Acne In Newborns

Acne in newborns is quite a common condition. Although it is harmless in most cases but it can also be a sign of other medical condtions. In most cases, it is harmless and will usually resolve on its own. It's usually not painful or itchy Acne in newborns occur as a result of baby's exposure to pregnancy hormones and after delivery as these hormones wears off the acne will usually resolve on its own What you can do as a parent; Keep baby's skin clean; warm water and fragrance-free soaps are recommended Gently dab baby's skin with a soft towel after bath Avoid scrubbing the skin with a sponge or towel Avoid popping or squeezing the acne Avoid harsh products on baby's skin Avoid using acne products that are used in adults Lotions may worsen the acne so you...

Continue reading

Wrapping the tummy after delivery

Tummy size after delivery is a common cause of worry amongst new moms and a major cause of this is societal expectations but its important every new mom isn't under any kind of pressure because our bodies are different and the rate of recovery  after childbirth will be different for every woman. Due to stretching of the muscles around the tummy  during pregnancy, what the tummy needs is support which is where wrapping the tummy after delivery comes in. Wrapping the tummy and drinking  hot water after delivery with the motive of having a flat tummy just  after having a baby can leave you disappointed because in most cases, having your tummy back will not be an instant process. In fact, if the tummy is tied or wrapped wrongly, it can prevent the tummy from even reducing. The...

Continue reading

Diarrhea in Babies

Diarrhea is the passage of 3 or more watery stools in a day and in babies, this is one of the fastest ways they lose body water(dehydration). As a parent, it's important you know your baby's stool pattern and if you ever notice diarrhea in your baby, you must act fast. Below are are some important things you should do; If baby is still on breastmilk or formula, it's important you continue to feed your baby. Aside the nutrients, this will help replenish body water If baby is already taking solids, give as much feeds baby can take per time Give ORS; you can get this from the pharmaceutical store Give zinc tablets; 10mg daily for babies less than 6months and 20mg of zinc tablets for babies above 6months Find your way to the nearest hospital...

Continue reading

Rash in babies

Rash in babies is one of the commonest complaints amongst parents. The appearance of the skin,  discolouration and discomfort can become a thing of worry for parents. However, as worrisome as it may be it's important to mention that there are different types of rashes in babies and they all require different treatment/management. Some common rashes that often affect babies cradle cap, diaper rash, baby allergy rash (eela) etc Common causes of rashes in babies; Irritants; A  baby's skin can be so sensitive that even their saliva from excessive drooling can cause a rash. Other irritants include lotions, soaps, fabric softeners, detergents, stool( in cases of diaper rash) Allergic reaction; a common one in our society is the one known as eela among the yorubas which often present as a skin discolouration making the skin appear red and...

Continue reading

How much water should you offer baby when introducing solids?

When introducing solids at six months, its important water is offered in little amount so baby can get as much nutrients as possible. Keeping the water intake around 50-100mls in a day is advisable as baby will still be getting some hydration from breastmilk/formula While some babies will jump at it when you start offering them water, some babies may need more time to get used to it and here are some helpful tips when introducing water to baby; ✅️Whenever you're around your baby, always drink your water in their presence ✅️Avoid adding sweeteners like glucose to the water ✅️Babies can drink the same water as the rest of the family as long as you all drink clean water ✅️Breastfeeding/formula should continue at the time of introducing solids, this will also be providing some good hydration for your baby ✅️Don't force the...

Continue reading

Is it safe to use a baby carrier for a newborn?

It's common belief that baby carriers shouldn't be used during the newborn phase and this has discouraged many new moms from using one. Baby carriers can be used for a newborn but there are some important things to note: ✅️They are generally safe from the newborn phase if used properly even before baby gains neck control as long as the baby's weight is within normal range and there are no underlying medical issues that can put the child at risk ✅️Read the safety instructions that's on the carrier ✅️For newborns, always use it with your baby facing you and support your baby as much as possible ✅️Ensure nothing is covering your baby's face or obstructing their breathing ✅️Avoid using it for long periods ✅️Carriers come in different sizes and fittings so ensure it's well fitted...

Continue reading

What You Need To Know Before And After Immunizing Baby

Baby taking vaccine shots can take a toll on you and your baby right from the process of vaccination to few hours and sometimes a few days after the shot. Here are  some important things to bear in mind before and after an immunization shot On the day of the shot: Dress your baby in clothes that are easy to remove; kids below one year will usually have their shots in the thigh while toddlers and older kids will usually receive their shot in the arm Remember to take baby's immunization card along with you Seeing your baby receive their shot may make you worry or feel sad for your baby but it's important you stay as calm as possible so you don't make your baby anxious and if you can't stand the site of injections, you...

Continue reading

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a condition in which babies have white or yellow patches on their scalp. It's a form of dandruff that affects babies and aside the scalp, you may find it on the baby's forehead, nose, armpit, around the ears and the bottom area. It's a common condition that can cause your baby's hair to fall out. The patches can take hair with them when they fall off The exact cause is not known but it can occur when oil glands that are normally found in the baby's skin start producing too much oil This condition is harmless, it's not contagious and it's not as a result of poor hygiene. If you notice your baby has cradle cap, don't be tempted to scrape your baby's hair because this can worsen it Here are a few things that can...

Continue reading

What To Expect With Your Menses After Delivery

Just like pregnancy that comes with lots of changes in the woman’s body, also expect some changes after delivery and that includes your menses As much as we have many moms who are happier with the absence of their periods after delivery, there are still moms who feel worried about it and when the periods start returning, the unexpected changes can make you feel more worried  When it comes to how early you will see your period after delivery, it’s different for every woman. Menses can return as early as 5-6weeks or within 3months after delivery and in some women, it may take as long as two years while in some other women, it may not return until they are done with breastfeeding Vaginal delivery or caesarean section does not determine when you will get your menses back...

Continue reading

CLEANING BABY’S MOUTH

  It’s important babies have their mouth cleaned right from the newborn stage. You don’t have to wait until their teeth start coming in. As soon as you get home after delivery you can start cleaning your baby’s mouth. The mouth of babies need to be germs-free and areas to focus on include the gum, tongue and the inner cheeks Cleaning the mouth helps them get familiar with their mouth being cleaned  right from an early age so it doesn’t come to them as a shock when they become older.  It is also helpful in preventing germs from thriving and this will prevent cavity formation and other common infections How to clean baby’s mouth; For babies with no teeth, a soft...

Continue reading