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15 Foods You Must Avoid during Breastfeeding
Now that you are in the period of nursing, you should look out for some foods that might cause possible reactions in your baby. What a breastfeeding mother eats is very important for the baby. It is important to maintain proper meals when you are nursing so that your child gains essential nutrients and has an adequate amount of breast milk.
What Foods Should You Avoid While Breastfeeding?
Some babies feel fussy and gassy after you eat some foods. If you notice such a pattern, then it is best to avoid that food for a while. So here is a list of what not to eat when breastfeeding.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is rich in theobromine, and when eaten, has a similar effect to that of caffeine. Though people love having chocolate during, they should cut down the quantity while breastfeeding. If you feel like your kid is very cranky because of the chocolate consumption, then it is better to keep away from it. The only way to know how much chocolate you can consume is after observing your baby’s behaviour. The baby might show fussy and erratic behaviour if the mother consumes more than 750 mg of theobromine every day and suffers from sleep issues.
2. Coffee
Coffee contains a lot of caffeine in it, and some of this caffeine might end up in breast milk. Babies cannot digest caffeine as well as adults. So this excess caffeine in their body affects them causing sleeplessness, irritation, and crankiness. When caffeine is in high amounts, it can lower iron levels in the milk and thus decrease the levels of haemoglobin in the child. So the best solution is to have only 2-3 cups of caffeine a day. Small amounts of caffeine are fine as then there is little to no detection of caffeine found in the baby's urine.
3. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are an amazing source of Vitamin C, but this can irritate the baby’s tummy due to their acidic components. As their gastrointestinal tract is very immature, they're unable to deal with these acid components, resulting in fussiness, diaper rashes, spitting up, and more. You don't have to remove citrus fruits completely from your diet, though. Having one grapefruit or orange daily is fine. But if you decide to cut them out completely, then you should have other vitamin C-rich foods like pineapples, papayas, and mangoes.
4. Broccoli
If you had broccoli for dinner the previous day, then you should not be surprised when your baby has gassy problems the next day. Other gassy foods like onions, cabbage, cauliflower, and cucumber that are best avoided while breastfeeding.
5. Alcohol
Through breast milk, alcohol passes from the mom to baby and affects his neurological development. You could still have an occasional glass of beer or wine after nine full months of not having a drink. Studies have found that a few units once or twice a week will not harm your baby. When the levels are higher than that, there might be a decrease in the milk-letdown reflex and the release of milk. If you plan to have a drink, then you should wait for two hours and then breastfeed your baby.
6. High-mercury Fish
If you consume fish or any other foods having high mercury content, then this will appear in the breast milk. When breast milk has high levels of mercury, it might affect the neurological development of your baby. You should eat fish, even canned tuna in control, and not exceed consumption more than twice a week. It is best to avoid fish that has high mercury completely.
7. Peppermint and Sage
When these herbs are taken in a very high amount, they could reduce the production of breast milk. Therefore, when you eat herbs like these, monitor the amount of milk supply especially when your baby is at the phase where he needs more milk than usual. To stop milk production, mothers often have tea made of peppermint after weaning. Sage, another herb, is also included in the foods that affect lactation.
8. Peanuts
Until you wean your baby, avoid peanuts, especially if your family has a medical history of allergies to peanuts. Peanuts' allergic proteins might pass to the produced breast milk, and then reach the baby. The baby might suffer from wheezing, hives, or rashes. Even when you eat only a few, the allergens might pass into the milk within 1-6 hours. Research also says that children might have a chance of developing peanut allergies in later years when they are exposed to it at an early age. However, there is not enough evidence to prove that preventing peanuts could prevent allergies in babies.
9. Garlic
The smell of garlic can affect the smell of breast milk. Some babies hate it while others like it. Therefore, the reason may be garlic if your baby is uncomfortable while nursing. Some babies might fuss or grimace at the breast when they encounter the strong smell of garlic.
10. Dairy Products
Some babies could be intolerant to cow milk. When the mother drinks cow milk or has dairy products, then the allergens that have entered the breast milk irritate the baby. After consuming dairy products, if your baby shows symptoms like colic and vomiting, it means that you should stop consuming them for a while. Other symptoms could be skin issues, eczema, and sleep problems. Children who are intolerant to dairy also show an allergy to soy. It is better to go for organic varieties of meat, high-fat dairy, and poultry as they won't have any chemicals, growth hormones, or pesticides.
11. Spices
Some babies are irritated by spicy foods, but others are fine with it. Only a small dash of pepper is enough to hurt a few babies. These babies will remain fussy for a really long time. So it is best to lessen the number of spices in your food if you notice your baby being uncomfortable with it.
12. Corn
It is common for some babies and toddlers to be allergic to corn. This might cause rashes and discomfort in babies. Eliminate corn from your diet if you observe allergic reactions in your baby.
13. Wheat
Another common food problem is gluten intolerance. This results in sensitive tummy, bloody stools, and fussiness. Like all the other foods, this allergy can be avoided by taking wheat off of your diet. Many moms tend to remove most of the foods that cause problems and then re-introduce them one at a time.
14. Eggs and Shellfish
If your family has a history of allergies, then this might increase the chances of your baby having allergies too. If there is somebody who is allergic to eggs or shellfish in your immediate family, then it is best to avoid these foods during breastfeeding. Egg allergy is pretty common especially allergy against egg whites.
15. Sushi
Sushi is safe as long as it does not have high-mercury fish. It is safe because the listeria bacteria which are present in undercooked foods is not readily transmitted through breast milk. However, if you are planning to eat sushi with low-mercury fish when you are breastfeeding, keep in mind that you should not take more than three servings a week. Fish that contain low mercury are salmon, tilapia, flounder, pollock, trout, and catfish.
You baby could be allergic to only a few of these foods, or sometimes he might not be affected by any of them. Now that you know what foods to stay away from while breastfeeding, it may not be necessary to stop eating all of them. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before you take any food off of your diet. This is because, for example, if you are going to avoid all dairy products then it might cause a nutritional imbalance and you might have to see a nutritionist for a better substitute.
Also Read:
What is the Maximum Age Baby Should be Breastfed?
Is It common to Gain Weight after Stopping Breastfeeding?
Does Flaxseed Affect Breastfeeding? Read more
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How to Help a Baby Sit Up on His Own
As a parent, you feel proud when you watch your baby achieving development milestones. And why should you not? These little achievements make him independent in the long run. Your baby must have started cooing and gurgling, he must have also started rolling and enjoying the tummy time. But do you know when a baby starts sitting on his own? It is also a development milestone that you as a parent, may be looking forward to. So, read on to know when a baby starts to sit up and how you can help your baby to sit.
At What Age Do Babies Learn to Sit
Babies learn to sit around six months of age. However, some babies may start sitting early, i.e between 4 and 5 months of age. On the other hand, there are many who may start sitting between 7 and 8 months of age. Therefore, parents need not worry themselves. You must remember that every child grows at his own pace. So, give him time and do not force your child to do something.
What Skills Do Babies Acquire Before They Start Sitting up
Here are some of the skills that your baby may have acquired before he starts sitting on his own:
Around Two Months of Age
By 2 months of age, your baby will be able to lift and hold up his head at 45 degrees while lying on his tummy for a few minutes.
Around Three Months of Age
By 3 months of age, your baby will lift his head and chest both at 45 degrees while lying on his stomach. His head will be steady and firm than before.
Around Four Months of Age
When a baby turns 4 months, he may hold his head up to 90 degrees while lying on his stomach. He may also try to sit using some support.
Around Five Months of Age
When your baby turns 5 months, he is most likely to raise his entire upper body while lying on his tummy. He will also be able to roll over. He may even keep his head steady while sitting (with support).
Around Six Months of Age
By 6 months of age, your little one will be able to sit with support and may roll on both sides.
Around Seven Months of Age
At 7 months, your baby will start sitting up without any support and may even shift his upper body.
Around Eight Months of Age
By 8 months of age, he will be able to sit upright without any support. By this time, he may even move his upper body comfortably and may even stand with support.
How to Teach Your Baby to Sit Up
If you want to help your child to sit up, here are some ways that you can try:
1. Tummy Time
It is very important to give ample amount of tummy time to your baby every day. Lay your baby on him tummy time as soon as he is able to take some control of his head, which generally happens around one month of age. Initially, make him lie on your lap or stomach, but as your baby grows and gets stronger, make him lie on a safe surface for some tummy time.
2. Back Time
Just the way tummy time is important for strengthening your baby’s neck and upper body muscles, back-time too is necessary for strengthening your baby’s abdominal muscles, chest and trunk. Make him lie on his back and give him a toy to play. Soon, you will see that he will start rolling over.
3. Hold Your Baby in Upright Postures (Using Support)
Before your baby actually begins to sit up, make him practice. Your baby not only gets the hang of being in a sitting position, but it also helps his neck and head to gain strength. However, make sure you support your baby’s body while doing so.
4. Use Props and Toys
You may use various props and toys to help your baby sit up. Make your baby sit on your lap by using some pillows and cushions, place a toy in front of him and help him reach those toys. You can even make your baby sit in his crib. However, do not leave your baby unattended.
Positions to Help a Baby Learn to Sit
Here are some positions that may help your baby to learn to sit:
1. Sitting on the Lap
Make your baby sit on your lap and keep shifting the support from his upper body to lower body. Move your hand from his chest to low on hipsThis position is ideal for babies who are between 3 and 6 months of age.
2. Sitting in a Chair
You can use a chair to help your baby sit up. This works well for babies who have started sitting with support but need to work on their upper body strength. A baby should be made to sit on a chair between 4 and 5 months of age.
3. Sitting on the Floor Between Your Legs
This position is also recommended for 4-5-month-old babies. Your baby has the support of your legs and chest, and in case your baby trips sideways or at the back, he can use his hands for support.
4. Sitting on the Floor with a Pillow
Surround your baby with pillows and place a toy in front of them. Let your baby reach out to grab the toy. Also, adjust the pillow to help him sit up.
5. Tripod Position
Make your baby sit with his legs apart on the floor. Place toys at a reachable distance and let your baby use his trunk to reach to the toy. This position is suggested for babies between the ages of 4 and 6 months.
6. Sitting in a Laundry Basket or a Box
Make your baby sit in a laundry basket or a box and support him from both the sides. Also, help your baby balance his body while sitting.
7. Ring Position
Make your baby sit in this position when he is between 6 and 8 months of age. Make your baby sit on the floor with his legs apart but feet joined. This position provides good support and even if your baby trips; he is able to support himself with his arms.
Things to Avoid While Teaching Your Child to Sit Up
Do not make your baby sit on swings or baby seats for longer durations. Your baby should be able to move his body to learn new skills; by making him sit in confined areas for a long time may prove to be a hindrance to his growth and development.
You can try some easy exercises to help your baby sit up but don't go overboard with it. Every baby is different and he may reach development milestones at his own pace. So, don't force him into something he is not ready for. If you notice any developmental delays, get in touch with your doctor and seek assistance for the same.
Also Read: How to Make Baby Walk Read more
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Baby Biting While Breastfeeding: Reasons and Prevention
A baby biting while breastfeeding is common. Many babies do it for various reasons of which the most common is teething. Babies will gnaw at anything that relieves the pain of teething.
When breastfeeding properly, a baby will cover the lower gum ridge or teeth (if he/she has teeth yet) with the tongue, and will be wary of biting the breast as that would hurt the underside their own tongue too. In the correct latch, the nipple is positioned deep in the baby’s mouth and cannot be bitten. However, if a baby is not latched on properly, or the tongue is not correctly used, it can feel he/she is clamping down or biting on the nipple.
However, as we know, every problem has a solution to it and so does this. We need to take certain measures to prevent babies from biting, and this can be done only when you have the knowledge as to why your baby bites while breastfeeding. Once that is known, half the battle is won. Thereafter, you can easily take preventive steps to stop your little one from hurting you.
Video: Baby Biting During Breastfeeding - Causes and Prevention
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArU-c6y9pMw
Reasons for Baby Biting while Breastfeeding
There are plenty of reasons why a baby bites while breastfeeding. Apart from not latching on properly onto your breast or improper positioning while being breastfed, here are some reasons as to why babies bite while breastfeeding.
Teething can be said to be the number one cause of this problem. Your baby seeks relief from the pain during teething by biting onto the mother’s breast while breastfeeding.
Older babies get distracted easily. In case they turn to look at something, they can forget that they still have their mother’s breast in their mouth. This can cause unintentional damage when the baby inadvertently closes their jaws.
Sometimes babies don’t get enough milk so they bite into the nipple to get a better hold.
A baby may involuntarily bite when they fall asleep while being breastfed.
Babies bite as a sign of affection and may cause unintended damage to the nipple.
Can you continue Feeding your Baby even after Teething?
There is no reason as to why you cannot continue feeding your baby when they begin to grow their milk teeth. It is a common misconception that when a baby has teeth and starts biting, the time for nursing is over, and it is time to start weaning. But that’s not necessarily correct. If your baby is latched on properly, and the positioning is correct while being breastfed, then you should not feel any pain, even if they have a mouthful of the pearly whites. A breastfeeding baby biting with gums can just as painful as a baby biting with their teeth.
Biting is something that most babies try to explore especially when they are teething. It can be stopped with a little bit of persistence on your part. Not all babies react in the same manner to a situation, and you may need to try our various ways to discourage him/her before you find one which works. All that is required to stop your baby from biting you while breastfeeding is the three “P’s”; Patience, perseverance and persistence.
How to Prevent a Newborn from Biting during Breastfeeding?
How to stop the baby from biting the nipple is a common question asked by many mothers. It is something which comes naturally to babies, especially when they are teething. However, mothers can try and prevent it by taking several measures.
The baby often bits when he/she has finished nursing session when your baby may be tired and bored of sucking. So, watch out for indications of disinterest and take stop nursing before the biting begins.
Mothers should learn to position their baby the right way. Incorrect positioning of the baby while breastfeeding could irritate them, which in turn could lead the baby to biting the mother’s breast.
Make sure that there are no distractions while feeding the baby. In case of any distractions, the baby may forget what they are doing and close their mouth which could be painful.
Talk to your baby while feeding them to communicate the fact that it is not a good thing to bite. Consistently engage them by singing or telling a story while feeding them. When you see their jaws tighten to bite, just say a firm ‘no’. For this too, you may have to experiment with several ways of saying it because for some a stern impression may work and for others, something else.
If your breasts are engorged, the baby may find it difficult to latch on to it. Therefore, before you start nursing, try expressing some milk.
Teething is one of the many problems that all babies face. During this period, the baby’s gum itches and aches and as such to ease the pain and itch, the baby bites while breastfeeding. In such cases, the mother should massage the gums with a clean finger or give them a teething toy before and after every feed.
Learning the time when your baby bites can also help in preventing them from taking jabs at your nipple. Usually, babies bite at the end of a nursing cycle when they have finished getting enough milk and simply want to play around by gnawing at your nipple. Therefore, once the baby slows down the intensity of their sucking, gently pull your breast off from their mouth.
When your baby bites, immediately pull them away gently from your breast and put them down. By this, your little one will start realising that biting means end to the nursing.
Many mothers find that encouraging correct behavior with ample praise if effective in discouraging the baby from biting.
Feeding the baby only when they are hungry can also prevent a baby from biting. If the baby is hungry, they will be more interested in sucking milk and less in biting.
Can your Nipple get Damaged due to Baby Bites?
The biting of the nipple by baby while breastfeeding can be painful, to say the least. It leads to soreness and discomfort too. Usually, it does not damage the nipple, but at times, you can get a bad bite from your baby. In that case, it is best to apply ice right after the injury and after every nursing session. Apart from this, Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is compatible with breastfeeding and can be taken as and when required. However, it is best to take the advice of a medical practitioner before taking any medicine. Also applying few drops of fresh Aloe Vera juice could help in healing the wound.
Although babies biting while breastfeeding can be painful and a nuisance for the mothers, one cannot steer clear of it. You may go through a whole lot of pain and problems associated with breastfeeding, but the outcome is sure to be rewarding for both you and your baby. After all, a mother’s milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies and helps with a baby’s health and growth.
Also Read:
Baby Sweating during Breastfeeding
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Baby's First Haircut - Tips to Make it Easy and Fun
Each baby is different, even to the same parents. Parents with more than one child will tell you that raising a baby is different each time and that every child has its own idiosyncrasies and growth patterns. It is common for parents to feel apprehensive about their suitability to raise a baby, even if this is not the first child they have. One such landmark moment in the life of the child and the parents is its first haircut.
Babies can be born with a head full of hair, or as bald as a ball- every child is different. So the first haircut of the child is a big deal, even if your child may not be too enthusiastic about the idea of it. In this article, let us take a look at a few tips which can help make the process a little easier to carry out and easier for your child to get through.
What is the Right Age for the First Haircut of the Baby?
There is no specific best time for baby’s first haircut; it all varies from child to child. You will need to take him to the salon when the hair starts to get into his eyes and starts to irritate him often. The growth rate of the hair is not uniform, so the only experience can tell you when you need to take him to the salon. Also, keep in mind that trimming can sometimes make the hair look very thick and full.
Preparations Before your Child’s First Haircut
A newborn baby's first haircut is all about making the child as comfortable as possible while a stranger hovers over him with a pair of scissors. So, here are a few tips which can help you be prepared for the landmark event.
Take a change of clothes with you. The haircut is going to be a messy process, and your child is sure to wiggle around at least a little bit. You do not want to have hair inside his clothes once the cutting is done- it will only make him irritable and cranky for the rest of the day. Therefore, take a change of clothes with you.
Also, take a familiar toy with you. Your child is bound to be nervous, especially as strangers start to hover around him looking sinister. A familiar toy, like a pacifier, can greatly calm him down at this time. Also, make sure the toys also serve the purpose of distracting him from the cutting process.
Snacks are another way to keep your toddler busy while his hair is being cut. Snacks not only keep him engaged but also makes him feel more comfortable with the whole thing. However, do not take anything sticky to the salon.
Try to get him to be more comfortable about hair cutting by mimicking the actions during playtime or bath time.
Tips to Keep in Mind during the Haircut
There are many things that you can do to ensure that the child is at ease with the trip to the salon. These also help the stylist get through her job without any difficulties.
1. Keep Your Child Comfy
This should be your priority always, even in the hair salon. Some children may refuse to wear the cape for the haircut- if that is the case, you should simply scrap it. Do whatever you can to make your child as comfortable as possible, so that the first hair cutting ceremony progresses without a hitch.
2. Hold Him
For some children, hair cutting can be a traumatic experience. In such situations, no amount of toys or snacks can keep your child engaged- only you can. So ask the stylist if it is possible for you to hold him while he is getting his hair cut so that he feels more at ease with the process.
3. No Force
It is common for children to be wriggly or squirmy, in the salon. This is because your child does not feel safe with the surroundings, so he is trying to make his discomfort apparent to you. In such situations, you should not react by trying to hold him down with even more strength. This not only leads to a heightened sense of resistance but is also potentially dangerous. A sudden jerk or a swift moment when you have let your guard down can result in cuts and bruises- therefore, try to make your child as comfortable as possible.
4. Breaks
Again, your focus should not be on getting through with the process as quickly as possible. You should make sure that your child does not feel too uncomfortable with the whole thing, so taking a few breaks in between may be required. You can simply hold him during this time so that he calms down and stops panicking.
5. Family
A few more known faces around the toddler will only make him more comfortable with the surroundings. Therefore, you can try to bring along someone, like his sibling or grandparents to keep him distracted while his hair is being cut.
6. Have them Watch You Get a Cut
You can start making them more comfortable about visits to the salon by taking them along whenever you have to style your hair. This also works if his older sibling is the one getting the haircut. This might make them more comfortable about going to the salon, and your child may even be looking forward to her turn on the high chair!
7. No Mirrors
Another important thing to remember is that you do not want your child to be facing the mirror for his first haircut. Kids mostly freak out when they see a stranger hovering over their head snipping hair, so try and turn the chair so that your child is facing you the entire time. This can also make him more comfortable with the haircut.
Getting a haircut is a big deal for your child, so try and make him as comfortable as possible when you visit the salon. You can also try getting him his own barber kit so that he grows used to the hair-styling aspect of it.
Also Read:
Mundan Ceremony for Babies
Baby Hair Growth Tips
Hair Loss in Infants
How to Wash Your Baby’s Hair Read more
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Effective discipline strategies - Essentials for emotional and social stability of a child.
Age of preschoolers wherein they are sweet, gullible and imaginative; it is necessary to impart discipline to them. It is not about giving the kids consequences to understand and adapt instead it ensures that kids are gaining the skills that they need to become responsible adults. Encouraging them for good choices and teaching them to manage their emotions are a few of the key fundamentals of the discipline. Also, it keeps the child safe and instills confidence in them at the same time. Understanding that they are still learning to get along with others they might struggle with emotional regulations. Making them practice their social skills helps them in soothing and gaining a little mastery over their temper tantrums. At times it might not feel great to discipline one's kid. There is often anger, sadness, tension, stress and sometimes even tears but proper discipline is one of the most important components of a child's development. Such difficult confrontations will ultimately make life easier for both the parents and especially the child. Discipline is about teaching children a system of values that they can use to guide them throughout life. Self-control and the decision-making process are a few domains of improvisations in a child via discipline tools. It is a parent's job to keep their child thinking about the consequences; may it be through a casual conversation or a playing activity. Always remind them to do the right thing, reinforce their behavior, reward them for being kind and acknowledge their behavior timely. Punishment is never a healthy tool but rather a stressful process for the entire family. It is indeed an opportunity to empower the child through a good approach. Teaching them to treat people the way they want to be treated is the golden rule. Hence, inducing adaptive discipline strategies is an important aspect over the long haul for a child. Read more
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Parenting Guide for Soon-to-be Dads
Parenthood is a long and exciting journey. ‘Husband-wife’ become ‘mom-dad’ the moment the test results show positive – that’s the level of happiness the news of a baby can be. Since moms already have a head start from month number 1, dads may only gradually (but surely) feel the fear set in. “Am I doing enough?” “Is there anything I need to take care of before the baby comes?” “What if I don’t know what to do with the baby?” These questions are bound to hit the dads-to-be sooner or later.
An Easy Parenting Guide for Soon-to-be Dads
It’s important to remember this – no one is born a parent; they become one when their little one arrives! If you’re a to-be dad reading this, remember that your pregnant wife has never done this before either – you’re both starting out equally clueless! There’s nothing to worry about, because your fatherly instincts will kick in hard the moment you hold that little bundle of joy in your arms. However, if you’re still wondering if you’ve prepared yourself and the home for the arrival of your little one, we have an easy guide for you to follow. Do the things we’ve mentioned in the list, and your fears and anxieties will vanish in an instant.
1. Learn how to diaper a baby
This is quite an important thing you’ll want to learn before the baby comes. Get a baby doll, a bunch of diapers, and get on it! Since you and your partner will be doing this round the clock once your baby arrives, it’s best to know beforehand so you can save time and a potential fuss fest from the baby.
2. Be prepared with things your wife will need during and after labour
Your very pregnant wife is likely annoyed because of the swollen feet, the heavy tummy and the constantly hurting back, and will be more than happy to go into labour at this point! With all the changes happening to her body, it’s a great idea to be of support to her and make the last couple months of the pregnancy easy on her. Thus, be ready with all the things your wife will need during and after delivery!
Some items in your checklist can include: a soft pillow to help alleviate a sore back; soothing creams like for swollen feet and muscles; heavy-duty sanitary napkins and disposable underwear because there is definitely going to be bleeding after delivery; some water in a spray bottle which will come in handy to cool your wife’s body when she’s in labour; and some water bottles because it’s highly likely that the mom-to-be won’t be allowed to eat much during labour hours. You can even add in some extra clothing that is comfortable and airy to allow her tender body to breathe, comfy slippers, some hair ties and face wash. You can keep these items ready in a small carry-on so all you have to do is pick it up and head out the door when the time comes. Read more about what to carry here.
3. Do your homework
Would you want to be completely clueless about your wife’s delivery process? We think not! In these couple of months before the delivery, make sure you have basic knowledge about how deliveries are carried out and what you need to do at your end to make it comfortable for your wife. Have you talked about what form of delivery your wife would prefer? Have you talked to your doctor about it? What about last minute decisions? Who will take them? Do not hesitate to ask your doctor as many questions as you want. It’s your right to know!
4. Know what a diaper bag contains
You’ve packed your wife’s delivery bag – it’s time to know what the baby bag contains! A simple diaper bag (which you and your wife will carry everywhere you go once the baby comes) contains diapers, baby wipes, moisturizing cream, diaper rash cream, hand sanitizer, formula or breastmilk, plastic bags for the used diaper, sippy cups with water, extra socks, extra clothes, and a small blanket. A pacifier and napkins are a must too. Remebering this will be an excellent start for you as a new dad!
5. Find a way to balance home and work before the baby arrives
As fathers, you’re probably under pressure now more than ever to work hard to provide for your baby. We understand – but another invaluable way you can care for your child is by being physically present for him during his formative months. Make use of the time you have before the baby comes and start practicing leaving work on time. That means no reaching work late, finishing all your work on time, and not staying back to finish anything. In some cases, you can also try and make your boss understand why going and coming on time is important to you at this point. In some cases, also ask your boss if you will be allowed to work from home on some days, so you can be with the baby and your recovering wife while you work on your laptop. Finding a balance early on will get you well settled-in.
6. Learn how to warm things
Sounds silly, we know – but you’ll thank us later! Your baby’s skin and system is quite sensitive during his early weeks and months, so you’ve got to be extra careful about what you’re giving him. Thus, master the art of warming things to your child’s liking. The temperature of your baby’s bath is supposed to be quite specific, and a hack to check if your baby’s bath water is just right is to dip your elbow in the tub. If it feels too hot, add some cold water, or vice versa. Similarly, understand how you are supposed to heat your baby’s milk if it’s in a bottle, even though this might come in handy much later.
7. Divide the baby tasks with your wife beforehand
Instead of getting into petty quarrels later, it’s best to decide beforehand what baby tasks you will share with your wife post the baby’s arrival. Chalk out a plan where both you and your wife get a good amount of rest, because baby care can keep you up at odd hours. Pre-decide about things like putting the baby to bed, changing diapers, feeding, and other important things that might crop up.
8. Check for all your financial needs before the baby arrives
How will you pay your hospital bills? Are there any extra costs involved? What about last-minute expenditure? Make sure that the financial aspect of the labour, delivery, and post-delivery care are decided and fixed. It only makes life easier!
9. Learn about the stages of your baby’s life in the first six months
Your baby is going to grow phenominally quickly, and you’re not going to want to miss all the cute milestones. Thus, before your baby comes, know how your baby will change and what to expect as he grows. That way, every little concern of yours will also be covered because you’ll know that the confusing things your baby does is indeed quite normal!
10. Make your home more baby-friendly
A bassinet, a crib, baby-proofing the house so your little one can crawl and walk around with joy – all these things are super important to get ready before the delivery. Make sure to also get lots of toys, socks, blankets, and baby bath items that will be super important. You have the time to do it all, so get on it!
Being a father can really change a man – we understand the depth of the responsibility! But to make this process less daunting, follow the tips from our handy little guide, and watch your anxieties fade away. Remember – parenthood is a blessing!
Also Read: Essential Tips on How to be a Good Dad
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Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
12 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
10 hours ago
A. after 2 weeks. 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.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
12 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
10 hours ago
A. after missed your periods you can wait for one week more ,then you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
12 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
but having regular cycles below 35 days. some time it will extended upto 40 days.
so when should I take pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
10 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more or else you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication.
The best treatment to have Regular periods is by having a healthy lifestyle with regular daily walking or jogging along with mild exercise and meditation whenever possible. as medications will only act till you are taking them
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
8 hours ago
Q. Done my first routine blood test ..it shows thyroid border line.its my 6 week running as per USG.
but prior to that my thyroid level was always normal I did check up every year and got it normal .this time it shows borderline high in 6 week pregnancy.
is it something to worry.plz guide
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. it is better to follow your doctors advice for treating the thyroid deficiency. 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts
Best activity toys for 15 month old baby
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. Toys which have light and also sounds so that is going to be a good option for you to use apart from the different kids have different interest some kids like to play with cars some like to play with something else so just have to try to figure out what your child likes to eat just check what your child is more inclined towards
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. how to gain weight 32weeks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. You need to have a lot of good proteins and that is what is going to be helpful have a balanced diet and good have good amount of proteins as well which is what is going to be beneficial and good weight gain for your child as well
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