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Newborn Baby Care Tips in Summer
Summers are never easy for anyone, especially with the current soaring temperatures across the world. Your baby is no different, and as a new parent you are bound to be frantic and wondering how you go about keeping baby cool during the summer. Most parents have questions like- What do you feed them or how much do you bathe them? Yes, your grandmother may have some very solid home remedies for rashes, or you may be receiving other advice from various people on how to care for a newborn baby during the summer months. We’re here to help you make your way through this advice and give your little angel the care they require based on a professional input.
How Frequently should you Bathe your Newborn in the Summer?
This depends entirely on your baby and their preferences. The only thing to keep in mind here is that the water should not be cold. Neither should it be hot, ensure it is just a little warm or maybe even room temperature for a newborn baby in summer by dipping your elbow into the water. This is ideal for your baby to cool down and a couple of times a day will not make them fall sick.
Can you Use Oil for a Baby Massage?
Baby oil massages are vital for your little one’s skin and will keep their skin hydrated and cool during summer. Ensure it is an oil that suits their skin and it is washed off well. Make a note of the fact that oil can clog pores and won’t have them breathing light if kept on the baby too long. Bay oil massages stimulate the baby’s joints circulation through the body. Your little one will have a smile on their face thanks to this baby skin care in summer regime. They will take a nice, deep soothing nap that will give mommy and baby a chance to relax in the sweltering heat.
Can you Use Talcum Powder on your Baby's Skin during Summer?
The vote on this is divided when you ask mothers as a lot of people believe it can be bad for the baby and not have any cooling effects. In reality, a lot of paediatricians state talcum powder can have a cooling effect on your baby and prevent rashes caused by sweat and the friction of your little one’s body against their bedding. As a new mother, you don’t have to ponder the question- how to care for newborn baby in summer. Drop the powder into your hand and gently rub it all over you're newborn. This is to ensure they don’t breathe the powder and you do not spread excess to clog their pores.
Essential Summer Baby Care Tips
Relax and take your time adjusting to the heat. Your baby and you will find your rhythm, and you’ll enjoy the summer in peace very soon. Here are a few tips on keeping baby cool in summer.
1. Baby’s Diet
If your baby is still breastfeeding, then ensure to feed them often to keep them hydrated. If they no longer are, then they are no longer under the protection of mommy’s antibodies and need to build up their immunity. Consult your doctor on what to give them. Let them suck on fruit to cool down when it comes to food for one year baby in summer. If they have just started solids, then a couple of feeds accompanied by boiled food is ideal. Keep powdered milk on hand as the regular stuff goes bad quickly in the heat.
2. Hygienic Water
As mentioned above, at 6 months and below your little one’s immunity is low and you need to protect them. All water must be boiled and thoroughly hygienic to prevent any diseases. Keeping baby cool in summer must not compromise their health. If its bottled water, then double-check the seal and keep watch for signs of dehydration.
3. Heat Rashes
Heat rashes are quite common amongst babies in the summer. Experts recommend putting two spoons of sandalwood powder in their bath water and apply talcum powder in the manner described to keep your little one cool. Switch diapers and loose clothes if they are uncomfortable.
4. Dehydration
Dehydration can sneak up on your baby and your kids without anyone knowing. All their energy can mislead you, and you’ll never know. Monitor your baby’s urine output and for any other signs of dehydration like fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, unable to drink water, no wet diaper for more than six hours, excessive drowsiness or fussiness, dry lips and mouth, no tears when crying and dizziness.
5. Away from Mosquitoes Or Bugs
Bugs swarm around your delicate baby just as much as everyone else during the summer, but they need added protection. Use bug spray but ensure it is organic and your little one is not allergic or open to harm in any way. Use air conditioning or air coolers that are regularly cleaned to keep away mosquitos. A temperature of 25°C is ideal.
6. Choosing the Right Clothes
Loose clothes ensure your little one can breathe and their skin is not suffocated. This will avoid heat rashes and have them feeling cool. While it is the norm to cover your baby’s head with a cap in some countries, this is best avoided unless it is very hot and sunny outside. Dry their head with a damp towel if they overheat and not a dry cloth.
7. Protection from Common Illness
Your baby relies on its mother’s immunity while it is being breastfed until 6 months. Once this ends, they are unprotected and left to fend for themselves. You can help them out till their immune system grows strong enough. Ensure their diet supports a healthy protection system and they are well-hydrated. Do not let them sweat too much or leave them damp for too long. Switch in immunity-boosting food supplements recommended by your doctor as well.
8. Protection from Sunburn
A baby’s skin is incredibly delicate and subject to easy burning. When you are going out, ensure to put a little baby-friendly sunscreen on them to keep those harmful rays away. Your little one will thank you for it later. A little cap is also ideal for very hot and sunny days.
9. Room Temperature
A lot of parents are paranoid about the temperature and their baby’s susceptibility to cold and illness. Being careful with your baby goes without saying, but remember they are not as delicate as they seem. A little bit of air-conditioning never hurt anyone and a temperature of 25°C is ideal. If you are using an air cooler, ensure it is clean. A baby’s damp head must not be exposed to the AC and should be dried with a damp cloth or wet wipe.
10. Consult Doctor If Necessary
If your baby is displaying symptoms of dehydration or has a stubborn rash that does not disappear with other methods such as over-the-top treatments, consider consulting a doctor. If they seem to be really struggling with the heat and in a lot of distress, it could be another issue altogether and require medical intervention.
As is the case with every step of your baby’s development, their first summer is going to be difficult but wonderful for you. Make a note of what your little one needs, and they’ll be sure to let you know, don’t you worry! Feed them a variety of organic fruits and vegetables, don’t skimp on the juices and let loose the summer wardrobe. Also, never hesitate to consult a doctor if you feel something is not right with your baby. Your role as a parent has expanded to include a fresh responsibility that can be quite enjoyable! Read more
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Umbilical Cord around Neck: Causes, Signs & Remedies
The umbilical cord connecting the mother to the foetus is the integral part responsible for the development of the foetus. The cord is the source of blood and oxygen to the foetus as the foetus is incapable of breathing by itself. It is also a source through which nutrients, vitamins, fats and proteins are supplied to the foetus. The reverse scenario of carrying waste products and deoxygenated blood back to the mother’s body is also carried out by the umbilical cord where the waste is excreted. During pregnancy, the baby keeps moving around in the womb and this could result in the cord getting wrapped around the neck. A common occurrence during pregnancy and afflicting almost 20%-30% of expectant mothers, the nuchal cord is a complication when the umbilical cord is wrapped around the neck of the baby.
What Is Nuchal Cord?
A normal and healthy umbilical cord is well protected from blood vessel compression by a soft, gelatinous textured filling called “Wharton’s Jelly”. This substance keeps the cord free from knots regardless of how many times or directions, the baby turns in the uterus. Umbilical cord entanglement occurs when the cord entwines itself around the entire body of the fetus. However, when the umbilical cord is wrapped around neck region during pregnancy or delivery, the knot is known as the nuchal cord.
But there are times when the nuchal cord could turn into a complication. When the nuchal cord wraps around the foetus’s neck before delivery, it disrupts the blood flow, oxygen and nutrient supply from the mother to the foetus causing severe injuries or birth complications like asphyxia and cerebral palsy.
What Is Nuchal Double Cord?
A double nuchal cord, another birth complication that occurs when the baby’s umbilical cord wraps around his or her neck twice, is a less frequent occurrence. However, if it does happen the outcomes are similar. There are exceptional cases when the double nuchal cord could put a baby at risk of hypoxia, reduced blood flow and other birth complications and injuries.
The umbilical cord is generally long enough to wrap comfortably around the neck of the baby with enough length left over. Nature has essentially designed the umbilical cord to be wrapped around the neck without causing any problem. Doctors and midwives don’t mention the nuchal cord during the childbirth and just slip the cord over the baby’s head during childbirth. It is medically proven that unless there is a dire consequence posed, the cord should be left alone during birth, to avoid complications.
There have been instances when babies have the cord wrapped around their neck multiple times- this is termed as double nuchal. The babies are still fine given the design of a healthy cord. Only one in 2000 birth cases have a “true knot” in the cord which poses grave risks. In majority of cases, the cord is harmless and does not tighten, even during childbirth to pose any danger.
How Common Are Nuchal Cords?
Proven medically, nuchal cords are very common and about one in every third childbirth has this condition. Babies born under these conditions are perfectly healthy unless there is a serious complication with the cord. Most medical practitioners cannot tell if the baby has a nuchal cord even after looking at an ultrasound.
What Are Causes Of Nuchal Cord?
Unborn babies are little gymnasts and acrobats in their mother’s womb. Pregnant mothers do enjoy their moves, kicks and butts but then these movements are some of the factors resulting in a nuchal cord. There are proven biological and medically ascertained reasons as to why a cord may end up around the baby’s neck or in loose knots:
• Insufficient Wharton Jelly - A soft, gelatinous substance protecting the blood vessel inside the cord, it protects the cord against compression and too much of knotting due to the baby’s movements. An insufficient presence of this substance could result in a nuchal cord.
• Excess Of Amniotic Fluid In The Sac – Since the foetus floats in the amniotic fluid, the knots do not affect the foetus. However, if the amniotic sac is filled with too much fluid, it could pose some amount of risk.
• Length Of Umbilical Cord – A foetus generally has a long umbilical cord and in cases where nuchal cord occurs the umbilical cord is longer than usual. But medical science is yet to prove if it is the length of the umbilical cord that causes the nuchal cord or the nuchal cord that causes the umbilical cord to stretch and lengthen.
• Having More Than One Foetus (Twins Or Multiples) – The presence of two or more foetuses means an equal number of umbilical cords. With the movement of two babies in the uterus, the possibility of cords getting entangled with each other is more. This does not pose a great risk. Twins that share the same amniotic sac have cord entanglement to a certain degree. The cords could get wrapped around the neck of the other twin or their own.
• Excessive Movement By The Foetus – If the baby tends to move a lot in the uterus, there is a likelihood that the cord could get entangled around the neck. As the gestation period increases, the probability of a nuchal cord increases proportionately.
What Are the Symptoms of Umbilical Cord Around Neck
There are no proven signs or symptoms that manifest in the body of expectant mothers to prove the presence of an umbilical cord around the neck of the baby. Some potential signs are as below:
• Reduced Movement Of The Baby – If the baby seems to be moving less after 37 weeks of gestation, it could be a possible warning sign of a nuchal cord.
• Abnormal Heart Rate – During labour, the foetal monitor detects the presence of a nuchal cord by gauging the abnormal heart rate.
Ultrasound scans could detect if the baby is suffering from hypoxia or respiratory difficulties caused by a nuchal cord. However, a medical practitioner will not be able to assess the measure of risk associated with it to the life of the baby.
How Is The Diagnosis Made?
An obstetrical ultrasound diagnoses the presence of nuchal cords. An ultrasound scan can tell the doctor how many times the umbilical cord has been entwined around the neck. Doctors look at the multiple views of the fetal neck to identify a nuchal cord. If the umbilical cord is encircled around three-quarters of the fetal neck, then it is ascertained as a nuchal cord. If the cord is encircled to only half of the neck, it is classified as a trigger to the presence of a nuchal cord. With grayscale imaging, the chances of an ultrasound detecting a nuchal cord are 70%. However, with colour Doppler, nuchal cords can be detected with an accuracy and precision of 83% to 97% via an ultrasound. Nuchal chord ultrasound does give you an idea of the presence of an issue but no intervention is possible.
Treatment
The presence of the nuchal cord ascertained by ultrasound is only a possible indication of any complications that could arise in future. There is no known treatment to get rid of the problem. Doctors keep a close watch on the compression of the umbilical cord during labour or in the weeks leading to delivery to prevent any complications. Doctors recommended C Section in some cases, as nuchal cords can cause birth complications or hypoxia.
Is There Any Possibility Of Strangling The Baby Due To The Umbilical Cord?
The umbilical cord is the passage through which the baby receives oxygen to breathe. If the cord happens to be prolapsed, compressed or knotted, the supply of oxygen is reduced causing asphyxiation. This results in the umbilical cord ‘strangling’ the baby by cutting off the flow of oxygen. The presence of the umbilical cord around the baby’s neck also poses the additional risk of tightening itself around the neck during labour thereby decreasing the flow of the blood to the baby’s brain.
What Is The Relation Between Nuchal Cord And Birth Asphyxia?
The umbilical cord is about 20 inches long and about an inch in diameter with a loosely coiled appearance. The cord has two veins supplying oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood to the baby and two arteries carrying de-oxygenated and nutrient deficient blood back to the placenta. Occasionally, the umbilical cord will have only one vein and artery. The nuchal cord can be broadly classified as
• Type A Nuchal Cord - the umbilical cord is wrapped by 360 degrees around a baby’s neck.
• Type B Nuchal Cord – the cord cannot be undone and ends up as a true knot.
A common prevalence, nuchal cords can entwine and disentangle anytime. Although not known to cause any serious harm in most cases, it could lead to restricted blood flow ( ischemia), decreased oxygen (hypoxia), reduced foetal movement, diminished foetal development and complications in delivery. All of this puts the baby at risk for birth asphyxia. Ischemia and Hypoxia are caused by
• Restriction of blood flow from carotid artery if the nuchal cord is entangled tightly.
• Congestion of venous blood flow.
• Compression of the umbilical cord vessels if the nuchal cord becomes constricted against itself or the baby’s neck.
Complications And Birth Injuries
Potential complications and effects of the umbilical cord wrapped around neck include the below:
• Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy/ Birth Asphyxia : Umbilical cord wrapped around the neck can cause brain damage. It is caused by the deprivation of oxygen or limited blood flow to the baby’s brain during or near the time of birth. This leads to cell death, subsequently leading to brain damage causing disabilities like cerebral palsy, seizures, developmental and learning disabilities.
• Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) - A condition in which abnormal intrauterine growth causes a foetus smaller than average. Babies with IUGR are at risk of asphyxia and are delivered prematurely.
• Meconium Aspiration Syndrome - A medical condition in which the foetus swallows a mixture of meconium (baby’s stool) and amniotic fluid into the lungs during delivery.
How To Prevent Umbilical Cord Around Neck
With the foetus constantly moving inside the uterus, there is no sure way to prevent the umbilical cord from entangling around the neck of the fetus. The cord entwines and unwraps several times during pregnancy. Only in rare occasions, when a cord gets twisted many times, does it prove to be a “cord accident”.
Dealing With Umbilical Cord Stump
The baby does not need the umbilical cord after birth and hence it is clamped and cut off. This leaves a short stump which does not affect the baby or prove to be a source of discomfort. The stump does not have any nerve fibres that are pain-sensitive and it dries and drops off within three weeks after birth leaving a wound which heals in a couple of days. A few tips to take care of the umbilical cord stump
• Clean it with plain water and keep it dry with a clean cloth or a tissue.
• Keep the cord exposed to air to let it dry faster. The front portion of the diaper should be folded to keep it exposed to air.
• Give the baby a sponge bath until the stump falls off.
The stump must fall off on its own and you should not be tempted to pull it, even though it hangs precariously. If your child has a fever, swelling around the stump, the presence of pus or foul-smelling discharge, seek intervention from the doctor immediately.
Don’t entangle yourself in fear of the winding characteristic of the umbilical cord. Remain calm and unravel every stage of your pregnancy with joy so that your baby will feel the happiness.
Also read: How To Sleep during Pregnancy In Third Trimester - Positions & Safety Tips Read more
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Matam Sarika
Mom of a 5 m old boy
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Across the Seas On a Budget - 5 International Family Holidays!
Do you wish to travel around the world and know about different places and their inhabitants? The good news is that you don't have to settle down with a vacation to another domestic state thinking that international trips are way too expensive. Budget trips abroad are a real thing. All you need to do is get the husband and kids packing!
Fun Packed International Trips That Are Wallet-Friendly
1. The Many thrills of Thailand
Thailand has a distinct spot in the list of cheapest international vacations under Rs. 50,000. Packed with charming scenic beauty, adventure activities like enjoy scuba diving and dense tropical forests, it really has something for all ages. You can visit beautiful Buddhist temples, taste lip-smacking continental food, or give yourself a good shopping therapy. Short trips to Bangkok, Tarutao, Koh Samui, and others promise to add more value to your trip.
2. Sizzle in Singapore
Singapore can be a good option when you're tight on both monetary resources and time and looking for budget trips abroad. This destination offers a blend of recreational holidays, leisure, and shopping alike. Do not miss the night safari—a thrilling trip to wildlife habitats in the dark will make Singapore all the more stunning. Spend a night at Marina Bay to enjoy more and at an affordable cost.
3. The Mystique of Sri Lanka
The charm of this country is such that it lingers in your heart for a long time. Apart from beautiful white beaches and alluring landscapes, you can also explore many world heritage sites. Lying in close proximity to India, Sri Lanka makes you feel completely at home. And what’s more, it packs in many tasty delights for seafood lovers too. Don’t forget to visit the world famous historic city Kandy in Sri Lanka.
4. Get hung up on Hong Kong
A visit to Hong Kong will put you smack dab in the most electrifying atmosphere. If you love to travel around to capture beauty through your lenses, then this is a place to die for. Known for offering postcard views to tourists, Hong Kong offers the world’s biggest Disneyland as a recreational retreat for your kids. You must visit Lantau Island, Central District, Stanley Market, Nathan Road, Happy Valley, Cheung Chau Island and Sai Kung.
5. Sensuous appeal of Seychelles
This African island nation is just the right place for couples. Getaway to this wonderful land known for its natural beauty. Seychelles offers rejuvenating moments of unwinding on miles of sun-drenched beaches, in turquoise waters, and under the blue skies with spectacular mountains peaking in the background. Have a romantic time with your better half and fall in love all over again!
Embark on your journey on these cheapest international vacations under Rs. 50000 and without worrying over expenses. Travelling far and wide doesn't mean you must spend tons of money! Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. I am having pain on my right breast while breastfeeding. Latching position is correct. it is a mix of burning sensation and pain. Pain lasts for few minutes after breastfeeding also
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. nipcare ointments 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 Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. When baby movement starts??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. 5-6 months 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 Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
4 hours ago
Q. hello dr..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. the levels are on the lower side. 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
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
2 hours ago
Q. Hi.. Priyanka kalra doctor..I am 39 weeks 3 days pregnant, AFI level 8 is this normal?and normal delivery possible for me? Is the fluid enough for up to 1 week?Do I need a drip? please suggest me.
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
2 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is quite difficult to say anything about it without personally examination and proper reports evaluation. So better to consult with your treating gynaecologist in person as she knew the exact health condition of your pregnancy and can guide you better.
Take care
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
1 hour ago
Q. Hi, for May 1st they will check AFI fluid... should I need to be on empty bladder for that scan... which is around 37 weeks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
56 mins ago
A. It’s completely normal this kind of an ultrasound is different it is not necessary that your stomach should be full or you should go empty stomach you can have your basic breakfast and all whatever you would want to eat before you go ahead with getting a scan and there is no need to go empty stomach for the scan
parminder kaur has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
26 mins ago
Q. Mera Mera 7th month end pe hai ab scan Karate doctor please tell me
parminder kaur
Mom of a 1 yr 1 m old boy
22 mins ago
A. yess
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#cutestbaby
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#babyofsummer24
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Mom of a 5 m old girl
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#babyofsummer24 .. it's my first summer. Wearing a dress from a baby hug (firstcry). The dress is pure cotton material and I'm feeling super comfortable and Happy too in this frock.🥰
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