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Your First Postpartum Poop - 10 Things You Need to Know
If you had never experienced any issues with your bowel movements before you got pregnant, there are chances that you may experience some changes during your pregnancy! But if you think that your woes may come to an end as soon as you deliver your baby, well, you may be disappointed to know that it may not be so. Many women may experiences challenges as far as postpartum poop is concerned. This article discusses the first poop woes that most women may face after delivering their baby.
Why the First Poop after Giving Birth Hurts More Than Labour?
So, what is this hoopla behind the first postpartum poop, well, it is not only one single reason that can be the considered the culprit because there are many reasons that may cause hurt and pain while passing the first stool after giving birth? Here are some common reasons:
1. Because of the Vaginal Tearing
Most women may be given a cut or incision (also known as episiotomy) between their vaginal and anal area, to assist the vaginal delivery for widening the birth canal. During a normal delivery, sometimes, women may also experience tearing of the perineum and vulva. All this tearing around the vaginal region may cause pain when a woman tries to pass her the first poop after having a baby.
2. Because of the Swelling
The fortunate ones may not experience any kind of tearing down there. However, there may be swelling after giving birth. This swelling may also cause a lot of pain and discomfort while passing the stool.
3. Because of the Pain in the Stitches
The first poop after C-section can become a task in itself because the mother may experience tenderness and pain at the site of the stitches. She may fear to put pressure to release the bowel because the pressure may cause pain in the stitches too. Also, if she's had an episiotomy, she may be given stitches for faster healing. These stitches may cause pain too.
4. Because of Dehydration
Water is essential all through your pregnancy and even after birth! Your body will lose fluids during labour and delivery. You should drink ample fluids to replenish your lost fluids. However, if dehydration occurs due to lack of fluids in the body, it can make it difficult for you to pass your first poop or it may become one herculean task.
5. Because of Lack of Movement
We understand that your body needs to rest and recoup its lost energy after the delivery. Make sure you move around. For this very reason, even women who have had caesarean deliveries are made to move within 24 hours after the surgery. This helps the body to get its normal functions going, however, if you are one lazy bum or too tired to move; you may have to face the brunt of experiencing the pain while pooping.
6. Because of Lack of Fibre
A healthy diet is of prime importance for the mommy-to-be because it is beneficial for her baby and also for her own well-being. And to have smooth bowel movements after the delivery, it is important that you had good fibre rich diet during your last month of pregnancy. High fibre diet not only prevents constipation but it may also help in ensuring smooth bowels after your delivery too.
7. Because of Taking Strong Pain-Killers
As ironical as it may sound, but pain-killer medicines may cause pain too. Have you had a C-section or episiotomy? Your doctor would have prescribed pain-killer medicines. Sometimes, these pain-killers may cause constipation and difficulty in passing the first poop after a C-section. However, doctors may give you stool softeners to ease your poop woes.
8. Because of Weakened Pelvic Floor Muscles and Abdominal Muscles
Your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles loosen up to accommodate your baby. After your baby comes out, these muscles may take some time to go back to its normal position. However, until then, it may cause a problem to you whenever you may want to pass a bowel movement, especially the first one.
9. Because You Are Scared
Believe it or not, sometimes the pain associated with poop is more mental than physical. This is because the mother who has just delivered a baby may still be under emotional stress and trauma. Passing the first poop may be reliving the same experience, and it may become intimidating for the new mommies. You tense up, and your muscles tense up too making the first poop experience even more painful and uncomfortable.
10. Because You Are Delaying It
You may feel scared and may not want to go on the first day or may postpone until the next day, however, you should know that eventually, you will have to pass the stool. The more you delay, the more painful it becomes. Therefore, if you have delayed your first poop, chances are you are going to experience more pain while passing the stool because it tends to get harder.
Tips to Make It Easier
Pregnancy and childbirth may take a toll on your health, but with proper care, you may overcome all the ordeals and even, in this case, you can use some of the following tips and make your first poop easier and a less painful experience.
Make sure you take your stool softener medicines religiously. These are prescribed for a reason, and you must take them on time. Failing to do so may cause difficulty in passing the stools.
Whenever you try and make your first attempt to poop after delivery, make sure you have somebody around you. You may be low on energy, and your body may be sore from delivery, and thus you may require help to sit down or get up.
Make sure you drink ample water and eat a good diet. Include fruits and vegetables in your diet. All these will help you in easing out your first bowel movement.
Place your hand on your tummy while putting the pressure. This is because women dread putting pressure thinking that their insides may pop out if they put pressure, especially after a C-section. However, putting some counter pressure may help to feel better, and it may help you to poop.
If after a couple of attempts you will you are not able to pass your first poop, you should get help. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to ease your bowel.
Don’t be afraid to move after delivery and make some attempts to do so. It may seem a bit uncomfortable, but it may help you pass your first stool with lesser discomfort.
Try and try, until you succeed! Yes, this even holds true in this case. If you fail in your first attempt, you should try after some time and so on, until you finally get over with your first poop ordeal.
Bowel movements may become tricky for sometime after delivery because of all the reasons that are mentioned above. Keep in mind these tips to ease your bowel movements. If nothing helps, reach out to your doctor!
Also Read:
Postpartum Abdominal Pain: Reasons and Treatment
Haemorrhoids (Piles) After Giving Birth
Healthy Foods to Eat After Delivery Read more
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Tanning While Breastfeeding - Is It Risky?
Being in fashion is something that most women cannot forgo, and skin tanning is something that most fair-skinned women opt for, to change their look. However, when you are a nursing mother, you may have to think twice before you think of anything like this. This is because procedures like tanning may directly or indirectly impact your baby. Read this article to learn whether tanning while breastfeeding is a yes or a no!
Is Tanning Safe while Nursing?
Summers are just around the corner, and you may have plans of flaunting a beautiful tan on your body. But is it really safe for your baby? Where basking under the summer sun is a great option for tanning, other options such as tanning beds and tanning lotions are great options when sunlight becomes a far-fetched dream, especially during the cold winter months. Well, different techniques can be used for tanning, and every technique comes with its own pros and cons. In the following sections, we shall be briefly discussing the safety of each tanning technique separately.
1. Sun Tanning
One of the safest and natural ways of getting a great tan is sun tanning. All you have to do is protect your skin with a good sunscreen and let the sun do the job. However, make sure you keep reapplying your sunscreen if you plan to spend more time out in the sun. Also, if you plan to breastfeed your baby in between, make sure you wash off the sunscreen nicely before that. Your baby can ingest unwashed sunscreen lotion, and it may cause him harm.
2. Tanning Using a Tanning Bed
A tanning bed is a great way of getting a good tan. Also, there is no study available that describes any connection between breastfeeding and tanning beds. Getting yourself tanned in this way neither reduces your milk supply nor does it bring in any changes to the quality of your milk. However, you should cover your nipples before getting into the tanning bed. This is because the UV rays may cause excessive dryness around your nipples and they may get sore when you feed your baby. Also, do not stay in the tanning bed for a longer duration, because it may lead to wrinkles, eye troubles, immune disorders and in some cases, an increased chance of developing skin cancer. Tanning beds may not harm your baby, but they may negatively impact your health if used for a prolonged or extended duration. Therefore, limit the use of such beds to evade the probable risks and stay healthy for the sake of your little munchkin.
3. Fake Tanning while Lactating
One of the simplest options for tanning is by using spray tans. Just like lotions, spray tans can tan the skin within no time. However, you must make sure that it dries up completely before you get close to your baby. Also, make sure you leave your nipples and areola when you use the tanning spray, or you can even forego the entire breast area. There are no major spray tan and breastfeeding complications; however, if your baby comes in contact with it, your baby’s skin may show some irritation or allergic reaction. Make sure your baby is not in the vicinity whenever you use the spray tan because your baby might end up ingesting the fumes which can be harmful to your little one.
4. Using Tanning Lotion while Breastfeeding
Another simple solution for getting a nice tan is using tanning lotion. There are umpteen options available in the market that you can choose from. However, make sure you choose a lotion with herbal or organic ingredients. Make sure your tanning lotion is absorbed completely before you handle your baby or plan to breastfeed. Also, avoid applying the tanning lotion on your breasts because these lotions may wear off easily and may come in contact with your baby. Most of these lotions comprise of harsh chemicals, and when these chemicals come in contact with your baby, they can irritate the baby’s skin or cause an allergic reaction. It is not unsafe to get a tan while you are breastfeeding your baby; however, it is important that you follow the precautions for your safety and that of your baby.
Tips for Breastfeeding Mothers Who Want to Tan Their Skin
Here are some tips for breastfeeding mothers who wish to tan their skin:
Make sure you discuss your breastfeeding status with the person in charge so that necessary precautions can be taken.
You can express and store breast milk for your baby. This is because sometimes the procedures take time and the stored milk can be used to feed your baby.
You can secure your nipples and areola by applying petroleum jelly so that the tan does not get on to these places.
A feeding mommy should never bare her entire top region before going into the tanning bed because the UV rays may take a toll on your nipples. Secure your nipples with a tape or a breast pad before stepping into the tanning bed to prevent your nipples from over-drying. Dried and parched nipples may make it difficult to breastfeed your baby.
If your tanning procedure is going to take a long time, make sure you wear comfortable clothes that can make breastfeeding easier for you.
Last but not least, get in touch with your doctor and get your skin condition assessed. Tanning may pose a risk of skin cancer. Getting your doctor's opinion will help you make an informed decision.
Motherhood is a beautiful phase in every woman’s life; however, it demands a mother to make some deliberate choices too, especially during the breastfeeding stage. Therefore, if you are planning on getting a tan, make sure you make an informed decision about the same. Though it is a very safe procedure, exercising caution is always advised.
Also Read:
Dehydration during Breastfeeding
Nausea while Breastfeeding
Hives during Breastfeeding Read more
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Pocket Money for Your Child - When and How Much to Give
Giving your child pocket money is a great way to introduce them to the basics of managing money. Some parents use it to teach their children that money is earned, and others feel that it is not necessary. Whatever said, giving your child pocket money or allowance has some benefits as she will learn important life skills in the process of having and spending it. Below, we discuss why and how pocket money you should give your child.
Should Children Be Given Pocket Money?
Every parent uses different methods of giving their child pocket money, but what remains constant is the fact that pocket money is a good way of teaching your child a few things she can use in her adult life. Here's how pocket money helps your child:
1. Financial Planning
Pocket money can help your child learn how to plan her finances from an early age. She will be able to learn the benefits of money management - saving and spending her money wisely.
2. A Sense of Accomplishment
When you teach your child how to save her money for a set goal, say, for a cricket set or a dollhouse, she will be filled with pride when she buys it from her own savings. When your child works hard to save up for something, she is most likely to have a sense of accomplishment for buying it on her own.
3. Learning the Value of Money
Some parents feel that it is a good idea to pay their child for doing household chores. Experts caution against it, as your child should be taught to contribute to the household as part of her family duties. However, you can always encourage your child to do some additional work that you can pay her for, say for watering the plants or walking your dog or the neighbour's dog. This act of working for money will encourage her to understand that money is earned.
4. Limiting Pester Power
Every parent (and marketer) is aware of the power of pestering that children can have - they pester and throw tantrums to get what they want. This habit can be brought under control through pocket money -your child will have a limited amount of money to spend, making her careful about what she wants to spend it on.
When Should You Give Your Child Pocket Money?
Your child's age is a huge factor when deciding the best time to start giving her pocket money. The average age when your child best begins to understand money and its use is around five to six years. It is essential that you take the time to examine your family values with your partner before you introduce your child to the concept of having pocket money, because it will play a vital role in her future.
How Much Pocket Money Should You Give Your Child?
This will be based on your financial abilities. You do not have to start off with a huge amount; in fact, a small amount is preferable. You can decide how much to give your child based on her age. For example, if you calculate Rs. 10 for every year of your child's age, your 5-year-old should get Rs. 50. This amount can increase with every added year to your child's age. You can also decide whether you want to give her pocket money on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis.
Pocket Money Tips for Parents
Thinking of giving your child pocket money? Remember:
Sit down with your child and first explain to her the concept of pocket money. You and your partner should decide the rules for your child beforehand. For example, you can tell your child that the pocket money is for entertainment, or for buying something they fancy, but make sure that you tell her what counts as entertainment and what things they can buy, so she won't spend it on something useless.
Discuss how much of her money should go into savings, how much is okay to spend and how much she should put aside to donate to those less fortunate.
Decide her pocket money according to your financial condition.
If your child wants extra money, encourage her to try and earn it.
Decide how often you want to give her her pocket money and let her know the same.
Help your child set up different jars for her pocket money - one for spending, one for saving, and one for charity.
Do not give your child money in advance or give extra money. This way she will learn how to manage on a budget.
While parents worry that their children will be wasteful with the money they are given, it is important to remember that your child will make mistakes and this is the time she will learn without having serious consequences. Teaching your child how to manage money is a very important skill that will benefit her for her entire life.
Also Read: How to Teach Kids about Money Read more
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Starting Bananas for Your Baby for the First Time
Each baby has its own taste and choices so we cannot provide to all baby food in the same manner. As per my experience, we have to prepare food in a texture which our child can accept happily because we cannot force our child to eat at the very beginning.
So we can provide bananas to our child in different ways. You can dip bananas in more milk to provide it with a milky texture but if child rejects that texture then you can opt for another option, that is, make purée of banana to introduce it our child and according to my experience introduce anything to your child when child is hungry because if the child is full of milk then the child will not accept any solid foods.
So try to analyse the texture choice of your child before starting anything. And don’t give milk just after banana even if you feel your baby is hungry because giving milk make digestion of banana difficult. That can make your child gassy and uncomfortable and also it will become difficult for you to analyse whether banana suits to your baby or not. Enjoy your motherhood ?. And while introducing fruits to your baby banana is the best option as per its nutritional values and its softness because at beginning a baby needs soft food which is easy to swallow for him. A small baby has a small stomach so start with 2-3 spoons because an overdose can affect digestion of your baby and create trouble for you and your baby. And due to introducing solids, you need to cut down the amount of milk so try to provide nutritional things to your baby so that growth doesn't get hampered and if your baby starts eating well then don't put pressure on our baby to eat milk.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Head & Hair Conditions in Toddlers
Children are prone to hair and head problems. But excessive hair loss in children is quite unnatural and needs to be treated before things go beyond control. Find out the problems that your child could be suffering from and treat them today. Inspecting his hair is the best solution to diagnose this at home!
Torticollis in Children
Torticollis stands for ‘twisted neck’ and is also called wryneck. If your child is facing this condition, his head would be titled to one side. If this condition is caused due to positioning in the womb, it is called congenital torticollis.
1. Torticollis Symptoms in Kids
The toddler starts holding his head on one side.
He has limited neck movement.
It is generally painless but may cause some numbness or tingling at times.
2. Torticollis Treatment in Children
If your doctor diagnoses this condition due to an infection, he will treat it accordingly and the infection would soon heal.
If this condition is a reaction of some minor trauma or sleeping in the wrong posture, your doctor would probably recommend ibuprofen to reduce inflammation.
Some stretching exercises could improve the condition in your toddler.
Alopecia Areata in Children
This is an auto-immune disorder which results in severe hair fall in patches. It is more likely to occur in toddlers over 18 months. Here, the immune system attacks the hair follicles. The follicles shrink and hair regrowth becomes very slow. It could take several months to gain back the lost hair. This condition is neither painful nor is your toddler unhealthy.
1. Alopecia Areata Symptoms in children
Clumps of your toddler’s hair start falling out.
Oval patches start appearing on head.
However, if the bald spots are crusty or flaky, it may be ringworm.
Toddler’s fingernails may look like rows of tiny dents.
2. Alopecia Areata Treatment in Children
There is no treatment for this condition, but there are treatments for stimulating hair growth.
If you are worried about the amount of hair lost by your child, make an appointment with a dermatologist and follow his suggestions.
If your child is older, doctors will probably recommend topical cortisone or other creams.
Hair Loss in Children
Hair loss has a lot of possibilities with different causes, symptoms and treatments. It is not natural for children to have isolated bald spots. Your toddler might be having a bare patch due to sleeping in the same position, night after night, or due to rubbing his head against a mattress.
Hair Fall Treatment-in Toddlers
Talk to your pediatrician. He would want to determine the reason behind the cause and start necessary treatment.
If your child has ringworm, for instance, your doctor will prescribe anti-fungal medication.
Hair loss due to a physical damage needs tender scalp care.
If some illness has caused excessive hair loss, it would heal up with time.
Keep a check on your toddler’s behaviour. Anxiousness, nervousness or frustrations are causes of hair loss, and parents need to get to the core of these feelings.
Head Lice in Toddlers
These are tiny insects that feed on the blood of human scalp. An infestation of these insects known as Pediculosis Capitis impacts children, usually through transfer of lice from hair of one child to the other. It does not carry any viral or bacterial diseases.
1. Head Lice Symptoms in Children
The child is constantly scratching his head, neck and ears. This is mainly due to an allergic reaction to louse saliva. If a person has a lice infestation, the itching stays for 2-6 weeks right after the infestation.
Lice may be visible, but hard to notice since they are fast and very small in size.
Lice eggs or nits are harder to spot as they stick to hair shafts and are camouflaged to match hair colour.
2. Head Lice Treatment in Children
Doctors suggest using over-the-counter medication and frequently combing with a special lice comb.
Keep your child’s hair clean.
There are some home remedies like petroleum jelly, olive oil, baby oil, etc. which are popular, but not scientifically tested.
If you observe your child showing any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. A late response will only make things more troublesome for you and your little one. Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Mom of a Newborn child
13 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what is muconium staining?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
13 hours ago
A. due to feetal distance that will be mcconium passing in the uterine cavity itself. 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 2 months
12 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts What should I buy for my baby however I'm just expecting in 2 month
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
12 hours ago
A. you can get information regarding essentials of the new ones watch any YouTube channel. 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
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
12 hours ago
Q. I got faint line all my pregnancy test and I missed my periods for 10 days but USG and TVs test confirm there is no pregnancy is there any chance that it is very early stage that's why it is not visible???? or TVs test is the last thing that can tell that really there is no pregnancy
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 hours ago
A. I think it would be advisable for you to get an ultrasound done with your doctor that’s going to give you a clarity because if there is a pregnancy it would be visible at least at least that sack is visible if it’s a regular pregnancy so it would be advisable to have a test with your doctor
Dr. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby girl and boyhai one month 8 days old kya mai ghutti de sakte hun ya gripe water de sakte hun aur kab se start kar sakte hun
Dr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
8 hours ago
A. dear Mum, you should not give any sort of gripe water or ghutti to your baby. these are unhealthy and dangerous and can cause infection to your baby. so, these should be completely avoided.
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant.I recently had growth scan.mu baby is in cephalic presentation. Does this change as I approach my due date. Also my EDD is July 25 and EDC is July 2. what is my expected due date. Also what is EDC?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. edc is expected date of delivery only.
that is 40 weeks
You will get more information for your query with your family doctor. You may meet your dr in person for proper guidance .
It is important to remain in contact with your doctor.
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
7 hours ago
Q. why I am getting dizziness in my pregnancy
I am going with 3rd month of my pregnancy it's a very strong dizziness I feel at times means every day .....no other symptoms of pregnancy .Please help with elaboration .All okay means isn't part of this journey.
Read moreAbhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
12 mins ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. But it is really very difficult to say anything without proper examination. It is advisable to get yourself evaluated by a gynaecologist and follow doctors advise properly. You can also book online doctor’s appointment on FirstCry where the doctor can guide you properly.
Thanks and take care
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