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How to Breastfeed a Baby
Doctors recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months for every newborn, as breastmilk is believed to provide the best nourishment to the baby. Besides, the hormones released during breastfeeding help the mother by speeding up post-partum recovery. However many mothers find it difficult to breasteed their newborn because of various reasons, a few of which may involve lack of knowledge about the correct way to breastfeed. It is important to know the correct way of doing so in order to address other common concerns that arise during breastfeeding.
Video: Best Breastfeeding Positions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RhB7h8118E
How To Get Started
Strange though it may sound, both baby and their mother may need some guidance as they try to start nursing. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
How to Sit?
It is important that you make yourself as comfortable as possible so that you can focus completely on your child. Use pillows for support and place your body in a natural and comfortable position. If you are recovering from a C-section, doctors might also advise you to lie on your side and place the baby next to you. Irrespective of the position you choose to breastfeed in, remember to not get your spine in an awkward bend while sitting or lying down as it will lead to pain and discomfort.
Once you are ready, it is time to feed your baby and the first step towards doing so is to ensure a good latch. Latching refers to the way your baby places her mouth on your breast. A good latch is vital because it ensures a good sucking action and a steady flow of milk. It is also necessary as it stops air from entering your baby's food pipe which could potentially cause stomach issues or even colic.
How to Latch Baby on the Breast?
The first step is to hold the baby on her side so that she is facing you and ensure her belly is touching yours. Use pillows to prop up the baby, if required.
Cup your breast and then try to place thumb and fingers around your areola.
Keep your nipple between her nose and upper lip. An alternate way is to gently touch your baby's cheek with your nipple. This usually makes her instinctively turn towards it with her mouth open, helping her to get close to it.
Tilt your baby’s head back and slowly use your nipples to tickle her lips so that she opens the mouth.
Help your baby scoop the breast into her mouth by placing her lower jaw first. Ensure that her latch begins well below the nipple.
Gently lift her head forward.. This automatically places her upper jaw firmly on the breast .
Make sure that the entire nipple and at least 1 1/2 inches of the areola are latched in the baby’s mouth.
The baby’s natural feeding instincts are strong and she is likely to respond to the encouragement given by you. However, in case your baby does not respond to this practice, you can try the following techniques.
Latching Techniques for Successful Breastfeeding
In the beginning, it might take a few attempts to get your baby into the right position. Here are some more latching techniques for breastfeeding:
If your baby isn’t reacting by opening her mouth, try to squeeze some drops of milk onto her lips from your breast.
In case your baby turns away from the offered nipple, gently stroke the cheek on the side nearest to you. This makes babies turn towards the stimulus and start sucking (rooting) motions. This is also known as rooting reflex and it makes the baby turn her head toward your breast thus aiding in the breastfeeding process.
When your baby is looking for the breast with her mouth open, remember to always hold her up and close to your breast instead of leaning over her.
Ensure that the latch is correct by confirming that your baby's mouth is covering both your nipple and the areola.
A correct latch helps in smooth flow of milk where as an improper latch results in sucking on just the nipple which makes nipples sore and cracked and restricts milk flow.
It is a good latch if you feel your baby's chin and the tip of her nose touching your breast. Do check and ensure that baby’s lips are flared outwards.
During feeding in the initial days keep checking the latch from time to time to ensure that the baby isn’t sucking on her own lower lip or tongue.
As the baby starts feeding, you should be able to see a steady pattern of suck-swallow-breath-repeat. It is also visible through a similar rhythmic motion in baby’s cheek and jaw. You can also hear some sounds of swallowing or gulping.
If the latch-on hurts or if the child is having trouble latching on, break the suction. A baby’s latch can be very strong and one should never force her off her mother’s breast. The latch is broken best by gently putting your little finger between your baby’s gum and you breast. The little one is most likely to protest the loss of milk with a bout of crying. Don’t worry about that and start the latching process afresh.
How to Ensure if the Latch is a Good One?
After practicing the above techniques, it is important to double check if the latch is good and your baby is comfortable. Following are some signs you may observe to ensure the same.
You can hear your baby swallowing with ease,
Pull down your baby's bottom lip gently and if you are able to see her tongue properly, it is indicative that your baby is latching just fine.
If you do not hear clicking or smacking sounds, it is a sign of a good latch.
Your baby's chin is touching your breasts.
Your baby comes off the breast without leaving your nipple flattened or distorted in shape.
At the end of the feed, your baby makes any indicative gesture or sound of satisfaction.
Positions That Work While Breastfeeding
Along with the correct latch, it is also important that the mother and child are both positioned correctly for feeding. Both need to be comfortable and relaxed.
Here are some positions to try:
1. Cross Cradle Hold: Use This Hold for Early Feeding
This position is quite common and perhaps the most helpful for new moms as it allows them to latch their babies correctly right after their delivery. It could seem a little awkward, however practicing this postion correctly can prove to be very helpful and beneficial in the breastfeeding process for both mom and the baby.
Sit straight in a chair which has armrests.
Hold your baby with botyh your tummy in contact across your body.
Use the crook of the arm which is opposite to the breast you are feeding the baby from to cradle her, using the palm to support the back of the head.
Use the free hand to support your breast from the underside using a u-shaped hold, and guide it to the baby’s mouth.
2. Cradle Hold
A cradle hold can be practiced once your baby is a few weeks old and you are more used to holding her while breastfeeding.
Sit straight and hold your baby on her side across your lap with her face and body towards you.
Try to cushion your baby’s head, back and bottom with help of your arm.
Hold your breast with opposite hand and press it gently so that the nipple is directed at baby’s nose.
3. Football Hold
This position is inspired from the American football or also fondly known as Rugby. This position works well if you have had a C-sec or if you need to breastfeed twins
• Hold your baby with your arm under her.
• Hold her head and neck with your hand.
• Let your baby spread her feet towards your back on the same side from which you are feeding.
• You can opt for a pillow to support your arm, and use your free hand to direct the baby’s mouth towards your breast.
4. Side-Lying Position
This position is particularly beneficial after a caesarean delivery or if your body feels sore after delivery.
Lie on your side with your baby on her side so that you and the baby face each other.
Try to position your baby’s head at your lower breast, head in line with your nipple.
Use your lower arm to support her head and the free hand to cup your breast, if required.
5. Reclining Hold
This position is again very useful for moms who are recovering from a C-section or those who find sitting up a little uncomfortable. Moms who nurse their babies in bed can also practice this hold.
Lie back comfortably on a couch or bed. Use pillows for support ensuring that your upper back, neck and head are comfortable.
Make your baby lie on her tummy, straight on your chest with the mouth just below your nipple.
The baby will naturally seek out the nipple. If required, you can encourage her further by cupping your breast and pointing it towards the little one’s mouth.
Best Tips for Breastfeeding a Toddler
By the time your baby enters toddlerhood, she would have already become accustomed to certain breastfeeding positions. At this stage, most babies enjoy acrobatic breastfeeding where they try to breastfeed upside down, with their feet in the air, supported by one foot, wiggling and twisting and turning and much more. Some of the breastfeeding tips for toddlers are:
Instead of letting the baby try different silly positions, you can give her something to hold and play with while nursing. You can also try wearing a nursing necklace to bring your baby’s attention on something other than acrobatics.
You may also try speaking to your child or perhaps read a book. Songs or finger play might also help to some extent.
If you don’t want your baby to change positions frequently, just be firm and tell her, but keep your voice low. Even a hug could work to make your point. You may also warn her that you will stop the feeding by putting the baby down and explaining the reason to her again.
It is best to breastfeed a toddler before leaving home for a public place. Always carry a snack or juice which you can offer when your baby cries or screams for a feeding.
How Long to Breastfeed a Newborn
Typically, one session lasts 20 to 30 minutes when you first breastfeed a newborn, but it could even stretch to 60 minutes. Remember that each baby is different and you can’t really fix any time limit on each feed. Normally, there is a need to feed for longer in the beginning and during growth spurts. It is easier to feed your baby on demand rather than following a breastfeeding schedule.
Once your baby is skilled at nursing, she may just take five minutes at your breast. Here are some signs that would help you understand if the baby is well-fed:
If your breasts feel softer after the feeding session, and your baby seems relaxed and satisfied then it should mean she is well-fed.
Sometimes, babies sleep when the mother is feeding them. If this happens, just tickle under the baby’s arms, on the feet, neck or ears to wake her up during the feed. You may also switch breasts and also burp the baby to stop her from taking a nap.
How Long Should I Breastfeed
It is recommended that you breastfeed your baby exclusively for the first six months, and steer clear of any food or water. Post that, breastfeeding can continue alongside a solid diet for as long as the baby wishes. Breastfeeding is more than just providing milk- It is a way to strengthen the bond between the mother and the baby and a source of security to the child. Continue for as long as you are both comfortable.
How Often to Breastfeed a Baby
Babies aren’t hungry at birth, and their appetite grows only around the third day. Therefore, initially, the demand will be less, and you will need to initiate or push for the process.
In the first few weeks, your baby needs to be breastfed every two-to three hours. This means that over 24 hours you would need to nurse almost 8 to12 times. However, many people believe that newborn breastfeeding should take place on demand and only when your baby is hungry instead of following a schedule. We recommend that you consult your doctor and a lactation expert and follow what he/she says.
As the baby grows, her stomach grows too. With time, she will start taking longer feeds, and the frequency will come down.
Use these tips and trust your instincts for a rewarding nursing experience. Happy nursing!
Also Read:
Breastfeeding for Beginners
Breastfeeding at Work
Breastfeeding Myths and Facts Read more
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Surprising Qualities That Are Unique To Babies Born During The Winter
Brrr...apart from sweaters, hot chocolate and cuddling in blankets, winter brings along with it festivities and excitement too. If your baby's due date or birthday fall in winter, then this time of the year is a series of endless celebration for you! Your winter baby is the apple of your eye and makes you feel warm and happy, even on the coldest days. But did you know that being born in winter gives your baby some qualities that are exclusive to only winter babies? Excited to know them?
Winter babies have endless festivals and celebrations around their birthday. Navratri and Diwali are still fresh in memory and there's Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year to look forward to. The skies are grey, the winds are cold, but that spot of occasional sunshine makes everything feel more beautiful than ever. In this setting, babies who are born are sure to imbibe some qualities of the season! As per science, there are some traits - both personality and health related - that are special to babies whose birthday falls during the winter months, i.e. typically November to March, if you live in India.
Here's a list of qualities that are unique to winter-born babies - some good and some that demand extra care and caution from your end. Find out now how many of these are coming true for your child!
1. They are Born Intelligent
Yes, it has been established that winter babies have greater brain power! This is one of the most common traits observed among winter babies. This conclusion has been derived from a number of comparative studies through the decades. As to why this happens, scientists are not very sure yet, but nutrients derived from seasonal foods in the winter are likely to play a role. So, if your little winter baby has already begun asking questions and taking interest in intellectual activities, encourage him as much as you can. This is only natural for him!
2. They Have a Happier and More Cheerful Temperament
Winter babies are also known to have a summer disposition – meaning they are more cheerful than summer babies! This is because seasonal changes have an effect on chemical substances in the brain which control mood – serotonin and dopamine. Babies born in summer have been observed to be much more irritable than ones born in cooler months. After all, even babies like pleasant, non-humid weather and celebrations around them!
3. They are More Well-Behaved Than Other Kids Their Age
If your baby was born in the winter and you notice that he is docile and follows instructions obediently, don't be surprised. Winter babies have been observed to be more well-behaved than other babies, and less likely to develop behavioural problems later in life. Curious, eh? But certainly very good news!
4. They Often Have Larger Body Frames
Don't mess with winter babies! They are known to have larger frames than other babies and also tend to weigh a little more. Even their heads tend to be larger heads than other babies of the same age who were born in summer. The most likely reason behind this phenomenon is that a mother who gives birth in spring or summer spends the last phase of her pregnancy in winter, and this is a time when she may eat fewer vitamins. This is something that mothers who deliver in early winter escape from.||
5. They Have a Greater Risk of Neurological Disorders
One of the primary risks winter babies face is that of neurological problems. While your winter baby may be good-natured, he may be prone to disoders related to the mood and the nervous system later in life. This happens mainly because a baby born in the winter is not exposed to some much-needed vitamins that sunlight provides. Here's a list of essential nutrients for your kids and the foods that can provide them - make sure you keep this in mind!
6. Their Bones May Be Weaker Than Their Fellow Children
This is one of the most common prolems faced by many kids born in the winter months. Again, this is due to the lack of sunlight in winter. Mothers of winter babies also do not recieve enough Vitamin D from sunglight and this is the Vitamin that strengthens bone structure. To make up for this, you need to be extra careful about your baby's diet and feed him vitamin-rich foods that will up his bone strength. Read this quick starter guide on ensuring that your baby gets adequate amounts of this important vitamin.
7. They May Be More Prone to Food Allergies
Uh-oh first weaker bones and now this! In a rather distressing observation, it has been found that winter babies are also prone to food-related allergies. You need to make sure you test your little one for these allergies and keep him away from any triggers. While not all winter bubs testify to this being true, of course, it is still a good idea to get your baby tested if you notice any problems. He will then be able to eat whatever he wishes if the tests are clear!
So, while there are certain problems your winter baby may be prone to, he will surely be an upbeat, positive little fellow who brings you tons of joy! Besides, a winter baby means that you get to enjoy all that extra snuggly cuddling without any sweatiness. And who can deny that little babies are even more adorable when all bundled up for the winter?
Make the most of your time with your little darling and remember that winter or summer, your love and care will help him overcome all odds! Read more
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How to Get Rid of Pimples on the Chin
Pimples on the chin are very common and they appear because of hormonal imbalance in the body. They look ugly and are painful. If you are searching for ways to get rid of them, we are here to help. In this post, we shall be discussing some effective ways to get rid of stubborn acne or pimples on the chin.
What Causes Acne on the Chin?
Before we move ahead to discuss the ways to treat hormonal acne on chin, it is important to establish the reasons for the same. Well, following are some causes that can result in acne on the chin:
1. Stress
Psychological stress is one of the major factors that may result in this condition. When you become stressed, the sebum production increases which can lead to acne on your face and chin. Also, a lack of sleep can also lead to stress and insulin resistance, which can result in an acne bout.
2. Menstruation
If you notice sudden eruptions on your chin that is close to your period date, it is possibly due to the increased levels of progesterone and estrogen in the body. Both these hormones can lead to excess production of oil because the increased level of hormones triggers the sebaceous glands.
3. Taking Birth Control Pills
If you are taking birth control pills, it can lead to decreased levels of androgen in the body. However, when you stop taking the pills, these levels can hike leading to excess production of sebum and thus acne breakouts.
How to Get Rid of Pimples on the Chin
Here are some common ways of treating pimples under the chin or on the chin:
Medical Treatment
There are many medical treatment options available; however, your doctor may recommend you the one that is best suited for you. Some of the options include the following:
1. Antibiotics: Oral antibiotic medicines can be given to reduce the intensity and prevent the condition from aggravating.
2. Topical Ointments: There are many creams, gels and ointments available that can help in easing the inflammation, unclogging the pores, reducing the redness, etc.
3. Laser or Light Therapy: One of the most effective treatment options for curing mild to moderate acne is through laser or light therapy. This non-invasive method for treating acne kills the bacteria and helps reduce skin inflammation.
4. Contraceptive Pills: If there is a severe hormonal imbalance, your doctor may prescribed birth control pills to regulate the hormonal imbalance which leads to acne on the chin.
5. Surgical Extraction: Sometimes, the acne may become cystic and the nodules may become large, which may lead to intense pain. Under such circumstances, the doctor may recommend surgical removal of acne.
6. Chemical Peels: A qualified skin care specialist or a doctor can perform this treatment that involves reducing the appearance of acne, acne scars, pimples and blackhead by using chemical peels.
7. Accutane: Usually, when other resorts fail to work or do not lead to satisfying results, your doctor may recommend this medication to cure your acne bout.
Dietary Tips
Apart from opting for medical treatment, you can also make certain dietary changes to improve your condition or keep this ailment at bay. Here are a few dietary tips that you should keep in mind:
1. Eat Green Veggies: Including green veggies like broccoli, spinach, kale etc. in your diet can help cleanse the toxins and bacteria from the bloodstream and digestive tract.
2. Eat Foods Rich in Probiotics: Including foods such as yoghurt, kimchi and other such foods that are loaded with probiotics are great for keeping oxidative stress and inflammation under control.
3. Include Foods Rich In Beta-Carotene: Beta-carotene is part of Vitamin A that is present in many food items that you consume. It gets converted into retinol by your body for promoting healthy cell growth, for balancing the collagen levels, and other such functions. Therefore, including foods such as mango, carrots, apricots etc. is a great idea for keeping acne under control.
4. Include Foods Rich in Zinc: Zinc is an effective ingredient that helps in killing the acne-causing bacteria. Include foods such as chicken, shellfish, nuts, etc. to increase the zinc levels in your body.
Some Other Tips That You Can Try
Here are some other remedies for pimples on the chin that you can try:
1. Apply Ice: Apply ice on the acne lesions as it may help in reducing the pain and inflammation.
2. Do Not Touch or Prick: Do not touch the acne as it may increase the infection and aggravate the condition. Never pop or squeeze the acne as it can not only make it worse, but it may also lead to acne scars.
3. Use a Mild Cleanser: Use a mild cleanser to wash your wash. Opt for the ones that contain glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide.
4. Clean Your Cell Phone: Your phone is not something that will cause acne, but if it is dirty, it may aggravate your condition. This is because the bacteria present on the screen can get in contact with the skin and worsen the cystic acne on chin and jawline.
5. Apply Acne Ointments: If the bout of acne is not very severe, you can opt for any good OTC medicine to control the inflammation.
How to Prevent Acne on the Chin
Here are some ways of preventing pimples under the chin or on the chin:
Do not wash your face for more than two to three times a day. Excess washing may lead to dry skin, which can make your skin to produce more oil.
Do not use harsh chemical products on your skin as it can worsen the acne bout.
If you are using an alcohol-based cleanser, astringent, or other such products that can make your skin dry, make sure to moisturise your skin with a gentle moisturiser to prevent dryness.
Avoid using heavy makeup. If you have to use makeup, make sure you remove it nicely and there are no traces of makeup on the skin.
Never touch, pop, or press the pimples and it can flare up the condition.
Do not change your treatment frequently. If you have opted for a certain treatment option, stick to it for a few weeks to see the result before you opt for another one.
Refrain from consuming foods and drinks that can aggravate your acne. Make sure you opt for healthier food options.
Use products that will not lead to clogged pores.
Make sure you wear an oil-free sunscreen on a daily basis.
Chin acne is not a very complicated problem and can be managed effectively by making certain changes in the diet and lifestyle. If these tips do not work, you should consult a good dermatologist for the best treatment options.
Also Read:
Home Remedies for Open Pores
Homemade Face Wash for All Skin Types
Best Fruits for Making Your Skin Glow Read more
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DIY Grass House
These super-cute grass houses are excellent to teach your kids about living as one with the natural world. Not only will this activity get them interested in gardening and plant care, but the kids will also love the delight of watching something grow, right before their eyes! Best part is – the entire family gets to come together for this one!
What you need
4-5 unused household sponges in different colours
Magic markers
Ruler/scale
A plastic storage container
Kid-friendly scissors
Craft-knife
Grass seeds (pick fast-growing ones to get quick results!)
Water bottle for spraying
Step-by-step instructions
Rinse the sponges with water to make sure they are clean.
Draw the basic outline for your house on the sponges using the ruler and magic marker.
Now, cut out the shapes using the scissors. You can let your child do this with a pair of kid-friendly scissors.
4. Spray your house with a water bottle so that it is damp through but not soaking wet.
5. Now, take a handful of grass and sprinkle it all over the sponges.
6. Add a little extra spray of water to the seeds. After all, seeds need some extra care! You can remove any excess seeds from the lid.
7. Finally, add the bottom of the container to complete your little grass-house!
8. Keep your grass-house in a warm place that gets plenty of light. Make sure you explain to your kids how grass needs warmth and sunlight to grow.
9. Now, all you have to do is wait for the grass to start growing. Check on your grass-house every day, as a family, and you will see the magic commence soon!
Messiness score
3
Level of difficulty
Medium
Parental Involvement
High
Skills enhanced
Fine motor skills, curiosity and interest in the natural world, cause and effect relationship
You Will Observe your Child Doing...
Asking questions about the world around them, practising fine motor skills for drawing lines and for using scissors, learning to come together as a family
All the Fun That Was Had
Children love seeing things grow and change, as if by magic, and when they know they have played a part, nothing could be better! The delight on your kids’ faces when the grass starts growing is something you will always cherish. Read more
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. i am 5 months pregnant n i haven't gone for check up even once still now is it okay or should I go
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
2 hours ago
A. should go. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the child
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. my baby is 2 months old and she has developed a white patch on her face. What should I do?
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. White spots on the body and face could be there sometimes, which maybe because of fungal infection or some conditions like pityriasis alba or some other factors some conditions are aggravated by dry skiniu, show a proper mousturisation is required. Also, maintain a proper hygiene and a proper assessment should be done to rule out any other causative factor
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. my baby passes stool after every feed. Is it normal?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. it's ok normal hai jj. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. how you can
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. question is incomplete please repeat ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
16 mins ago
Q. mera 37 weeks chal rhe hai pelvic area and private part me bahut pain rhta h to mujhe kya krna chahiye??? breech position hone k karan mera c - section hona hai? kindly suggest kya bed rest krna chahiye??
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
12 mins ago
A. Regarding this query, a proper guidance is required for which you can talk to your doctor and he will guide you in a correct manner for this Online Consultation can also be taken here where the expert will ghadvise you in a proper way
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
15 mins ago
Q. I m 28 week pregnant nd m suffering from lower abdomen pain since last two day is it normal or not sometime pain was quit normal nd suddenly pain was uncntrolled
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
9 mins ago
A. Weeks 12 to 28
Your womb is expanding and this can cause the ligaments to stretch. This can cause pain in your lower tummy, groin or hips on one or both sides. It is important to get checked by your GP, obstetrician or midwife if you have pain like this.
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