear in mind that pulling at an ear could also signal an ear infection.
Some children may be more irritable than others, or experience the symptoms above to different degrees. If you are concerned with your child's teething symptoms don't hesitate to contact your pediatrician or a general family dentist to schedule an appointment.

Related Resources
Dentistry

Continue to: Ideal Symptoms of Teething for Infants

Tragic Abuse: Shaken Baby Syndrome
A Parent's Nightmare: The Threat of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Won't the Crying Ever Stop? Living with Baby Colic
How to Deal With Diaper Rash

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When It's Time To Leave The Diaper Behind: Potty Training

2008-07-30T00:12:00.002-07:00

Taking the plunge into potty training boys or girls can prove an exciting experience for both parent and toddler. Successful potty training should come with a sense of

happiness and positive energy. Mom or Dad, or both should make potty training a top priority. That's not too difficult considering that potty training help and potty training tips are more readily available to parents today than ever before. Various publications for parents offer potty training advice. Yet be prepared for a few "accidents" along the way to potty training toddlers. Be patient.

How to Get Started

Starting potty training should be approached delicately. Toddlers learn best with a regular routine. Thus the entire family should be committed to dedicating uninterrupted time to this new endeavor. At least for awhile, making sure your toddler is given the opportunity to "go" every hour is going to take precedence over other aspects of your schedule. Don't pick a time when you cannot patiently work with the child and be attentive to their needs. If you are stressed the child will pick up on what you're feeling and that can effect the success of the potty training program.

Watching yo ur tongue may never be more important. This is a big leap from baby to big boy or little lady; avoid negative words and frustrated tones especially when potty training boys who are more susceptible to accidents. Think of yourself as a teacher and follow sound tips on potty training.

First, watch for signs that the child needs a bathroom break. Tugging of the clothes, a tapping foot, and shaking are all easily recognizable signs. In the process you teach your son or daughter how to read their own body signals so they can verbally express the need to visit the toilet.

Potty Training Aids

Children have been known to adapt well to potty training with some visual ads. Watching parents, friends or animals excuse themselves for a potty break can be a positive reinforcement. A little buddy, like a teddy bear, who's also learning to use the bathroom can be even more helpful.

A potty training chart or using stickers as incentives can boost the child's self esteem booster and motivate them to ac tually get involved in the process. These aids work great on both boys and girls.

Continue to: Ideal Potty Training Tips

Best Start for Your Baby: Proper Nutrition
Critical Steps to Evaluate Child Care Options
Safe and Enjoyable Tips for Baby's Bath Time
Tips to Find Gifts for New Mothers

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Taking the Right Steps for a Child Proof Home

2008-07-30T00:12:00.001-07:00

Young children can and do get into sticky situations. In selecting the appropriate child safety product, parents seek to avoid these dangers and to allow their young children to

Kitchen

Living Room/ Bedrooms

Calming New Parent Fears: The Basics of Baby Care
Feeding Time! Bottle Baby Basics
Learn the Basics of Baby Massage

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Adopted Baby Development Problems

2008-07-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

Parents often enter into adoption completely unprepared for handling any adopted baby development problems that might arise.

Although these problems aren't necessarily common, some adopted babies do experience them. However, understanding the signs of development problems and learning how to handle those problems will make this period in your life a little easier.

[edit]

Signs of Development Problems

For many parents, their adopted baby may be their first child. If so, they may not understand the signs of adopted baby development problems until the problems have grown seemingly out of control.

Early intervention is the key to eradicating any development problem. Once you know what signs to look for, you'll know when to get help.

Trust your instincts. One of the most important things you'll learn as a parent is to trust your instincts. If you feel that something isn't right, pay attention to that gut feeling and contact your pediatrician. If you still aren't satisfied, seek a second and even a third opinion. You are your child's advocate. Don't be afraid to look for help!
Sudden changes. A child may be developing in a seemingly normal manner when all of the sudden, he or she stops or even regresses. While this may be as simple as a reaction to a recent move or some other event in your child's life, there may be other reasons. Speak to your doctor about your concerns. Better yet, keep a log of your child's developmental milestones so that you have something to show your doctor.
Delayed physical ability. While some children will crawl and walk more quickly than others, children who have been institutionalized may suffer from developmental delays, and thus experience adopted baby development problems. Seek help for your child as soon as you become aware of this problem.
Delayed verbal skills. Here again, children will develop verbally at various rates. However, if your child seems able to understand what you say but doesn't verbally respond, he or she may be suffering from adopted baby development problems as well.

[edit]

Help for Adopted Baby Development Problems

Did you know children under three years of age must legally be provided rehabilitative services at a free or reduced rate if they have been determined to be developmentally delayed? These services typically include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The Federal 1986 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act provides this right, and an overview of this law can be read here.

In order to make sure that your child is receiving the services that he or she needs, you may need a referral from your pediatrician. Depending upon your state, you may be able to find a hotline to call for help as well.

[edit]

What to Expect

Depending upon the age and background of your child, your child may have developmental problems for any number of reasons.

Psychological separation. Even newborns have been noted to have psychological separation anxiety, so this certainly isn't uncommon. For older children, however, the symptoms of this condition may be much worse. You may find that your child will need professional help to get past these issues.
Attachment difficulties. Even toddlers can have problems forming an attachment with their adoptive parents. In many cases, the whole family may need to go into therapy for a while to deal with this problem.
Aggressiveness. In some cases, a child may simply resort to anger and aggressive behavior as a means of expressing his or her confusion over the adoption. Again, therapy and time can help.
Abandonment issues. A child who understands that he or she was left by his or her birth parent may deal with abandonment issues as well.
Grief. Older children may not be able to under why they were given up for adoption, and they may experience a sort of grieving process as they work through this issue.

[edit]

More Info

Finally, there is help for those children who suffer from adopted baby development problems.

The National Adoption Center offers adoptive parents and their children many wonderful links throughout the site.
Adopting.org offers post-adoption support groups and lots of great information as well.
The Adoption Groups Website offers adoptive parents help in a variety of areas.

[edit]

Caring For Baby When Sick

2008-07-26T00:10:00.000-07:00

When parents have the responsibility for a baby or very young child, it is only natural for them to want to protect them as much as possible from sickness and to deal with any signs of sickness quickly. This is perhaps one of the most difficult parts of baby care, as it can be difficult to find the balance between allowing the sickness to take the natural course or rushing to the doctor at every hint of a cold or other minor ailment.

This is a problem especially for first time parents. Having a young baby that is ill can be very distressing, and can become a nightmare if the wrong choice is made when a baby does indeed have a serious illness. By and large, of course, ailments are not a threat, and you should expect a baby to get colds and occasionally fever.

Of course, if you are going to err, it should be on the side of caution. But it is reassuring to know that a baby with a healthy immune system will see off the occasional virus with no difficulty. For that reason, it is important from the baby's birth, and then right through childhood, to care for their immune system. By doing so, you will not only improve their health, and increase their resistance to illness, you will feel more confident that when she starts coughing and sneezing, or has a fever, she will soon get it under control herself. Monitoring progress, though, is essential, and keeping an eye on any fever especially so.

With the blanket advertising on pharmaceutical remedies for baby's and young children, it is easy for parents to be brainwashed into rushing out to buy something, anything even, just to help them feel as they are doing something to help the baby recover quicker.

Baby's have colds, have ear aches, and have fevers, but do not always need a treatment from the pharmacy immediately. Some of the drug company remedies may even do more harm than good and cause a reaction, as I have witnessed in my son when he reacted very badly to an ear treatment that contained a bright colouring.

My son is grown now, but my young daughter Saffron has benefited from a strong immune system each time she has had a cold since birth right up to 23 months (as I write this). She shakes off colds in two days, which is about as good as you can expect, and has no remedies from the pharmacy. She has had vitamin and mineral supplements since birth, a good diet (including the first year on breast milk). If she gets a fever, we give her plain paracetamol and keep a very close eye on her. We live in the tropics, so we do have to be alert for malaria and dengue fever.

It is also worth bearing in mind that, for minor ailments, there may be some home remedies that will help, or at least give you the feeling that you are doing something. The article below by Wendy Jolly offers some useful tips on home remedies, and not just for colds.

New Baby Home Remedy Tips for Caring for the Newborn Baby Arrival

Sometimes we get caught up in all the advertising hype of what we need to purchase to keep baby happy and healthy. We can be blown away by all the different things around to tempt us. What I found confusing was that every different pharmacy or store I went into, told me different things were needed to help my baby get well. I also got carried away with all the mumbo jumbo out there and yet I found that my grandmothers old fashioned home remedies worked just as well, if not better than most of the products in the market place. The best parts about her remedies were that they were so much cheaper and smelt so much nicer.

Have Cloth Diapers Had Their Day

2008-07-26T00:09:00.000-07:00

am sure that most new parents have all the arguments for and against the use of cloth diapers, or nappies. Those who had no choice but to use them many years ago do not have fond memories of these old fashioned diapers. All the problems with folding into shape, sticking pins in yourself (and the baby), the smells hanging around the house until the laundry was done; and then the chore of the laundry itself.

Even under thirty years ago, disposable diapers were thought of as something of a luxury, whereas today they are the norm in the richer countries at least. In the US, people using cloth diapers for their babies may be considered somewhat strange. However, even with the dominance of disposable diapers in today's market place, there are several reasons why modern parents may choose to use cloth diapers instead of disposables. In fact, in some circles cloth diapers are making something of a comeback.

Cloth Diapers Are Cheaper

Perhaps hthe biggest personal reason why a parent may choose to clothe her baby’s bottom in cloth diapers, as opposed to disposables, is financial. Cloth diapers are simply cheaper than disposables, even when the parents are paying a diaper service to haul away the soiled nappies and bring fresh ones each week. If disposable diapers worked out cheaper, even most of those hardy cloth diaper users would probably make the switch to disposables.

Environmental Concerns About Disposable Diapers

There is, without doubt, some concern about disposable diapers from those who have an environmental consciousness. Disposable diapers are made primarily of plastic, surrounding a pad of absorbent cotton. It is well known that plastic does not biodegrade very well at all, which means that our landfills are stacked with diapers that are going to be with us for centuries to come. While many people believe that the convenience offered by disposable diapers outweighs this fact, environmentalists believe that by using cloth diapers they are just doing one more thing to help to protect and preserve the Earth for future generations.

Modern Developments In Diapers

The cloth diapers of today are very different from those that were used by today's grandparents and great grandparents. There is no need now for complicated folding methods and errant safety pins. Today’s cloth diapers are pre cut and shaped to fit to the baby quickly and easily. They can also come with Velcro fasteners or snaps for ease in fastening. Best of all, many now have available a flushable, biodegradable paper lining that will catch solid waste, allowing it to be easily disposed of in the toilet. That means that soiled and foul smelling diapers do not sit around the house, and there is no longer that messy job of rinsing the solids away.

Cloth diapers may be a minority favourite, and something of a thing of the past, but they are by no means gone forever. For the parent with financial or environmental concerns, they are still a very viable option for clothing their baby's bottoms

Packing For Your Baby When You Travel

2008-07-26T00:07:00.000-07:00

Some people probably find it quite daunting, going away for the first time on a trip with a baby. It does seem like quite a lot of hassle, but it is important not to let the baby take over your life in a negative way. If you need to travel, go away on a vacation, or visit friends or relatives, the important thing is: just do it! You just have to pack for the baby as well, and take into account a few practical issues.

I was 17 years old before I ever went on an airplane, but our daughter Saffron was jet setting from the age of 2 weeks. Of necessity, we had to go on a flight to Cebu and stay for a few days. It was the first of several such trips in the first year of her life, and I am sure that early first trip made it that much easier for the later ones, when she was more aware.

When packing to go away with your new baby, it is not too dissimilar, at least as a starting point, to preparing a baby layette, then multiplying it by however many days you are going to be away. However, having had time at home with the baby already, you will have a good idea of all the things you need to get through the day, and night, so the actual packing is not really something to worry about.

What you can take with you will depend on how you are travelling, and where you will be staying when you get there. If you are staying at a hotel, then try and get one that can supply a crib. All is not lost if you cannot find one, but if you have already got your baby used to a crib, then it is a good idea to try to continue with that while away. In Saffron's case, she was content in the hotel crib, even though it was much deeper than her own. When we returned a couple of months later, when she was more aware, we could tell she was already familiar with the hotel and the crib, and settled more quickly than we had expected.

If at all possible, do not put off taking your baby on a trip. The longer you leave it, the more difficult it is likely to turn out. Remember, a baby knows no difference to what you are teaching her and exposing her to, so if trips away are part of your life, then it is normal to her too. But to make it as smooth as possible, think carefully about what you need to pack, and your access at the destination to any other needs that might arise.

Of course, feeding and clothing the baby are all important.You want to make sure you have everything you need for feeding her, and you have to remember that you may not always have the convenience of a kitchen on hand. If you are breast-feeding, you don't need to worry about feeding supplies too much, since you keep them with you at all time. However, if you are bottle-feeding, make sure you have everything you need already prepared. Pack sterilized bottles and nipples in zipper-close plastic bags to keep them clean.

It is best to over estimate on everything. Pack at least as many diapers and wipes as you go through on a daily basis for each day you will be on your trip. Then bring an extra two days in case the baby gets diarrhea, or you unexpectedly take a little bit longer than planned. You also want to make sure that you have changing pads or something similar to keep the area that you use to change your baby keep her clean.

If you are uncertain about the weather, pack a large variety of clothing. Take a couple of extra outfits, preferably things you can layer or mix and match. Try to pack at least one spare outfit for each day of your trip, especially if you will not have laundry facilities. Remember, babies are experts at making messes. Be prepared for the worst, and things will prove better than you had dared think.

It is vitally important to pack a small first aid kit, containing pain reliever/fever reducer, Band-Aids, teething medicine, and any other supplies your baby may need. Toys like teething rings, and a favourite comfort toy, should be taken into consideration, as well as basic baby toiletries. Again, bear in mind that you should be preparing for the worst, just in case. You want to be prepared if you are not in a place where medical supplies are on hand.

Make sure you have a means to comfortably carry the baby, like a baby sling or a front-pack carrier, especially if you're going to be outdoors, unless of course you prefer just to carry her in your arms. Also, a portable playpen with some toys will make the trip much more enjoyable for you and the baby, if you can fit it in. If you have a play pen that doubles as a crib, then that's even better. Packing some small activities for travel, as well as some other things that can be packed away and then brought out once you arrive at your destination, is probably the best way to go.

If you are travelling on a plane or bus, and plan to check your bags, make sure that any necessary baby supplies are in your carry-on. Not only do you want to make sure that you have everything you need while in transit, but there is always the worst case scenario that bags will be lost. You may be able to go without an extra change of underwear, but baby may not

Spending Time With Your Baby

2008-07-26T00:06:00.000-07:00

When you first bring home your Bouncing New Baby, you will surely feel you want to watch over her and be with her much of the time, especially if you are a first time parent. Newborn babies are fascinating even if they are not yours; when they are your own, that special feeling takes off into the stratosphere. You may feel tempted to hold them, watch them and chat to them the whole time; even when they are asleep you will enjoy standing silently over them and observe them in their slumbers.

Those first few days are a magical time, but then a transformation may take place. For the first few nights, the night feed may be a novelty, and you may even feel "great, she's awake, I can see her again". But then sleep interruption may start to irritate you rather than be a signal for pleasure; tiredness begins to take a hold as your sleep is disturbed so often. Night feeds, cholic, bringing up her milk; all can contribute to an interrupted night. Insufficient sleep mixed with aggravation can start to eat away at that feeling of wonder you had when your baby first came home.

Your baby has not changed; but you have. She is the same gorgeous baby you brought home from hospital. Her simple life is evolving only very slowly to her; it is yours that is changing most rapidly. Those rapid changes, maybe mixed with a new level of tiredness you have not felt before, represent the first exertion of pressure on that very special relationship - you and your baby.

Then there is day time. The old day to day pressures are still there; the need to rush around to the shops, worrying about money, wondering how to deal with work, job and baby; the car not starting, the leak in the pipe under the sink, the washing machine seizing up under the constant use. The days spent wishing you could get a good night's sleep, wishing you were back at work earning more money, and being with your work colleagues. The time you spend thinking: "where's my life gone? I have no control anymore. That baby is my jailer in the day time and tormentor at night."

Stop! That is a train of thought you must either not board, or at least get off at the first station. It is a train fuelled by self pity, and heading down the track to unhappiness for you, your partner, and your baby. You are the only one who controls your life; you choose between the track to contentment and joy, or to discontent and misery.

Remember, that baby loves you more than anyone else ever has, unless you have had a baby before. Her devotion, her admiration, and her dependence are total. It is for you to decide whether that is something to cause resentment in you, or the overwhelming joy that it should. That little miracle of a baby is the biggest responsibility you have ever had, but she can also be the source of the greatest pleasure and joy.

Compare your baby's devotion with your work colleagues you miss; in 10 years time you will probably have lost contact with most or all of them. Your workplace is like a busy junction where people cross over. Your work? If you are employed, your bosses will ditch you as soon as they need to if they see a "better" alternative. Your car, your washing machine, your leaking pipe; do you really think they are important compared to that unique and potentially wonderful relationship that is in your arms, the relationship with your baby?

You make the choices; you take the actions. You have experienced in the first few days with baby at home that there can be sheer joy and excitement; wonderment and appreciation. The baby loves you to bits; you can love her to bits too, and put the exterior trivia in their rightful place. Or, the baby loves you to bits and you can wallow in resentment because she's interrupting your life, demanding attention when you have a leaking pipe or a car that won't start.

In black and white, on paper, it's a simple choice; but how can you make that choice and achieve the right balance in your life? Think about it quietly for a while; somewhere on your own. Think of the pleasure the baby gives you in those precious moments when you do not feel stressed. Then, make a conscious decision to perpetuate those moments; to make each moment you have with your baby, infant and child a moment when you and she are there simply for each other.

As your baby grows, there will be countless moments of development that can bring you a lot of pleasure and pride; learning to walk, getting out of her crib, her kisses and cuddles, her first word and every new word thereafter; her expressions, mimicry, her laughter and her first attempt to dance to the music on the radio; her attempts to control and manipulate you, and learning to use her charm to get her own way.

Such developments you can allow to merge into the noisy background of life's trivia, and miss the joy they can bring you. In so doing you are increasing the chances of an unhappy baby, and an unhappy you. Or, you can make each moment you spend with your baby one for you to enjoy to the full, shutting out life's trivia for those times you are sharing with your offspring. In so doing you would increase the chances of a happy baby and a happy you.

You make the choices; you take the actions. For your own sake and the baby's, spend as much time with your baby as you can, and set out to enjoy it to the full. Shut out the trivia that are trying to spoil your unique relationship, and your life will be considerably better for it.

It is not always possible, but try to organise the trivia around your time with baby. The more you give her precedence, and willingly, the more happy you will both be. Enjoy every single moment of watching her development. It is something that cannot be repeated.

Baby Care

2008-07-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

When it comes to having their first baby, many couples probably have no idea what to expect, nor much about how to care for the baby when it arrives. Their level of knowledge will depend on their exposure to other babies, and the part they may have played in their upbringing; plus what they have read and asked about in preparation for the baby's birth. For most Western couples, that really can mean they do not know what to expect from the arrival of their Bouncing New Baby.

Things are really quite different from my home country, England, here in the Philippines. People generally are crazy about babies here, and a new baby's older siblings will usually be keen to play a part in baby care. If there is no older sibling, there will by a cousin nearby anxious to carry and look after the offspring. With this tradition, most new parents have a good idea of what baby care is all about, at least from the Filipino viewpoint; and when the baby is born, the parents know there will be a lot of people around to help.

Such enthusiasm to help, and such pre-knowledge and experience, with a new baby is less likely in Western countries, so it is down to the parents to learn all they can before the baby is born, and then as they go along.

The Elements of Baby Care

There is a great deal to bringing up a child, but for a new born baby you are able to concentrate on a few basic baby care skills. Much of it will come naturally, for mother and father, and the most important thing of all is not really a skill. That is, love, the most natural baby care all.

As a new parent, never forget that the baby loves you both totally. The need for love in return is imperative to its feeling of security, happiness and well being. So, although their is no skill in feeling love for the baby, there is some skill in making sure the baby is aware of it, always. Modern living can make us self centred. Having a baby is a wonderful opportunity to step back and view love in it's most natural and innocent form.

The baby adores you both. If you can maintain that over the coming months, and then years, you will all be richer for it. Watch a baby learn to play as they get mobile, as they learn to chase and be chased, to bounce a ball, to play peek-a-boo. There is true happiness, and despite their age, it is a happiness you can learn from, simply by indulging yourself selflessly.

The other elements of baby care are of a practical nature, and they are explored more fully in other parts of the website, if not now, then in the near future. These elements revolve around health, feeding, cleanliness, hygiene, warmth (or coolness in a tropical country), safety, security and learning.

All of these elements, though, need to be wrapped in love; your love as parents. That will bring enduring happiness to all 3 of you.

Baby Skin Care Problems

2008-07-21T04:14:00.000-07:00

If you are the first time parent of a newborn, you may be surprised at how splotchy and broken out your baby's skin looks. You might have expected the smooth, blemish-free skin that is typically featured on babies in magazines and on television. While your baby's skin may eventually look like that, he probably wasn't born with it!

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Acne

Newborn babies can suffer from acne. That's right, acne. Most of the time, this skin condition can clear up on its own, but if it continues to be a problem, your pediatrician can prescribe a topical baby skin care ointment to help clear it up.

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Dry Skin

Because your baby is going through hormonal changes, just like you are, these changes can affect his skin. You may notice that your infant's skin is flaky and dry, especially on his hands and feet. Again, this is a normal condition. You can help to moisten his skin by applying a baby skin care lotion. You should not use baby powder on your child's skin, however.

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Eczema

Eczema typically doesn't appear until baby is a little older, at least two or three months. It usually affects certain areas on the body, specifically neck creases, backs of ears, and behind the knees, and the face. This condition is more than just dry skin. It can become very uncomfortable, and if the area is scratched, it can also become infected. If your baby has this condition, your doctor can help you treat him.

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Cradle Cap

This is a mild form of eczema that affects the top of a baby's head. You can usually get rid of this dry, flaky skin by washing your baby's head, then gently brushing the area. Finally, you should rub a small amount of baby oil or coconut oil into the dry area to lubricate the skin. Eventually, your baby's natural oils in her skin will take over. You can also ask about medicated shampoos to treat this dandruff-like condition.

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Heat Rash

There may be times when areas of your baby's body is covered with tiny red bumps, and this probably means she has a heat rash. Sometimes simply removing her from the heat and cooling her down by removing some of her clothing can make the rash disappear within a few hours.

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When to Call the Doctor

If you notice some type of skin problem on your baby, and it does not want to disappear, by all means contact your doctor. Once you begin feeding your baby solids, hopefully you have introduced one new food at a time to watch for food allergies. A rash may be an indication of an allergy, in which case you'll definitely need to contact your doctor.

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Protection from the Sun

Don't forget that your little one's skin is very sensitive. He can sunburn easily. In the past, The American Academy of Pediatrics did not recommend using any sunscreen on babies younger than six months. While it is still recommended that parents keep infants out of the sun as much as possible, most pediatricians now agree that it is acceptable to apply a little sunscreen to a baby's face, hands and feet. You should still keep your baby covered with light-weight clothing, and don't forget to use a hat that shades his face, ears, and the back of his neck.

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Beautiful Baby Skin

Your baby may not be born with gorgeous skin, but you can help her have beautiful skin as she grows. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about baby skin care, contact your doctor.

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BABYCARE

Caring For Your Babies Umbilical Cord Area

Newborn Skin and Common Conditions

Importance of bonding

Importance of bonding

The ways babies bond

Bonding with your baby

Q: What are some of the first signs of labor?

The Labour Room (Q & A)

Aware Of The Pregnancy Risk Factors

Exercising After Pregnancy

Exercising After Pregnancy

Reasons to Exercise During Pregnancy

Safe Exercise During Pregnancy

Pregnancy Exercise - Do But Do Not Overdo

Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

Sleep Problem During Pregnancy

Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy

Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy

Restless Legs During Pregnancy

Pubic Pain During Pregnancy

Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

Why Do I Have Hot Flashes During Pregnancy?

Heartburn During Pregnancy

Managing Headache During Pregnancy

Gingivitis During Pregnancy

Gas During Pregnancy

Constipation During Pregnancy

Breast Changes During Pregnancy

Braxton Hicks contractions During Pregnancy

Back Pain During Pregnancy

Ankel swelling During Pregnancy

Tragic Abuse: Shaken Baby Syndrome

Brains Not Fully Developed

Can Be Hard to Diagnose

Taking the Right Steps for a Child Proof Home

Kitchen

Living Room/ Bedrooms

Learn the Basics of Baby Massage

Basic Baby Massage Techniques

Head

Jaws

Shoulder And Arms

Stomach

Legs

Heels and Feet

Back

Feeding Time! Bottle Baby Basics

Basics of Bottle Feeding

Choosing a Bottle

Temperature of the Bottle

Positioning Baby

Giving the Bottle

Propping the Bottle

Best Start for Your Baby: Proper Nutrition

Things to Keep In Mind

Nutritional Intake

Is Your Baby Satiated?

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Learn the Basics of Baby Massage

Basic Baby Massage Techniques

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Jaws

Shoulder And Arms

Stomach

Legs

Heels and Feet

Back

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