Good Baby TipsTips for keeping your baby happy and healthy

What is Cradle Cap?

Cradle Cap is harmless; this is the first thing you should know about it. It is aesthetically displeasing but usually harmless for the baby until it aggravates to a degree that it looks red and swollen, then it may cause itching.

Cradle Cap is a condition of the skin. The human skin is always producing new cells and shedding off old ones, a process that we do not notice. Babies suffering from Cradle Cap have hyperactive seborrheic glands that are responsible for producing oil. Their skin produces new cells at a faster rate than it sheds them, which results in flaky or dry skin that looks like dandruff, or thick, oily, yellow/brown scaling or patches on the head.

Sometimes this skin condition can also occur on other parts of the baby’s body, for example around the ears and eyebrows and creases like armpits or even the diaper area. Then this condition is known as seborrheic dermatitis as it occurs where there is the greatest number of oil-producing sebaceous glands.

Why does Cradle Cap occur?

Cradle Cap can occur in any baby, there are no risk factors that make one baby more prone to it than the other. It usually occurs in the first six weeks of the baby’s life and usually continues up till three months of age. Most often Cradle Cap resolves itself and no treatment is required. However, in some cases the condition may prolong to several months or beyond.

The exact reason for the occurrence of Cradle Cap is not agreed upon. The most common consensus is on the opinion that it is caused by hormones passed from the mother to the baby, through the placenta, just before birth. These hormones are thought to over stimulate the seborrheic glands, producing more oils and making scaly patches appear over the skin.

Cradle Cap is not infectious or contagious. Some suggest that it is an allergic reaction or is caused by poor hygiene; however, both these views are wrong. Cradle Cap can occur in any baby and mostly goes away itself.

How do I treat my baby’s Cradle Cap?

No treatment is really required for Cradle Cap, it goes away by itself. However, it is unpleasing for parents to see their baby’s skin like that. If it bothers them, they could try to shampooing regularly with a mild shampoo and brushing the baby’s scalp with a soft brush or terry cloth. Don’t be afraid to shampoo the baby’s hair, in fact it should be done more frequently, about 2-3 times a week.

For more persistent cases of Cradle Cap, sometime the oil treatment is helpful. However, it is important to know that oil helps to build scales by clogging the pores and allowing the scales to stick, if used in a large amount or allowed to stay on the scalp. If oil is being used, use a small amount. Rub it into the baby’s scalp; leave it on for a few minutes (it will help to loosen the scales) and then comb out the scales gently with a soft brush or tooth-comb. Be sure to shampoo the baby’s head afterwards so that the oil does not stay in.

For even more persistent cases that are not resolved by oil or shampoo, doctors may suggest stronger medicated shampoos. But do not use an antiseborrhea without consulting your pediatrician first as these shampoos contain small amounts of sulfur and salicylic acid and may cause irritation to the baby. The doctor may prescribe some other lotions or creams to treat the redness and scales.

Can I prevent Cradle Cap from coming back again?

If the Cradle Cap has completely disappeared, it is unlikely to come back again. If your child is a year old it rarely comes back before puberty. However, preventive measures include washing the baby’s hair frequently, about two to three times a week. Take care not to over do it as it may stimulate the oil glands and produce more oil.

If the condition keeps persisting off and on and does not finish completely you might need to keep using antiseborrhea shampoos in frequent intervals. However, consult your pediatrician before any such step and let him/her decide if your baby still needs those shampoos or lotions.

An unexpected problem is harder to handle than an expected one. Postnatal depression is one of these problems. At a time when a mother has given birth to a beautiful baby, an accomplishment, a living miracle of nature, and everyone around her, friends and family are ecstatic, she feels low. It upsets her because it might not make sense logically but it is important to know that hormonally, it does.

Why does postnatal depression occur?

The exact reason for postnatal depression is not agreed upon by all researchers and doctors. It seems to be more of a combination of reasons rather than just one. The foremost reason of postnatal depression is the drop in the level of hormones (estrogen and progesterone) after birth as these pregnancy hormones dissipate and milk production starts. Some authorities believe that it can also be caused by an unusually taxing birth with a prolonged and difficult labour. Some others are of the opinion that it could also be because of a sense of physical and emotional anticlimax after the birth. Many mothers say it is simply caused by total exhaustion from too little sleep and too much responsibility.

Mothers can initially feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of motherhood, and the prospect of ‘a mother is born when a child is born’ can seem scary. When the child is brought home from the hospital, a mother needs to set up a new life that she is formerly not accustomed to. This can take time and prove to be taxing for her. In addition, a new mother might also try to emulate the Supermom standards of parenting that she has read and heard about—the standards that say any intelligent, healthy woman can handle everything. It is important to prepare yourself for imperfections before the baby is born. Everything cannot be and will not be perfect. Trying to follow everything read and heard is impossible and only leads to depression by making a mother feel inadequate for caring for her child.

A mother must realize that feeling low after giving birth does not mean she does not love her baby. Neither is it unnatural or something to feel ashamed and alarmed about. Around 80% of all mothers suffer from some kind of post natal depression. The duration and intensity of each might vary. That is why it is important to know about the types of postnatal depression to be able to identify if you or someone you know has crossed over from the regular baby blues to a more serious state.

Postnatal depression is generally categorized as:

• Baby Blues
• Postpartum Depression
• Postpartum Psychosis

Baby Blues:

Some degree of emotional vulnerability and is natural and expected after child birth. Almost 80% of all women who give birth experience the blues that start shortly (3-4 days) after the delivery and can linger up to two weeks. Feeling low after child birth is not a disease and does not require any treatment, only understanding and support from friends and family. As a new mother acquires confidence in her role as a parent and regains her strength and sleep with rest and help, she finds that her approach falls into a sensible perspective and she feels herself again. In this way baby blues often treat themselves.

Symptoms of the blues consist of:

• Crying for no reason
• Moodiness
• Feeling exhausted
• Restlessness and sleeplessness
• Anxiety, worry and nervousness
• Change in appetite  (eating more or less)
• General irritability

These feelings do not hamper the mother’s ability to function in daily life. They last for a few days and then go away by themselves. However, it is important to know that if they persist and increase in intensity, the blues could well be Postpartum Depression. It is important to know the difference between the two and not to confuse them with each other as they share symptoms.

Postpartum Depression:

If the baby blues last for longer than two weeks and the symptoms become so troublesome that they hamper a mother’s ability to take care of her child, she might be suffering from postpartum depression. It is important, in this case, to contact a doctor and seek professional help. Postpartum depression is experienced by 10-20% of all women after childbirth. It can start within a few weeks after birth to any time in the following year.

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression include:

• Insomnia
• Uncontrollable crying or feeling of hopelessness
• Lack of interest in pleasurable activities & withdrawal from society
• Reduced concentration & having trouble completing routine tasks
• Changes in appetite
• Sluggishness, fatigue, exhaustion and anxiety
• Mood swings – highs and lows
• Lack of interest in the baby and not feeling bonded
• Negative thoughts of harming oneself or the baby
• Panic attacks (a racing heart, dizziness, confusion, and feelings of impending doom)

Postpartum depression occurs due to the same psychological, sociological and physiological changes as baby blues, and can happen to any woman. However, a few factors make it more likely for the blues to turn into depression. A woman is more vulnerable if she:

• Has had an unhappy childhood (perhaps mental or physical abuse)
• Has a history of depression or difficulty coping with stress
• Has had an unwanted or unplanned baby
• Has had a premature birth or an ill baby
• Has an unsupportive spouse or marital difficulties
• Has had a major life changing event (e.g. a move, or loss of a job)
• A personal or family history of thyroid problems. (Thyroid dysfunction doesn’t mean you’ll have PPD, but it can predispose you to postpartum thyroid problems, which may have symptoms similar to those of PPD. It’s good to have your thyroid tested if you’re feeling low, especially if you have a family history of thyroid problems.) (click for source)

It is important to keep in mind that these are only risk factors, having one of them sometimes leads women to postpartum depression and at other times, having even several does not result in depression at all.

How to cope with Postpartum Depression:

Postpartum depression should not be taken lightly. If a mother feels she has symptoms of depression, she should consult her doctor and seek help and support from those close to her. In addition to receiving medical treatment, following are things that she can do for herself:

• Make time for yourself: Make sure you take good care of yourself, your health and sleep. Schedule a babysitter for a regular time so that you can get time to take a relaxing shower or read a good book or go to watch a movie. Do not feel that you are abandoning your child. Little breaks like these will help you take better care of him.
• Do not feel guilty: Do not allow yourself to feel guilty. Having postpartum depression is not your fault and it does not mean you do not love your child.
• Indulge in pleasurable activities: Start enjoying activities that you used to like before the baby came. Read something uplifting, visit a friend, page through a magazine, listen to music, sip a cup of tea etc. Do not shun society and try to be with family and friends who can provide support and comfort.
• Ask for and accept help: Don’t hesitate from asking for emotional support or help with caring for the baby or tackling household chores. A part of being a mother is to know when to ask for help and accept it. Do not feel embarrassed or ashamed about it. Share your feelings with people who matter to you, let them know what you are going through and seek their support. You can also join a support group or a forum. It helps to know that you are not the only one with Postpartum Depression.
• Sleep when the baby sleeps: It is important to catch on sleep so that exhaustion from caring for the baby does not contribute to depression. It is a good idea to sleep when the baby sleeps. Do not rush to do other chores in that time, those can be done later. Choose a quiet place with minimal disturbance and get as much rest as you can. If necessary, have a relative look after your child or hire a baby sitter and get sleep.
• Do not neglect your outlook: Taking care of your physical appearance can sometimes help you feel better. Have someone look after your baby while you take a relaxing shower, put on make-up or go for shopping. Getting out of doors, even if it’s only for a short walk is beneficial. The fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for a fatigued mind and body.

Postpartum Psychosis:

The third and rarest but most serious kind of postnatal depression is Postpartum Psychosis. One woman out of every 1000 women giving childbirth experiences this period when she seems to lose touch with reality. This depression can set in at any time from a few weeks after deliver up to a year. Its reasons of occurrence are no different than those for usual postnatal depression but sadly it is often misdiagnosed as Postpartum Depression, which makes it harder to provide it the medical attention it deserves. Postpartum Psychosis should always be taken seriously and treated pronto as it can be very harmful for the mother and the baby. Suicidal rate in Psychotic mothers is 5% and infanticide rate 4%.

Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis are as follows:

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Illogical thoughts about the baby e.g. thinking he is possessed
• Insomnia
• Refusal to eat
• Extreme feelings of anxiety and agitation
• Periods of delirium or mania
• Suicidal/homicidal thoughts or attempts

Women more prone to Postpartum Psychosis are those who have a personal or familial history of psychiatric illnesses, such as bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder. Immediate attention should be given to a Postpartum Psychosis patient by medicine and talk therapy.

Postnatal depression is a very natural effect of the long and exhaustive process of pregnancy, labour and childbirth. It is nothing to be embarrassed about and you should not feel shy in seeking professional help, talking to people about it, expressing your feelings and asking for help with the new baby and the new life that you have entered. If a loved one is going through postnatal depression try to understand her situation, extend a helping hand and a comforting shoulder. Help her around with the baby, cook her a meal, take her on a walk, listen to her. These small things would remind a mother going through the blues, of her own value and how much she is loved. If your wife is going through postnatal depression try to understand her and not judge her. Postnatal depression can be hard for husbands too but be patient and kind. Remember things will not be like this always, brighter days lie ahead, but your support is vital for your wife’s recovery.

Sources Cited & Further Reading:

• Baby Centre
• Women’s Health
• Mayo Clinic
• Kids Health (for parents)
• Pregnancy Info

SIDS, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, as the name suggests, is the unexpected death of a baby less than 1 year of age without an apparent cause of death. The exact cause of SIDS remains unknown even after years of research. The mystery attached to SIDS and its causes is what makes it so frightening for parents. There are no answers to their questions, only theories and conjectures. The death of an infant is always tragic for parents, however, the death of a baby due to SIDS, without any symptoms of ailment or time for parents to prepare themselves for what is to come, can be extremely traumatic. SIDS has claimed the lives of infants since the beginning of the human race. It is still the leading cause of death amongst children from 2-6 months. No definite causes of SIDS are known but there are many precautionary measures that are recommended to parents to reduce the risk of SIDS. However, sometimes SIDS occurs even when all possible measures have been taken.

SIDS can occur in children from all races, socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds from urban and rural areas. Its likelihood is not determined by any factor accept adherence to the precautionary measures suggested by doctors and researchers. There are no symptoms of SIDS. It occurs in healthy babies who feed normally. SIDS mostly occurs during sleep which is why it is also known as Cot or Crib death and the baby shows no signs of suffering. SIDS has only recently been established as a separate disease entity and can be given as an official cause of death. If the child’s death remains unexplained even after a formal investigation into the circumstances of death (including performance of a complete autopsy, examination of the death scene, and review of the clinical history), the death is then attributed to SIDS.

Possible Causes of SIDS:

• Sleeping on Stomach: The most widely accepted cause of SIDS is putting the baby to sleep on his stomach. Numerous studies and researches conclude that most SIDS deaths have occurred in babies who sleep on their stomachs. It was formerly thought that babies should be put to sleep on their stomach as they rest better and sleep more soundly in that position. However, after research results have shown that stomach sleeping increases the risk of SIDS, parents are advised against it.According to researchers’ hypothesis stomach sleeping puts pressure on the baby’s jaws that hampers breathing by narrowing the airway.

  Another theory suggests that stomach sleeping can increase an infant’s chances of re-breathing his own exhaled air, particularly if he is sleeping on a soft mattress or with bedding, stuffed toys, or a pillow near his face. These soft surfaces can create a small enclosure around the baby’s mouth and trap exhaled air. As the baby breathes exhaled air, the oxygen level in the body drops and carbon dioxide accumulates. This lack of oxygen can contribute to SIDS. (Click for source)

• Abnormality in the Arcuate Nucleus: Infants who have some kind of a breathing disorder might be more likely to succumb to SIDS. For example, they may have an abnormality in the arcuate nucleus, a part of the brain that may help control breathing and awakening during sleep. If a baby is breathing stale air and not getting enough oxygen, the brain usually alarms the baby to wake up and cry. That movement changes the breathing and heart rate, making up for the lack of oxygen. But a problem with the arcuate nucleus could deprive the baby of this involuntary reaction and put him at greater risk for SIDS.
  (ibid.)
• Apnea (lack/cessation of breathing): Many young infants have an uneven breathing pattern. Some even have periods, known as apneic episodes, when they do not take a breath for up to 20 seconds or longer. One theory of SIDS suggests that for some babies, the respiratory system is so underdeveloped that they do not take a breath after an apneic episode. Infants with apnea may be monitored with electronic monitors prescribed by doctors that track heart rate and respiratory activity, though these monitors cannot prevent SIDS. Prolonged apnea may put a baby on a greater risk of SIDS but most apneic babies do not die of SIDS and most SIDS babies do not have apnea.
• Choking: Sometimes regurgitated food is found in the mouth or nasal passage of a baby who has died of SIDS. In these cases physicians or investigators believe that choking on these substances was the cause of SIDS. However, vomiting frequently occurs at the time of death. So these findings might not be the cause of death but its result.
• Allergy: An allergy, especially to cow’s milk, was also once thought to be a cause of SIDS. As SIDS mostly occurs in babies from 2-6 months (a time when they are gradually being weaned from the breast to the bottle) cow’s milk was thought to be the culprit. However, research shows that babies who have been breast-fed exclusively also die of SIDS. Breast feeding however may help to prevent infections that could possibly lead to SIDS.
• Smoking: Studies show that a baby’s risk of SIDS rises if he is exposed to second hand smoke. Each additional smoker in the household, the number of cigarettes smoked around him each day, and the length of his exposure to cigarette smoke, all contribute to a possible SIDS death.
• Premature Birth or Low Birth Weight: Babies who are born prematurely or those who have a lower birth rate are also at a higher risk of SIDS.
• Overheating while Sleeping: Research shows strong evidence that overheating by too much clothing, putting a blanket over the baby’s head or overheating the room can substantially raise the risk of a SIDS death.
• Suffering an Apparent Life Threatening Event (ALTE): It is also thought that babies who suffer apparently life threatening events such as abrupt changes in breathing, color and muscle tone and requiring resuscitation are at a greater risk of SIDS. However, no definite scientific evidence links ALTEs as events that may lead to SIDS.
• For Mothers: SIDS is not hereditary, however babies are at a higher risk of SIDS death if the mother:
  • Has had inadequate parental care
  • Is younger than 20 years
  • Has had low weight gain during pregnancy
  • Has smoked or used drugs during pregnancy
  • Has had placental abnormalities — such as ‘placenta previa,’ a condition where the placenta lies low in the uterus, sometimes covering the opening of the cervix. (click for source)

Measures That Can be Taken to Reduce the Risk of SIDS:

Although SIDS can occur without any known reason and besides taking preventive measures, based on research and the possible causes of SIDS, following are measures that can reduce the risk of its occurrence.

• Back Sleeping: Researchers have claimed that putting the baby to sleep on his stomach is the most likely cause of SIDS. Since then the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has included putting a baby to sleep on his back in its guidelines. Some parents worry that sleeping on the back might cause their baby to choke on spit-up or vomit. However, according to AAP, healthy babies are at no more risk of chocking on their backs than they are on their stomachs. If your baby has chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD] or certain upper airway malformations, consult your doctor about the best position for your baby to sleep. It might be a better idea to put such babies to sleep on their stomachs.If you are worried about the baby spending too much time on his back and developing a problem because of that, allow the baby more ‘tummy time’ when he is awake. When babies learn to roll over it might become difficult to keep them on their back all night. At this stage the baby is already 4-7 months and it is quite alright to let him decide a sleeping position for himself.
• Good Prenatal Care: Take good care of yourself and your baby during pregnancy. Have regular checkups to ensure normal weight gain and baby growth. After delivery, have your baby checked up regularly, especially if he is premature or had a low birth weight.
• Avoid Smoking: Avoid smoking, drinking and using drugs during pregnancy. Babies born to mothers who have smoked during pregnancy are thrice more likely to die of SIDS than those whose mothers have not smoked. It is thought that smoke affects a baby’s nervous system. Avoid a baby’s exposure to second hand smoke as it doubles the risk of SIDS. Do not allow people to smoke around your child.
• Prevent Suffocation and Overheating: Make sure the baby is not over heated when sleeping. Make sure to keep the baby’s head exposed while sleeping. Keep a room temperature that feels comfortable for an adult in short sleeves. Being too warm while sleeping makes babies go into a deeper sleep which is hard to arouse from.
  Always put your baby to sleep on a firm mattress, never on a pillow, waterbed, sheep skin or other soft surfaces. Do not place quilts, blankets, stuff toys and pillows near the baby as these may lead to suffocation and re-breathing of stale air.
• In case of GERD: If your baby has GERD, consult your doctor about his sleeping and feeding positions.
• Using a Pacifier: In the first few months of his life, put your baby to sleep with a pacifier. Research has linked pacifiers with lower risk of SIDS. Start giving him a pacifier after the first month so that he establishes breast feeding and the pacifier does not hinder with it. However, if your baby rejects a dummy, do not force him to take it.
• Safety Measures for Co-Sleep: Whether to sleep with the baby in the same bed or put him in a crib or bassinet, is still debated. In biblical times SIDS was known as ‘overlaying’ (because it was thought the mother had lain atop the baby while sleeping.) This surely is a risk if you sleep with your baby (sometimes called co-sleeping) so it is a good idea to put a baby in his crib when he is about to sleep. The cribs or bassinets should be in the parent’s room so that they can keep checking on the baby regularly. The parents’ bed also contains soft beddings, cushions and pillows, all that can lead to suffocation. There is a higher risk of overheating with the quilts and blankets and the presence of the mother.But, on the other hand, some people are of the opinion that babies should sleep with mothers in their beds. This allows the mother to respond quickly to any movement or change in their breathing patterns.

  The choice is to be made by the mother. If she decides to take her baby to bed there are a number of things she should keep in mind. The mattress should be firm and flat, tightly fit against the headboard leaving no gaps. There should be no fluffy pillows or heavy bedding that can cause breathing problems for the child. And the baby should be put to sleep on his back.

Why are the Causes of SIDS Unknown?

The efforts to determine the causes of SIDS are greatly hampered by underreporting and misreporting of SIDS deaths. As SIDS has no symptoms its cause can only be investigated into after the death has occured. This requires an autopsy, which, in many places of the world, requires parental permission. Many parents do not agree to it and the death may be registered due to some other cause. Even if the autopsy is carried out different children, from different areas of the world, have different reports. This lack on inconsistency makes it very hard to determine the cause of SIDS. The parents of SIDS babies, often victims of guilt and self-blame, also think of reasons for their child’s death to console themselves. Absolute absence of answers can be unacceptable. Thus SIDS can be registered as a death caused by the reason imagined by the parents.

Dealing with SIDS:

Parents of a SIDS baby suffer a great loss. Unlike parents of a baby who suffers from a disease, parents of a SIDS baby are taken aback by the suddenness of the death and do not have any warning or time to emotionally prepare themselves. Not only the parents, other caregivers such as grandparents, a baby sitter and the baby’s siblings (especially if they are old enough to help with taking care of him and have developed a special bond) suffer too. Their loss is often overlooked while focusing on the parents only.

In face of such a loss the bereaved parents usually experience feelings of guilt, anger, fear, blame and despair. As the causes of SIDS are unknown, parents often come up with their own explanations for the tragedy and blame themselves. This is a very common reaction; however, it is important to keep in mind that SIDS is not the parents’ fault. Besides taking the preventive measures there is nothing they can do to prevent it.

SIDS can affect a marital relationship and family life in general. It is good to talk to others about your feelings instead of bottling them up. There are support groups available for parents and families who have suffered from a SIDS death. You can also consider counseling or talking to other parents who have been through the same experience. However, the best support always comes from one’s own friends and family.

The dummy debate, whether to give it to your baby or not, its advantages and disadvantages, has been a long standing discussion between parents and an area where you are most likely to receive conflicting advice. Dummies, whether liked or not, have been used for decades by mothers to pacify their children. To give your child a dummy or not is up to you, however, it is important to have all the information about its pros and cons before making a decision.

Sucking, as mentioned earlier in Benefits of Breast Feeding and Thumb Sucking, is a baby’s earliest reflex. Some ultrasounds show babies sucking on their thumbs inside the mother’s womb. It is easy to reason out a baby’s need to suck even before birth. By sucking on his thumb he develops the ability that is so vital to fulfill his nutritional needs later. Dummies pacify babies by fulfilling this need to suck, but that also requires a wise decision on the parent’s part. Otherwise it might lead to over dependency on the dummy and yield disadvantages discussed later in this article.

What is a dummy?A dummy is a ‘blind’ teat (without a hole in it) attached to a disc that rests against the baby’s lips to keep the teat from being pulled entirely into his mouth. On the back of the disc is a ring by which the pacifier can be held by the baby, or attached to his clothes by a ribbon. Never hang the dummy around a baby’s neck in a ribbon; there is a risk of the baby being strangled by the ribbon if it winds around his neck. (Baby and Child Care by Dr. Benjamin Spock)

When and why do parents use a dummy?

It is noted that dummies are mostly used when the baby is 2-3 months old. Surveys have also shown that parents usually use dummies when it is their first child and more likely, if it’s a boy. Dummies pacify crying babies because sucking on something calms them down. The reason for a baby’s cry could be anything from being colic to wanting to suck at something the whole time. Some babies have a very strong urge to suck so they want to be at the breast or bottle the whole time. This demand can be very hard to fulfill and the baby’s constant crying can be very disturbing and distractive. For such babies, dummies can be very helpful (although a mother must take care of a dummy affecting her milk supply which is discussed later.) A baby often reacts quickly and absolutely to dummies. He either accepts it and enjoys it very much or rejects it completely.

Advantages of a dummy:

• Sleep: A dummy can help in putting a baby to sleep. A pacifier also helps to keep the baby asleep even if he is disturbed at night. He will start to suck on the dummy and has more chances of going back to sleep without opening his eyes.
• Calming: As sucking helps babies to calm themselves and gives them a feeling of security, a dummy can help a baby if he is suddenly frightened by something around him. Parents also widely use dummies through their baby’s colic episodes.
• Dental problems: If a baby is given a dummy he is less likely to develop the habit of thumb sucking. Dummies and thumb sucking, both can lead to dental problems and people argue that both are as aesthetically displeasing. Then why substitute the thumb with a dummy? Their argument is valid but children are often weaned off dummies (or they should be) by the age of 3-4 months. Colic ends by that time too so a dummy is less needed. On the other hand, thumb sucking is likely to persist for a longer period and has more chances of creating dental problems when the baby begins to teeth. A dummy can be thrown away at one point but the thumb cannot. Recent research also shows that children who suck their fingers rather than dummies have higher chances of tooth decay because sucking a dummy produces more saliva which helps combat plaque.
• Lesser risk of smoking as adults: Research shows that adults who have had dummies as babies are less likely to take up smoking. (Click for source)
• Lesser risk of Cot Death: In June 2007 The Foundation for Study of Infant Deaths announced that putting the baby to sleep with a dummy can reduce the risk of cot death or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS.) No one reason has been pointed out for SIDS; however, many precautionary measures have been suggested. The use of a dummy while a baby is sleeping is one of them. The dummies’ bulky external handles might prevent babies suffering accidental lack of oxygen from having their faces buried in blankets or underneath adults’ bodies. Sucking dummies also improves development of babies’ airways. It is also thought that sleeping with a dummy positively affects a baby’s sleeping posture and helps prevent SIDS. Another theory also explains that a dummy might keep a baby in a greater state of arousal while sleeping, making him less vulnerable to SIDS. (Click for source:)

Disadvantages of using a dummy:

• Possible link to ear infections: There is thought to be a possible link between prolonged dummy use and middle ear infections. It’s thought that sucking on a dummy increases the chance of an infection back-tracking from the mouth into the Eustachian tube (the air-filled passage connecting the middle ear with the back of the throat.) A study conducted in Netherlands showed that children who used a dummy were slightly more prone to ear infection for the first time. However, the tendency for them to get ear infection repeatedly, when using a dummy, after the first time, increases. The researchers think this might be because the first infection irritates the lining of a child’s ear. This could make them more vulnerable to ear infections in future. So, sucking a dummy might cause ear infections in children who already have irritation in their ear, but not in children who don’t. Although this is only a theory. (Click for source)
• Long-term dummy use and dental problems: Using dummies for a long term can also cause dental problems especially if the child is still using it as a comforter when his milk or permanent teeth appear. That is why it is important to wean a baby off the dummy in the first few months of his life.
• Speech Problems: A dummy prevents babies from babbling, which is the foundation of speech and an important step in learning to talk. It also discourages toddlers from chatting and communicating with others readily, which they need to do to develop their language skills. A dummy may prevent a baby from using all his tongue movements. An older baby’s ability to swallow may also be impaired, and this can result in difficulties with speech. Once he starts to speak, he may talk from the back of his mouth instead of the front. Nadine Arditti, a speech therapist from Manchester, researched children attending her clinic and found that just over half of all dummy-users in her area had been referred for speech therapy. (Click for source)
• Problems with breast feeding: The supply of milk is reduced because of excessive use of a dummy in the initial weeks of a baby’s life. The baby’s sucking on the breasts produces exactly the amount of milk he needs. By reducing that and substituting it with sucking on a dummy, there is a chance of reducing the supply of milk in the mother. Mothers also use dummies to stretch out the period between breastfeeds, thus reducing their supply of breast milk. It is therefore advised not to give the baby a dummy in the first 1-2 months so that he establishes a regular cycle of feeding. Then, occasionally giving him the dummy won’t affect the mother’s supply of milk. It is also thought that dummies alter an infant’s sucking technique. Dummies may cause sucking confusion for a small baby and this can result in early weaning. (Click for source)
• Mouth breathing: Sometimes, babies who use dummies develop the habit of breathing through their mouths which, in turn, results in long-term dribbling. (Click for source)

Important things to keep in mind for using a dummy:

• Before popping a dummy into a baby’s mouth make sure he is not crying because of something else.
• Don’t get in a habit of using a dummy regularly. Keep it as a last resort when the baby is crying or offer it only at bedtime or spells of colic.
• Don’t automatically give a dummy to your baby; wait for him to ask for it.
• Wean your baby off the dummy as soon as possible, especially before he is 10-12 months old. It gets much harder to wean a baby after this age.
• Do not dip the dummy in something sweet like honey, jam or orange juice. It accelerates tooth decay.
• If your child starts to talk while he is still using the dummy, discourage him from talking with it in his mouth.
• If you decide to use a dummy, use an orthodontic one.
• Sterilize the dummy just like you sterilize other feeding bottles and nipples for your baby and keep it as clean as possible.
• Keep a regular check on the condition of your baby’s dummies. Check for cracks, splits and holes that can trap germs. Replace old dummies immediately.
• Do not hang dummies around your baby’s neck with a string or ribbon. It can be dangerous if the ribbon wraps around the neck.

Weaning from the dummy:

When the right time comes, your child might not be very willing to give up his dummy. Some children get very attached to them. Then you can try using the following tips:

• Try putting a complete stop to it. Usually children fret and cry for only 2-3 days before adjusting to a non-dummy life. Try to accomplish this task at a time when you have a little help and rest, for example on a weekend. Choose the right time to give it up, not when you are under pressure to do so.
• If this does not work try gradually reducing the times you allow your baby to have his dummy, for example at bedtime only.
• Tell your child that giving up a dummy is a good thing to do. Persuade them to give their dummies to someone older they love and respect. Also try to get an older child to agree with you that giving up a dummy is a sensible thing to do. Little children love acting like grown ups.
• Reward your child for giving up his dummy but do not reward him with sweets. You can also use a star chart to motivate him.
• Once you have decided to give up the dummy, don’t be tempted to give it back and make sure there are none left lying around the house.

The Fear of Spoiling:

The fear of spoiling a baby, especially for first time parents, is a constant companion in parenthood. Not knowing what parenthood is like and always anxious to please their child, parents worry that they will spoil their baby’s habits, making him, in turn, a spoilt toddler, a spoilt child and a spoilt teenager. The fear of spoiling one’s own child come from the Spoiling Theory, popularized by childcare ‘experts’ in the early part of the twentieth century. The theory suggests that if you pick up a baby when he cries, he will understand that this is the way to get things done his way. Consequently, he will cry more to be picked up. However, observation and research shows that this is not true in real life.

New parents are also warned against “manipulation” at the hands of their baby. It should be understood that the baby is too young to understand manipulation. He does not purposefully annoy his mother. When he cries in the first few months of his life, he is expressing a need that should be fulfilled. He is not trying to take undue advantage.

What to Do When My Baby Cries:

Keep in mind that very young babies cannot be spoilt. Their crying does not indicate that they need undue attention. As it is their only mode of communication. If a baby cries he is only communicating that need to us. Something that rightly requires attention. Maybe he is hungry, or sleepy, or wet, or in pain. If a baby does not cry, the parents would never get to know that he needs something.

In the early twentieth century, mothers were told not to give ‘undue’ attention to their child, which meant that they were to ignore the baby unless it was his feeding time. They had to endure the torture of seeing their baby cry and scream and not be able to pick him up and soothe him. People also thought that feeding the baby on self-demand would spoil him. However, researches now show that rushing to meet your baby’s needs actually builds a strong bond of love, trust and security. When the mother gives importance to a baby’s cry, it teaches him self-worth. He also understands not to cry without a purpose. Contrary to the belief that babies become very dependent on parents if all their needs are met by them, it is observed that in the long run, babies whose needs are immediately met grow up to be more confident and independent.

Never underestimate the importance of holding and touching your baby when he cries and needs comforting. According to Complete Pregnancy and Baby Book, picking up and holding the baby does not spoil him. Instead, it is a recognized fact that touching a baby helps to build a bond between the mother and child. Mothers who are separated from their babies during the first hour after birth are less confident in their intuitive mothering skills than those who hold theirs and go through the bonding process. As the skin is the baby’s largest and most well-developed sensory organ, the gentle and warm touch of the parents reassures him of their love.

Is it Impossible to Spoil a Baby?

Till 4 or 6 months of age, it is impossible to make a brat out of your child. Till this age babies only express their physical needs (sleep, hunger etc.) and psychological needs (to be held, comforted, reassured etc.) through crying. As the baby’s wants are his needs too till this age, a consistent ‘yes’ response teaches him trust and make him more accepting of a ‘no’ later. However, as the baby grows older, he will learn to express other desires and ask for things that might be harmful for him. This is where you, as a parent, should decide for him. If you do not stop him from things that are harmful for him at this age, there is definitely a chance of spoiling hm. When the baby starts to realize his power, he might exert it.

People often worry about having out-of-control toddlers. This can certainly happen if you keep giving in to each and every demand of the child. It is important to distinguish between the baby’s needs and demands and parents often struggle to do so. A good point to remember to distinguish between these is suggested by Dr. Greene. According to him, whenever your baby asks for something “ask yourself if you are giving your baby what they want or if you are giving in to what they want.” (Click for source)

Holding your baby, responding to his cries, nursing him on cue, and even sleeping with him won’t spoil him. Every baby might have some unique requirement of his own, e.g. some babies want to be cuddled all the time. Even fulfilling these would not mean you are spoiling him. Responding appropriately to your baby won’t spoil him; spoiling suggests responding inappropriately. It is up to you to decide where you want to draw the line.

Attachment Parenting and Indulgent Parenting:

Parents often worry about which style of parenting to adopt to avoid spoiling their children. Some people are of the opinion that ‘attachment parenting’ spoils children but it is important to remember that attachment parenting is not the same as overindulging kids or creating inappropriate dependency. Attachment is a parenting philosophy based on the principles of the attachment theory in developmental psychology. According to attachment theory, a strong emotional bond with parents during childhood, is a precursor of secure, empathic relationships in adulthood. (Click for source) The possessive or over-indulgent parent is constantly in a flurry around her child, doing everything for him because of her own fears and insecurity. Her child may become overly dependent, because he has been kept from doing what he needs to do. An attached mother recognizes when it is appropriate to let her child struggle a bit, experience some frustration, so that he can grow. This is why it is important to balance your chosen parenting style. Attachment differs from dependency. Attachment enhances development; prolonged dependency hinders development. (Click for source)

Some Possible Causes of Parents’ Overindulgence:

Spoiling usually happens, or parents come near it, with the first child. Not only is it a new experience for them and they feel anxiously responsible for that little helpless human and try to do something to comfort him every time he cries, they also project their own hopes and fears on their first born. After their first experience, when the baby cries the parents are more assured and confident, they have a sense of proportion. They do not feel guilty about denying their child something that they are absolutely sure is for his good.

But still, some parents give in to their children’s demands more easily than other. According to Dr. Spock in Baby and Child Care, its possible cause could be:

• They have waited for a long time for a baby or suspect that they cannot have another.
• They have too little self-confidence and become slaves to whatever the child wants. They start expecting him to be whatever they could not be in life.
• They have adopted a baby and feel that they have to do a superhuman job to prove themselves worthy.
• Parents who have studied child psychology/medicine/nursing and feel they need to prove their capability in that field.
• They feel ashamed if they are upset with the baby and try to make things even by giving in to whatever he is asking for.

Always remember, giving love to your baby, hugging, touching, comforting, spending time with him cannot spoil him. It actually is the best part of parenthood. Babies soon grow out of your arms and want to explore everything on their own. So enjoy it while it lasts. Loving your child does not spoil him; in fact, you can never love him enough. Children with happy and secure childhoods are more likely to become confident and independent adults. But the hard part of parenting is to know when to say ‘no’ and be firm about it. It is for your child’s benefit and in the long run, you will see that your child will be grateful to you.

What really is colic?

Colic is a very broad and commonly used term by different people in different ways. It is a condition mainly described by symptoms rather than a physiological explanation of what it is. In the 1950s, Dr. Morris Wessel, a well-known New Haven pediatrician, defined an infant with colic as “one who, otherwise healthy and well-fed, had paroxysms of irritability, fussing or crying lasting for a total of three hours a day and occurring on more than three days in any one week for a period of three weeks.” (click for source) Colic crying is often scheduled and happens around late afternoon or early evening. It starts when the baby is about two to four weeks old and usually ends in about three months of age (in some unusual cases it might extend beyond up till six months.) For your baby to be colic it is important that he is otherwise well-fed and healthy. If he has any other medical condition, he might be crying because of that. Before pursuing any treatment for colic, it is important to make sure that your baby is in fact colic.

Symptoms of Colicky Babies:

As colic is a condition primarily described only by its symptoms, it is helpful to keep an eye out for them. Each baby has different symptoms of colic, some exhibit only one while others may show a number of them.

• Colic is not a serious condition. Colicky babies continue to gain weight normally and have no permanent marks on their development because of it. However, it can be difficult on the parents’ nerves to handle a colic baby’s constant crying. A colic baby seems to be in pain which he might exhibit by becoming red in the face, clenching his fists, drawing his legs up to his stomach and then fully stretching them.
• Some colic babies refuse to eat or become very fussy soon after the feed.
• A colicky baby may also lift his head and legs and pass gas.
• Colicky babies might also experience fussiness, irritability, difficulty in sleeping and staying asleep.
• Colicky babies show signs of gas discomfort and abdominal bloating. Their stomachs often become hard and distended.

Colicky crying, but why?

As mentioned, the major characteristic for colic is uncontrollable, extended crying, but due to what? As there is disagreement about what colic really is, there is a lot of difference in opinions about its causes.

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Most commonly, colic is associated with gastrointestinal discomfort as ‘colic’ comes from ‘colon.’ In the first three months of his life, the baby’s digestive system is still immature and developing till the age of three months. It has not yet developed the bacteria that aids digestion and is only learning to function. Therefore, it experiences spasms that cause colic.
• Immature nervous system: Another suggested cause for colic is a weak nervous system and a tendency of the baby towards general irritability. The baby, with an immature and developing nervous system, gets tensed up due to any external stimulation. Some babies are more sensitive in nature than others (just like adults) and react more to their surroundings. These babies are more prone to crying and becoming irritated due to some sudden change in the environment.  Sometimes it is also believed the colic can arise due to transmission of anxiety and stress from the parents to the baby.
• The baby’s milk: Sometimes colic is also linked to the baby’s milk, whichever he may be taking, breast or bottle. For breast milk, in a few cases, the diet the mother is taking, if it contains volatile chemicals, allergens or other gas producing foods, it may be passed to the infant. For bottle fed babies intolerance for cow milk is sometimes supposed to be the reason for colic.
• Swallowing Air: Babies also swallow air when they are feeding or strenuously crying. This builds up an air bubble that adds to the bloating and discomfort. It is a vicious cycle, the more the baby cries of colic, the more air he swallows and increases his discomfort.
• Crying triggering more crying: It is also thought possible that the baby’s own crying triggers colic crying in the same way a baby is startled by his own startle reflex.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): In some cases it is also suggested that colic is being caused because of undiagnosed GERD. This makes the baby vomit or become fussy after feeding.

All these causes of colic given above are conjectures and debated upon. Several researches have been conducted upon the causes of colic, producing supporting and contradictory results for each of the above causes. These reasons might or might not be the reason your baby has long spells of crying. As the causes of colic are not definitely agreed upon, there is no guaranteed treatment. Treating the colic is basically making the baby and the mother as comfortable as possible.

Treatment of Colic:

Before consulting your doctor for treatment of colic or concluding that your baby is in fact colicky and trying some home remedies, check for the following. These may be things other than colic that might be making your baby cry:

• Is your baby hungry?
• Is he tired and sleepy?
• Is he wet? Is it time to change his diaper?
• Is there a lack of contact between the mother and baby? Some babies want to be cuddled all the time
• Does the baby startle due to jerky movements or sudden noise?
• Is his body temperature normal? He may be too hot or too cold.
• Is he in pain because of something else? For example an open nappy pin or rash?
• Check with your baby’s doctor for other illnesses like fever, vomiting, cough etc.

If you are sure that your baby is not crying for any of the above reasons, then perhaps he is colic. There is no set treatment of colic; different babies are comforted in different ways. Perhaps one of the following might work for you:

• Avoid overfeeding: Do not over feed your baby in order to make him stop crying. If he is bottle-fed do not urge him to finish his formula. Over feeding may cause gas and stomach aches.
• Reduce amount of air: If your baby is bottle-fed, check the size of the nipple. If it is too big or too small, the baby might be taking in more air than he needs. Also try using a curved bottle or a bottle with collapsible disposable liners. The aim is to reduce the amount of air being swallowed by the baby.
• Switching Formulas: In bottle-fed babies allergies to cow’s milk or soy formulas have also been thought to cause colic. Consult your doctor and if he recommends, try switching to a different formula.
• Changes in a mother’s diet: For breast fed babies there might be something in the mother’s diet causing the colic. Check with your baby’s doctor and with his consultation drop onions, cabbage, cauliflower, spicy foods, caffeine, beans or other gas producing foods from your diet. Eliminating dairy from your diet might also be helpful although you should always check with the doctor. He might not recommend it or give you some calcium supplements.
• Regular Burping: Make sure to burp your baby after every feed to avoid the build up of an air bubble.
• A peaceful environment: When the baby is having a crying episode, take him to a place that is less noisy. Bright lights, a lot of activity, a large number of people around, fatigue and over stimulation, may make the colic episode worse.
• Warm bath/water bottle: Give your baby a warm bath or place a warm water bottle on your baby’s abdominal area. Make sure the water is not too hot by checking it on your hand first and then, for further caution, wrap it in a towel before placing it on the baby. You can also try gently massaging the baby’s stomach and back.
• Try different positions: Some positions are more comfortable for colic babies. For example he might like lying on his stomach in the mother’s lap, or being held with his abdomen resting on the mother’s forearm. As with constipated babies’ cyclic motion, laying a colicky baby on his back and bringing his legs towards his body and pressing his thighs against his abdomen might prove helpful.
• Rhythmic sounds and movements: Colic babies like rhythmic movements and a feeling of closeness. Try rocking or walking your baby or talking him on a car ride.  Rhythmic sounds like those of a dish washer, vacuum cleaner, clothes drier etc. also calm babies down. Some babies also respond well to rhythmic musical tapes.
• Sucking: Allow the baby to suck at the breast, his finger, or a dummy. Sucking in one way or the other sometimes helps babies to calm themselves down.

It is important for parents to allow themselves a break once in a while, as colicky babies can be very taxing on their nerves. Get help and go out for a walk or a movie. Do not feel bad about ‘abandoning’ your baby; you need your time too. It is also important for mothers not to feel guilty about a crying baby. Mothers often tend to feel that way when they can do nothing to pacify their child. Also remember not to feel responsible for the colic, you are not causing it and it is not your fault. Do not let this interfere with the development of a close relationship with the baby. Colic is very common in infants up to 3 months of age, so do not worry, relax and enjoy parenthood

Works and Internet Resources Cited:

• The Complete Pregnancy and Baby Book by Vicki Lansky et al.
• Baby and Child Care by Dr. Benjamin Spock
• The New Parents Guide: http://www.thenewparentsguide.com/babys-and-colic.htm
• T. A. Lawrance at Colic Calm: http://www.coliccalm.com/baby_infant_newborn_articles/baby_colic_treatment.htm
• Medicine Net: http://www.medicinenet.com/colic/article.htm

Every baby is unique when it comes to how many and at what times he has bowel movements. One baby has them at the same time every day; the other always has them at different times. Neither is healthier than the other and there is nothing to be gained by trying to make the irregular one regular in his movements. There is, instead, a chance of upsetting the baby emotionally in the long run.

The function of the large intestine (colon) is to hold undigested and indigestible food and absorb water from it. If, for some reason, the food stays there for longer and an excess of water is absorbed, the stool becomes hard and dry. Conversely, if the food does not stay there for enough time and the appropriate amount of water is not absorbed (as in the case of diarrhea) it can lead to dehydration.

For such a basic function of the human body, there are many misconceptions about bowel habits. Thus, it is important to know what is constipation and what is not.

Is my baby constipated?
Constipation has nothing to do with the number of times a baby has bowel movements, it only has to do with the hardness of the stool. The clearest indication of constipation is when the stool is hard and dry, no matter the number of bowel movements in a day. Other clues you should look for is the number of times your baby has bowel movements. There is no ‘normal’ number for a baby; each baby has his own routine that you will come to know in a few weeks. If your baby is not passing stool as often as he does (especially if he exceeds three days) then he might be constipated. Discomfort at passing stool is a sign of constipation too. However, straining might be normal for a baby, crying means greater discomfort and demands greater attention to the matter.

 
Is there a difference in the tendency of breast-fed and bottle-fed babies to get constipated?
Breast-fed babies rarely get constipated. This is due to the fact that breast milk contains a perfect balance of fats and proteins so the stool it produces is almost always soft. Breast milk is easily digestible and has several helpful types of bacteria that are capable of breaking down some of the otherwise indigestible proteins in milk. Breast milk is a low residue diet and almost all of it is absorbed and used by the baby’s body.

Bottle-fed babies are more likely to become constipated. This could be due to something in the formula composition. Consult your doctor about changing the formula brand. It is important to note however, that the amount of iron in formula milk has no bearing over constipation. Formula milk is also harder to digest so babies receiving only formula milk have lesser bowel movements with a thicker, more greenish kind of stool.

Why is my baby getting constipated?
There could be several causes for constipation: (click for source)

• Formula Milk: As discussed above, if a baby is on formula milk, something in the milk might be causing the constipation. Consult your doctor for suitable changes.
• Diet Imbalances: Constipation is also caused if the diet is imbalanced and does not have enough fiber which passes into the colon and stays there to retain water. This makes the stool softer. A diet without enough fiber does not have the natural softening effect.
• Introduction to Solids: A baby can also get constipated when introduced to solids. This can happen as rice cereal (usually the first solid given) is low in fiber. When a baby is introduced to solids the texture and colour of his stool changes. As the intestines are getting used to this new kind of nutrition the baby might have lesser bowel movements. This does not necessarily mean he is constipated as long as the stool is soft when it appears.
• Dehydration: In warmer climates babies lose more water. Sometimes, due to other reasons, if a baby is not getting enough fluid, it will make his body absorb more water from wherever it can get. This makes the colon absorb excessive water from the food, making the stood hard and dry and difficult to pass.
• A Medical Condition: In a very few cases constipation may be due to some medical condition that the baby suffers from e.g. hypothyroidism, a metabolic disorder, a food allergy or a condition called Hirschsprung’s disease. In some cases constipation can also arise due to some medicines a doctor has subscribed to the baby. In these cases, contact the baby’s doctor for guidance.
• Poor Bowel Habits: Having poor bowel habits means a baby does not have a bowel movement when he feels the urge. As the stool stays in the colon for longer than required, excess water is absorbed leaving it drier and harder. A baby might hold back a bowel movement subconsciously if he has already had a painful experience before. To avoid that pain, he does not want to pass stool. For children being toilet trained, a very strict mother who is very determined to train her child, could be the reason he holds back his stool to assert his independence. Once he does that the stool becomes harder making him more hesitant to make a bowel movement. This can start the vicious cycle of chronic constipation. If a child reacts in this manner it means he is not ready for toilet training yet. It is better to deley it.

How do I treat constipation?

Infant constipation, if it persists, should be brought to a doctor’s notice immediately. There are a few things you can do at home to help the baby with his bowel movements.

• Increasing Fluids: It is helpful to increase the fluids in the baby’s diet. You can do this by making him drink water between the feeding times. You can also introduce fruit juices in his diet e.g. prune, apple and apricot juice. They are rich in sorbitol, a non-digestible sugar that passes through the body to the colon and causes the water to be retained or drawn into the stool mass. Otherwise, chances are that the extra water would only pass out of the body as urine.
• Massaging the Tummy: You can also massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise manner, starting at the navel and moving outwards. Apply gentle pressure. A little cream or oil on the mother’s fingertips might also help with the massage. Only continue massaging if the baby is comfortable with it.
• Exercising the Baby: It is also helpful to get the baby some exercise. If he has started crawling, let him do a few rounds. If he is not crawling yet, lay him flat on his back and turn his legs in a quick forward cycling motion. Exercising makes the stomach muscles move and puts gentle pressure on the intestines that would in turn, help the easy passage of the stool.
• Giving a Warm Bath: If your baby enjoys bathing, give him a warm bath. It helps him to relax and pass the stool easily. You can also use some cream or vaseline near the outside of the baby’s anus to make it softer.  
• Checking the Formula Milk: If your baby is on formula milk, check if you are preparing it right. Follow the instructions as given on the back of the box. Putting in lesser water and making a thicker mixture can lead to constipation. If the baby’s constipation persists, change his formula milk with the doctor’s consultation. There might be something in that particular brand that is making him constipated.
• Changes in Diet: If your baby is eating a variety of foods you can also boost his fiber in take by adding a spoon of bran to his cereal. You should also cut down on foods that are more prone to causing constipation e.g. rice, bananas, cooked carrots, cheese, yogurt, pasta etc. If your baby is younger and only takes breast milk, increase the number of feeds. If he is bottle fed, give him extra boiled and cooled water.

The Anal Tear:
Sometimes, when the baby passes very hard and dry stool, the anus may get teared. You will be able to see these tears or see blood in his stool. You can apply aloe vera lotion or Vaseline to that area to protect it and help its healing. It is important to alert  your baby’s doctor about these tears and take all steps with his consultation. 

Bathing an infant can be the most stressful part of motherhood, especially for first time mothers. However, soon they find out that the bath time is a time for fun for the child and the mother and the sooner they realize this, the sooner they start to enjoy this activity. It is important to keep in mind a few things when bathing your baby to assure safety and pleasure.

What is the best time to bathe a baby?
The most convenient time to give a baby a bath is before the 10 a.m. feed, however, it can be done before any feed. The important thing is not the time, but the fact that a baby is bathed before being fed. This is recommended because babies often fall asleep after feeding.

How often should a baby be bathed?
Babies do not really get dirty except around the mouth when they throw up and around the diaper area. That is why it is not necessary to give babies a bath every day. You can use a wet sponge to clean the diaper area and face and not necessarily give the baby a full bath for several weeks after birth. If you do bathe a baby, it is often sufficient to do it twice a week in cool weather and on alternate days in warm climates. The important thing is to make sure your baby is clean around the mouth and diaper area at all times.

Taking care of the navel:
When a mother brings her baby home from the hospital he usually has a stump, where the umbilical chord has been cut, attached still to his body. This stump eventually withers and falls off in about one week, though sometimes it takes up to three weeks. When the stump falls off it usually leaves a raw spot which takes a number of weeks to heal. Sometimes it might even leave a drop of blood or two; this is of no importance and should not be worried about. Do not apply any bandage, binding or tape. However, if it bleeds more, the baby’s doctor should be consulted.

It is important to keep the raw spot dry and clean. Doctors do not recommend putting any dressing over it so that it remains driest and heels faster. It is also advisable to keep the diaper/nappy lower than the level of the navel so that it does not get wet. In the early weeks of the infant’s life, when the navel is not fully healed, it is not advisable to give him a full bath. Damp-mopping (i.e. wiping the baby’s body with a damp cloth) will be sufficient. However, if the baby is bathed, make sure to clean and completely dry the raw spot with a sterile piece of cotton.

Sponge Bath:
For the first few weeks, a baby is scared of bathing, not because you are doing it wrong, but because he is uncomfortable with sudden changes in his body temperature. Young infants are often a lot more comfortable with sponge baths. For damp mopping you would need luke-warm water (around 100 F) a draft-free room, a basin for water and two big towels (one to bathe the baby on, the other two wrap him in after the bath.) Usually babies love the feeling of being totally naked and enjoy the freedom by flailing their arms and legs around. However, some babies are scared of being totally undressed. In this case, instead of taking off all clothes at once, each piece of clothing should be removed in turn and the sponge bath should be given in stages.

A sponge bath can be given in your lap or any plain surface like a bed or the top of the changing table etc. However, if you are using a hard surface, line the bottom with something thick, like a large pillow or folded blankets or quilts. This would make it harder for the baby to roll over.

A Full Bath:
To give your baby a full bath it is important to keep everything you need for a bath at hand, before you start it. Otherwise you will have to go to get the missing object during the bath, either holding a dripping baby in your hands or leaving the baby unattended. You should have the following things with you before starting the bath:
• Soap/shampoo (if you use any)
• Flannel
• Towel(s)
• Lotion/powder (if you use any)
• Clothes, diaper
• Any other accessories needed for the baby.

In a draft-free room, a baby can be bathed in a wash bowl, a thoroughly cleaned kitchen sink or a plastic tub. Place the tub where it does not require you to bend while bathing the baby, that can be tiresome and hard on a mother’s back. Put the washbowl on a table so that you can sit beside it on a chair or a high dresser so that you can stand comfortably. Line the tub or sink with towel to prevent the baby from slipping.

Initially, put only a few inches of water in the tub. When the initial apprehension wears off with practice, you can put in more water and your baby will enjoy the deeper water. Gently lower the baby in the washtub. To avoid slipping you can also wear cotton gloves which will, in addition, also serve as the wash cloth.

Babies do not get very dirty so using soap isn’t necessary. If you can’t bring yourself to avoid soap altogether, use a mild one especially made for babies. It will hurt the baby the least even if it enters the eyes. To avoid making the bath miserable for the baby only clean the baby’s face with plain water. You can sing or talk to your baby in the bath to entertain him and reassure yourself.

Hold the baby with a football grip. Slip your hand under neck and grab his arm with your wrist supporting his head, like shown in the picture below:

Wash the baby’s abdomen, back, arms, legs and genitalia in turn, paying special attention to creases and folds. If your baby boy has not been circumcised gently pull back the foreskin, wash, and pull it over again.

When using soap or mild baby shampoo to wash the scalp, gently tip the baby a little backwards to avoid the suds getting into his eyes when you are rinsing it off.

When the bath is done take the baby from the tub and dry him with a towel.
Use cotton buds to clean the crevices in and behind the ears but never use them to clean the ear canal, nose or any other opening.

Using powder or lotion after bath is fun but not necessary. If you are using powder make sure to shake it into your hands first, at a distance from the baby so that he does not inhale and draw it into his lungs. Powder can also build up creases and cause rashes so put thin layers only that do not form lumps. Powders can be used when the baby’s skin chafes easily. Lotions can be helpful when the skin is dry or there is mild nappy rash. Mineral oils are discouraged because they sometimes cause mild rash.

Most babies love being immersed in water so enjoy the bath while it lasts. Do not rush it as it is a relaxing time for the baby’s muscles and he enjoys making swimming motions in the buoyancy that the water provides. Occasionally, babies do not care for a bath because they are hungry, or the water temperature isn’t right, or their sense of security is threatened. If your baby seems very annoyed it is a good idea to delay the bath for a later time when he will be in the mood.

Precautions:
For safe bathing always remember the following rules:

• Warm water for you will be hot for the baby. Check the water on the sensitive inside part of your elbow. It should feel comfortably warm. Water for baby bath should be around 90-100 F.
• Unplug the telephone or resist the temptation to attend it while bathing a baby.
• NEVER leave your baby alone while bathing, no matter how important the work is or how little the water you are using. Babies can drown even in an inch of water. They need constant second-to-second supervision when they are around water.

The above article is based on the views of Doctor Benjamin Spock in Baby and Child Care, Vicki Lansky et. al in Complete Pregnancy and Baby Book and Consumer Reports (Fifth Edition).