Posts by Dr. Irabor

Eye discharge in newborns can be a concerning symptom for parents. Here's what you need to know: Eye discharge in newborns can be harmless but it can get complicated in some instances. Some eye discharge will resolve on their own but in some cases baby will need to be treated. If the eye is not handled properly, applying unprescribed medications, applying concoctions and home remedies with unproven efficacy, poor hygiene can complicate the newborn's eye condition. Many babies are brought to the hospital because the parents kept applying breastmilk in conditions where proper treatment is required. As a new mom its important baby is seen by a doctor to evaluate what could be responsible for the eye discharge as there are different causes of eye discharge in newborns which require different treatment regimen. Causes Of Eye Discharge In Newborns: 1. Blocked...

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There are times a baby may prefer the bottle to breastfeeding directly and it is due to a couple of mistakes often made by new moms (Get our breastfeeding guide here)   Some possible reasons your baby might be refusing to breastfeed directly: 1. Babies can get confused between the nipple and the bottle, making it difficult for them to latch onto the breast. If you will be introducing a bottle to baby, ensure you also put baby to breast as often as possible so baby is familiar to both the breast and the bottle 2. Bottles often have a faster flow than breasts, which can cause babies to prefer the bottle. 3. If the baby is not latching properly, it can be uncomfortable for the mother and the baby, leading to a preference for bottle-feeding. 4. If the mother's milk...

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Poor sleep is a common challenge among new moms. Since baby won't sleep for long, good sleep is is often far from many new moms and it's even worse when you have no one assisting you. There are a couple of reasons baby may not sleep for long and some of these factors include: They are unable to differentiate between night and day yet just as it was while they were in the womb Babies tend to become hungry within a short period of time due to their small tummy size Overfeeding baby can make them uncomfortable Hot weather condition and over wrapping baby when the weather is hot Soiled diaper Baby might be ill   Ways you can improve your baby's sleep: Create a routine for baby as early as possible and stick to the routine; choose...

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Weaning or stopping breastfeeding can be challenging but it's  a necessary step for mothers and babies. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this transition. There are couple of reasons you may want to stop breastfeeding but the recommended age to discontinue breastfeeding according to the World Health Organization is two years. It is not advisable to stop breastfeeding quickly or going cold turkey as this can be more stressful on the body with associated breast engorgement. Ideally, you should stop breastfeeding over a period of time but unfortunately not every mom have the time to do so gradually. Many moms still prefer to go cold turkey. Signs Baby is Ready to Wean: Showing less interest in breastfeeding  Self-weaning (refusing breast)  Drinking from a cup Eating solid foods regularly Tips for Successful Weaning: Ensure baby  is eating solid...

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Lochia is the vaginal discharge after delivery and its duration varies among women. Vaginal discharge after delivery may last upto six weeks. Within a couple of days after delivery, the discharge will be red after which it turns pink then later white and it will eventually stop   When to call a doctor: Heavy Bleeding: Soaking more than two pads per hour Bleeding lasting more 6weeks Dizziness Fainting     Available products https://selar.co/781ek4

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Constipation in babies is often a cause of worry but most cases which many parents consider to be constipation is really not constipation. When babies try to stool and they strain or cry most parents start to worry about constipation. A true sign of constipation is the passage of hard stool. When babies pass stool, they may strain or cry while trying to pass stool and this is usually normal and is  as a result of their immature organs. As baby's organs  develop and as they get used to the act of passing stool they will start passing stool effortlessly. So, as long as baby passes a soft stool, baby is not constipated even if they become cranky and uncomfortable when trying to pass stool Secondly, babies especially exclusively breastfed babies can go a couple of days and...

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As a new parent, it's natural to worry when you notice your baby's hair falling out. You may wonder what could be responsible. In most cases, hair loss in babies is normal and temporary. Normal Hair Loss in Babies occurs as a result of: Babies shedding their birth hair and this will be replaced by new hair. After birth, hormonal fluctuations can cause hair loss. Placing baby to sleep in just one particular position without alternating sleep positions can result in hair loss in that area There could be hair loss due to tight hairstyles Genetic predisposition: Some babies may inherit a tendency to lose hair due to family genetics.  Conditions such as cradle cap, eczema, infections like ringworm infections, nutritional deficiencies can lead to hair loss  How to care for baby's hair: Gentle scalp care: Use mild...

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Finger sucking is a common habit among children. While it may seem harmless, prolonged finger sucking can lead to dental, speech and social problems. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind finger sucking, practical tips for parents as well as tools that may help children break the habit. It's important to note that many babies outgrow the habit of finger sucking on their own. Scolding or punishing the child can make them want to suck more for comfort and self soothing Traditional Nigerian remedies such as applying a bitter-tasting substance like lemon or bitter leaf to the fingers or the use of bandages to discourage finger sucking have not been found to be successful in many children.   Reasons For Finger Sucking In Children: 1.⁠ ⁠It provides a sense of calm and reassurance especially during times of stress or anxiety. 2.⁠ ⁠Children...

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Skin rash is a common complaint and one of such is ringworm. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by worms. It’s actually a skin infection caused by fungi.  It's a common infection that can affect the skin, scalp, feet, and nails. It’s called “ringworm” because it often looks like a red, circular rash with clear skin in the middle. This infection is caused by fungi, not worms.   Who are those at risk? It's important to note that ringworm infection may increase or worsen if the risk factors are not handled even when treatment is commenced. Below are some of the common risk factors; 1. Living in a warm and humid climate: The warm, moist air helps fungi grow 2. Contact with an infected person 2. Sharing clothes, beddings, towels etc 2. Close living conditions: Living close to others can help the...

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Potty training is a significant milestone and at the same time, it can be challenging for both parents and the kids if not done the right way or at the right time. Every activity we engage in is connected to our brain and certain milestones like potty training is a lot easier when the child is ready which is a sign of that child's development. It's important parents do not put themselves under pressure especially when the child is not ready or isn't showing signs of readiness which will be discussed in this article. Every child is different but some children may show signs of readiness around 18-24months while some children may require more time. So it's important to avoid comparing your child with another child, your focus should remain your child so you're not under pressure.   How ready...

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