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Spitting Up in Babies
One of the must-haves, when you are shopping for a baby, is a lot of bibs, and for a good reason! Babies spit up ever so often and often end up causing endless worry to new mothers. Read on to learn all you need to know about baby spitting up.
Causes of Spitting Up in Babies
Psychological or uncomplicated reflux, which is commonly known as spitting up, is very common amongst young babies. Mothers often wonder why do babies spit up? Well! This happens because your baby’s digestive system, which is still developing, may make their stomach’s contents to flow back into the oesophagus or make them spit up. Most babies spit up regularly, and this reaches peek by the time they turn four months of age.
Young babies tend to swallow air along with breast or formula milk. This swallowed air gets trapped inside, with the milk. When this trapped air comes up, some of the milk comes up through the mouth or nose of the baby. Babies also tend to spit up when they overfeed; this may happen when the baby feeds aggressively or when the mother’s breasts are too full. Some babies tend to spit up more than other babies. The spitting bouts may increase when the baby begins crawling, teething or starts having solid foods.
Difference Between Spit Up And Vomit
Spitting up and vomiting are very different from each other. Spitting up is usually seen in younger children (less than one year), but vomiting is more common in older children. Vomiting involves forceful throwing of stomach’s contents whereas spitting up is a natural flow of the stomach’s contents, usually along with a burp. If you find your baby is distressed after throwing up, then it is a bout of vomiting, as spitting up does not make the baby sick.
If the Baby Is Spitting Up a Lot, Can It Affect his Growth?
Usually spitting up does not hamper or affect the growth of your baby. If your baby looks comfortable, is gaining weight and eating well, there is no need to worry. The calories lost from normal spitting up do not affect the weight gain or growth of your baby. However, spitting up can be a cause for concern in some cases. If your baby appears sick and is spitting up too often, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
When Will the Baby Stop Spitting Up?
Spitting up is a certainly a messy affair and most mothers wonder when their baby will outgrow it. There may be increased spitting bouts as your baby grows, this may be due to increased feeding. However, you may notice a decrease in spitting up as your baby begins to sit and start eating solid foods. This usually happens at around 6 to 7 months of age. By this time your baby’s stomach muscles become stronger and can hold food inside. However, some babies may spit up till they are one year old or longer than that.
Tips to Reduce Spit Up in Infants
You may try following tips to reduce spit up:
1. Do Not Overfeed
Spitting up can be caused due to overfeeding. If you notice your baby spitting up often, you may give less of breast or formula milk.
2. Do Not Shake
Do not shake or jostle baby much after feeding. Keep the baby steady and in an upright position for some time after feeding.
3. Hold Your Baby In An Upright Position While Feeding
Do not let your baby slouch or curl up during the feeding sessions as it hampers the milk to reach up to the baby’s tummy.
4. Burp Your Baby
Burping is very important after each feed as it helps the air to pass away. You may also help your baby burp in between the feeding sessions.
5. Choose a Correct Nipple For Bottle Feeds
If you are feeding your baby from a bottle, make sure the hole of the nipple is neither too small nor too big. The smaller hole may irritate the baby, and the baby may swallow more air, on the other hand, the bigger hole may lead to gaggling and gulping.
6. Feed him Before the Baby Is Too Hungry
Do not wait for the baby to get too hungry. Hungry babies feed aggressively and swallow more air.
7. Keep Off Pressure From The Tummy
Do not put pressure on your baby’s tummy after feeding. Make sure the clothing and diaper aren’t too tight. Do not press your baby’s tummy while burping. Avoid a car trip immediately after feeding.
8. Elevate Your Baby’s Head While Sleeping
If your baby spits up in sleep, you may elevate your baby’s head while sleeping. You may use a foam wedge under the mattress or use some block to elevate one side of the crib. You should not pillow to elevate the head of the baby as it can be extremely unsafe for the baby (using pillow may cause SIDS).
When Can Spitting Up Be a Sign of a Problem?
Normal spitting up in infants is usually not a matter of great concern. However, the following cases of spitting can be a cause of concern or can be a sign of a problem:
If your baby spits up blood or green fluid, this can be a sign of a serious problem.
If you notice your baby isn’t feeding properly or not gaining enough weight
If your baby cries a lot after feeding sessions, this could be because of severe reflux.
If your baby sleeps less than usual and feels uncomfortable, you should seek your doctor’s help.
If you notice your baby hiccupping or choking often, or notice bad breath, you should consult your doctor.
If your baby often vomits (Vomiting and spitting are very different, and the baby is usually uneasy and cranky after vomiting).
If you register signs of dehydration, such as a decrease in the number of wet diapers, get in touch with your doctor.
If your baby begins spitting up after six months of age or later.
Though most cases of a baby spitting up after nursing are extremely common, but if you notice any of the signs mentioned above in your baby, it is recommended to seek medical help. Your doctor may suggest treatment based on the symptoms of the problem. You may be advised about the correct feeding technique which may be helpful, and your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat reflux.
Some home remedial measures may help reduce spitting up in babies; however, if you notice any abnormal signs or symptoms, you should get in touch with your doctor.
Also Read: Breastfeeding Your Baby: All You Need To Know To Get Started Read more
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Understanding Your Fertile Window
If you and your spouse are planning to get pregnant, then one thing that you need to be aware of is your fertile window. A lot of couples struggle in conceiving simply because they are not aware of their best days to conceive. The human body is made in such a way, that it has certain days each month when the body prepares itself for pregnancy. Knowing these days can pave the way to a long-awaited pregnancy for you and your spouse.
What Is a Fertile Window?
When a woman is ovulating, her ovaries release an egg into the fallopian tube. The egg stays in the fallopian tube for 24 hours before making its way to the uterus. In the absence of sperm, the egg, along with the uterine lining that was prepared for pregnancy, disintegrates and comes out in the form of a menstrual period. However, in the presence of sperm, the egg gets fertilized to become a zygote, which then attaches itself to the uterine wall. This zygote becomes an embryo, which then later evolves into a foetus. A lot of people misunderstand how ovulation works. They assume that there’s only one day in the month that a woman can get pregnant because the egg survives only for a day. However, here’s a fact - sperms can live in the uterus for over five to six days. This is why having intercourse during the five to seven days before ovulation increases the chances of getting pregnant.
How to Calculate Your Fertile Window
Keep track of your cycle for about five months. You need to know how many days are there in your cycle. You can even download a period app, as this will make the calculations for you. You can also download a fertile window calculator app.
The most common way to determine your fertile window is by choosing one of your shortest cycles. Let’s say it is 27 days. You then have to subtract 18 from it. The answer you have now is 9. Then choose your longest cycle. Let’s say it is 30 days. You need to subtract 11 from this. Here, then answer is 19. Your fertile window is most likely to be from the 9th to 19th day of your cycle.
Another way of measuring your cycle is by jotting down your basal body temperature, which is the body temperature first thing in the morning after you get out of bed. The average temperature ranges from 96 to 98 degrees Fahrenheit. During your fertile window, your body temperature rises by over four to eight-tenths of a degree. This is another indication that you have ovulated.
Yet another way to identify your fertile window is by keeping a tab on your cervical mucus. After menstruation, the discharge is dry. Shortly before ovulation, it gets sticky. During ovulation, the mucus is semi-transparent, wet, and stretchy.
How Does a Fertility Chart Help?
A fertility chart can help boost your chances of getting pregnant by keeping a tab on your fertility window and knowing when your body is best prepared for pregnancy. No one knows your body better and tracking down all the changes in your body with a fertility chart will help you know your fertility window better.
For couples who are trying to conceive, the fertility window is like a pregnancy calendar. When you try to get pregnant, every month counts. Don’t miss yet another month - the fertility window might be just what you need to finally have your baby.
Also Read: Follicular Study – Know When You are Ovulating Read more
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Fluoride Toothpaste - Is It Safe for Babies, Toddlers and Kids to Use?
Concerns have been raised as to whether the use of fluoride toothpaste is safe for kids and infants. The American Dental Association does recommend its use for kids. However, children can be more prone to complications associated with excess fluoride intake than adults. This is because their developing teeth are more vulnerable to the damage caused by excess fluoride. So, it is important that any kind of fluoride-based products, like fluoride toothpaste, is used in the safest ways recommended for children.
What Is Fluoride?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found in the earth's crust. It is found naturally in our water, soil, and air. It is used in toothpaste and water supplies because it has the following benefits:
Prevents tooth decay and cavities.
Fortifies weak tooth enamel and reduces the loss of minerals from it.
Helps in repairing tooth damage caused by acid.
Reduces oral bacteria/plaque.
Fluoride toothpaste has a greater amount of fluoride than fluoridated water and therefore, should not be swallowed. But why does a high amount of fluoride cause harm? Just like any other vitamin or mineral supplement, anything is high quantities can cause more harm than good.
Is It Safe for Babies and Toddlers to Use Fluoride Toothpaste?
There have been debates about whether fluoride is safe for babies. Yes, it is. However, it has been recommended that you use a fluoride toothpaste that has a seal of acceptance from relevant medical authorities in your country.
Fluoride is also often recommended for kids as supplements. However, fluoride for toddlers is usually not recommended unless they live in areas where there is a lack of fluoride in drinking water, including bottled water.
So, what measures should be taken for infants using a toothpaste with fluoride? For babies and toddlers, the amount should be just about the size of a grain of rice.
Excess fluoride is not good before 8 years of age. This is when human teeth develop. Excess fluoride at this time can lead to a condition called enamel fluorosis. This condition is marked by discoloured and patchy teeth. These symptoms are not very noticeable at times and usually, the condition is mild. You should take your child to a dentist if you notice these symptoms.
The reason for the ingestion of excess fluoride is mostly the accidental swallowing of fluoride toothpaste, mouthwashes, rinses or any other fluoride-based dental care product. Excess intake of fluoride supplements, when it is not required by the body, can also cause this condition.
If there is excess ingestion of fluoride, poisoning can also occur. This is not a serious or life-threatening condition but it is very common. It occurs usually half an hour after ingestion. The condition can last for nearly 24 hours. The symptoms of fluoride poisoning include:
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Increased salivation
Increased thirst
Can Young Children (Ages 3 Years and Above) Use Fluoride Toothpaste?
Yes, kids of ages 3 years and above can use fluoride toothpaste. Ensure that the amount used is not more than the size of a pea. Toddlers swallowing toothpaste is a common practice, which should be discouraged. Be around when your kids are brushing by themselves. Advise them to spit out the toothpaste and not to swallow it. Keep products out of the reach of kids so that they don’t playfully take in large amounts of them.
Are There Any Alternatives to Fluoride Toothpaste for Children?
There are products that help with dental and oral care other than fluoride-based ones. The below ingredients can be used in/as alternatives to fluoride toothpaste for children. They are:
1. Neem
A toothpaste with neem extract can be beneficial for the teeth. Neem is considered very effective in dental care especially in reducing plaque and as a remedy for gingivitis.
2. Coconut Oil
It can be used as a toothpaste easily when mixed with baking soda. It has antibacterial properties and reduces the growth of some bacteria that cause tooth decay. It can also help reduce plaque.
3. Sea Salt
Mix some sea salt in water or dip a wet toothbrush into some sea salt and brush your teeth as you normally would. It has several antibacterial properties and is high in nutrients that are good for your teeth.
4. Baking Soda
A very common household ingredient, you can mix together baking soda and water to form toothpaste. It can also be used in powder form for dental care.
5. Ozonated Olive Oil
Olive oil is a good moisturizer and when infused with ozone it can be used as an effective product for dental care. It is considered a viable alternative to fluoride-based dental care products.
6. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil can reduce toothaches, abscesses, and mouth sores. It is best used when diluted with olive oil because of its high potency.
7. Myrrh
Myrrh reduces bad breath and is great for gum health. It also prevents periodontal disease.
The oral and dental hygiene of kids is a primary concern for most parents. If you prefer to stick to traditional fluoride toothpaste keep the tips we have provided in mind. You can also prefer to opt for an alternative toothpaste for a few days of the week and use the fluoride one on the other days. This can create a healthy balance.
Also Read:
Effective Tips for Dealing with Broken Teeth in Kids
Bruxism in Children
Using Braces for Kid's Teeth Read more
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Start Your Day Right - 10 Tips to Make Your Mornings Fresher AND Productive Everyday!
A well-spent morning opens the doors to a successful day. Examine a list of habits of highly successful people to make your early morning routine very productive too. Start incorporating these changes and you'll soon be on the track well-travelled by successful folks.
The modern lifestyle may be more efficient, but it’s also challenging and oft times, a little too fast paced. The way you begin your day, in particular, has an impact on your productivity, which is why it’s important to start out fresh and raring to go.
10 Morning Habits of Highly Successful People
1. Getting out of bed early
A cosy bed may seem to be the most inviting thing, but most successful people do manage to suppress the urge and get out of bed early. Waking up at 6:30 instead of 8 means that you have one and a half hours more for a head start!
2. Working out
Another one among 10 things to do every morning to be successful is to start your day with your favourite exercise, whether it’s strength training at the gym, a yoga class or an invigorating power walk. Working out ensures better health, boosts your productivity and raises your energy.
3. Getting some alone time
The importance of alone time can’t be stressed enough. Even if it’s just 20 minutes, you can use it to plan your day, meditate or listen to soothing music.
4. Having a healthy breakfast
Skipping breakfast is a temptation many succumb to, but that bowl of cereal or that plate of eggs and toast has a lot to contribute to your productivity during the day. Take the time to enjoy your morning meal!
5. Organising, organising, organising!
Successful people make organisation a part of their early morning routine. They manage their time well to complete big and small tasks, from making the bed to packing lunch boxes, tidying the house, sending kids to school and going to work.
6. Thinking positive
Another important aspect of a productive morning routine is to welcome each day as a new one with a positive attitude. Forget about yesterday and what stressed you out. Take today as an opportunity, not a burden.
7. Mapping the day
Chalk out a plan for the day as soon as you wake up, preparing a mental to-do list, along with the order of tasks and allocate adequate time to each one. This will do wonders for your productivity and success.
8. Treating yourself well
Realise the importance of pampering yourself as it makes you feel good and confident. Follow a daily skin care routine and give some thought to choosing your outfit and makeup before going to work.
9. Exercising the brain
Successful people start the day not only with a physical workout but a mental one too. This can include reading a book, going through the newspaper or solving a crossword puzzle.
10. Not procrastinating
Procrastination ruins chances of success as it throws you backwards. Start every day with an active morning routine and surge ahead.
Set your priorities and boost your confidence by giving yourself a pep talk every morning. You’ll be amazed at the change and will wonder why you never did this sooner! Read more
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Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. Mera 8 month start hu white distance hora mere ko
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
5 hours ago
A. hello since u are a expecting mom this would require a proper medical attention and it is better to check with your doctor and your doctor will be able to guide you better on examination of the same and advise you accordingly
Akifa Tahreem has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
5 hours ago
Q. hello doctor, I'm 3 weeks pregnant. can we sleep on our belly or which side We can sleep on during pregnancy...
Akifa Tahreem
Mom of a 7 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. no you can't sleep in your tummy
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. @ask_the_expert
#ask the expert
I am having pcod problem.
when should I check pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
46 mins ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more and then do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
6 mins 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
2 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
40 mins 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
2 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
50 mins 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
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