Maybe you received a sling as a baby gift, or you’ve just heard that a wrap is a great parenting tool. But you’re wondering what’s so wonderful about holding your baby all the time. Here are our top 10 reasons why babywearing is great for you and your baby.

1. Babywearing is like a womb on the outside: Newborns transition to the outside world more easily when you create a womb-like environment for them. And what easier way than wearing them close to you. Your baby can feel your motion, hear your voice and heartbeat, and keep warm from your body heat.
2. You’ll have both hands free: this can be very helpful in the early days with your newborn especially when you’d like to eat a meal or take care of your older child.
3. Your baby will cry less: In a study about crying and carrying, babies who were carried an extra 3 hours each day had nearly half as much crying at 6 weeks as those who weren’t exposed to the extra holding.
4. You will learn your baby’s cues: Your basic task in the early weeks of parenting is trying to figure out what baby’s different cries and coos mean. Having your baby close to you will give you greater opportunity to catch early cues and keep your baby calmer (and this will improve your confidence in your parenting.)
5. Your baby can interact with the world better: Your baby will be seeing the same sights at you, and can interact with the world you are interacting with. This teaches baby sociability and can give baby a safe haven from which to observe the big world.
6. A baby carrier takes up less space than a stroller: whether trying to navigate the aisles in a department store, or just to get into your car and go, the sling or wrap is an easier, less bulky choice. And it’s much easier to carry baby in a sling or wrap than in a car seat!
7. You can keep your baby safe: People like to touch babies. When you’re out and about, they’re less likely to touch a baby attached to you – particularly important during cold and flu season. As your baby gets older, the carrier provides a place to keep baby secure while your attention is focused on other tasks.
8. You can breastfeed easily: because you’re catching early feeding cues, your baby can eat as soon as he signals his hunger. And your breasts are right there next to him. Nursing in public is easier (or at least more covered), too.
9. Your baby will feel emotionally secure: because you can respond quickly, your baby will grow feeling that his needs are being met consistently. And this helps baby feel strongly bonded to his caregiver.
10. Your baby’s brain will develop better: Your baby’s brain is growing so fast during the early years – making connects between nerves and pruning connections that aren’t used. Being involved in the world affords greater environmental stimulation to the developing brain, while at the same time, allowing baby to be protected from overstimulation.

And one last bonus reason – it’s nice for the person doing the baby wearing, too. Who doesn’t want to cuddle a baby? Positive touch releases endorphins and oxytocin – relaxing you and connecting you to your baby.

If you use a baby carrier, what’s your favorite thing about babywearing?

Written by Michelle, childbirth instructor, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

One of the most helpful things my baby’s doctor said to me was that baby spit-up is most often a laundry problem not a health problem. As a new parent, though, how are you to tell?

What’s normal?
Because your baby has an immature digestive tract, occasionally stomach contents will come back up. This is especially true if baby has swallowed some air while feeding or when crying. Sometimes regular burping will help, Occasionally only time brings that gas bubble to the surface – along with some of the stomach contents. If your baby doesn’t seem especially uncomfortable and is gaining weight well, he may just be a ‘happy spitter.’

Half of all babies spit up at least once per day in the first few months of life. Spitting peaks between two and four months of age. As baby grows, the muscles of the stomach and esophagus mature, making baby better at keeping it all down. By seven to eight months, spitting typically slows, and most babies don’t spit up after one year.

Is it vomiting?
If your baby seems to be spitting up copious amounts forcefully, and it’s happening frequently, it could be that your baby is sick. Are there any other signs of illness, such as, fever, increased irritability or sleeplessness, etc.? Is anyone else in the house ill? Viral illnesses typically resolve within 24 hours, but can be dangerous for a young baby. Keep your baby hydrated (breastfeed lots if baby will tolerate it) and visit your baby’s healthcare provider.

Is baby allergic to my milk or to formula?
It’s unlikely for a baby to be allergic to anything in breastmilk, but occasionally babies have a sensitivity to cow’s milk protein (whether from breastmilk or formula). Other symptoms of food allergy include bloating, gassiness, diarrhea, diaper rash, green frothy bowel movements, and blood or mucous in baby’s stool.

Is it reflux?
While all spitting is considered reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is more serious. If your baby spits up often, seems uncomfortable, is very irritable, and isn’t gaining weight well, then your baby may be suffering from GERD. If reflux is severe, your baby’s doctor may recommend medications or sleep positions to improve comfort.

One thing most experts recommend for any type of spitting is keeping baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes after eating. Avoid overfeeding your baby – getting less milk more frequently might help. If you’re breastfeeding and have a forceful let-down or an oversupply (a common cause of spitting), getting the help of a lactation consultant can make baby (and you) more comfortable.

If your baby is just a happy spitter and doesn’t have any symptoms of allergy or reflux, then invest in some bibs and burp cloths, and keep a change of clothes handy for baby (and maybe for you!). If you aren’t sure, check with your baby’s doctor. Just like everything else with a baby, trust your instincts. While it’s probably just fine, getting it checked will give you peace of mind.

Written by Michelle, childbirth instructor, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

You know your baby is perfect in every way, but he still needs to go for his regular checkups to make sure all is well. Your pediatrician probably already has you on a schedule for baby’s first two years.

Although the exact timetable for your baby’s checkups may vary, it’s common for doctors to recommend well baby visits at three to five days after birth followed by a checkup every month until your baby reaches six months. After the six month mark, if all is well, your little one will usually go for a checkup at nine, 12, 15, 18 and 24 months.

Even if you love your pediatrician, you may wonder why you have to take your baby for checkups so often. The first two years of a baby’s life are a time of rapid growth and development. Think about it. Your baby changes from a tiny newborn, who cannot even roll over, to an active toddler you have to chase, in two short years.

Well baby visits give your pediatrician the chance to make sure your baby is progressing as expected. Although you can call your pediatrician anytime, well baby visits are also a great time to discuss any concerns you have, such as feeding, sleep problems or weaning your baby.

Appointments may be a little different each time, but you can expect several similarities. Your pediatrician or medical assistant will weigh your baby and measure her length and her head circumference. Everything is recorded on a growth chart, and your doctor will let you know how your little one compares to other babies the same age. The measurements help your doctor identify growth and development problems.

Your pediatrician will also perform a physician exam, which involves listening to her lungs and heart and examining her tummy. The doctor will also look in her ears, nose and mouth and check her soft spots on her head, which often fuse by about one year.

Don’t worry if your baby cries or moves around a lot during the exam. Your baby’s doctor cares for kids all day, so he has seen it all. Your pediatrician also will ask you questions about development, such as if your baby is rolling over, sitting up or eating solid foods.

If you are having your baby vaccinated, you can also expect a shot or two at some of your well baby appointments. Recommended immunization schedules vary and your baby may get one or more immunizations at a checkup. But there may be some months that no shots are scheduled.

There may be other tests your doctor recommends at different appointments, such as a TB test or lead screening. Keep in mind, if you are unsure what a test, vaccine or procedure is for, ask for more information. After all, it’s your baby’s wellbeing, and nothing is more important than that!

Written by MaryAnn DePietro @ writerlady34

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

What is thrush?

Yeast is a normal part of the body that can get out of control. When you develop a fungal infection caused by yeast, it may be called thrush. Since yeast flourishes in dark, moist areas and feeds on sugars, it’s not surprising that breastfeeding moms and babies are predisposed to this infection.

What are the symptoms for mom?

You may have a thrush infection if you are experiencing stabbing or burning pain in the breast (which may happen during feeding or between feedings). Most moms with thrush have a red, shiny, itchy rash on the areola that may include peeling skin or small blisters. Nipple soreness is another common complaint.

Some women experience a vaginal yeast infection at the same time. If you have a history of mastitis or plugged ducts, this may increase the likelihood of thrush. In addition, if you’ve recently had a course of antibiotics, your natural balance can be shifted allowing the overgrowth of yeast.

What are the symptoms for baby?

For babies, the hallmark of thrush is white patches in baby’s mouth that don’t easily wipe off. These may be on baby’s gums, tongue or the insides of baby’s cheeks. Baby’s saliva may also look pearlescent. Gassiness, fussiness and refusing the breast can all happen with a thrush infection. A red, shiny diaper rash may happen along with the other symptoms. Even if you have clear thrush symptoms, your baby may not show any signs of the infection.

How is thrush treated?

Both mom and baby should be treated, even if only one has thrush symptoms. The chance of reinfection is increased when only one member of the dyad is treated, prolonging the discomfort of the infection.

Antifungal creams are the most commonly prescribed treatment. Your doctor may also recommend an antibiotic cream (for mom’s breasts) or suspension (for baby’s mouth). Oral antifungal medication can also be used, though a longer course is usually needed than is typical for a vaginal yeast infection.

Taking probiotics along with other treatments can be a useful adjunct. Baby can be given probiotic powder diluted in milk or rubbed inside the mouth. Other home treatments include a vinegar rinse (1 tablespoon of vinegar to 1 cup of water) or grapefruit seed extract (GSE) dabbed on the breast after each feeding. In addition, coconut oil (which is a natural antifungal) may be soothing when applied to mom’s itchy breasts.

Because yeast thrives on sugars, eliminate those from your diet during treatment (include natural and artificial sweeteners). Cut back on carbs and caffeine. Add yogurt and kefir (with their natural probiotics) to your diet.

Only your healthcare provider can diagnose nipple yeast and thrush. If you think you may have a thrush infection, contact your physician or other healthcare provider.

What can I do to keep it from returning?

It might be useful to treat the whole family (including dad and other children) when one person has obvious thrush symptoms. That way you’re not passing the infection back and forth! Be sure you are cleaning anything that comes in contact with mom’s breast and baby’s mouth or diaper area.

• Wash bras, breast pads, underwear, cloth diapers, etc. in hot water (consider adding vinegar to the wash)
• Wash your hands often with soap and hot water
• Boil pacifiers, bottle teats, teethers, toothbrushes, etc. for 20 minutes every day
• Wash baby’s toys in hot water daily
• Sterilize all pump parts if you are pumping (Keep in mind freezing does not kill yeast, so any milk pumped during infection will need to be used during treatment and discarded once the infection clears.)

Written by Michelle, Lamaze instructor, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

While mom may be the one with the goods, dads and partners can be an integral part in supporting breastfeeding. Research shows that the support of her partner is one of the strongest predictors of whether or not a mom starts breastfeeding and keeps going with it as baby grows.

The early days and weeks of initiating breastfeeding can be the hardest for a new mom. But, as far as long term milk supply, those first experiences are essential. Babies need to feed early and often, and they need to learn to latch and transfer milk well. And moms need to learn to get baby positioned and latched for the most productive feeding. As her partner, you may feel out of the loop. The mother-baby dance is happening without you.

So, how can you help? If you can’t feed the baby what can you do?

• You don’t need to feed your baby to bond with him: Find ways to care for your baby that don’t involve feeding. Take care of diaper changes and bathing, burping and comforting. Your baby will love to cuddle to sleep on your chest, too.
• Take on other tasks: Do the shopping, cooking and cleaning so mom can focus on the feeding. Freeing her from these responsibilities allows her to focus on the physically demanding aspects of feeding a newborn often.
• Learn about breastfeeding: If you know the basics about how a woman’s body makes milk and how to tell if the baby is getting enough, you’re less likely to suggest formula as the first solution. You’re much more likely to find ways to fix breastfeeding. But keep in mind you don’t need to know everything – there are trained lactation professionals who can help mom with any breastfeeding concerns.
• Take care of mom: Bring her a snack or a glass of water when she’s nursing. Care for your baby while mom takes a break to shower or nap, especially in those early days at home with a new baby. Bring the baby to her when he wakes to feed at night.
• Find ways to support her emotionally: Tell her she’s doing a great job – be specific in your praise – “Look how the baby is growing on your milk alone,” “You are really learning our baby’s cues,” etc.
• Turn away the naysayers: Be an advocate for breastfeeding and a gatekeeper for commenters. When someone raises doubts about your partner’s ability to breastfeed, kindly tell them “this is what our doctor has recommended” or “this is what works for our family.”
• Help her find the help she needs: If she is having breastfeeding problems, find a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counselor she can call. If she seems to have symptoms of postpartum depression, help her reach out to healthcare providers for treatment. If she just needs a shoulder to cry on, be her rock.

If you’re a mom reading this, be sure to share it with your partner. If you’re an experienced parent – mom or partner – let us know what you found most valuable in the early weeks of learning to breastfeed.

Written by Michelle, Lamaze instructor, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Can you imagine what it would be like if men had to go through even half the body destruction and embarrassing moments women endure from pregnancy to childbirth? If they had to face the pain of contractions, the soreness of milk coming in, and the humbling nature of pooping on a table in front of a room full of doctors and nurses?

Surely, if it were men who had to give birth, we would be facing a world-wide population shortage.

But, it’s not men going through all that. It’s us. And you want to know the best part? The fun doesn’t end just because the baby is out!

That’s right. Now that you’re a few weeks post-partum, you’re probably starting to take stock of your body and what still isn’t working exactly as it should. Your abs may have a long way to go before they are back in pre-baby shape, but that’s not even the worst of it. The worst is the fact that you may be peeing a little every time you laugh these days.

Have no fear, post-partum incontinence (the medical term for “pissing yourself”) is pretty normal stuff. And there are at-home measures you can take to start getting those muscles back in fight form; or at least strong enough to hold your pee in.

Remember the Kegel exercises you were hopefully encouraged to do during your pregnancy as you prepared for labor? Resuming those now should help you to start building your pelvic floor muscles up once more.

If you’ve never done Kegels before, there’s not much to them. The goal of this simple exercise is to strength the muscles that hang between your hips to support your bladder and uterus. They tend to get a little messed up during labor, but Kegels can help.

To successfully perform a Kegel, try stopping the flow of urine the next time you are peeing. Pay attention to the muscles you use to do that, and then practice constricting those same muscles throughout the day when you aren’t using the bathroom. Tighten the muscles for five seconds at a time, extending that duration as it gets easier to hold your Kegel. Try to do at least 20 Kegels a day.

You can practice your Kegels when you are sitting at your desk at work, as you are cooking dinner, and even when you are watching your favorite shows at night. Don’t worry, no one will be able to tell, and you’ll be well on your way to laughing without leaking in no time!

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Isn’t everything about a new baby wonderful? The snuggles, their perfect baby smell, and the baby crying.

Oh… wait… maybe the crying isn’t so wonderful.

But in case you hadn’t realized it yet, babies cry. Sometimes for reasons that are completely beyond your comprehension, and sometimes for extended periods of time without any indication of letting up.

Babies cry. And knowing it’s normal doesn’t make it any easier to endure.

It’s said that most babies start to cry more around two weeks of age, with those uncontrollable, un-soothe-able bouts of crying peaking at about six weeks. But for some babies, that can continue on through the third or fourth month, and it can last for hours at a time.

These more extreme baby crying fits are sometimes a sign of colic, which is just the name given to babies who cry even when they otherwise seem to be healthy, happy, and fed. If your little one cries more than 3 hours a day, mostly at night, and seemingly without reason, he or she may have colic. And unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do about colic besides being there, attempting to comfort a baby who may not want to be comforted.

If you’re still hoping to somehow soothe those cries, try skin to skin contact while swaying back and forth. You may also find that dimming the lights or taking a warm bath could help. And some parents find that strapping their little ones into the car seat and going for a drive can provide relief.

The good news is, this is all within the range of normal, and it tends to subside by the third or fourth month. Which means getting through the tears is possible. But that doesn’t mean it’s not stressful. If you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed by the baby crying, put your baby down someplace safe and go to another room where you can have a chance to breathe. Call a friend or family member for help if you need it. Having someone come sit with your baby during the hardest hours for even just one night could be exactly what you need to refresh and recharge.

Most importantly, don’t ever hesitate to take your baby to the pediatrician if you fear that something just isn’t right. While colic can absolutely be normal, there can also sometimes be an underlying cause contributing to those tears. Food allergies, for instance, could result in one very unhappy baby. So trust your gut and ask questions if the tears feel outside the range of normal to you.

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.