How to care for your new born baby

The moment your baby is born can be both magical and stressful. A newborn experiences rapid change in physiology at birth and during the initial few days of life. This is the period when many infants would fall sick. So care during first few days of life is very important and can lay a good foundation for a healthy childhood. Irrespective of the mode of delivery, opportunity should be utilized for bonding and initiation of breastfeeding. Because separation of a normal infant from the mother even for a couple of hours can pose an effect on successful breastfeeding. 

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide infants with the nutrients they need. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding starting within one hour after birth until a baby is six months old. Once you are ready for discharge from the hospital make sure that your kid gets all the vaccinations (BCG, OPV & Hepatitis B). The infant can be bathed at home once discharged from the hospital. A variety of traditional practices are common in India.

 These can be beneficial such as oil massage, however there are a variety of harmful traditional practices such as applying kajal/surma in eyes, putting oil in ear and nose, putting boric acids in nostrils or applying substances such as cow dung on cord must be avoided. All healthy babies should preferably be placed down for sleep on their back only. If your baby’s birth weight is below 2000 grams then you can do kangaroo mother care (KMC), in this method the infant is placed between mother’s breasts in direct skin-to-skin contact because of benefit on breastfeeding, better weight gain, and lower risk of respiratory infections.

 Author,

Dr. Kumar Ankur

Benefits and Risks of Infant Massage

Many adults have been on the receiving end of a massage. How great does it feel when your tired and achy body gets to relax? Adults go for massages not only for physical but also emotional and mental relaxation. After being in work or running after kids all day, most adults deserve a good massage.

What about infants, though? Do they really need a massage? What do they really need to relax from, aren't their lives relaxing enough? While an infant massage may be relaxing it is also a great bonding experience between mothers and babies or fathers and babies.

1. What Is Infant Massage?

Infant massage has been becoming very popular not only among celebrities but with the "average Joe's" as well. Even though it's popularity has been rising in the United States of America over the past thirty years, infant massage is in no way new to other countries. As we find new information about this infant relaxation technique, we find that mother's have been massaging babies for hundreds of years.

Infant massage is exactly what it sounds like... a massage for an infant. While parents alone can attend to the baby during the massage, there are also certified infant massage therapists. Babies are usually massaged in a diaper, alone. This allows for more skin to skin contact, which studies show to be beneficial for the baby.

Babies need to be in a very relaxed mood and for optimal results should not be cranky, overtired, hungry, or irritable. Mothers, fathers, or whomever is attending to the baby should use a baby friendly oil such as baby oil. After rubbing a small amount in between the palms, the adult then starts from the head and sweeps downward towards the face and neck. This happens in a cupping motion. The adult uses gentle touches and massage techniques massaging downward towards the arms, tummy, legs, and feet.

Many times if the child has issues the adult with show special attention to that body part. If the baby is colic, for instance, the adult may take care of the tummy more so than any other body part. Using two fingers, the adult will use a circular motion on the stomach. This allows for gas bubbles to decrease. The adult may also bend the knees up towards the belly allowing excess air to release.

The massage techniques may include Indian milking methods, Chinese pediatric strokes, and Swedish massage methods.

2. Who are the Best candidates for Infant Massage?

The best candidates for an infant massage, for obvious reasons, would be babies. As with any kind of natural therapy or healing technique, one must take care as to who actually goes for an infant massage. Infants should be in the best health possible.

The infant's pediatrician should be consulted about the massage. At this time benefits can be discussed as well as potential risks involved. Although, the infant may have a health issue he or she may still be able to partake in an infant massage. As we see with the benefits, an infant massage has to potential to help alleviate some infant health symptoms.

3. What are the Benefits?

Studies have shown that human touch can help a child grow and develop at a faster and healthier rate. 

Many doctors now persuade mothers, fathers, and caregivers to participate in Kangaroo Care when a baby is born prematurely. Even when the baby is born at a normal delivery date, many parents still take part in Kangaroo Care which is skin-to-skin contact.

Infant massage, like Kangaroo Care, involves skin-to-skin contact and human touch. Benefits of infant massage include:

* Baby feels more at ease and more relaxed

* Decrease in gas and relief of colic

* Studies show an increase in weight gain

* Studies show that the immune system of a baby improves

* Communication increases between caregiver and baby

* There is evidence of improved brain growth

* Improves baby's sleep patterns

Evidence shows that the benefits are not only for the babies but for the caregivers as well. Infant massage is shown to improve the bonding experience as well as relieve stress for parents. This is especially true for mothers who have been diagnosed with post-partum depression.

4. What are the Risks?

While no risks have been shown regarding infant massage if done properly, there has also been little study done about the risks possibly involved. The only risk really shown at this point is the fear that the infant massage will result in overstimulation of the infant. Benefits are shown to hold the upper hand, though when evaluating the risks.

Whoever is attending to the baby during the massage must take care not to massage too hard or vigorously as this can harm the baby. If the mother, father, or caregiver does not feel comfortable with the infant massage then he or she can have a licensed infant massage therapist to tend to the baby. Another option is for the parents and caregivers to take classes or lessons which can help them learn the infant massage techniques.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate health care provider.

Author,

Yodle

Ways To Care For Your New Born Baby.

So you are a first time parent! Congratulations! You may already be dreading those loud cries in the middle of the night and the nappy changing hassles, don't worry as we list a few things which you need to be sure of, as a first time parent.

This one is a short, quick and to-the-point- guide that can help you deal with every mood your baby shows.

To make your baby sleep 

 

This is the most difficult, dreadful and traumatic experiences of first time parents. According to experts, an infant needs at least 16 hours of sleep per day to be counted as healthy and active. Some of the things you can do-

• Keep him engaged in activities in the day, so that he would get good sleep in the night. Else, you can reduce the day time sleep. 

• Get him accustomed to a bedtime routine, so that his body performs the task automatically when it is time for it. 

• Ensure he is comfortable when it is bedtime. Ensure to change nappies, feed him milk, and clothe him right and off the lights. When his stomach is full, he will sleep better. 

• Don't rush to your baby the moment you hear a sound from the bedroom, he may simply be squirming in his sleep, but if you he cries or shows inconvenience, gently reassure him of your presence.

To massage your baby

 

Your mum still remembers the aged maid who specialized in giving body massages to kids, including you. And now, the same maid, has been called to massage your baby, this comforts you as she is tried and tested.

Yes, as baby massage is important for healthy growth and nourishment, it is important that you get it done who knows it best. But at home, too, you can give your baby a gentle massage -

• Find a carpeted floor in a warm room. Simply lay baby on a soft fabric and warm a little baby oil and gently massage the baby's chest and tummy -- stroking across the shoulders, downward movement on the arms and legs and upward movements on the back. 

• Be gentle, yet firm. 

• Sing or speak to your baby while you are at it, so that the baby's mind gets diverted from the massage to your lip movement. 

• Do not oil baby's palms or fingers for the fear of the kid putting them in their mouths or eyes. 

• Do not massage the baby just before or after feeding, or when the baby is ill. Do not wake the baby up for a massage. Avoid rashes, wounds or areas where the baby has got his injections or vaccines as it may hurt.

To change nappies

 

Diapers are a boon, for parents, for babies and for all others who are close to both of them! But though diapers have made life easier for all, these can sometimes be a cause of worry for parents, especially when a diaper becomes the cause of skin problems, including rashes and eczema in infants.

But most of the diaper rashes can be treated at home, just remember to-

• Switch to dye-free diapers as an allergy to dyes in the diapers can cause a reaction. 

•  Check and change diapers frequently, especially if they are wet or soiled.

• Dry the diaper area properly after a bath. Wash the diaper area with mild fragrance-free cleanser or plain water. If the rash is severe, use a squirt bottle to cleanse without rubbing. 

• Let the diaper area air-dry fully before putting on a fresh diaper. Apply powder.

To stop you baby from crying 

T

This is a problem every parent faces. And you try everything possible to ensure your baby stops crying. You have tried all that you could, you feeded your baby, rocked and rolled, talked and sang to him/her, changed the wet and soiled nappy with a dry one, yet, no difference? Try these-

• Burp- For the first three or four months, you want to make sure you can get your baby to expel any gas they may have - even if they are breast fed. Gently pat and stroke the back upwards, walk up and down the stairs while trying to burp them. 

• Set a routine- this will make the baby's body clock set, and will not confuse the bay with regard to his/her sleep times and feed times, play times and other times! A good amount of daytime and night time sleep will not make the baby irritable. 

• Try Music- Some babies may be distracted from crying with music, even just the sound of a rattle may be enough. 

• Show visuals- taking a round around the house, showing stars, showing pictures from an ‘animal book', showing mobiles or other electronic items can divert attention 

• Massage your baby - Try stroking your baby using rhythmical movements. Many babies enjoy their backs or heads being touched. 

• Let go- There are opinions, that say that babies cry to vent out things from their past birth and hence, if everything else fails one should let them cry for a few minutes, after which they would become quiet. See, if this works for you too!

To bathe your baby

 

Chances for your baby to become dirty, besides the diaper changes, are mild. Moreover, natural oils protect a new born baby's skin, but too frequent bathing removes the natural oils leaving the baby's skin vulnerable to any potential allergen, thereby triggering a reaction like eczema. For the first month or so, a sponge bath two or three times a week will keep your baby safely clean. And you can keep cleaning the baby's mouth and diaper area in between bathing days. Limit your use of baby skin products. If necessary, use only a small amount of lotion on dry skin areas.To read more about Ways to Care for your New Born Baby

Author,

Medimanage

Identifying Heartburn in Babies

Although aptly called 'heartburn', this ailment really is not really a heart problem. It is often called such because individuals who suffer from heartburn often complain of a burning sensation in their breast area. Heartburn is also referred to esophageal disorder. Seeing an adult suffering from heartburn is bad enough but more so if it were your little tykes who suffer from such ailment.

In infants, heartburn is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This is a common ailment in babies below two years old. In babies, symptoms of heartburn include cough, restlessness during sleep and irritability. The cause of heartburn at this early age may be attributed to stomach discomfort. An infant's stomach may have acidic contents that may move towards to the esophagus. A weak esophageal sphincter, which is the muscle that connects the stomach, may be weak and cause such reflux.

A reflux simply means that intestinal fluids flow the wrong way. In infants, acid from their stomach is reverted back to his food pipe. When this happens, the symptoms of heartburn would soon follow.

You would often notice that your child would often spit out food or even vomit. They often cry out after a meal and produce a burping sound. If this happens, hold your baby upright when feeding him, this will keep the milk down his digestive system. Using a baby sling can also be of help.

Since heartburn is a disease related to food intake, it is important to keep watch of you're the food your child takes. Babies mostly rely on milk as food; you can give them milk in smaller amounts but on a regular basis. If you already started feeding your babies rice cereal, make it less diluted and thicken the formula.

Heartburn is more evident in premature babies. As in most cases, mothers play a vital role in the health of their babies. When either of the parents smoke, then your child will suffer the results of passive smoking. As always, breastfeeding is a great advantage for your baby' health and can prevent heartburn. Immediately head to your pediatrician at the first symptom of heartburn. Treatment can be administered, though in time, children would eventually outgrow heartburn.

Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite Shop - Offering Self Help CDs [http://www.yourfavouriteshop.com] - Visit Health Resources for more articles.

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Organic Baby Care

Shopping for organic baby care products may seem somewhat baffling, but it is not. Keep these shopping tips in mind when searching for your baby's next diaper, toy, health product, or meal.

Choosing Organic Baby Toys

When shopping for organic baby toys, avoid phthalates that are known to cause cancer and are associated with infertility. In addition, keep in mind that polyvinyl chloride (also known as PVC) is found in plastic baby toys. PVC has also been linked to many health ailments including cancer.

 Lastly, consider the materials that plush toy is made of before it makes its way into the nursery. 

Mostly likely (unless otherwise indicated) stuffed animals contain synthetic fibers that contain petrochemicals. While the industry standards find this acceptable, organic mommies think twice about the idea of letting their babies roll around with a toy that gives off toxic gas even after being washed.

Organic Diapers

Making the switch from disposable to organic diapers is a major lifestyle change. In the long run, however, cloth diapers are not only environmentally friendly, but baby friendly as well. Before deciding on which is best for your family, consider this - disposable diapers are filled with gels, pesticides, chlorine, and other toxins. These toxins can be absorbed through the skin of the baby and straight into the blood stream. Once a disposable diaper is thrown away, it takes up to 500 years for it to break down in a landfill. Compare that figure to organic cloth diapers that can be used as many as 150 times and then recycled into hand rags.

If cloth diapers are a bit too much to take on, consider a combination of the two. You can utilize chlorine-free disposable diapers for outings and bedtime and reserve the cloth diapers for times when you and your baby are at home. Remember, every little bit helps.

Organic Skin Care For Baby

Did you know that a baby's skin exceptionally thinner than yours? In fact, your baby has skin that is five times thinner than the average adult. Keep this fact in mind when considering what skin care products to use on your child. Ask your pediatrician to refer you to a baby skin care product that is both safe and age-appropriate.

Organic Labels

Perhaps you have already seen the USDA "Organic" label in stores and on baby products. When you buy USDA Organic labels, you are purchasing an item that is free of antibiotics, genetically modified organisms, food additives, pesticides, irradiation, and other synthetic chemicals that are dangerous to your baby. Organic labels can be found on a variety of items including cotton, skin care items, and food.

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Natural Baby Care For Your Newborn

With ever newer technology these days we oftentimes forget that the old ways of doing things had a lot going for them, and that old fashioned techniques were more natural. This applies to raising babies as well. Natural methods are the best way to care for your child since they use no chemicals and rely on what comes naturally to you. Using fewer chemicals both in the home and on your baby is a great way to get started with natural baby care.

Bath time can be a great way for you to relax and spend some time with your little one. Just use caution when choosing natural baby care products. Even though a product might advertise itself as all natural, you should read the fine print with care. Make sure that all the ingredients are all truly natural and there are no chemical additives.

Products such as baby shampoo aren't essential for keeping your baby clean. You can simply use soap and water at bath time to wash your baby's hair. While some parents choose to give their baby a bath in a sink or bucket, using a proper baby bathtub will help make bath time easier and more fun.

When bath time is over, give your baby a massage to help him fall asleep more easily and restfully. 

Teach yourself some infant massage techniques and find out about its benefits. You will only apply very gentle pressure to your baby, but both baby and parents will enjoy the results. You and your baby both will get more sleep. Use natural baby care oils that will not harm your newborn's sensitive skin.

Natural baby care also involves using only clothing made from natural fibers. Cotton is your best choice, as it is the most comfortable and breathable material for babies. Stay away from synthetic materials, which can often be uncomfortable to your baby's skin and can lead to allergies in some cases.

Using natural fibers should also be a rule when it comes to bedding. Generally, baby bedding is manufactured from natural fibers, but you should still be cautious and check the label before buying anything. And be sure to use an all natural soap when laundering your baby's bedding and clothing.

A baby sling is another way to care for your baby naturally. These devices allow you to keep your baby close to your body while still leaving your hands free to do other things.

First time parent? You could probably use some good advice. Check out Babies for Beginners for information to help you raise your new baby.

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Your Babies Health Requires Nutrients

It is not that difficult.

It does not matter whether the baby is breast fed or fed through bottles, it is very important that the baby gets the right amount of nutrients required for the body. All those women who use breast feeding for their baby must eat very healthy food to pass on the nutrients to their child. Breast feeding should be done only when there is a need and not forced upon the baby. Some doctors also suggest breast feeding moms to give vitamin D supplements to their babies. There also other doctors who say that taking the baby outdoors for at least 60 minutes a week will give it the required vitamins. Ensure that you consult the doctor before.

For the first four months, babies get all the nutrients they require through their mother's milk. There is also a supplement that is used in America that gives the baby all the nutrients it requires. After four months, mothers start giving solid foods like cereals to their child, even though all the necessary nutrient requirements are satisfied by the breast milk. Parents give cereal to their child, which is rich in iron as that would prevent any kind of allergies for the baby. After the cereal part is over, some fruits and vegetables are also added to the baby's diet to satisfy all the other nutrient requirements. Whenever new food is added, ensure that it is done in a gradual and slow pace.

Between the sixth and ninth month, the child should be given different foods but the basic nutrient requirement of the child should always be satisfied. Milk should be the prime food for the child.

By the end of the ninth month, non vegetarian items can be introduced in the diet and after one year, parents can even include food that they normally eat but they must ensure that they do not go overboard and give junk food to the child. By now children would enjoy eating the food and would get used to it. Give food to the baby which the baby does not find it difficult to chew. At this stage the nutrients requirement of the child would be satisfied by both the food and the milk.

After the first birthday of the baby, it is advisable to switch over to whole milk from formula milk. The fat in the whole milk is very vital for the health of the baby and it should be continued till the second year is finished. The practice of breast feeding should not be stopped after a particular period. It should be stopped only when the mother thinks that it is no more required for the baby.

Between 12-24 months, milk should become a regular part of the baby's diet and it should receive at least 1000 - 4000 calories a day. As per the directions of the USDA, a kid would require whole grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and dairy as a regulation in their diet.

Rhonda Reyes is a writer for My Baby Bedding Shop and is the loving parent of two. One boy and one girl. Her children are all grown up now but she loves writing about children and giving tips on certain scenarios that parents are faced with along the way. Rhonda sure hopes that you have found this article helpful. Rhonda would like for you to check out her Glenna Jean Crib Bedding [http://www.mybabybeddingshop.com/shopbybrand/glennajean]. She would also like for you to take a look at the Glenna Jean McKenzie [http://www.mybabybeddingshop.com/shopbybrand/glennajean/cribbedding-glennajeanmckenzie] Collection.

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Bonding with Baby

Most parents bond instantly with their babies, an intense feeling that makes you want to hold and love and protect them. For some parents, this can take a little longer, especially if there has been a difficult pregnancy or labour.

Research indicates that babies who develop fulfilling relationships with their parents tend to grow into secure, well-adjusted adults and even perform better at school.

Bonding is a natural process but there are many ways to help out, especially if you provide focused, responsive care in a nurturing environment.

Breastfeeding - a breastfed baby will receive regular close contact with its 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.

Touch - a baby's first communication is via touch, so hold your baby close, cradle her in your arms or use a sling if you need to get on with chores.

Massage - a more structured method of touching your baby and a way of promoting physical and mental growth as well as the parent/baby bond.

Singing - no matter how tone deaf you may think you are, your baby will love to hear your voice. The rhythmic nature of nursery rhymes is very soothing and is believed to help with language development.

Talk - although she may not understand what you are saying, your baby will love to hear you chatting away about what you are doing, whether it is changing her nappy, peeling the potatoes or folding the washing. She will gain confidence from the fact that you are always near and always focused upon her, even if the household chores need to be done.

Pull a face - even very young babies are fascinated by facial expressions.

Regular activities - such as nappy changing time, are a wonderful time to show your baby just how much you love them. Talk to her, kiss her tummy, tell how what lovely dimples she has, how much you love her smile. This will take your mind off what a messy job it is and show that you love her, no matter what.

Slow down - 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.

Arabella Greatorex is the owner of http://www.naturalnursery.co.uk, an online store selling organic and fairly traded products for families including organic clothing and nappies, fairly traded toys and natural toiletries.

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