Maternity Information Central

Information on Cord Blood Banking

2011-10-07T21:52:00.002+07:00

Information on Cord Blood Banking

Being pregnant is a wonderful experience. As the due date gets closer and parents look forward to the big day, they start to think seriously about their child's future. Of course, every parent wants the best for their child. And now you have the ability to protect the future wellness of your child as well as other family members. The answer? Umbilical cord blood banking.

In just five minutes, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are helping to protect your family against deadly illnesses.

We're With You All the Way

To understand cord blood banking, it is first necessary to define what cord blood is and the medical uses for it. In essence, cord blood is the blood found inside the umbilical cord, the flexible cordlike structure connecting a fetus at the abdomen with the placenta, from the mother, to provide the transfer of nutrients and removal of waste from the unborn baby.

Where Do Stem Cells Come From?

Following the birth of a baby, the umbilical cord is cut and usually discarded, along with the placenta. However, medical research has shown that the blood that is retrieved from the umbilical cord is a rich source of stem cells. Stem cells are unspecialized cells that can develop into specialized cells such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.

What Are Stem Cells?

Stems cells are what make cord blood valuable. Stem cells are important for living organisms for many reasons. Like donated bone marrow, stem cells from umbilical cord blood can be used to treat various genetic disorders that affect the blood and immune system, leukemia and certain cancers.

Cord blood has therapeutic advantages over adult stem cells. Cord blood stem cells, unlike adult stem cells, are less likely to contain DNA abnormalities caused by sunlight, toxins and errors in DNA replication during the course of a lifetime. Cord blood stem cells are also less likely to be rejected in transplants.

Cord blood is also a richer source of stem cells than bone marrow, with nearly 10 times as many blood-producing cells, so fewer cord blood cells are needed for a successful transplantation.

Cord blood banks recruit expectant mothers to donate their baby's umbilical cord blood for stem cell transplants. The cord blood banks collect, process, test and store the donated umbilical cord blood. Blood from each cord is frozen (cryopreserved) as an individual cord blood unit that is available to transplant.

Donating Cord Blood

When a mother is interested in donating her child's umbilical cord blood, she looks for a cord blood bank in her community. The cord blood bank asks the mother to complete a consent form and health history questionnaire and give a small blood sample. The cord blood is collected after the baby's birth.

Collecting cord blood poses no health risk to the mother or infant donor. The cord blood is stored only with the mother's signed consent, and no collection is made if there are any complications during delivery.

After the baby's birth, the umbilical cord is clamped, breaking the link between the baby and the placenta. Trained members of staff drain the blood from the umbilical cord and placenta. The blood is usually collected using a needle to draw the blood into a blood bag. The collection usually takes ten minutes or less and it is then sent off for cord blood storage. On average, about three to five fluid ounces are collected from the umbilical cord to produce enough stem cells.

Doctors can search the NMDP (National Marrow Donor Program) Registry of donors and cord blood units to find a match for their patients who need a transplant. If selected, the cord blood unit is transplanted to a matching patient.

Storing Cord Blood

Parents can also choose to save their babies cord blood in a cord blood bank in case of future need as a transplant alternative to bone marrow. A private bank ensures the cord blood stem cells are available only to the family who preserved the cord blood. The stem cells are an exact match for the baby, and the cells have at least a one in four chance of being an exact match for a sibling.

If the cells are needed for transplant, it's been shown that the transplant recipient is more tolerant of a partial match if the cells are from a related donor. Additionally, transplant recipients of cord blood stem cells are less likely to develop severe complications from Graft-versus-Host-Disease than those receiving bone marrow transplants.

1. Deciding on Cord Blood Banking

A Candid Look at the Pros and Cons of Cord Blood Banking

There are already so many decisions to be made toward the birth of your child; what kind of practitioner do you choose; what’s the perfect name for your little one; do you get an epidural or go the natural route. Add one more decision to your list: Should I bank my baby’s umbilical cord blood?

Whether you get a brochure in your mailbox or faintly hear a conversation down the hall while at your doctor’s office, the decision is facing more and more expecting parents. Should you bank your baby’s cord blood? Each situation is different, and so you’ll want to consider the pros and cons of cord blood banking.

The Pros of Cord Blood Banking

There are many families for which cord blood banking makes sense. Certain issues, such as family histories of genetic diseases or belonging to certain ethnic or racial groups, factor into the decision.

History: If you have a family history or are worried about a predisposition to certain diseases, cord blood banking can give you peace of mind. Cord blood transplants treat over 45 diseases; malignancies, such as leukemia and other cancers; metabolic disorders; blood disorders, such as sickle-cell anemia, and immunodeficiencies. If this is your primary banking reason, then you should also consult a genetic counselor during your pregnancy.
Recipient Compatibility: Because cord blood is a more primitive source of stem cell, the recipient runs a lower risk of graft vs. host disease (GVHD), a potentially life-threatening immune response.
Accessility:Not only is cord blood easy to retrieve, because it's cryogenically stored, it is available for transplant whenever it is needed. Bone marrow, on the other hand, is more difficult to get a hold of; it is harder to find a donor matching your HLA type, and the process of retrieval is more complicated.
Race: Belonging to certain ethnic or racial groups may mean a longer wait to find a bone marrow donor; therefore, donating or privately banking your baby's cord blood will make transplants readily available to these individuals.

The Cons

While every parent wants to ensure their child’s health, there are some hurdles to universal cord blood banking.

Cost: While many companies in the profession view cord blood banking as an ‘insurance’, it’s understandable that the price may be too high for many families.
Likelihood: The American Association of Pediatrics estimated that the chances of banking and later using the stem cells for a transplant are about 1 in 20,000.
Size: When it comes to cord blood transplants, size matters. Since a typical harvest is enough to transplant a child or small adult (weighing approximately 115 lb.), although research is currently working on proliferating cells in the laboratory in order to match a larger sized adult.

For parents who find these hurdles unsurpassable, the option of donating your blood to a non-profit public bank is viable.

Decision Making

While pros and cons can help you sort out part of your concerns when making an informed decision, it’s certainly not the whole picture. You can only come to a conclusion to this personal decision once you’ve looked at more resources concerning the topic. So if you’re still unsure, browse the articles on this site to better inform yourself. Happy decision-making!

2.Cord Blood vs. Bone Marrow Transplants

Before 1998, bone marrow transplants were the standard recommended medical procedure. With the emergence of cord blood transplants, donors and recipients now had a practical and appealing alternative. While cord blood has not necessarily eclipsed bone marrow transplants, the two share equal-enough footing that they should be formally compared.

Cord blood and bone marrow each have their strengths and weaknesses. By examining the set of criteria, you can read which transplant choice comes out on top.

GVHD : Cord blood preferred

Graft vs. host disease is a serious, life-threatening immune response to blood transplants. It can be fatal for up to 40% of patients who get GVHD. Because cord blood is more primitive and therefore more ‘forgiving’, the T-cells found in cord blood that make up the recipient’s new immune system are less likely to attack the recipient’s body. This means a lower incidence of GVHD for cord blood transplants.

HLA Matching : Cord blood preferred

For a successful transplant to heal the recipient, there is a list of criteria that has to be matched. The more perfectly matched the transplant is to the recipient’s system, the lesser the incidence of GVHD. Again, because the stem cells in cord blood are younger, matching between donor and recipient does not have to be perfect. This means that you can treat a broader range of recipients with cord blood. It also means that a recipient is less likely to get GVHD.

Rich Source of Stem Cells : Cord blood preferred

Cord blood is said to contain 10 times the amount of stem cells as an equally sized portion of bone marrow.

Regenerative Source : Cord blood preferred

It is thought that because cord blood stem cells are younger, they have better proliferative properties—that is, they are able to regenerate more than bone marrow stem cells.

Availability : Cord blood preferred

About 30,000 individuals, of which 9,000 are children, are diagnoses every year with a disease treatable through bone marrow transplantation. About 75% of those do not have a matching relative, and 70% are unable to find a matching donor. It’s crucial that patients with severe cases of cancer, immune deficiencies and blood disorders such as anemia get treatment quickly. Many of these patients die before a donor is found. Cord blood on the other hand is readily available. The stored cord blood is available at notice to be used for a transplant. This is true of private and public banking.

Pain : Cord blood preferred

Bone marrow donation is an invasive, requires anesthesia and is a somewhat painful experience. It is removed from the rear of the pelvic bone through a series of injections. Cord blood removal is quick and painless; the blood is removed from the insensate umbilical cord.

One study found that while 11% of cord blood transplants don’t ‘take’ to the recipient, only 2% of bone marrow transplants don’t ‘take’. Graft rejection is when the patient’s immune system destroys the new marrow.

3. Diseases Treated By Cord Blood Stem Cells

Stem Cells and Cancer

Acute Lymphocytic leukemia (ALL): This type of leukemia is characterized by the rapid production of defective white blood cells. The large amount of the white blood cells blocks the production healthy red and white blood cells as well as platelets.

Acute Myelogenous leukemia (AML): This cancer is marked by the abundance of immature white blood cells which quickly replace other white blood cells in the bone marrow.

Chronic Myelocytic leukemia (CML): This cancer differs from ALL and AML in that it affects mature white blood cells. These cancerous cells rapidly increase and affect the bone marrow. They may also enter the blood stream.

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS): People with MDS usually have a shortage of blood caused by their body’s inability to effectively produce blood cells. Those blood cells that are formed are often immature and therefore defective. MDS may progress into an acute leukemia.

Liposarcoma: Cancer of the fat cells that affects soft tissue.

Neuroblastoma: A type of cancer made up of a solid tumor that originates in the nerve tissue of the neck, chest, pelvis or, most commonly, in the adrenal gland tissue found in the abdomen.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma: Cancer of the lymphatic system. Unlike Hodgkin’s disease, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma tends to be unpredictable and is much more likely to spread to other areas of the body.

Yolk Sac sarcoma: A type of cancer that usually originates in the testicles before spreading to other areas of the body.

Blood Disorders

Amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia (AMT): A blood disorder that causes a marked decrease in the production of platelets. This leads to frequent bruising and problems clotting when bleeding.

Aplastic anemia: A type of blood disorder caused by the body’s inability to produce enough blood cells. The lack of blood cells causes sufferers to have a lowered immune system and troubles clotting.

Diamond-Blackfan anemia: Unlike Aplastic anemia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia sufferers have troubles producing only red blood cells. Those affected by Diamond-Blackfan anemia are also likely to have physical deformities, most notably malformed thumbs. They may also be short in stature.

Congenital cytopenia: A hereditary deficiency of the blood cells.

Evan’s syndrome: An autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies to attack red and white blood cells along with platelets.

Fanconi’s anemia: A genetic disorder that is marked by the body’s lack of essential bone marrow material including red and white blood cells and platelets. People who suffer from this disorder may have an abnormal heart, kidney and/or skeletal structure. They may also have brown skin discoloration on some parts of their body.

Kostmann’s syndrome: A genetic disorder wherein sufferers have a deficiency of neutrophils, a particular kind of white blood cells. The lack of neutrophils makes it more difficult for sufferers to fight bacterial infections.

Sickle cell anemia: A genetic disease wherein sufferers have misshapen red blood cells. The cells therefore do not work properly and cause small blood clots.

Thalassemia: A genetic blood disorder that is marked by the body’s inability to properly produce hemoglobin. As a result, the red blood cells are under produced yet also destroyed too frequently.

Inherited Metabolic Disorders

Adrenoleukodystrophy: A genetic disorder that is characterized by the body’s inability to breakdown long chain fatty acids due to a lack of a particular enzyme. This disorder can affect the adrenal glands, nervous system and testes. There are seven recognized forms of this disease.

Bare-lymphocyte syndrome: A rare disorder affecting the immune system. People with this disorder are especially vulnerable to viral and bacterial infections, which can cause them to suffer from chronic diarrhea and stunted growth.

Dyskeratosis congenital: A rare disease whereby those affected tend to have premature aging and are more vulnerable to developing cancer due to their bone marrow failure.

Familial erythrophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: A rare genetic disorder, it is characterized by an over active immune system. T-cells will attack the liver, spleen, bone marrow and central nervous system causing multiple problems in a person.

Gaucher disease: A genetic disorder caused by a person’s lack of the glucocerebrosidase enzyme. This results in toxic fatty materials building up in the liver, spleen and bone marrow.

Gunter disease: Also known as congenital erythropoietic, this genetic disease causes a sufferers skin to be extremely sensitive to sunlight. Exposure to sunlight can result in blistering (with a long healing time), scarring and skin pigmentation changes among other things.

Hunter syndrome: A hereditary disease that results in the body’s inability to properly breakdown a specific chemical. This causes the chemical to build up in different body tissues whereby it can cause damage and inhibit proper organ function.

Hurler syndrome: A genetic disease that is caused by the body’s inability to produce a particular enzyme (lyposomal alpha-L-iduronate) necessary for the breakdown of certain chemicals. This causes the chemicals to build up and affect the internal organs as well as mental development.

Inherited neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis: A genetic disease that is marked by a build of an abnormal pigment (lipofuscin) in the brain. It is thought to be caused by the brain cells inability to remove or reuse brain proteins.

Krabbe disease: A rare disorder which affects the nervous system. It is caused by the lack of a crucial enzyme required for the proper development of the myelin sheath (a protective coating around the nerve fibers in the brain composed of a fatty covering).

Lanegerhans’-cell histiocytosis: This disorder occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the quantity of particular immune cells. The excessive amount of immune cells can form tumors in different bones possibly resulting in fractures. It can also cause problems with a person’s immune system resulting in rashes, gum problems, and lung problems among other things.

Lesch-Nyhan Disease: A genetic disorder that directly affects the body’s ability to produce and breakdown purine, a chemical that makes up RNA and DNA molecules. It is marked by an increase in blood and uric acid levels in addition to the absence of a particular enzyme (hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase).

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency: A rare genetic disorder that stems from the bodies inability to effectively produce a particular protein, CD18. The lack of CD18 protein inhibits white blood cells from traveling to parts of the body that are infected or injured, leaving a person more susceptible to sicknesses and prolonged healing times.

Osteopetrosis: A rare genetic disorder that causes the density of bones to increase. This can inhibit bone growth; make the bones weaker and more susceptible to breakage; and can also crowd out bone marrow.

Immunodeficiencies

Adenosine deaminase deficiency (ADA or SCID-ADA): A rare genetic disorder that is caused by the body’s inability to adequately produce the adenosine deaminase enzyme, which is responsible for proper functioning of the immune system. The lack of the enzyme seriously compromises the immune system and may cause those affected by it to live in isolation.

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID): A genetic disorder that is caused by the body’s inability to efficiently produce T- and B-lymphocytes. This makes people unable to effectively fight off infections and may cause them to live in isolation. SCID is sometimes also known as “Bubble Boy syndrome” in reference to a boy who was affected by SCID and lived in a germ-free plastic bubble for 12 years.

Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome: A hereditary disorder that is marked by defects in the immune systems production of T- and B-lymphocytes as well as platelets. People affected by this disorder tend to be more susceptible to infections, especially those that affect the respiratory tract, as well as have bleeding problems. There is also an increased chance of developing certain cancers.

X-Linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP): A rare hereditary disorder that is marked by a person’s inability to adequately develop the appropriate antibodies needed to fight off the Epstein-Barr virus (a common herpes virus). XLP sufferers are more susceptible to infections and some forms of cancer as well as possible deficiencies in blood production, low levels of antibodies in their blood and aplastic anemia.

Hyper-IgM immunodeficiency (HIM): This rare disorder is marked by the body’s normal to increased production of poor quality IgM antibody, which is found on the B cell of white blood cells. This hyper production of poor quality cells interrupts the development of other important antibodies. Those afflicted by HIM are vulnerable to bacterial infections as well as autoimmune disorders and cancers.

This is not an exhaustive list. New ways of using cord blood stem cells to treat diseases and disorders are constantly being developed.

4. Autologous vs. Allogeneic

There are two types of stem cell transplants: autologous and allogeneic.

When a person receives stem cells that have come from their own blood, it is referred to as an autologous transplant. For some diseases, an autologous transplant is the preferred method. A benefit of an autologous transplant is that the body is able to recognize the stem cells and therefore does not attack them or reject them (graft-versus-host disease or GVHD). Additionally, the difficulty of locating a donor can be avoided.

An allogeneic transplant is when the stem cells come from someone other than the person who requires them. For some diseases, like leukemia, an allogeneic transplant is the preferred method. While there is an increased risk of a person’s body rejecting the donor stem cells, by closely matching a patient’s HLA with the transplanted stem cells, adverse effects can be minimized. However, a person who receives an allogeneic transplant will require heavy medication in order to avoid GVHD.

It has been found that where the stem cells come from can make a difference in the likelihood of helping a disease. While in some cases patients seem to respond better to transplants of stem cells that have come from a donor, for other illnesses patients respond best when the transplanted stem cells have come from themselves. Depending on the form of disease that needs to be treated, along with the degree of severity, and the transplant recipients’ age, one form of transplant may be favored over the other.

Disorder	Autologous Stem Cell Transplant	Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant
Leukemia : acute lymphocytic, acute myelogenus, chronic myelocytic	variable results	effective
Non-Hodgkins lymphoma	variable results	effective
Sarcomas : liposarcoma and yolk sac sarcoma	studies still investigating	studies still investigating
Neuroblastoma	variable results although it is the preferred method	variable results
Blood disorders	studies still investigating	effective
Immunodeficiency	variable results	effective
Metabolic Disorders	studies still investigating	studies still investigating

5. Stem Cells Research

Many people are excited about the future of stem cells. Not only can stem cells help researchers learn more about the way the body functions, it can also help to possibly treat many diseases, test drugs for toxicity and even aid in gene therapy.

Gene Therapy

Scientists have been trying for some time now to find an effective way of correcting genes that carry diseases, a process known as gene therapy. This is usually done by inserting an altered, non-diseased gene into the genome to replace the defective gene. The most common method of infusing the defective gene is through a virus that has been altered with the therapeutic gene. However, this carrier method possesses the problem of triggering an immune system response as well as the potential for the virus to revert back to its ability to cause a disease. Some nonviral methods have been tested but they have proven to be somewhat less effective than using altered viruses.

Overall, gene therapy has not proven to be very effective. In addition to finding a more successful carrier method, scientists also need to overcome the obstacle of treating disorders that are the result of multiple defective genes. Researchers are hoping that stem cells can be used as a more efficient carrier method of therapeutic cells as well as being able to treat disorders involving multiple genes.

Disease

Clinical trials are currently on-going to find new ways to treat a host of diseases, disorders and injuries through stem cells. While researchers are always looking for new uses of stem cells, there are certain areas that hold the most promise.

Muscular dystrophy, Alzheimer’s disease, liver disease, heart disease, stroke, burns, rheumatoid arthritis and spinal cord injuries are some of the main areas currently being investigated. Clinical trials are already underway for treating juvenile diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Some Australian researchers have said they believe an effective treatment for multiple sclerosis is less than five years away after they performed some promising research on mice. Stem cells have even been shown to generate growth of new hair in people suffering from hair loss.

Understanding the Human Body

In order to find effective treatments for these diseases, disorders and injuries, experts must first understand just how the cells work. Currently, the biggest obstacle for researchers is figuring out just which stimulants work best to generate differentiation in stem cells. However, the more investigation that takes place, the more scientists can learn about how human cells work.

Having a better understanding of how human cells work can help researchers identify all the intricate details that occur during human development. This will aid researchers in recognizing those people at greater risk of developing diseases, disorders, and even birth defects. Once this is understood, researchers can begin to develop new ways of preventing or treating certain diseases or disorders.

Drugs

Many experts are now looking for ways to test new drugs on stem cells that have been manipulated to imitate a diseased cell. If a drug proves to be safe and beneficial to the cell line during these tests, it could then go on to be tested on humans and animals.

Unfortunately, in order to do this, scientists need to understand exactly how to accurately stimulate stem cells in order to get them to differentiate properly. At this time, the differentiation process is still not fully understood which is the biggest hindrance to stem cell research. While stem cells hold a lot of promise for the future, many investigations still need to performed before they can be utilized to their maximum potential.

Baby Names

2011-10-06T21:55:00.001+07:00

Naming a baby can be easy. It can also be agonizing - especially when you and your partner cannot agree. Some people choose their baby's names before the birth while others wait to meet the baby and then discover that a certain name just 'fits.' Baby naming can be more complicated if coupled by baby naming traditions. Some European nations, for instance, observe baby naming customs which usually involve a small gathering of family and friends. The main purpose of the event, the naming of the baby, is celebrated with a hearty meal and a shower of new baby flowers. This custom is then followed with a story telling session describing how the parents came up with this particular name. So you see, baby naming is much more complex than simply bestowing a combination of letters and syllables.

And baby naming is much more difficult than purchasing crib bedding because, after all, you can always return a baby bedding set if you don't like it.

Choosing The Right Baby Name

One of the top questions expectant parents hear all the time is "Do you have a name picked out?" Our article entitled Choose a Baby Name will help you decide what name is right for your little one. Get advice on how to pick out the perfect name for your child.

Everyone always has suggestions about what p

arents should name their baby. Often, those suggestions may be based on recommended baby names. But some of those names might just be too strange for you. The best tool is a great list of names. Write down your favorites and have your partner do the same. Then go through each list and narrow them down to a select few. You may also want to consider looking through the family tree to come up with some great baby names that will also honor your family history.

For some help on finding the perfect name, Most Popular Baby Names has a thorough list for both boys and girls. Maybe you're looking for something more original? Our Baby Names Meanings section will provide you with an extensive list of girls' and boys' names plus their origin and meaning. Choose a name with a purpose and that will say something about you and your baby.

Maybe you've already thought of a great baby name. If so, tell us your baby boy or baby girl names!

Parenting

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When it comes to parenting, we could all use a little extra advice and support. Although each family is unique, we all face similar challenges when it comes to raising our children. Here in our section dedicated to parenting, we try to answer all of your questions about different family issues such as family finance, single parenting, working moms, fatherhood, toddlers, and child development. We also have some great parenting tips for you and explain to you the importance of reading to your child.

Things Every Parent Needs To Know

Each family must learn to properly manage their finances, as raising children can be quite expensive. This is particularly true when it comes to the rising costs of higher education. You must also remember to get great term life insurance

coverage. Learn more about how to manage your family finances and budget for the future, while at the same time trying to provide all of the costly things needed for children throughout their childhood.

That being said, there’s no denying that different kinds of families will need to make arrangements and accommodations particular to their situation. For example, single parents will need to learn the delicate art of balancing their work and family life so they can still end up with a little extra time for themselves. Being a single parent is quite possibly the hardest job in the world. Raising a child is hard work and if you are doing it alone it is even harder. Check out our articles on single parenting and get some great advice on how to make this task a little more easy.

Working mothers face similar issues as single parents. Learn what options are available to you in terms of childcare, so you can feel less distracted while on the job. Of course, stay-at-home moms must also confront considerable, although somewhat different, challenges. Find out more about the many challenges that face both working moms and stay at home moms and decide which option might work best for you. Also find out the pros and cons of each arrangement for the child and hear different opinions about which type of daycare is best for your child--stay at home or daycare. We also have some great articles to help dads out with raising a family so check out our fatherhood section for some great advice.

Toddlers

When your baby becomes a toddler you have a whole new set of rules to learn. Read up on the needs of a toddler and what to expect from your child once he or she reaches this new stage. Also check out our many articles on child development and children's books to find out what is best for your child.

The Joys of the Large Family
Being a parent can sometimes be a bit confusing or overwhelming. Our resident "Supermom" (mother of 12 with loads of parenting experience) has lots of great advice for you. In this series of humorous and insightful articles, learn about the large family first-hand and about how to find those precious moments of quiet time!

And what about dad? Indeed, fatherhood today is a much different kind of responsibility than it was some generations ago. Fathers can find all the information they need on how to be the best dad – and partner – possible, in this comprehensive section.

Pregnancy Loss

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Pregnancy loss can be an overwhelming experience. Pregnancy-Info provides you with helpful, reliable resources on how to cope with pregnancy loss. Learn more about what causes miscarriage, what it means for future pregnancies, how to cope with your grief over the loss, and how to move on to a successful pregnancy. The good news is your miscarriage most likely occurred not because of anything you did (so you don't have to feel guilty) and most women who experience a miscarriage then go on to have perfectly normal, healthy and successful pregnancies.

Miscarriage

Learn about different types of miscarriage, including recurrent miscarriage and blighted ovum. Here you'll also find information on common miscarriage symptoms and on what factors increase the risk of miscarriage. Did you know that your morning cup of coffee is increasing your risk of pregnancy loss. Find out more. Also learn to see the signs that something might be wrong with a pregnancy and find out how you can tell the difference between normal bleeding during pregnancy and signs of a miscarriage.

Grieving is an important part of coping with pregnancy loss. Discover ways to honor the memory of your child and tips on how to cope emotionally after losing your baby. Giving your baby a name or having a memorial service for your baby may help you to cope with your loss and begin the grieving process. You may also need to take some time off from work to mourn your baby. Find out how to break the news to friends, family and co-workers about the loss of your pregnancy. Also read up on when it is time to seek counseling to deal with your grief and to get the tools you need to move on past this terrible loss.

Pregnancy after miscarriage may seem like a long ways off, but eventually many couples are ready for this step. Learn about how you and your partner can prepare yourselves for pregnancy after losing a child. Many couples find their next pregnancy very nerve racking as they are always afraid that they will loose this next baby too. Learn more about how to relax and ease your fears. You may want to consider renting a baby heart beat monitor for your home so that you can listen to your baby's heart beat any time you want.

While support is often given to women after experiencing a miscarriage, often times men feel unable to truly mourn the loss of their baby. Find out about typical feelings men experience after miscarriage as well as advice on grieving and how to rebuild your relationship after miscarriage in our Men and Miscarriage

section. Although men many not show their emotions as much as women do, they are also grieving this loss. Find out more about how to cope with a miscarriage as a man.

Stillbirth

Stillbirth can be a devastating type of pregnancy loss. Learn the differences between a stillbirth and a miscarriage and about the causes of stillbirth as well as warning signs that can help detect a stillbirth. Also find out more about how to prevent this horrible pregnancy loss and about how to cope if you loose your baby in this way. Stillbirths can be a much more devasting experience than a miscarriage. Learn more about how to minimize this risk and about what to do if you or someone you know experiences this terrible loss.

Pregnancy Problems

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While every pregnant woman wishes for a healthy and full pregnancy, the reality is that in many cases pregnancy problems do arise. These complications can range from mild to severe, including general health concerns as well as those specific to pregnancy, and may result in pregnancy loss. Learn more about the types of problems that may arise during pregnancy and about what you can do to minimize your risk for any pregnancy complications. Also find out about what to do incase of a pregnancy emergency and about how to keep yourself as healthy as possible during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Risk Factors

Luckily, there are some pregnancy risks factors that women can avoid in order to increase the chances of having a healthy pregnancy and child. Indeed, exposure to toxins such as cigarettes and alcohol is likely to affect both the mother as well as the baby's health, the consequences of which may have lasting effects in the future. There are also certain foods to avoid when pregnant to ensure a healthy and safe delivery of your baby. Ultrasounds and blood tests during pregnancy can also help to keep an eye on your baby's development and watch for any signs of pregnancy complications. Many complications can be handled early on before they develop into serious problems for you or your baby. Be sure to have regular check ups with your doctor throughout your pregnancy.

Pregnancy Complications

Even if a mother avoids exposure to potentially dangerous substances, other unexpected pregnancy complications may arise. Knowing some of the signs and symptoms of these pregnancy concerns can help ensure early diagnosis and treatment of these potentially harmful conditions. Also, be sure to get regular check ups during your pregnancy so that your doctor can watch for signs of common pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or a low birth weight baby.

Pregnancy complications not only affect the mother's health but may impact the health of her child. Our complications with baby section provides a useful guide for parents concerned with medical conditions that may affect their newborn baby. Learn more about how to keep your baby safe.

STDS and Pregnancy

Sexually transmitted diseases pose unique concerns during pregnancy, since these may affect an unborn child or be transmitted from mother to baby during birth. Find out about treatment options and health precautions that women can take when it comes to STDs and pregnancy. Also learn more about which STDs are most dangerous for newborn babies and about what to do if you contract one of these STDs prior to or during pregnancy. There are treatments that can be given to protect your baby. Find out more today.

POSTPARTUM

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Now that baby's born, it's time to focus on postpartum care for you and your newborn! That means caring for yourself inside and out, including everything from getting back into shape, to confronting post-partum depression. Learn more about what to expect after giving birth to your baby and about how to make this new and exciting time in your life as comfortable and happy as possible.

Breastfeeding

As a new mom, breastfeeding can be a unique experience that allows you to bond with your baby. However, it's natural to have concerns about breastfeeding your baby, even if you've breastfed before. Find out about common breastfeeding complications, such as engorgement, as well as comfortable breastfeeding positions; here you'll also find advice on breastfeeding twins, breastfeeding in public and how to pump and store your breast milk. Learn about the many complications that can arise when breastfeeding your baby such as nipple infections, not enough milk, baby latch on problems, and discomfort while breastfeeding. Get advice from a breastfeeding expert on how to increase your milk production and how to comfortably feed your baby. Also learn about pumping milk in between feedings with your baby and about how to store pumped breast milk.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a common condition that affects the physical and mental well-being of new moms. Learn about common signs of postpartum depression as well as different degrees of postpartum depression, including postpartum psychosis. Here you'll also find treatment options that can help you overcome postpartum depression. Also learn how to tell the difference between the common occurence of baby blues and the more serious postpartum depression. How can you know which form of depression you are suffering from? Also read up on how common this form of depression is and on what to do if you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from postpartum depression.

After Pregnancy

After the birth of your baby, you'll likely notice that your body isn't the same as it was before pregnancy. Discover tips on healthy eating and fitness that can help you improve the look of your body after pregnancy, as well as improve your overall postpartum health. Here you'll also find advice on dressing the postpartum body, as well as how to minimize the appearance of stretch marks and varicose veins in order to create a more beautiful you. Get all the tips you need to start feeling like the old you again and to get your body back into prepregnancy shape as quickly as possible. However, remember that you did just have a baby so it will take time before you are 100% your old self again. Embrace the new mommy you and remember that the postpartum body is wonderful reminder of the beautiful baby you created.

Labor and Birth

2011-10-06T21:48:00.000+07:00

Searching for information on labor and birth? Pregnancy-Info provides you with all you need to know about preparing for the birth of your baby. Find the answers to all your questions about stages of labor, creating a birth plan, labor medications, and c-sections: their risks and benefits. Get all the information you need for a safe labor and delivery of your baby and about all your options for having the birthing experience you desire.

Birth Plan

It’s never too early to start thinking about a birth plan. Preparing a birth plan is a great way in which to stay in control as much as possible of the type of labor experience you will have. A birth plan can include whether to have a home birth or a hospital birth or even a water birth. You may also want to consider keeping a pregnancy journal to record your thoughts and emotions. Birth plans are also great ways to communicate to the doctors and nurses in your delivery room about how you would like to deliver your child and which medications you would like, or not like, to receive. Find out more about the different options available to you for labor medications, the effects of each medication on you and your baby and how each medication is administered. Also learn more about natural pain remedies for labor and get information about how to have a natural birth, if this is your desire.

Stages Of Labor

Of course, it’s natural to be worried about the different stages of labor. Find out how to tell whether your contractions really mean you’re going into labor as well as other common signs of labor. Here you’ll also find out about when inducing labor is a good option and information on whether natural labor is right for you. In addition, get information about all of your pain management techniques including natural methods for dealing with labor pain to common medications given to manage the pain of labor. Also find out what happens after labor such as what tests are done to your baby, how to deliver the placenta, and what will happen if you need stitches down there.

C-Section

While they’re not always planned, Cesarean sections account for almost 30% of births in the United States. Learn about in which cases a Cesarean section is recommended over vaginal birth and how a Cesarean section affects your future pregnancies. Also find out more about the procedure itself and about what a c-section means for your postpartum recovery. Get all the facts you need to understand a cesarean section and feel good about your different birthing options.

Your 13-month-old

2011-02-25T23:32:00.000+07:00

Your toddler now

Evolving eating habits

Don't be surprised if your hearty eater's appetite has shrunk. It's typical for kids this age to eat a bit less and suddenly become more picky. This change may seem strange, considering how active your child is now. But because he's growing more slowly, he really doesn't need as much food.

Try not to pressure your toddler to eat more. Instead, let his appetite determine how much food he takes in.

Of course, even though you can't control how much he eats, you are definitely in charge of what he has to choose from. Keep offering a variety of healthy foods at every meal. Resist the temptation to let him snack on sweets and other not-so-healthy items out of worry that he's not eating enough. As long as he appears to be thriving, he's probably fine. As always, if you have doubts, talk to your doctor.

Dreams become a reality

Even if your child has been sleeping soundly for months, he may now start waking up again at night. Of course, that can happen at any stage during the baby and toddler years for one reason or another. But one new potential sleep disturbance at this age is dreaming.

Between 12 and 14 months, kids start actively dreaming, and a dream can actually startle your child awake. Sticking to routines and creating a beloved bedtime ritual are a huge help in keeping your toddler's sleep on track.

Parent tip

"My toddler has discovered the joy of screaming. He's not angry – just trying out his voice – but it's so hard on the grownups' ears. One trick I use to stop it is to sing, not too loud, but loud enough for him to hear me. It usually gets his attention and makes him stop." – Kitty

Your 1-year-old: Week 4

2011-02-25T23:31:00.002+07:00

Your toddler now

Copy cat behavior

Your child is watching… everything… you… do. Toddlers love to copy the behavior of the people around them, especially their parents. It's how they learn basic behaviors.

You may see your child trying to brush her hair, wiping a counter with her bib, pressing buttons on your cell phone, or trying on your sunglasses. Eventually she'll pick up on your words and speech patterns, too.

Imitation has a downside, too. Your child may watch you take vitamins or pills and later, when you're not looking, decide to do the same herself. So be vigilant about safety. Use child-resistant caps on medicines and vitamins, and store the pills out of reach. Don't let her see how you open child-safety latches – she'll be eager to work them just like you do.

Quick Clicks

* Help your child become more independent
* Feeding problems: Refusing to eat
* Aggression, hitting, and biting
* Establishing healthy sleep habits: 12 to 18 months
* First-aid kit checklist

Marking milestones

Worried that your little one isn't lurching around on two feet yet? There's probably no need for concern. The normal range for reaching this milestone is very broad, and some children don't walk until 16 or 17 months.

The 12-month mark is a good time to remember that each child is unique and meets milestones at her own pace. What's important is the progression – in other words, that she's continuing to develop and learn new skills.

Developmental guidelines merely show what your child has the potential to accomplish – if not right now, then soon. Trust your instincts, and don't hesitate to bring up concerns with your child's doctor if you're worried or want to know what to watch for.

Parent tip

"Most disposable wipes can be reused. In my house, they actually survive two or three journeys through the washing machine. When they're clean, I put them back in the tub with the others.” – Libby

Your 1-year-old: Week 3

2011-02-25T23:31:00.001+07:00

Your toddler now

Beyond babbling

It's an exciting time when, after months of babbling, your child begins to form recognizable words. It's not an overnight process, and the pace varies significantly from child to child. One thing is sure, though: He understands far more than he can say. Some things to watch for now:

* Gestures that speak louder than words. Your toddler may be a man of few words but speaking up a storm in gestures, like raised arms for "up" or a pointed finger for "What's that?" Children who learned sign language as babies are especially "fluent."
* Words with many meanings. An early word like "joos" may mean "I'm thirsty for milk," "No, I want water," or "Hey! I dropped my bottle!" Listen to the inflection. He'll say the same word in different ways and using different gestures.
* Words from everyday life. Perhaps not surprisingly, your child's first words probably relate to things in his immediate life: "Mama" and "Dada" and other favorite people or pets, or words having to do with eating ("baba" for bottle), sleeping ("nite-nite"), possessions ("ba" for bear), or desires ("up").

Quick Clicks

* How can I help my child develop a good vocabulary?
* BabyCenter readers' best safety tips
* Feeding problems: Overweight
* Baby on the move: Walking
* Toddler milestone: Talking

Big dangers for small fingers

Your toddler's pincer grasp is probably well developed by now, so he can pick up small objects between his thumb and forefinger fairly easily. He may enjoy practicing this skill on any little thing he finds on the floor, which is a lot closer and more visible to his keen eyes than it is to yours.

Be extra careful about small but potentially dangerous little items that fall to the floor without adults noticing, such as vitamins and other pills, pieces of food (and pet food), pushpins from the bulletin board, tiny toy parts used by older siblings, and so on. They could end up in your child's mouth.

Parent tip

"Kids grow up all over the world learning more than one language, and our children can too. I grew up in India, a country with more than 25 languages. I grew up learning four, including English, and I'm no genius!"

Your 1-year-old : Week 2

2011-02-25T23:30:00.001+07:00

Your toddler now

Introducing the dentist

Time to add a new appointment to your child's schedule: a first visit to the dentist. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend that you establish a "dental home" for your child around this age. They point out that about 40 percent of children have tooth decay by age 5, and that the rate of tooth decay in baby teeth has not declined as it has in permanent teeth over the last 30 years.

This first visit offers a baseline look at your child's mouth and reveals any problems that your child's doctor may have missed. It also gives the dentist an opportunity to offer pointers on caring for your toddler's budding teeth, preventing cavities, and ensuring the right intake of fluoride. You can stick with your own dentist or choose a pediatric dentist – a specialist with a child-friendly office who's an ace at keeping young children comfortable and relaxed.

At home, continue cleaning your toddler's teeth. You don't really need to use a toothbrush until the second molars (the ones farthest back) come in, typically between 20 and 30 months. Until then, simply wipe the teeth clean before bedtime using wet gauze or a washcloth and water. (To distract your child while you do the job, try giving her a toothbrush to hold.)

You don't even need toothpaste. You can use a fluoride-free baby toothpaste if you like, but don't add fluoridated toothpaste to the routine until at least age 2.

Quick Clicks

* Toddler milestone: Separation and independence
* Starter library for 1- to 2-year-olds
* My child loves repetition -- hearing the same sounds and stories over and over. Why?
* When can my child go down a slide without being held?
* Weaning

Milk on the menu

Cow's milk is probably becoming a big part of your child's diet now that she's passed the 12-month mark.

Whole milk is usually the beverage of choice at this age because toddlers need fat to fuel their growth and their considerable energy needs. (Possible exceptions: If you're overweight or obese, or have a family history of obesity, high cholesterol, or cardiovascular disease, your child's doctor may recommend starting with reduced-fat milk.)

At 24 months, your little one can safely switch to low-fat or even nonfat milk.

When consumed in moderate amounts, cow's milk has many nutrients a growing toddler needs. Nutritionists recommend that 1-year-olds drink at least 16 ounces of milk a day – but not more than 24 ounces.

Some kids love their milk and the challenge for parents is not to go overboard. A child who drinks more than 24 ounces may fill up on milk and miss out on other foods that are important for a balanced diet.

At the other extreme are toddlers who turn up their nose at cow's milk, at least at first. After all, it has a different texture, taste, and even temperature than breast milk or formula. Parents of reluctant milk-drinkers can try mixing whole milk with some breast milk or formula at first (say, one part whole milk and three parts of his usual stuff). Then slowly increase the amount of milk to 100 percent.

Find out more about introducing cow's milk and what your options are if your child can't or won't drink milk, or if you'd prefer to give her other calcium-rich beverages, such as fortified soy milk.

Parent tip

"I buy children's books for my son and include a sentimental note inside the cover related to the book's subject. Not only will it be a special keepsake for him one day, but it also builds up his library." – Courtney

Your 1-year-old : 1 year checkup

2011-02-25T23:25:00.002+07:00

Your toddler now

First steps now…or later

Many children take their first steps sometime between 9 and 12 months and are walking well by the time they're 14 or 15 months old. But don't worry if your child hasn't let go of the coffee table yet. It's also perfectly normal for kids not to take that first step until they're 15 or 16 months, or even later. (Learn more about when kids walk.)

Encourage both cruising and walking by giving your child lots of opportunities to move without help and by not picking him up and carrying him too often. You can encourage a tentative walker by arranging furniture so there are safe and convenient handholds all along his path. Remove any dangers he might grab on to, such as a dangling tablecloth or electrical cord.

If your child is trying to toddle, he might feel more secure if he can hang on to one of your fingers, or if he puts his hands in the air and you walk behind him, holding his hands. A push toy provides walking practice, too. Just make sure it's stable and has a wide, secure base.

Two walking aids you don't need: walkers (the American Academy of Pediatrics says they're unsafe and actually discourage kids from learning to walk) and shoes in the house. Bare feet, socks, or the popular soft-bottomed "baby shoes" help a beginning walker practice balance and coordination. Reserve real shoes for protecting your toddlers' feet outdoors.

Quick Clicks

* Toddler milestone: Walking
* Toys for children 12 to 18 months old
* Tooth care for toddlers
* Coping with a whiny baby
* Does the MMR vaccine put my child at greater risk for autism?

Checkup checklist

You can prepare for your child's 12-month checkup by anticipating some of the questions the doctor is likely to ask, such as these:

* Sleep: How much is your child sleeping at night and during naps?
* Eating: What kinds of solid food is your child eating? How's his appetite? Does he enjoy feeding himself finger foods?
* Teeth: How many teeth has your child cut?
* Developmental skills: Is your child crawling well? Pulling up? Cruising or walking? Pointing? Making eye contact and responding to his name?
* Vision: Have you noticed frequent squinting or eye rubbing, or a tendency to hold toys and books close to his face? (Read about other signs of a vision problem.)
* Hearing: Does your child turn toward sounds? (Learn other signs of a hearing problem.)
* Speech: Does your child imitate sounds, babble, or say any words?

Parent tip

"We have a bunch of friends with babies ranging in age from newborn to 2 years old, so we share a box of clothes. People can sift through it and pick out whatever they need. Whoever has the youngest baby holds on to the box until another one is born." – Vanessa

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Your post-baby belly: Why it's changed and how to tone it

2009-08-18T22:08:00.001+07:00

Why do I still look pregnant?

You may be very surprised by the way your tummy looks after birth. Your baby is out, but there it is, right around the navel: a big, round, squishy puffball that makes you look like you're still six months pregnant. Many women also have a dark line down their abdomen called a linea nigra and a web of stretch marks, which are actually little scars caused by the extensive stretching of skin. Those who had a c-section have surgical scars to contend with as well.

It takes time for your body — and especially your belly — to fully recover from pregnancy. Imagine your abdomen as a balloon, slowly inflating as your baby grows. Childbirth doesn't pop the balloon, it just starts a slow leak. But don't worry — it's a steady one.

From the moment your baby is born, hormonal changes cause your midsection to deflate, shrinking it back to something closer to its pre-pregnancy state. It takes about four weeks for your uterus to contract to its normal size. All the cells in your body that swelled during pregnancy will begin releasing their fluids in the form of urine, vaginal secretions, and sweat. And the extra fat you put on to nourish the baby will start burning off (especially if you're nursing and exercising). But it takes at least a few weeks to see noticeable results.

Stretch marks and the linea nigra, however, endure longer. The good news is that stretch marks usually become considerably less noticeable six to 12 months following childbirth. Their pigmentation fades and they typically become lighter than the surrounding skin (the color will vary depending on your skin color), but their texture will remain the same. The dark color of the linea nigra will gradually fade over a year, but that too may not completely disappear.

How long will it take for my belly to shrink back to normal?

We've all heard stories of new moms whose tummies are tight and flat immediately after giving birth. Although this does happen, it's rare. For most women it takes months to get rid of the "pregnancy pouch" — and sometimes it never goes away.

Patience is key. It took nine months for your abdomen to stretch to accommodate a full-term baby, so it makes sense that it would take that long or longer to tighten back up.

The speed and degree of this transition depends largely on your normal body size, how much weight you gained during pregnancy, how active you are, and your genes. Women who gained less than 30 pounds and exercised regularly during pregnancy, who breastfeed, and who have had only one child are more likely to slim down quickly.

If you're not breastfeeding, you'll need to watch how much you're eating in order to lose pregnancy weight. You need fewer calories now that you're not pregnant. (See our "Diet for Healthy Post-Baby Weight Loss" and our "Diet for a Healthy Breastfeeding Mom."

What can I do to make my belly look better?

Breastfeeding helps, especially in the early months after childbirth. Women who breastfeed burn extra calories to make milk, so they usually lose pregnancy weight more quickly than their non-nursing counterparts.

Nursing also triggers contractions that help shrink the uterus, making it a workout for the whole body. But many breastfeeding moms say they have trouble losing the last 5 to 10 pounds. Some experts theorize that the body retains these extra fat stores to aid in milk production. Science hasn't yet tackled this question definitively. See our poll on whether breastfeeding helps you lose weight to learn what other nursing moms experienced.

Exercise also helps. Whether it's a stroll around the block or a postpartum yoga class, physical activity tones stomach muscles and burns calories. A rigorous exercise regimen that includes an aerobic workout and movements that focus on the abdomen can work wonders. (But before starting an exercise routine, make sure your body is ready.)

Some baby bulges require more effort. A low-calorie diet can help you lose weight, but give nature and exercise time to work first. Wait at least six weeks (preferably several months, especially if you're nursing) before cutting back on calories. Dieting too soon after giving birth may reduce your milk supply and can make you feel more fatigued.

And don't go on a strict diet — women need a minimum of 1,200 calories a day to stay healthy, and most women need much more than that — between 1,800 and 2,200 calories a day — to keep up their energy and mood. To lose about a pound a week, cut out 500 calories a day by either decreasing your food intake or increasing your activity level.

If you're breastfeeding, losing more than a couple pounds a week can release toxins — normally stored in your body fat — into the bloodstream, increasing the amount of these contaminants that wind up in your milk. So if you're losing more than 2 pounds a week after the first six weeks, you need to take in more calories.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Your 2-month-old's development: Week 3

2009-08-18T22:07:00.000+07:00

Smooth operator

Sound sleep advice

Whether you envision your little one sleeping independently in a crib at an early age or sharing a family bed in the coming years, a soothing and predictable bedtime routine will help your child nod off and get the rest he needs. And it's not too early to start.

Your routine can include rocking, singing, a bath, a bedtime story, cuddling with a transitional object (such as a soft blanket or stuffed animal), being carried around the house and saying goodnight to each room — whatever makes sense for your family. The ritual will evolve as your child gets older.

"Hello, my name is..."

At this age, your baby should be open to making friends with babies and adults alike. You may notice that he smiles when he sees anyone come in the room or holds out his arms when someone wants to hold him.

Now's a good time to introduce your baby to sitters or other people who might be looking after him later on. Have potential caregivers come over and spend time with you and your baby. Later on, he may be consumed by stranger anxiety, making a simple introduction seem impossible.

Do remember that babies have different temperaments and some are less open to new people than others. If your baby doesn't welcome someone new with open arms, be patient, hold him close, and reintroduce him. It may just take some time. Familiar surroundings will help introductions go more smoothly.

Remember, your baby is an individual

All babies are unique and meet milestones at their own pace. Developmental guidelines simply show what your baby has the potential to accomplish — if not right now, then soon. If your baby was premature, keep in mind that kids born early usually need a bit more time to meet their milestones. If you have any questions at all about your baby's development, ask your healthcare provider.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Low milk supply

2009-08-18T22:06:00.000+07:00

What is it?

Almost all mothers go through a period of questioning whether their milk supply is adequate, especially when they begin breastfeeding. In some cases a mother isn't able to produce enough milk to meet the needs of her baby. But according to many experts, true milk insufficiencies are rare.

Many women think their milk supply is low when it isn't. This can happen if you lose the feeling of fullness in your breasts, or if milk stops leaking from your nipples — but these are actually natural, common signs that your body has adjusted to your baby's feeding requirements. A baby going through a growth spurt may also want more milk than usual, and his more frequent feedings may leave your breasts less full than usual.

Others, however, including Marianne Neifert, a pediatrician, lactation specialist, and author of Dr. Mom's Guide to Breastfeeding, believe that low milk supply is a real phenomenon for some women and that to ignore it may put babies at risk for malnutrition. For the vast majority of these women, better breastfeeding management can correct the problem, but 2 to 5 percent are physically incapable of producing enough milk.

What causes it?

A mother's milk supply may diminish temporarily if she's not feeding her baby often enough because of nipple pain, a lethargic nurser, or a poor latch-on technique. Estrogen-containing birth control pills or an illness can also affect milk production. For a few women, a biological or physical condition such as a hormonal disorder or breast surgery causes their milk supply to be low.

For most women, though, the real problem is delivery, not production. They produce plenty of milk, but for some reason, such as an incorrect latch-on technique, their baby isn't getting enough.

What should I do?

First, rule out false alarms about your milk supply. Here's how to tell whether your baby's getting enough — and therefore you're producing enough — breast milk:

• Your baby gains an ounce a day in the first three months of life and half an ounce a day from age 3 to 6 months. (Newborns will typically lose between 5 and 10 percent of their birth weight in the first few days before gaining it back.) Your baby should be back to his birth weight by ten to 14 days after birth. Weight gain is the best way to make sure your baby's getting enough milk.

• In the first month, your baby has at least three stools a day and they lighten to a yellowy-mustard color by the fifth day after birth. After the first month, the stools become less frequent. Some babies will even go a day or two between stools.

• He nurses frequently — every two to three hours, for a total of at least eight to 12 feedings a day.

• You hear him swallow and you sometimes notice milk in the corners of his mouth.

• He appears healthy and active.

• He wets seven or eight cloth diapers a day, or five to six disposables. Disposable diapers are more absorbent, making it hard to tell when one is wet. If you're not sure, take one off and compare its weight to a dry disposable. A wet one should feel slightly heavier. (Note: Wet diapers alone are not enough to determine whether your baby's getting enough milk: A dehydrated baby can still wet a diaper. Stools and weight gain are the best ways to tell how your baby's doing.)

If you're not producing as much milk as you (and your baby) would like, try the following:

•See a lactation professional. She can weigh your baby and give you tips on how to boost your milk supply.

•Feed your baby often. Frequent nursing sessions stimulate your body to produce more milk.

•Get the best latch-on possible. Check for proper positioning at the breast.

•When your baby's sucking and swallowing pattern slows down, use breast compression to increase milk flow to your baby and to completely drain the breast.

•When your milk flow with compression seems to be slowing, switch sides and repeat. Keep switching back and forth between breasts until your baby is satisfied or stops swallowing. A more effective measure may be to nurse your baby for ten to 15 minutes per breast, then use a fully automatic electric breast pump with a double collection kit to completely drain your breasts and increase milk production. To make sure your baby's getting enough, you may have to supplement the milk you've collected with formula.

• A sleepy baby may need to be awakened and encouraged to nurse more vigorously (thus stimulating your glands to produce more milk). To arouse him, try switching sides frequently, alternating positions, or even undressing him. Some mothers play with their baby's feet during feedings to keep him awake.

• Mothers who determine that their milk output is actually low may want to have their thyroid level checked. A low thyroid level is known to reduce milk supply.

• If you're not sure your baby is sucking well, or are still concerned about your milk supply, don't hesitate to call on a lactation consultant for help.

Will it affect my baby?

Yes, if your baby regularly needs more milk than he gets, he could fail to thrive, a condition that can inhibit physical and mental development. Call your doctor and schedule a checkup right away if he's not gaining weight, or is losing weight. Improved breastfeeding techniques often help, but in some cases slow weight gain indicates a serious health concern.

Can I still nurse?

Yes, especially if you're suffering from a temporary decrease in milk supply, nursing frequently is the key to boosting milk production.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Let's Play! Up, Up, and Away & Song of Myself

2009-08-18T22:05:00.000+07:00

As your baby gains control over his body, he loves games that involve "flying" through the air. Guide him through new maneuvers (and give yourself a workout) with this dynamic ground-crew exercise.

Appropriate for: 2.5 to 6 months
Skills developed: Gross motor
What you'll need: No equipment necessary

Start by sitting up with your knees bent, positioning your baby with his tummy against your shins. Then, holding him steady, lie back on the floor, simultaneously raising your legs slightly into the air. Your shins, with your baby lying comfortably atop them, should be parallel to the floor. If you can spare the breath, say, "Airplane up, up, and away" as your little one rises into the air. Depending on your level of fitness, you can zoom him around by moving your legs forward and back and side to side before bringing him in for a landing.

Song of Myself

Babies recognize oft-repeated words long before they're ready to say them, and familiar names are the friendliest verbal cues of all.

Appropriate for: 2 months to 1 year
Skills developed: Cognitive, auditory, verbal
What you'll need: A rocking chair (optional)

Grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, pets, babysitters, and daycare teachers – your baby will love to hear you name them all. One of the most natural ways to do this is with a song like the old spiritual "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands." The words are simple and repetitive: "He's got the whole world in his hands" repeats four times, and then the verses go on to name general categories: "He's got the wind and the rain in his hands..." "He's got the tiny little baby in his hands..." ending with four lines of "He's got everybody here in his hands." But instead, try substituting your baby's favorite folks: "He's got [baby's name] and Papa, in his hands..." "He's got Grandma and Grandpa in his hands..." and go on from there.

Remember: Each baby develops at a different pace, so if yours isn't quite ready for this week's activities, don't worry — just try them again in a few weeks.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Growth charts: Taking your baby's measurements

2009-08-18T22:04:00.000+07:00

What are growth charts?

Growth charts are tools that the doctor uses to evaluate and keep track of your baby's physical growth. At each checkup, the doctor or nurse will measure your baby's length, weight, and head circumference. Then she'll plot those numbers on a chart of national averages for babies of the same age and sex. In the end, she'll tell you what percentile your child is in.

If the doctor tells you that your 2-month-old son is in the 75th percentile for weight, for example, that means 75 percent of the 2-month-old boys in the United States weigh the same or less than he does and 25 percent weigh more. If your baby was born prematurely, his gestational age is used to plot his numbers on the chart.

So if your baby was born 4 weeks early, his numbers will be compared with babies who are 4 weeks younger than your baby. Some doctors use "preemie" growth charts, but however she keeps track, the doctor will take into account that your baby arrived early.

Parents sometimes worry needlessly about these percentages. Remember that your child is an individual and will develop at his own pace. These measurements are a general guide to help you and your doctor assess your baby's growth. What's important is that your baby's growth curve, as it's plotted on the chart, is progressing.

The doctor will be looking to see whether he's gaining appropriately each time (no big dips, for example). She'll also keep an eye on his weight to make sure it isn't excessive for his height, which might indicate potential weight problems down the road. The most recent charts take into account both breastfed and formula-fed babies.

The first set of growth charts covers from birth to 36 months. On the left side of the length chart are centimeters; corresponding measurements in inches run along the right side of the chart. On the left side of the weight chart are kilograms; corresponding measurements in pounds run along the right side of the chart. You can see the charts themselves on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site.

How will the doctor take my baby's measurements?

Because an inch or a pound can make a pretty significant difference in where your baby falls on the charts, measurements will be taken very carefully. It can be tricky to get reliable and accurate numbers — especially if your baby is very squirmy! — but most doctors and nurses are experienced at it.

The doctor or nurse will take three measurements:

Weight
After you undress your baby completely — that's right, no diaper — the doctor or nurse will place him on a scale (either a traditional beam scale or an electronic model) to weigh him. Both types will be set to zero before your baby is laid down. The measurement is usually taken in kilograms and recorded to the tenth of a kilo. The doctor or nurse will be able to tell you your baby's weight in pounds to the closest ounce.

Length
While your baby is lying down, the doctor or nurse will measure him from the top of his head to the bottom of his heel. Some practitioners use a special device with a headboard and a movable footboard for accurate results.

Head circumference
To measure your baby's head, the doctor or nurse will place a flexible measuring tape where his head has the largest circumference — just above your baby's eyebrows and ears, around the back of his head where it slopes up prominently from his neck.

Why does it matter what size your baby's head is? Your baby's brain growth is reflected in the size of his skull. So if your baby's brain isn't growing and developing normally, his head circumference may not be increasing as it should. On the other hand, if your baby's head circumference grows too quickly, it may be a sign of a problem like hydrocephalus (the buildup of fluid in the brain). Both conditions are unlikely but important to rule out.

By the way, babies' heads are disproportionately large compared to adult heads, so don't worry if your baby's head looks big to you. Consider your own proportions, too — if you or your partner has a large or small head, your baby might, too.

Can I track my baby's growth at home?

Yes, you can, but it won't be as accurate as when the doctor or nurse does it. If you want to give it a try:

• Weigh your baby. If you don't have a baby scale, then any accurate scale will do. Simply hold your baby and get on the scale. Write down that number. Then put your baby down and get on the scale alone. Subtract that number from your combined weight to get your baby's approximate weight.

• Next, measure your baby's length. Lay him down and stretch a measuring tape from the top of his head to the bottom of his heel. It's easiest if you have someone to help, because you'll need to gently stretch your baby's leg straight to do this. Again, your number won't be exactly the same as the doctor's, but you'll get a ballpark figure.

• To measure your baby's head circumference, wrap a flexible measuring tape around his head just above his eyebrows and ears, and around the back where his head slopes up from his neck. The goal is to measure his head at the spot where it has the largest circumference.

Once you have these measurements, plug them into our growth percentile calculator to find out roughly how your baby compares to his peers.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Eight ways to find time to exercise

2009-08-18T22:03:00.000+07:00

For many new moms, exercise takes a back seat to more pressing concerns — sleep, for instance. But you'll find you have renewed energy for yourself and your baby if you make time for even short bursts of exercise. Ten minutes here and there is better than nothing, and it'll do you a world of good.

The key is finding an activity that you enjoy and that meshes with your schedule and lifestyle. If you like what you do during your workout, you'll view it as a necessity rather than an option. For starters, try these suggestions:

• Go for a hike with your baby in a front carrier or sling or, if he can sit up already, a backpack. Make sure your baby is well supported — a sling is fine for a walk around the block but not for a more rigorous urban walk or a hike through the hills. Whatever carrying device you choose, make sure it doesn't strain your shoulders, neck, or back.

• Put your baby in the stroller and go for a walk. When your baby is at least 6 months old, you can put him in a jogging stroller and go for a jog.

• Have your partner or another caregiver watch the baby for 30 minutes so you can get out for a walk around the neighborhood — and enjoy some precious time to yourself. If you're working outside the house, try getting up about an hour before you need to leave in the morning and head to the gym or go for a walk. If you're a stay-at-home mom, get up before your partner leaves to get some exercise in.

• Bring your sneakers to work and go for a stroll during your lunch break. Ask a co-worker to join you to pass the time and make it more fun.

• Check out local health clubs or yoga studios. Many offer postpartum exercise classes suitable for new moms — as well as day care and even classes you can take with your baby. If a postpartum class isn't on the roster at your gym, pick a low-impact class that has a decent warm-up period — at least ten minutes — that also includes stretching and toning.

Note: If you're thinking of joining a club that offers babysitting services, look for one with a safe, secure childcare area with specialized staff — rather than locker-room attendants who double as babysitters. Also look for a low child-to-staff ratio (about four children to every adult), a policy of not accepting sick children, and a clean, inviting playroom stocked with age-appropriate toys and books.

• Join a mom-and-baby stroller exercise program like Stroller Strides, Baby Boot Camp, or Stroller Fit. It's a great way to get outside, exercise, meet other moms, and spend time with your baby.

• Consider investing in some home exercise equipment that you can use when your baby is napping or otherwise occupied. Even something as small as a jump rope or some dumbbells will help you get into shape.

• Build a library of exercise videos. Popping in a video can be a fun and convenient way to squeeze exercise into your busy schedule. You may even be able to find some titles on your library's shelves.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Developmental milestones: Hearing

2009-08-18T22:02:00.000+07:00

Hearing

Unless your baby has a hearing impairment, he can hear even before birth. As he grows, he'll use his ears to take in massive amounts of information about the world around him, which will in turn stimulate brain development and lead to physical accomplishments such as sitting, rolling over, crawling, and walking.

When it develops

Your baby's hearing will be fully mature by the end of his first month, although understanding and appreciating all the things he's hearing will take a little longer.

How it develops

From the get-go, your baby will pay close attention to voices, especially high-pitched ones. He'll respond to familiar sounds (you or your partner talking or reading a favorite story, for example). He's also likely to startle at loud or unexpected noises.

By 3 months, your baby's temporal lobe — a part of the brain that helps with hearing, language, and smell — will have become more receptive and active, so when he hears your voice, he may look directly at you and start gurgling or trying to talk back. Don't worry if he sometimes looks away while you're talking or reading to him, but do tell his doctor if he doesn't seem to respond to your voice at all.

At 5 months, your baby will be able to determine where sounds come from, and he'll turn quickly toward new ones. He can also recognize his name. Notice how he looks at you when you call him or talk about him.

What's next

Your baby's hearing is fully developed when he's very young, but it's important to identify problems early on so you can nip them in the bud. Your baby's hearing will be tested at his newborn screening. After that, be sure to tell your pediatrician if you have any concerns. She may refer you to an audiologist for a hearing test.

Your role

There are many ways to expose your baby to new sounds. Sing nursery rhymes and play music, for starters. Choose perennial children's favorites such as Raffi or Peter, Paul, and Mary. Or pop in your own favorite, whether it's The Beatles or Russian opera.

The sound of wind chimes or a ticking clock is also likely to engage your baby. As he develops preferences, you'll see him react with more pleasure to some sounds than others.

Reading to your child, no matter how young he is, will pay off. Listening to you read helps your child develop an ear for the cadence of language — in fact, varying the pitch of your voice, using accents, singing, and vocalizing makes the aural connection between you and your baby that much more stimulating. Plus, the more you talk and read to him, the more sounds and words he learns as he gets ready to talk.

As your baby gets older and begins to realize where sounds come from, he will turn quickly toward new ones. One of the easiest ways to amuse a baby is to jingle a set of keys. Once he's 4 or 5 months old, he may start watching your mouth intently when you speak. He may even try to imitate inflections and utter consonant sounds such as m and b.

When to be concerned

The vast majority of babies have excellent hearing, but a few will have problems, especially if they were born very prematurely or were deprived of oxygen or had a severe infection at birth. Babies with a family history of hearing loss are more likely to have impaired hearing.

The fact that your baby can sleep right through the telephone ringing and the dog barking is perfectly normal. Babies need their sleep. There are other ways to tell if your child might have a hearing problem, though.

When your baby is awake and alert — and not suffering from a cold or an ear infection, which can temporarily affect his hearing — he should startle at loud, sudden noises. He should also calm down and turn to you when he hears your voice and react normally to sounds around him. If he doesn't, ask his doctor about formal hearing tests.

You can start with these quick evaluations at home:

Birth to 3 months: Clap your hands behind your baby's head. If he startles, he's fine.

Between 4 and 6 months: Call his name to see whether he turns toward or reacts to your voice. See if he turns his eyes or head to look for the source of an interesting sound.

Between 6 and 10 months: See whether your child responds to his name and familiar environmental sounds, such as the ringing of the phone or the roar of the vacuum cleaner.

Between 10 and 15 months: Ask your child to point to a familiar object in a picture book. If he can't, he may not be hearing you.

As you conduct these informal tests, remember that you're looking for your baby's best responses, not his average behavior. If you're convinced that he's responding some of the time, his hearing is probably okay.

Still, if you're concerned, trust your instincts and talk with your doctor. The earlier a baby's hearing problems are found, the better. According to research, identifying children who need hearing aids and fitting them with the devices before they're 6 months old significantly helps their speech and language development.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Breastfeeding and the working mom

2009-08-18T22:01:00.000+07:00

Can I continue breastfeeding once I return to work?

Yes, you can. If you live near work or have on-site daycare, you may be able to take nursing breaks to feed your baby. If that's not possible, you have two choices:

Option 1: You can keep up your milk supply by using a high-quality, automatic electric breast pump to express milk during the workday. Save the milk you collect for your child's caregiver to give him the next day. (You can also supplement with formula if you can't produce enough milk.) You'll still be able to nurse your child yourself whenever you're not at work.

Option 2: If you can't or don't want to pump at work, you can gradually replace daytime feedings with formula while you're still at home but continue to nurse at night and in the morning. Remember that if you don't nurse or pump during the day, your milk supply will diminish. The milk your body produces may not be enough to satisfy your baby, even if you only need enough for morning and evening feedings.

What are the advantages of pumping at work?

Pumping at work stimulates your milk production, so you'll have plenty of milk available when you nurse. You can also collect the milk that you pump, so your baby will have the health and nutritional advantages of breast milk even when you're not there. What's more, pumping can be a wonderful way to feel connected to your baby during the workday.

One of the best things about pumping at work is coming home to a baby who still wants to nurse. You get to snuggle with him right away, re-establish your bond, and nurture him in a way no one else can. To make sure your baby will want to nurse when you get home, ask your caregiver not to feed him during the last hour of the workday, or to feed him just enough to take the edge off any hunger. Then you and your baby can look forward to a warm reunion every day.

Although it can be a hassle — and doing such an earthy thing in a work environment can feel strange — many mothers find that the benefits of pumping far outweigh the inconvenience.

How can I successfully manage pumping at work?

You'll need:

• A breast pump, preferably a fully automatic electric pump with a double collection kit so you can pump both breasts at the same time

• Bottles or bags to collect and store the milk in

• Access to a refrigerator or a small cooler to keep the milk cold until you get it home (most pumps come with a cooler pack)

• Breast pads to protect your clothes if you leak

Get used to pumping at home before returning to work so you'll know what to expect and how it feels. You'll be much more confident pumping at work if you already know that you can produce enough milk to fill a storage bag or bottle. Plus, it's reassuring to have a stash of breast milk in the freezer once you do leave for work.

Ideally, you'll have access to a private room at work where you can pump, such as an unused office or conference room, or even a large, clean closet with a chair, countertop, and electric outlet. (Most pumps come with a battery option, so you won't necessarily need an outlet.) Try to find a room with a door that locks so you don't have to worry about anyone intruding on your privacy. Ask the building manager or human resources staff for suggestions, and enlist the support of a co-worker or supervisor if necessary.

If there's some demand (even two mothers is enough), you could lobby to create a nursing mothers' station in the office. In a worst-case scenario, you'll have to pump in a bathroom stall, but many women have done so successfully for months.

Your milk supply may vary daily. To maximize your milk flow, try to pump at the same time and place each day. Relax and look at your baby's picture or visualize him while you pump. Stress and fatigue are your biggest enemies. Remember, you're still a nursing mom, so eat well and drink plenty of water while at work.

How often should I pump?

Pumping every two to three hours is ideal. This timetable should provide all the milk your baby will need while you're gone and allow you to keep up your milk supply so that you can continue to nurse your baby in the morning and evening, and on weekends.

How do I store breast milk at work?

Pump and store milk either in glass or plastic bottles or in plastic milk collection bags. Leave room at the top of each bottle or bag for expansion if you'll be freezing the milk. Label the bottles or bags with your name and the date so you can use the oldest ones first. Store them in the office refrigerator or a cooler while at work. Carry them home in a cooler with an ice pack if your commute is longer than 30 minutes

Should I tell others that I'm pumping?

Support is the key to success. If you know other moms who are pumping at work, it's a good idea to ask them for encouragement and advice. Otherwise, you don't have to tell your co-workers what you're doing on your breaks if you feel uncomfortable, but you should tell your supervisor.

Your boss needs to know that pumping won't interfere with your work, so assure her that by committing to your baby in this way, you'll have much more peace of mind at work. In fact, you may find that you're even more productive (working mothers often are).

Talk to other moms on our pumping bulletin board to find out how they handle the situation.

How can I keep my breasts from leaking at work?

During the first week or two that you're back at work, your breasts will probably feel very full at feeding times and may leak milk. Pumping regularly — say, during your morning break, lunch break, and afternoon break — will often help prevent leaking. Use breast pads in your bras to protect your clothes from stains, or look for the new self-adhesive silicone pads (called LilyPadz) that prevent your breasts from leaking in the first place.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3

2009-08-18T22:00:00.000+07:00

How your baby's growing:

He's no Fred Astaire yet, but your little one's movements are getting a bit more coordinated. You'll notice that the jerky arm and leg movements of his newborn days have given way to smoother, more circular motions, especially when he's watching people.

Give your baby enough space to stretch and move his arms and legs. Lay a blanket on the floor and let him move as he pleases. These movements can help your baby strengthen and tone his developing muscles. On his tummy, he'll start to push off with his legs — the first step in getting ready to crawl.

• Learn more fascinating facts about your 2-month-old's development.
Your life: Don't forget birth control!
Quick: If you're breastfeeding, can you get pregnant? What if you haven't had a period since giving birth?

The answers are yes and yes. Even if you're only sexually semiactive, it's possible to conceive. Contrary to folk wisdom, breastfeeding itself isn't a contraceptive, and you'll begin to ovulate before you have a period, but you can't be sure when that will be. So it's wise to use contraception unless you wouldn't mind giving your newborn a sibling who's very close in age.

Your doctor can map out all the options, but here are some considerations:

What contraception did you use before you got pregnant? You can't necessarily pick up where you left off. If you used a diaphragm, be sure to get fitted again, as giving birth has probably changed your body.

If you were on a hormonal form of birth control (the Pill, patch, or ring) before becoming pregnant and are now breastfeeding, you may need a different formulation, such as the progesterone-only minipill.

Do you want to try something new? An IUD (intrauterine device), for example, fits better in women who have given birth than in those who've never had children.

Have you considered using condoms? Condoms can be a good choice for new moms because they don't affect breast milk — and they can be easier to remember than a once-a-day pill. Plus, condoms make contraception your partner's responsibility, too.
3 questions about: Calling your baby's doctor
How do I decide whether to mention symptoms to my baby's doctor?
You should feel comfortable calling the doctor's office anytime a gut feeling tells you to, day or night. Symptoms worth reporting in a young baby include worrisome changes in temperament, changes in appetite or an inability to keep food down, high fever, abnormally loose bowel movements, a dramatic drop in the number of wet diapers, a persistent rash, eye or ear drainage, and prolonged, unusual crying. Any of these could signal a serious illness, depending on their severity, duration, and accompanying symptoms. Always get immediate medical attention if your baby has trouble breathing or is having seizures.

When should I call a doctor about a fever?
It's your decision. Your baby's overall behavior and the presence of additional symptoms are usually a better indicator of illness than an exact thermometer reading. Remember that fever is the body's way of fighting infection, so it's essentially a good thing, not an illness in itself. Body temperature also varies by time of day (lower in early morning, higher in late afternoon and evening). The American Academy of Pediatrics considers a fever to be a rectal reading of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or more, and many doctors would recommend a call if a baby this age has that high a fever. Because readings can vary depending on how you take the temperature (rectally, by ear, in the armpit, or on the forehead), tell your doctor the method you used when you report a fever. Also, make sure to let your doctor know if your baby had any fever-reducing medicine.
What information should I be prepared to give?
When you need to call the doctor, stay calm and provide as thorough a description of the symptoms as you can. Tell when they began, how long they've lasted, and whether anything unusual has been taking place (such as teething or travel). Let the doctor know whether your baby has been around anyone sick recently. Take your baby's temperature before you call. Also mention whether your baby is on any medications, and remind the nurse or doctor you speak with if your baby has a medical condition. Because medical staffers see lots of children every day, they may not remember your individual child's history right off the bat.
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2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Your 2-month-old's development: Week 2

2009-08-18T21:57:00.002+07:00

Break out the bibs

Your baby's salivary glands have been working since she was in utero, but you may notice that she's started to drool. She's also putting everything in her mouth and producing more saliva than she can swallow.

This doesn't mean that your baby's teething just yet, though — that probably won't happen for another two weeks, at least. The vast majority of babies sprout their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age. If your baby's an early developer, you may see her first white cap, usually one of the bottom two middle teeth, as early as 3 months. (And in rare cases, a baby's first tooth is visible at birth!)

Many parents permanently affix a bib to their baby about now to catch the drool. Just remember to take it off when your baby sleeps to prevent strangulation.

The good news is that your baby's drool coats toys and other objects with disease-preventing proteins. That's fortunate — since she'll continue to explore anything she can get her hands on.

Sleeping for longer chunks of time

If your baby's sleeping through the night (five or six hours at a stretch), you're one of the lucky few. Most 10-week-old babies still wake up in the middle of the night. But even babies who aren't sleeping through the night at this stage should be sleeping and staying awake for longer intervals instead of cycling back and forth so much. Your baby will most likely have two to four long sleep periods and as many as ten hours of awake time in 24 hours.

An interesting note: Whether your baby is a night owl or a morning lark, a long sleeper or short sleeper, she'll probably stay that way throughout childhood.

Turning over a new leaf

Your baby is learning how to rock and roll — well, maybe just roll. At this age, she'll probably be able to move from her side to her back and her back to her side. The complete roll over won't come for another month or so, though, because she needs stronger neck and arm muscles for that maneuver.

Your baby's increasing mobility means that you must keep a hand on her during diaper changes. Never leave your baby unattended on a bed or any other elevated surface now that she can move around.

Remember, your baby is an individual

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - When to call the doctor

2009-08-18T21:57:00.001+07:00

It's normal for new parents to worry about their baby's health. Even if you can see that your newborn is strong and sturdy, babies are small and vulnerable and need our protection. But how do you know when something's really wrong?

You know your baby best, so trust your instincts — and call the doctor if something doesn't feel right. Here are some key areas to keep an eye on.

Temperament

If your baby seems like his usual sunny, happy self and is feeding well, he's probably not seriously ill. A baby who has a runny nose and a big smile is probably not as sick as a baby who has a runny nose and is lethargic.

Unusual crying

If your baby suddenly starts crying more than usual and you can't comfort him in the usual ways, or if his cry is weak or unusually high-pitched, he may be seriously ill. The opposite is also true — if your baby seems unhappy and doesn't cry but is unusually inactive and difficult to wake up, call your doctor

Appetite

How hungry your baby is will vary from day to day. But if he's hungry he should feed vigorously. A baby who tires easily from sucking or loses interest in nursing or feeding is probably sick. Also, if you notice your baby spitting up more than usual, with more effort, or if the spit-up is greenish in color, he may be sick.

Abnormal bowel movements

Young babies, especially breastfed babies, often have very soft or liquid bowel movements. But if the stools become extra watery, your infant may have diarrhea.

Monitor his bowel movements and see whether the diarrhea continues. Make sure he's breastfeeding or bottle-feeding as often as usual so he doesn't get dehydrated. Your baby should wet a minimum of six diapers a day. If he seems lethargic and begins to have small, hard, or dry bowel movements, or if his stool is streaked with blood or mucus, or has the consistency of jelly, call the doctor.

Difficulty breathing

If your baby's breathing is labored or if he's having trouble breathing at all, get help immediately.

Fever

Although fever in a baby is a signal that he's sick, the fever alone usually isn't worrisome. A baby can have a low-grade fever and be seriously ill, or a high fever and be only mildly ill. But if a baby under 3 months of age has a fever of 100.4 degrees F or higher, he should be examined. If an older baby has a fever but appears completely well otherwise, observe him for a day to see whether he develops other symptoms.

If you're still in doubt, call your healthcare provider anyway. It's important for you to get peace of mind, and it never hurts to check with your doctor.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Tummy time: How to help your baby get comfortable on his belly

2009-08-18T21:56:00.000+07:00

You've probably heard that "tummy time" is important so that babies can learn to push up and eventually crawl — but if your little one fusses and cries when you put him on his belly, what can you do?

If your baby's used to sleeping on his back, that's wonderful — sleeping on his back reduces your child's risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). But during waking hours, tummy time is essential from day one. Experts find that babies who don't spend time face-down often have some delays in their development of motor skills.

"The experience of being on their tummy helps babies learn to push up, roll over, sit up, crawl, and pull to a stand," explains Danette Glassy, a pediatrician in Mercer Island, Washington, and chairperson of the American Academy of Pediatrics' committee on early education and childcare.

Until 1994, when the AAP started urging parents to put babies to sleep on their back, most babies slept on their tummy and were used to being in that position. Today, most babies are much more comfy on their back, where they spend their sleeping hours (not to mention time spent in car seats, swings and bouncy seats).

So if your baby seems miserable in that position, it's no wonder. Not only is it unfamiliar, it's physically uncomfortable. It's hard work for your baby to keep his head up when he's on his tummy, and he can't see much of anything down there. He may even feel abandoned.

Here are some strategies for helping your baby feel at home on his tummy, along with products that can help.

Keep your baby company

One mom-tested strategy is to distract your baby from the unfamiliar feeling of being face-down until he gets used to it. The best thing you can do, says Glassy, is join your baby on the floor. Encourage him, talk with him, shake his rattle, make funny faces, play peekaboo. He might even enjoy watching you do your leg lifts or crunches (he's working hard after all). Another option is to lay your baby tummy-down on your tummy, either on the floor, in a recliner, or even in the bath.

Once your baby has sufficient head control — around age 4 months — you can play airplane: Lie on the floor and bend your legs. Put your baby's tummy against your legs, his head at your knees. Then bend your legs while holding on to him firmly. He'll probably love the new view. You might also put him on the bed, near the edge, and sit on the floor with your face next to his. He might appreciate the softer surface, and you can easily interact with him in this position.

Tip: Make sure your child's sitter or daycare provider knows about the importance of tummy time when your baby's awake as well as the importance placing your baby on his back to sleep.

Provide entertainment

Prop a board book open in front of your baby, or place a favorite toy within reach. Invest in a tummy-time toy or gym, designed especially for babies to play with while on their belly. Some have lights, mirrors, moving pictures, music and/or squeaky toys attached. Or place him on a colorful quilt or an activity mat designed just for babies. Some mats have prop-up toys or mirrors, and others are filled with water, for added fun. Take your baby's socks off so he can get good traction on the mat.

Tip: Have your baby's sibling(s) play nearby when he's on his tummy. (You may want to use a play yard so he won't get stepped on.) Watching a brother or sister — or even a family pet — may just keep him happily distracted for a bit.

Prop your baby up

Some parents find that giving their baby a new perspective — by propping him on a rolled towel or nursing pillow, for example — makes all the difference. If your child has some neck strength and head control (by age 3 or 4 months) but can't get up on his forearms, simply place the towel or pillow under his chest and armpits, with his arms in front of it. (If he tends to roll forward, keep your hand on his bottom.) When he can get up on his forearms independently, remove the pillow and let him work on his motor skills without it.

Tip: Some babies enjoy rolling on a big exercise ball. Hold him on it tummy-down while you gently rock the ball back and forth.

Time it right

Make sure your baby isn't hungry or tired when you set him tummy-down. On the other hand, don't place him on a full belly, which might be uncomfortable. When he starts to cry — even if it's only been a minute — try to coax him a bit longer by talking with him or playing with him. When he's had enough, pick him up and try again later. His tolerance for tummy time is likely to increase gradually with experience and a bit of coaxing. And many babies are more content on their tummy once they can roll over and it becomes a matter of choice.

Tip: Some parents find it helpful to roll their babies over on their tummy for a little while after every diaper change. It's easy to remember to do it, and your baby may come to expect it. Your baby may also enjoy the view, if he's up on a changing table. Just be sure to hold on to him so he doesn't roll off.

Tune in to your baby

Try to figure out if there's anything in particular about tummy time that your baby finds distressing. Maybe his blankie gets too scrunched under him for comfort (and that shag carpet is downright scary). Maybe it's too cold on the floor, or too slippery. One mom found that her baby liked tummy time as long as his fists were out from under him so he could suck on them. Another discovered that her baby was just fine on his tummy — as long as he was bare-butt!

Tip: See if your baby likes to be massaged while he's on his tummy. If he does, it could help him feel comfortable in that position.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Naps: The basics

2009-08-18T21:55:00.000+07:00

Sleep is vital for babies and young children, whose brains and bodies are developing at an extraordinary rate — but nighttime rest isn't enough. Regular naps help them get the sleep they need.

Do your best to encourage your baby to nap consistently. But keep in mind that his temperament and natural bodily rhythms will help determine how and when he naps. Some babies nap for long stretches every day right from the start and settle easily into a pattern. Others do just fine taking shorter naps or napping at less regular times.

How many naps a day should my baby take?

As a newborn, your baby will sleep for two to four hours at a time, day and night. At this stage, you shouldn't expect any sort of napping pattern. Just let your baby sleep as much as he needs to.

When your baby's 6 to 8 weeks old, he's likely to start consolidating his sleep — he'll sleep less often and for longer stretches at a time. He'll probably need two to four naps a day, and perhaps even more.

At 3 to 4 months of age, many babies begin to follow a more predictable pattern of daytime sleep. This is a good time to start developing a nap schedule (see our tips, below).

By 6 months, your baby will probably be taking two or three naps a day: one in the morning, one in the early afternoon, and another later in the afternoon.

At 9 to 12 months, most babies are down to a solid two naps a day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. And by 18 months, most children give up their morning nap altogether but continue to snooze in the afternoon. They'll continue with this pattern until they're 3 or 4 years old.

These are typical patterns, but not all babies follow them. Every baby has his own unique sleep habits. For more information, check out our sample baby sleep schedules.

Scheduling your baby's naps

When your baby's 3 to 4 months old, you can work on developing a nap schedule that's compatible with his natural sleep cycles.

Read the signs
Pay attention to your baby's sleep signals. Does he begin to rub his eyes and get fussy midmorning or right after lunch? Does he often fall asleep in the car in the early afternoon? Do you notice a difference in his alertness and overall mood when he sleeps for longer or shorter periods?

You might want to keep a record of your baby's sleep signals and naps for a week or two. This will help you see your baby's patterns so you can anticipate naps.

For example, if your baby gets cranky and ready to nap by 10 o'clock every morning, you can ease him into it before he gets overtired. Start 15 to 20 minutes before you expect his sleep signals to show up — feed, change, and rock him quietly, keeping your voice low. That way he's already on the road to sleep when that tired feeling overtakes him.

Stick to a schedule
Consistency is the goal: Try to schedule your baby's naps for roughly the same time every day. If you put your baby down for his afternoon nap at 3 o'clock one day and right after lunch the next, for example, your child will have more trouble developing a regular sleep pattern.

Try to avoid activities that conflict with your baby's nap schedule. If an older sibling needs to be picked up at school during naptime, for example, see if you can come up with an alternative arrangement.

If your baby is in daycare during the week and has a regular nap schedule when he's there, follow a similar schedule on the weekends when he's at home with you.

Get more tips on establishing a successful baby schedule.

Don't stress over interruptions
You won't be able to arrange it so your entire household revolves around your baby's nap schedule — especially if you have other children. Life events will interrupt your schedule, and if naps are skipped or delayed from time to time, it isn't a disaster. If you have a solid, regular structure that you can rely on, it'll be easier to get back on track after the inevitable disruptions.

Figuring out the best nap schedule for your baby will take some trial and error, and it will likely change as your child reaches new developmental milestones. You'll need to assess your baby's sleep needs and habits regularly and alter the schedule accordingly.

Developing a nap ritual

A naptime ritual is a good idea, for the same reason it's recommended at night: It helps your child wind down and signals that the sleep period is approaching, so your baby is prepared to rest.

Your naptime ritual can be shorter and less elaborate than the bedtime ritual: a story, a song, and a cuddle, for example. Once you've developed a routine that works for you and that you both enjoy, stick to it as closely as possible.

More practical tips for naps

• Pajamas aren't necessary, but make sure your child is dressed in comfortable clothing that's neither too light nor too heavy.

• Playtime in the period before your baby's nap should be quiet. Avoid loud noise and stimulating play that could make it hard for you child to settle down and go to sleep.

• When you can, put your child down for his nap in the same place he sleeps at night, which he'll associate with going to sleep.

• If you're going on a trip or you know you'll be away from home at naptime, be sure to pack the books and anything else your child has come to associate with sleeping. This will help you maintain your baby's nap and bedtime routine wherever you are.

• Don't wait until your child is overly tired before beginning your going-to-sleep routine. If you do, your child may be too wound up to sleep well — or even to sleep at all. If your child isn't much of a napper, don't blame yourself or your parenting skills — even if your best friend reports that her child is taking three-hour naps every day. All you can do is offer your child the opportunity to sleep by preparing him and putting him down on a consistent schedule.

Your baby may be a natural catnapper, consistently napping for less than an hour at a time. As long as he doesn't seem too tired, fussy, or difficult during waking hours, he's getting the sleep he needs.

Parents' voices

"My 4-month-old has finally begun to nap without a fight. For us, the trick was getting her down the second we saw tired signs (rubbing eyes, yawning, restless). Also, sticking to the same time each day — within an hour at least because sometimes the exact same time isn't doable for Mom and Dad. I take her into her room and rock her for a few minutes while singing a lullaby. This is what we do at bedtime at night, so it's helped her learn that it's time to sleep."
— Stacy

"My 4-month-old used to be horrible with naps. Finally I tried nursing her to sleep on my bed. If I didn't move her once she'd fallen asleep, she'd stay that way for an hour or two. Gradually she got so that I could move her to her bed. Now she'll nurse and then go peacefully into her own bed still awake. We have a crib vibrator under her bassinet mattress that plays music and gently shakes the bed like a bouncer chair would. She loves it! She takes two or three two-hour naps a day."
— First-time mommy

"My 10-week-old baby is finally napping well, and it's because of what I'm doing differently! I'm now putting her down before she's tired, and it's working wonders. I always waited until she was too tired, and the screaming was unbearable. Then we had to walk the floor, rock, bounce, swing, hold her, you name it! It has taken me going in a few times to pop the pacifier back in, but the difference is amazing."
— Anonymous

"An hour or two after my baby wakes up he tends to seem tired (lets out little whimpers, may briefly rub eyes). As soon as I feel it coming on, I head to his nursery. I have the swaddle blanket already laid out in a convenient place. I lay him on top and calmly put the pacifier in his mouth (if he's calm, he'll take it). As soon as he takes it, I gently wrap the swaddle around him, pick him up, and rock him. He may protest for a couple of minutes, but he soon falls asleep. Works like a dream!"
— Anonymous

"If your 3-month-old wakes after 30 to 45 minutes, it doesn't mean he's done with his nap — he's just hasn't figured out how to get back to sleep after the first stage of the sleep cycle. Help him do that and you'll have a more well rested baby! The second stage is much longer — about an hour and a half for my son. Sometimes I have to go in and pat my baby's back and bottom for a few minutes to get him back to sleep. Sometimes I have to let him cry for a few minutes. And sometimes, finally now at 5 months, he wakes up, whimpers, and goes back to sleep all on his own."
— Anonymous

"My daughter, now 4 months old, has always needed to nap on me and would sleep for hours if I held her. Once I put her down, she'd wake right up. What I started doing lately is to put her in her bed and let her cry. I set the timer for ten minutes. If she's still crying after ten minutes, which she always is, I pick her up and apologize and burp her. Then I lay her back down and set the timer again. About halfway through the crying, I give her the pacifier. She goes to sleep and sleeps by herself anywhere from half an hour to three hours."
— Noelia

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - How to tell how much formula your baby needs

2009-08-18T21:53:00.000+07:00

Take your baby's cues

The most important thing to take into account when deciding how much to feed is your baby's behavior. Babies eat when they're hungry and stop when they're full. Appetites vary among babies, and each baby's nutritional needs change from day to day and month to month.

Your baby may be hungrier than usual during growth spurts — which typically occur ten to 14 days after birth and at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months — and he may want less food if he's not feeling well. That's why it's so important to learn to read your baby's hunger cues.

A key sign that your baby is hungry, of course, will be his cry. But resist the urge to respond to his every whimper with a bottle. Consider the possibility — especially if you've recently fed him — that he may be crying because his diaper is wet. Or maybe he's cold or hot, he needs to be burped, or he simply wants to be close to you.

If your baby is hungry, he might show signs like smacking his lips or sucking, rooting (turning his head toward your hand when you stroke his cheek), and putting his hands to his mouth. You'll know that your baby wants more than you're giving him when he finishes the feeding quickly and looks around for more.

If your baby seems hungry after his first bottle, try preparing just an ounce or two more at a time. If you make a larger amount, he may not finish it and you'll have to throw it out.

Multiply your baby's weight times 2.5 ounces

If your baby isn't eating any solids (if he's younger than 4 to 6 months, he shouldn't be), the rule of thumb is to offer him 2.5 ounces of formula per pound of body weight each day.

So if your baby weighs 6 pounds, you'll give him about 15 ounces of formula in a 24-hour period. If he weighs 10 pounds, he should drink about 25 ounces in a 24-hour period.

Consider your baby's age

How much formula your baby needs depends not only on his weight but also on his age. Let his hunger guide you. As a general guideline:

Most new babies want to eat every two to three hours. (Start with 1 or 2 ounces at each feeding for the first week, then work up to 2 to 4 ounces.) As your baby gets older — and his tummy gets bigger — he'll drink fewer bottles a day with more formula in each.

In a couple of months, for example, he may be down to six to eight bottles of 4 to 6 ounces each every 24 hours. By 4 months, he'll probably drop to four or five bottles of 6 or 7 ounces each, and by his half birthday he'll typically be down to three or four bottles of 7 to 8 ounces each every day.

He'll likely remain at that three- to four-bottle pace until his first birthday, when he can transition to whole cow's milk in a bottle or sippy cup, along with three solid meals and snacks.

Although cow's milk is good for your child once he's the right age, don't overdo it. Drinking more than 16 to 24 ounces a day can reduce his appetite for other healthy foods and lead to iron-deficiency anemia.

Signs that your baby's getting the right amount of formula

Here are some signs that your baby's getting all the formula he needs:

He seems relaxed and satisfied after a feeding.
He has five to six wet diapers a day if you're using disposable diapers, or six to eight if you're using cloth diapers. (Disposables hold more liquid.)
He continues to gain weight after his first two weeks. (Most babies lose between 5 and 9 percent of their birth weight and then regain it by the time they're about 2 weeks old.)

It's possible to give your baby too much formula, and he'll let you know this, too. If after a feeding he vomits (spitting up is normal, vomiting isn't — see how to tell the difference), you may have overfed him.

Another sign of overfeeding is if he seems to have tummy pain — he might draw his legs up and his tummy may be tense.

If you're worried that your baby isn't eating enough or is eating too much, take a look at his weight gain and talk with his doctor. She can tell you whether your baby's intake is appropriate for his size and age, and she can advise you about any adjustments you may need to make.

How much formula do other babies drink?

To see how much formula other babies typically take at different ages, check out our sample baby feeding, sleep, and play schedules.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Developmental milestones: Head control

2009-08-18T21:52:00.000+07:00

Head control

At birth, your baby has little control over his head because his neck muscles are fairly weak. He'll develop this crucial skill, which is the foundation for all later movement — such as sitting up and walking — little by little during the first six months of life.

When it develops

Your baby will probably be able to lift his head when he's about a month old, and hold it up when placed in a sitting position at around 4 months. His neck muscles and head control should be strong and steady by age 6 months.

How it develops

Newborns
Your baby will rely on you to support his head and neck for at least the first month or so. Perhaps it's nature's way of making sure you have lots of time to gaze into each other's eyes and bond as you cradle your baby in your arms.

1 to 2 months
By the end of his first month, your baby should be able to lift his head briefly and turn it from side to side when lying on his stomach. At around 6 to 8 weeks, if he's especially strong, he'll raise his head while lying on his back. When you carry him on your shoulder, he'll have enough control to hold his head up shakily, but not for long. He'll also be strong enough to hold up his head while sitting in a car seat or front pack. Wait until he can hold his head up steadily without any support from you to use a jogging stroller or a backpack, though.

3 to 4 months
You'll notice a definite improvement in head control by this time. Your baby will be able to raise his head to 45 degrees while on his tummy and keep it up steadily. For a fun game that also develops his neck muscles, place your baby on his back and slowly pull him up by his hands to a sitting position. Slowly ease him back down, and repeat. At this age, he should be able to hold his head in line with the rest of his body as it's pulled up. Your child may be ready for a jogging stroller at 4 months, but stick to smooth pavement for now. Running trails will be too bouncy for him at this point, unless he can hold his head up well and is able to sit up.

5 to 6 months
By 6 months, your baby will be able to hold his head steady and erect, and he'll flex it forward when he's pulled into a sitting position.

What's next

Once your baby establishes good head control, he can move on to sitting up, rolling over, and crawling. Head control is also necessary for swallowing solid foods and sitting in a highchair.

Your role

You don't have to do much to encourage the development of head control, but you do have to be careful until it's well established. For the first few months, especially, you'll need to cradle your baby's neck and head when you lift him, hold him, or carry him. Although your baby should always sleep on his back, put him on his tummy frequently while he's awake — lifting his head and chest to see you or his toys will strengthen his neck muscles.

From 3 to 6 months, you may want to prop your baby in a sitting position — in a safe place, with plenty of neck and head support. Use pillows, or set him on your lap, with his back against you. Have him sit in different spots around your home so his view changes. Never leave him sitting unattended, though, because he could topple over.

If you're a runner, avoid taking your baby out with you in a jogging stroller until he masters head control. When you think he's ready, pick a jogger with a five-point harness, which offers the most support.

When to be concerned

If your baby seems to struggle to lift his head up even slightly at 3 months, mention it at your next doctor visit. Babies develop skills differently, some more quickly than others, and head control is no exception. Premature babies may reach this and other milestones later than their peers — check with your child's doctor if you're worried.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Checking your baby's breathing

2009-08-18T21:51:00.000+07:00

How often should I check my baby's breathing?

As often as you feel you need to. And if you feel compelled to check your baby's breathing all the time, you're not alone. Consider your vigilance a reflection of how seriously you're taking parenthood.

It may help to keep in mind that babies have various stages of slumber — sometimes deep and still, sometimes active, sometimes noisy and snuffly. Your comfort level should grow with experience, but it's okay if you continue to make nightly forays into your child's bedroom, just to check on his breathing, for years to come.

Danielle Buckley-Werner remembers feeling panic-stricken every time she put her son to bed during his first months of life.

"I was sure that if I wasn't there to hear him breathe, then he couldn't take a breath," she says. "I was so tired all the time because when he slept, I would watch him. I finally collapsed on the floor of the nursery one afternoon and realized that something had to give if I was going to have the energy to be a good mom."

Buckley-Werner started taking naps with her son and using a baby monitor when she couldn't. For the first three months, she and her husband, Daniel, kept the crib in their room so they could easily respond to any coughs, cries, or breathing emergencies — which, thankfully, never arose.

"I can't tell new parents that they shouldn't worry and that constantly checking breathing is insane," says Buckley-Werner. "But depriving yourself of rest and waking your baby up all the time will exhaust everyone. For me, keeping my baby close helped me overcome my fears that he'd stop breathing."

How can I stop worrying so much about SIDS?

It may calm some of your fears to know that sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is rare, afflicting fewer than 1 in 1,000 infants. What's more, 90 percent of SIDS cases happen before age 6 months, and the risk virtually disappears when a baby reaches his first birthday.

No one knows exactly what causes SIDS (although there are plenty of theories), and there's no surefire way to prevent it. Thankfully, the incidence of SIDS has dropped dramatically in recent years as more risk factors are identified and more parents learn to avoid them.

To help guard against SIDS, always put your baby to sleep on his back, and if you or another family member smokes, give it up. (Read more about reducing the risk of SIDS.)

It's also a good idea to learn infant and child CPR. Knowing CPR will help ease your fears and enable you to respond to any serious breathing emergencies throughout childhood.

Call the Red Cross or the hospital where you delivered to find an infant CPR class, or consider organizing an infant CPR party for yourself and other new parents in your area. Take your spouse and the babysitter along, too.

How can I tell if my baby has stopped breathing and what should I do about it?

Newborns do what's called periodic breathing: They breathe progressively more quickly and deeply, then more slowly and shallowly, then pause for up to 15 seconds, and then start up again with progressively deeper breaths. This is normal and will evolve into a more mature pattern of breathing, with occasional sighs, in the first few months of life.

If you suspect that your baby has stopped breathing or simply want to reassure yourself, touch or rouse him a bit to see whether he responds. If he doesn't, he may be experiencing something called apnea, and you should call 911 or your local emergency number right away.

If this happens and you know how to administer infant CPR, you should begin emergency treatment right away and have someone else call for emergency help. If you're alone with your baby, administer CPR for two minutes, then call for help, then resume CPR until help arrives or your baby starts breathing again.

It's not unusual for a baby's hands, feet, and skin around his mouth to be bluish. But if his forehead or the trunk of his body turns blue, it's another sign that he may be in danger.

In most cases, babies' irregular breathing habits are nothing to worry about. But babies who have had more than one apparent life-threatening event (ALTE) are at increased risk for long-term complications or sudden unexpected death. An ALTE is an episode in which a baby stops breathing. He may also become limp, turn blue, and choke or gag.

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Baby sleep training: The basics

2009-08-18T21:50:00.000+07:00

What is sleep training?

Sleep training is the process of helping a baby learn to get to sleep and stay asleep through the night.

Some babies seem to develop a regular sleep routine quickly and easily. But many others have trouble settling down to sleep — or getting back to sleep when they've been wakened — and they need help and guidance along the way.

When can I start and what are the stages of sleep training?

The first three months
Don't try to impose a sleep schedule or training program on a newborn. Your new baby will need to feed every few hours, around the clock, so it's normal and healthy for him to sleep for just a few hours at a time. Respond promptly to his cries, feed and comfort him, and try to sleep when he does to minimize your own sleep deprivation.

Beginning at about 6 weeks, you can reinforce your child's biological rhythms by establishing a regular bedtime routine. At about the same time every night, for instance, give him a warm bath, read him a book, and then feed him before putting him to bed. (For more ideas, see our article on bedtime routines.) Try to get your baby up at around the same time every morning and put him down for naps at the same point in the day.

At this stage, consider your routine and your baby's sleep schedule as a work in progress: During the first three months of life, your baby will gradually sleep more at night and less during the day. You'll need to keep adjusting the schedule as your baby matures and develops.

3 to 6 months and beyond
Typically, by age 3 months or so, babies have started to develop more of a regular sleep/wake pattern and have dropped most of their night feedings. And somewhere between 3 and 6 months, experts say, most babies are ready for sleep training and are capable of sleeping through the night. They're not talking about eight hours, though — they generally mean a stretch of five or six hours.

Of course, every baby is different: Some may be ready earlier, others later. And some will sleep seven hours or longer at an early age while others won't do so until they're much older.

Before starting sleep training, make sure your baby doesn't have any medical conditions that affect his sleep. Then be flexible about how you apply your chosen program and carefully observe how your baby reacts. If he's very resistant or you see a change for the worse in his overall mood and behavior, stop and wait a few weeks before trying again.

If you're not sure whether your baby's ready for sleep training, ask your doctor.

What are my sleep training options?

There are many different ways to teach healthy sleep habits to your child. Which technique should you try? That depends on what you feel comfortable with — and which sleep strategy you think your child will respond well to.

Consistency is more important than method. A review of 52 sleep studies using various methods, published in 2006 in the journal Sleep, found almost all the techniques effective if applied consistently. Choose a sleep training method you can live with and follow through on it — and chances are, it'll work for you.

Most sleep training methods follow one of two basic approaches:

"Cry it out"
These sleep training methods say it's okay to leave your child to cry, if necessary, although they don't advocate letting a baby cry endlessly. Typically these approaches suggest putting your baby to bed when he's still awake and allowing short periods of crying punctuated by comforting (but not picking up) your child.

The most well known "cry it out" technique is the one developed by pediatrician Richard Ferber, director of the Center for Pediatric Sleep Disorders at Children's Hospital Boston. Ferber says that in order to fall asleep on their own and sleep through the night, babies have to learn to soothe themselves. Ferber believes that teaching a baby to soothe himself may involve leaving him alone to cry for prescribed periods of time.

Find out more:

Article: Baby Sleep Training: Cry It Out Methods

Video: Baby Sleep: The Ferber Method and follow-up article, How I Got My Baby to Sleep Through the Night: Two Families Tell All
Follow first-time parents Mike and Margie Gunn's efforts to teach their 5-month-old to sleep through the night using the Ferber method.

Sleep resources: Experts, books, websites, and more

No tears
Sleep training methods in this category encourage a more gradual approach, with the parent offering comfort right away when their child cries. Pediatrician William Sears, author of The Baby Sleep Book, is probably the most well known proponent. Parent educator Elizabeth Pantley outlines a step-by-step no-tears approach in her book The No-Cry Sleep Solution.

Find out more:

Article: Baby Sleep Training: No Tears Methods

Video: Baby Sleep: The Sears Method and follow-up article, How I Got My Baby to Sleep Through the Night: Two Families Tell All

Watch as first-time parents Tamara and Cameron O'Neil try to teach their 5-month-old to sleep through the night using the Sears method.

Sleep resources: Experts, books, websites, and more

What the experts say

Richard Ferber, author of Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems
"By the time your baby is 3 months old and has developed a fairly predictable 24-hour pattern, it becomes more important for you to provide increasingly consistent structure. If you do your best to establish a reasonable and consistent daily routine and keep to it as much as possible, then it is likely that your child will continue to develop good patterns. If instead you allow the times of your child's feedings, playtimes, baths, and other activities to change constantly, chances are his sleep will become irregular as well."

Marc Weissbluth, author of Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child
"For infants under 3 or 4 months of age, you should try to flow with the child's need for sleep. Don't expect predictable sleep schedules, and don't try to enforce them rigidly...After about 4 months, I think parents can influence sleep durations."

William Sears, author of The Baby Sleep Book
"Be prepared for one style of nighttime parenting to work at one stage of an infant's life yet need a change as he enters another stage. Be open to trying different approaches. Follow your heart rather than some stranger's sleep training advice, and you and your baby will eventually work out the right nighttime parenting style for your family."

Cathryn Tobin, author of The Lull-A-Baby Sleep Plan
"After completing my residency at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada, one of the world's busiest pediatric medical centers, it struck me that our culture goes about infant sleep training completely backward. First we allow bad sleep habits to form, then we go to extremes trying to break them. Once I recognized this crucial mistake, the solution to the dreadful problem of sleep deprivation became crystal clear: Encourage young babies to develop good habits right from the start, and you won't need to break bad ones down the road."

Jodi Mindell, author of Sleeping Through the Night
"The more practice your baby gets putting himself to sleep, the quicker the process works. He will fall asleep on his own, and you will get the sleep you need...Don't wait too long, though. The earlier, the better. Remember, once your baby gets older — that is, at least 5 or 6 months — the process of getting your child on a sleep schedule and to sleep through the night gets more difficult."

Tracy Hogg, author of Secrets of the Baby Whisperer
"What a good many people don't realize is that babies need parents' direction to establish proper sleep habits. In fact, the reason so-called sleep problems are common is because so many parents don't realize that they, not their babies, must control bedtime."

Do I have to use a sleep training method for my child?

No. Parents often decide to try a particular method because they're exhausted or frustrated by their child's sleep habits and nothing they've tried on their own seems to work. If you're happy with the way things are going, count your blessings and continue what you're doing.

Families have different expectations and tolerances. A 9-month-old who wakes up twice a night might have one set of parents tearing their hair out while another family wouldn't have it any other way. If sleep isn't going well for your family, you'll know it — and you might want to read up on methods devised by experts and other parents for help.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Some children are naturally good sleepers and before too long they fall into a pattern of sleep that everyone's happy with. Others are naturally fussy or wakeful and may need more structure — or more nurturing — to help them sleep well.

• Every child, even within the same family, is different. So if the sleep strategies you used with your first child aren't working with the next one, you may need some new ideas.

• You don't have to follow an entire method. You might find just one aspect of a particular method that's effective for your child. Feel free to take what you can use.

• Sometimes common sense is the best "method." Families often develop their own ways of getting their kids into good sleep habits. If it works, keep going.

Parents' voices

"My first daughter was sleeping through the night (10 p.m. to 9 a.m.) by 6 months. We had a complete bedtime routine — a bath, a book, a bottle, then to bed, a little music in the crib, and asleep in ten minutes. It was wonderful, but that scenario didn't work for my second daughter and hasn't worked for my son, so I've tried different things for each of them. Sometimes a plan doesn't work. Listen to your baby — he or she will tell you what you need to know."
— LaKisha

"My 3-month-old doesn't sleep through the night, and it's fine with me. I keep her in her crib or a bassinet until her 3 a.m. feeding, and then she joins my husband and me until we get up for work. She won't go in her crib unless she's already asleep, usually from nursing and rocking, but she'll fall asleep in her bassinet beside our bed. She's happy and we're happy, and even if it goes against the wisdom of the experts, it's working for us."
— Anonymous

"My first cried it out and all was well. My second cried it out but it took much longer until all was well. My third, if allowed to cry too long, literally freaked out. He threw himself around his crib and would rarely calm down and fall asleep. On the rare occasion that he fell asleep, he'd wake up within minutes screaming bloody murder. Letting him cry it out was clearly not working so I looked for other options. Find your child's groove. You'll be glad you did."
— L.B.'s Mama

"My 4-and-a-half-month-old will only sleep through the night if we do everything the experts say not to do. She must be nursed or slept with unless we want to see her turn purple and cry for 45 minutes or more. She's like a wind-up doll when she starts and never settles until she's comforted, and she's been that way from the beginning. It really became a matter of, do we want to sleep or do we want to do what the books say? If she's comforted and put down sleeping, she sleeps eight to ten hours. To all you parents out there who have a baby like mine, do not despair — just do what works for you."
— Amanda

2 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2

2009-08-18T21:47:00.001+07:00

Your 2-month-old: Week 2

How your baby's growing:

If your baby is sleeping through the night (five or six hours at a stretch), you're one of the lucky few. Most 10-week-old babies still wake up in the wee hours. But even babies who aren't sleeping through the night at this stage should be sleeping and staying awake for longer intervals rather than cycling back and forth so much. Your baby will probably have two to four long sleep periods and as many as ten hours of awake time in 24 hours.

An interesting note: Whether your baby is a night owl or a morning lark, a long sleeper or short sleeper, that pattern will probably stay the same throughout childhood.

• Learn more fascinating facts about your 2-month-old's development.
Your life: Finding good childcare
Even if you're already certain which kind of childcare arrangement you prefer, it can be a good idea to get a sense of your full range of options. You may be surprised by what you find.

When looking for a daycare center or home daycare that's right for your baby, ask other parents for advice and shop around. Visit as many places as you can, and try to spend as much time as possible at each one at various times of the day, talking with the employees, directors, and parents to get a sense of what the different facilities are like. Pay attention to how the staff interacts with your baby. If you're looking for a babysitter or nanny, get references from others and follow up on them. Then consider doing a trial run by having the sitter or nanny watch your baby for a few hours while you do an errand or take care of some things at home.

Find out about the pros, cons, and costs of various childcare options.
3 questions about: Reflux
What is reflux?
Reflux is when food and acid move from the stomach back into the esophagus. It's normal for all babies to have some reflux — they'll spit up or regurgitate a little milk after some feedings. It's estimated that up to 50 percent of babies spit up daily. Most of these episodes are brief and don't cause symptoms. However, if your baby is burping up large amounts of milk throughout the day or vomiting more than a few times a day, it could be a problem called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Reflux may be associated with prolonged crankiness and pain with eating. In severe cases, babies with GERD gag, cough, or don't gain enough weight. Make sure to mention any reflux symptoms to your baby's doctor.

What causes reflux?
The main problem is a weak esophageal sphincter — the muscular valve that connects the throat to the stomach. Most babies are born with a relatively relaxed lower esophageal sphincter. Because of this looseness, food doesn't stay in the stomach where it belongs. Swallowing too much air and overfeeding can also contribute to reflux.

How is reflux treated?
In most cases, babies grow out of the problem by their first birthday, as their sphincter muscles strengthen. If your baby is being fed formula, her doctor may suggest switching to a soy-based or hypoallergenic formula. You may be advised to try smaller and more frequent feedings to keep your baby's stomach from filling too much or too often. Some studies suggest that adding baby rice cereal to breast milk or formula to thicken it may improve some reflux symptoms. Holding your baby in a semivertical position during and after feedings, with her head elevated about 30 degrees, may help keep the milk from coming back up. Even frequent burping can reduce reflux symptoms. The doctor might prescribe an antacid or acid-blocking medication for your baby to take daily, similar to the medicine adults take for heartburn (but don't give your baby any medications without a doctor's order). She may also suggest further evaluation of your baby's symptoms with a pH probe, which is inserted into the esophagus to measure reflux episodes and acid levels. Other ways to evaluate reflux include X-rays of the gastrointestinal tract and endoscopy, in which a tube with a camera is placed in the baby's upper GI tract to view and biopsy the area.
Hot topics this week
Baby behavior explained
• Can you spoil your baby?
• Why babies cry so much
See all our baby behavior information

Staying connected
• How to maintain your pre-baby friendships
• Great ways to meet other parents
• Connect with moms and dads on our bulletin boards
See all our articles about friends and family

Sniffling and sneezing
• Treating your baby's first cold
• How to clear a stuffy nose with a bulb syringe
• When to call the doctor
• Find out what's ailing your baby with our Symptom Guide
See all our baby health articles

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Your post-baby belly: Why it's changed and how to tone it

2009-08-07T01:42:00.000+07:00

Why do I still look pregnant?

How long will it take for my belly to shrink back to normal?

What can I do to make my belly look better?

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Your 7-week-old's development

2009-08-07T01:41:00.002+07:00

Reaching out

Your baby's hands should be mostly open now — ready to reach out to the world. In the early days of your baby's life, grabbing was mostly automatic and instinctual and she couldn't let go if she wanted to. Although she can't really grab objects just yet, she can hold things placed in her hands. And, once she wraps her hands around something, she might not let go so easily. She'll also begin to try and bat at objects, so keep potentially dangerous objects far from your little one's reach. This means not holding hot liquids or sharp objects while you're holding her.

Learning begins now

You may notice short periods of time when your newborn is quiet and alert. This is prime time for learning: Your baby's brain will grow about 5 centimeters during her first three months!

Use these calm intervals to get better acquainted with your baby — talk to her, sing to her, describe the pictures on the walls. She may not be able to add to your conversation just yet, but she's learning nonetheless.

New textures for her hands to feel and new sights and sounds (all in moderation) are all learning opportunities. Even bath time becomes a laboratory for understanding life.

Eyes can track objects

With both eyes now able to follow things consistently and well, your baby can track a moving object much better, something she may have been able to do for only brief periods since birth.

The stores are packed with developmental toys, but you'll do just as well with everyday objects. Pass a rattle or a bright plastic ladle horizontally in front of her. Then try moving it up and down. This should attract your baby's attention, though she probably won't be able to smoothly follow things vertically for another three months and diagonally for another six months.

You can also play eyes-to-eyes by moving very close to her face and slowly nodding your head from side to side. Often her eyes will lock onto yours.

Remember, your baby is an individual

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Toys for newborns

2009-08-07T01:41:00.001+07:00

In her first months, before she learns to grasp objects or sit up, your baby will most appreciate things she can look at and listen to. Her vision will be fuzzy at first and she'll fix on things that are about eight to 14 inches from her eyes. She's drawn to the human face — and can recognize yours at about 1 month — but she will also enjoy large pictures of faces.

High-contrast patterns and bright colors captivate her because they're the easiest for her to see. She's already learned to appreciate sounds and soft music. (Find out the lyrics to all your favorite lullabies.) Objects that move slowly and produce a gentle sound are far more interesting to her than those that are fixed and silent.

Hand-held toys: Her nearsightedness makes her appreciate anything you can move into her line of sight. She won't be able to hold toys for a while, but she'll demonstrate her preferences by batting at the ones she likes.

Tape player or music box: Music is one of the best ways to entertain and soothe your infant. Play a variety of music — nothing too raucous — and see how she responds. For more ideas, see our musical recommendations for this age group.

Mobile: A mobile can add a new dimension to a baby's horizontal view of life. Look for ones with high-contrast colors and patterns. Many babies are particularly fond of mobiles that play music. Attach the mobile to the crib rail. Infants this age look to the right 80 percent of the time, so a toy hung overhead or on the left will be of limited value now. For safety's sake, keep the mobile out of your baby's reach.

Unbreakable mirror: Although they won't realize it's themselves they're seeing at this stage, babies find their own reflection fascinating. And by 3 months old, yours may have struck up a relationship with hers, and begun smiling at it. Look for a mirror you can fasten to the side of the crib or hang near a changing table.

Soft books with high-contrast patterns: Soft books with easy-to-see patterns or decorations are designed just for babies. Lie down next to her so she can watch you turn the pages as you read aloud to her — even at this age it pays off. For more ideas, see our recommended books for newborns.

Sensory toys: A soft toy that trills or tweets when pressed will please a baby for months to come. The accidental squeaks will also help her become aware of what her hand is doing.

Sock and wrist rattles: Attach a soft rattle to your baby's wrist or ankle, or warm her feet with socks that have built-in rattles to provide long moments of entertainment as she experiments with new sounds she can make herself.

Wind chimes: Babies love soft music, so hang a set of these in a place where she can watch it move and listen to the sound. If the chime is over her crib, your baby may fall into the habit of watching it for a few minutes before drifting to sleep. Hold her up once in a while so she can sound the chimes herself, too.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Sleep-sharing: The family bed

2009-08-07T01:40:00.001+07:00

What is sleep-sharing and how common is it?

Co-sleeping, sleep-sharing, the family bed: Whatever you call it, it means regularly sharing a bed with your child instead of sleeping separately.

It turns out that many families sleep together all over the world. And it's a growing trend in the United States. A national study published in 2003 found that between 1993 and 2000, the number of babies 7 months old or younger who usually shared a bed with an adult grew from 5.5 percent to 12.8 percent.

How do I know whether sleep-sharing is right for my family?

The decision to establish a family bed is a personal one: What works for other families may not work for yours.

• Your child's health and safety are the most important considerations. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against sleep-sharing for the health and safety of the child — but sleep-sharing advocates disagree. Read "Safety and Sleep-Sharing," below, for more about this.

• Some people love the coziness of sleep-sharing. Others say having a squirmy child in bed with them makes it difficult to sleep.

• Some babies sleep better next to their parents. Others seem happier sleeping on their own.

Other important considerations:

Time for bonding
For today's busy families, snuggling in bed together can be a way to connect after a long day apart. Co-sleeping can particularly enhance closeness between the father or other partner and the baby, who don't have the physical connection that a nursing mother and her baby do or may simply have less time to spend together during the day.

Night feedings
Moms who co-sleep say it's easier to breastfeed and bottle-feed with their baby right next to them.

If you breastfeed your baby, once you get comfortable with nursing on your side with your baby curled next to you, you may find that you barely wake up when it's time to feed. You help your infant latch on, then sink back into slumber.

If you bottle-feed, you can have a prepared bottle in the refrigerator to give your child when she wakes up, then go back to sleep as soon as she's settled.

Others say the proximity causes their baby to wake up more often to feed. And co-sleeping can make it harder to wean your baby from waking up at night to nurse or take a bottle. Breastfeeding babies, in particular, smell their mothers' milk, and many develop the habit of waking repeatedly at night to feed long after they have a physical need to do so.

Your relationship with each other
Some moms and dads discover that the family bed makes it harder for them to find time alone together to reconnect, or puts a damper on their sex life. Other parents say it makes them more resourceful and creative about finding private time.

If you share a bed with your child, you may need to plan for time alone with your partner instead of waiting for it to happen spontaneously. Depending on your point of view and how you're feeling, planning for intimacy could be a drag — or a fun new adventure.

Check in with your partner

Choosing to sleep-share should be a family decision. So before you start, make sure your partner is comfortable with the arrangement. You run the risk of damaging your relationship if you decide independently that this is what you're going to do or pressure a reluctant partner to agree.

Talk the issue over together and consider the pros and cons. Consult friends who sleep-share and find out how it's working for them. Brainstorm with your partner about ways to make private time for yourselves. Let your partner discuss his reservations, if any, and listen to what he has to say. Talk openly about your own feelings.

If either of you still has doubts, one strategy is to agree to a trial period of two weeks or so and check in with each other when that period is over. As with all parenting decisions, it's important to consider each other's feelings and point of view before making a decision.

Check in with your baby

Many parents who have no intention of sharing their bed end up doing so when they find that it's the only way they get can their newborn to sleep. For some babies, sleeping alone is hard to get used to after nine months in utero. They crave closeness and comfort.

But not every baby enjoys a shared sleeping arrangement. If you have a family bed and your baby's restless or fussy at night, you might try putting her in her bassinet or crib to see if she seems happier there. Or, if crowding is the problem, consider getting a larger bed or a bedside bassinet to give everyone a little more room.

What are the long-term effects of sleep-sharing on children?

Pediatrician William Sears — an advocate of attachment-style parenting, which emphasizes the close bond between parent and child — believes babies who co-sleep grow to be more confident and independent, because of the early nurturing co-sleeping provides. And many parents who have co-slept with their kids would agree.

Some traditional child development experts have argued that a child who sleeps with her parents will become overly dependent. As sleep-sharing has become more widespread in the United States in recent years, though, it has also become more accepted, and some of this skepticism has faded.

For example, in the original 1985 edition of sleep expert Richard Ferber's famous book Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems, he advised parents against co-sleeping. But in the 2006 revised version, Ferber's views mellowed considerably.

In that book, he writes, "Children do not grow up insecure just because they sleep alone or with other siblings, away from their parents; and they are not prevented from learning to separate, or from developing their own sense of individuality, simply because they sleep with their parents. Whatever you want to do, whatever you feel comfortable doing, is the right thing to do, as long as it works."

If you sleep with your baby, it may be difficult to persuade her to move into her own bed later. Some children who spend their early years in the family bed resist sleeping anywhere else — at least at first. But most kids will happily sleep on their own once they've made the transition.

Safety and sleep-sharing

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend against sharing a bed with a child under the age of 2, citing an increased risk of death from suffocation, SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), strangulation, or another unexplained cause. But other experts and parenting groups disagree, saying co-sleeping is safe and beneficial if done properly.

For more information, read what the CPSC, the AAP, and sleep-sharing advocates have to say.

If you decide to try sleep-sharing, don't leave your baby to sleep alone in an adult bed — it's not designed with infant safety in mind. Naturally you won't always be going to bed when your baby does, so consider putting her in a bassinet or crib for naps and at night until she wakes up for her first feeding.

And be sure to observe the following additional safety precautions for as long as they're age appropriate:

Safe sleeping position
No matter where your baby sleeps, put her down to sleep on her back. Experts say that following this "back to sleep" practice is the most important thing you can do to reduce your baby's risk of SIDS.

Safe sleeping environment

Never smoke or allow others to smoke around your infant, whether or not you're co-sleeping. Some studies have found that babies who share a bed with parents who smoke are at higher risk for SIDS.
Childproof the room you and your baby sleep in. The day will come when she can get out of the bed and explore while you sleep.

Safe sleeping companions

Never co-sleep with your infant if you're under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. These intoxicants could interfere with your awareness of your baby's presence and her cries.
If you're extremely overweight, sleep-sharing might not be safe for your baby. Installing a crib or a co-sleeper next to your bed is a less risky way to go.
Don't sleep in clothing that has long strings or ribbons on it or wear jewelry in the family bed.
Don't let older children sleep next to a baby younger than one year. They could accidentally harm the baby by rolling over or kicking in their sleep.
Keep pets out of the bed.

Safe mattress and bed

Put your baby to sleep only on a smooth, flat mattress. It's not safe for babies to sleep (with or without you) on a waterbed, an egg-crate mattress, a couch, an armchair, or any other surface that's not firm and could interfere with your baby's breathing — firm and flat is the rule.
Ideally, place your mattress on the floor. That way, if by chance the baby rolls off, she won't have far to fall. Place rugs or pillows on the floor around the mattress to cushion falls, If your mattress isn't on the floor, equip it with a bed rail (or two, if it's not against a wall on one side). Use mesh rails, not rails with slats that could entrap a baby's head.
If your mattress is against a wall or anything else, check daily to make sure there are no gaps that your baby could slip into. Fill any gaps with tightly rolled towels. The same goes for gaps between headboard or footboard and the mattress.
Don't use a headboard or footboard with slats more than 2 3/8 inches apart or cutouts — these can entrap a baby's head.
Position the bed away from room features that might be a hazard for a baby, such as cords for window blinds, lamps that can be pulled over, and so on.

Safe bedding

To make sure your baby can breathe freely, keep pillows, blankets, comforters, and other bedding away from her face.
Make sure fitted sheets fit securely so they can't be pulled loose.
Don't use sheepskins or any type of cushy mattress cover.

Safe sleepwear

For warmth, dress your baby in layers. Footed pajamas and sleeveless sleep sacks ("wearable blankets") can help. (Get more ideas for keeping your baby warm without blankets.)
To avoid overheating, dress your baby more lightly than you would if she were sleeping alone.

A safe alternative
If you feel uneasy about having your baby in your bed but you don't want her in another room, she can sleep near you in a bassinet or a crib. Some bassinets (often called co-sleepers or bedside bassinets) are designed to attach to and be level with the bed.

The AAP, while it discourages sharing an adult bed with your baby, says having your baby in your bedroom but in a separate sleeping space (even one right next to the bed) reduces the risk of SIDS.

Parents' voices

Parents who say "yes" to sleep-sharing

"Babies sleep better with their parents and vice versa. Breastfeeding is so much easier, solidifying that bond. I am now co-sleeping with my third boy (a week old today). Neither my husband nor I have ever rolled over on them. As far as parent private time is concerned — did I mention we have three boys?"
— Angie

"We started co-sleeping with our daughter when she was 7 months old and waking and crying four to eight times a night. When we moved her into our bed, she immediately started sleeping peacefully. She'd still wake a couple times to nurse, but it was obvious that she was sleeping a lot better — and so were we. Co-sleeping isn't for everyone, but it has been wonderful for our family. We look forward to continuing it for another year or two, when our little girl will probably want to leave us for her own bed ... sniff sniff.".
— Anonymous

"My husband and I have shared our bed with each of our three children. I nursed each the first year and I found I had a better night's sleep if the baby was in bed with me. One piece of advice I give is to put your baby in his own crib by around 1 year of age, or it will be very hard to get them out of your bed later (this happened with my eldest)."
— Cristina

"Our 3-month-old has been sleeping with us for the past month and we love it. This morning we got to see him roll over for the first time and it was priceless, plus he sleeps so much better in the bed with us. I know we'll have to move him to his crib very soon, but I love the closeness. He falls asleep two hours after we get home from the sitter's, so I love the extra time together that sleep-sharing gives us."
— Anonymous

"Co-sleeping has been so wonderful for us with all three of our kids. I can't imagine it any other way. Our babies cried less, and we got so much more sleep than we would have otherwise. Every one of the kids decided when they were three that they wanted to sleep in their own bed. They've never once had to cry themselves to sleep like most kids I know."
— Harmony

"Two of my three children have been sleep-sharers. The other one just wouldn't sleep unless he was in his bed but his bed was in our room. My #3 is 6.5 months. I love her being there when I go to sleep, and the way she looks at me when she wakes is priceless. My husband feels the same way. I think sleep-sharing is wonderful if you can do it safely."
— teresa

"At first, I was very worried about having my daughter sleep with me. But, I've fallen in love with it. I was getting grief from a few of my friends that also have little ones, but I LOVE sleeping with my daughter. I don't have to worry about her, I can check to see if she's breathing and immediately fall back to sleep. And she sleeps for six-hour spans now! Oh, and about that sex life...If we're feeling 'in the mood,' we just put the baby in her crib until she wakes up to eat again."
— Colleen

Parents who say "no" to sleep-sharing

"My 3-month-old can't sleep while sharing a bed or being held. She's slept in her crib since day one. I put her in the crib when she's still awake but tired. She loves it. She looks around a bit or plays with her hands for a few minutes until she's sleepy enough to fall sleep. Even though I love that she prefers to sleep in her crib, sometimes I wish I could cuddle with her and take a nap with her without her getting so upset. But at least I get a full nine hours of sleep."
— Karagraaf

"My 18-month-old has lately gotten the habit of sleeping with us. It was nice at first but now, two months down the line, my sex life has left the building. The minute we begin to initiate sex, the baby's alarm goes off and he wakes up wanting to sleep in our bed."
— Anonymous

"I just had my first child. My husband and I agreed before the baby was born that she'd be put in her crib from day one. I tried the sleep-sharing thing in the hospital and found that every little peep she made kept me up at night. She sleeps fine in her crib, I sleep better in my own bed, and the monitor lets us know when she wakes up to eat. In the long run I think sleep-sharing would keep my child dependent on me for comfort rather than establish a routine of sleeping on her own."
— JT

"My baby slept less comfortably in bed with us. Every time I moved, or my husband snored, she woke up. And I was constantly paranoid that I was going to roll over on her or knock the blanket on her face. I don't let her cry when she wakes up in the middle of the night. I soothe her back to sleep, tell her I love her, and put her in her crib. We did the co-sleeper for the first three months, then made the transition to her room, and I highly recommend this."
— Anonymous

"My son is 11 months old and he can't go to sleep unless we're lying next to him in a big bed (usually ours). Huge mistake! I suggest getting your baby used to sleeping in his own bed while he's young!"
— Crystal

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Postpartum exercise: Is your body ready?

2009-08-07T01:39:00.001+07:00

How soon after delivery can I start exercising?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says it's okay to gradually resume exercising when you feel up to it. But your doctor or midwife may ask you to wait until your six-week postpartum checkup so she can see how you're doing first.

Generally, if you exercised throughout your pregnancy and had a normal vaginal delivery, you can safely perform your pregnancy workout — or at least light exercise, such as walking, modified push-ups, and stretching — within days of giving birth. After your first postpartum week, a slow to moderate 30-minute walk three times a week is fine. As you regain strength, you can increase the length or number of walks.

If you had a c-section, expect to wait about six to eight weeks to exercise. However, walking at an easy pace is encouraged because it promotes healing and helps prevent complications such as blood clots.

If you weren't active during your pregnancy, or tapered off your fitness routine as the weeks went on, start slow and check with your doctor or midwife before you begin exercising.

In any case, remember that your joints and ligaments will still be loose for about three to five months, so watch your step to avoid spills. If you want to take an exercise class, try to find one taught by a postpartum exercise specialist or go for a low-impact class focused on toning and stretching. Many YMCAs, recreation centers, gyms, and yoga studios offer exercise classes for new moms.

Exercise is good for you, but in the first few months after you give birth, don't overdo it. Your body needs time to heal, and you need time to adjust to your new role and to care for and bond with your baby.

Do I need to be careful of my abdominal muscles?

Most women develop a gap in their abdominal muscles as their belly expands during pregnancy and labor. It takes approximately four to eight weeks after giving birth for this gap to close.

If you start doing abdominal exercises before the gap closes, you risk injuring those muscles — so make sure your belly is ready before you start:

• Lie flat on your back with your knees bent.

• Place the fingers of your left hand, palm facing you, just above your belly button. Place your right hand on your upper thigh.

• Inhale, then exhale. As you exhale, lift your head and shoulders off the floor and slide your right hand up your thigh toward your knee. This will make your abdominal muscles tighten, and you should be able to feel the gap where the muscles have separated.

If the gap is three or more finger widths, you can gently begin to strengthen your abdominal muscles with pelvic tilts and leg slides. Once the gap narrows to only one or two finger widths, you can start doing crunches or sit-ups.

Will exercise affect my ability to breastfeed?

No, it won't. Even vigorous exercise doesn't significantly affect the amount or composition of your breast milk. But you'll want to avoid exercises that make your breasts sore or tender. Wear a supportive sports bra while working out, and try to nurse your baby before you exercise so your breasts won't feel uncomfortably full.

Are there any physical signs that I might be trying to do too much too soon?

Too much physical activity during the first few weeks after delivery can cause your vaginal flow, called lochia, to become pink or red and to flow more heavily. This is a signal to slow down. Notify your doctor or midwife if vaginal bleeding or lochia restarts after you thought it had stopped or if you experience any pain when you exercise.

What's the best way to lose weight after giving birth?

The best way to start dropping those pregnancy pounds is to do some form of aerobic exercise to get your heart rate up, such as brisk walking, swimming, running, or biking.

But wait at least six weeks — and preferably a few months — before you actively try to slim down. And don't aim to lose more than a pound per week, especially if you're breastfeeding.

Starting a diet too soon after giving birth can affect your mood and energy level, as well as your milk supply. If you're patient and give your body time to do its work, you may be surprised at how much weight you lose naturally.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Let's talk about sex: After the baby

2009-08-07T01:38:00.001+07:00

When is it safe to start having sex again?

Many caregivers recommend waiting about four weeks after you give birth. (It's definitely not safe to have intercourse until at least two weeks after delivery. During this time, you're generally still bleeding and at risk for a hemorrhage or uterine infection.)

If you have stitches, it's likely that your caregiver will advise you to wait until after she checks you out at your six-week postpartum visit.

After you get your caregiver's go-ahead, it's okay to start having sex again as soon as you feel ready and not before.

When will I feel like having sex again?

It's common to have a low libido in the weeks or even months after having a baby. In the first six weeks after delivery, you're likely to be exhausted, and possibly sore and overwhelmed. Your body needs time to heal. And you're now dealing with the 24/7 demands of caring for a newborn.

You may be worried that sex will be painful. If you had perineal tearing or an episiotomy, you're likely to be particularly tender in that area. For some women, the tenderness resolves relatively quickly. Others may have discomfort during intercourse for months after delivery.

And you're likely to have less natural vaginal lubrication in the first four to six weeks after the birth due to your body's decreasing level of estrogen during this time. If you're breastfeeding your baby, this dryness may continue for as long as you continue to nurse. Or it may return slowly as your nursing sessions become less frequent.

There are plenty of other reasons you may not feel like having sex right now. Adjusting to motherhood may be stressful or emotionally all-consuming. You may feel less attractive or less confident in your changing body at this point. You may fear becoming pregnant again, particularly if you are using a new form of contraception. Or you may be struggling with baby blues or postpartum depression.

If you're not ready to resume your sex life yet, give yourself a break. You need time to adjust both physically and emotionally to the demands of caring for a baby, and there's no need to rush into having sex until you feel ready. In time, sex will likely be as satisfying as it was before your baby came along.

How will having a new baby in our lives change our feelings toward each other?

You may find (or your partner may sense) that the intensity of the bond you're developing with your new baby makes you somewhat less emotionally available. On the other hand, a new baby can bring such joy to your lives that it enhances sexual intimacy.

If your mate is feeling jealous or intimidated by your new relationship with the baby, try to reassure him that you still love and need him. And make sure that he has plenty of opportunity to care for and bond with the baby as well. Sharing the joys and frustrations of parenthood can be very rewarding and can even intensify your romantic feelings for each other.

When will my vagina be back to normal?

Your vagina will certainly be stretched out just after childbirth, but it will start to shrink and regain muscle tone within a few days. Your vagina will always be a little larger than it was before your first vaginal delivery, but you can help strengthen and tighten your vaginal muscles by doing Kegels every day.

How will breastfeeding affect my sex life?

You'll probably find that you have less vaginal lubrication than you did when you were pregnant, due to lower levels of estrogen while you're nursing. Using a lubricant will help reduce discomfort you might feel from vaginal dryness. Lubricants are usually found near the condoms or the tampons and sanitary pads in the drugstore. Be sure to get a water-based lubricant, especially if you're using a barrier method for birth control, since oil-based lubricants can weaken latex and cause a condom to break.
Nursing causes an increase in the hormone prolactin, which stimulates milk production but may also dampen your libido.
Your breasts may not feel like an erogenous zone the way they did before. You may also find that at times they're too tender for touching or sexual stimulation. Let your partner know how much touching or sucking you'd like.
You may worry that your breasts will leak at an inconvenient time – and they might. During climax, some women discover that they experience letdown (their breasts leak or spray milk). That's because the hormones that are present during orgasm are also present during letdown. If it bothers you, nurse your baby or pump to empty your breasts before having sex. As time goes on and breastfeeding becomes more established, leaking during sex may not happen as frequently.

What are my options for birth control?

It's best to think about this even before you deliver. Because you will ovulate before you get your first postpartum period, you can get pregnant if you have unprotected sex during this time. Keep condoms around until you've got reliable contraception in place.

Talk to your practitioner about what kind of contraception will work best for you now. You may be able to resume using the birth control method you used in the past, or you may decide that something else would work better. Your options will depend in part on whether you want to have more children in the next few years and whether you're breastfeeding. See our article on postpartum contraception for a summary of your choices and links to more information.

What if I think I'm ready for sex, but I'm worried about the pain?

Take it slow and easy, and try to enjoy each other's bodies without specific expectations of where it will lead. Try to find a time when you won't feel rushed through lovemaking. If you're not ready for intercourse, consider manual or oral stimulation around the clitoris. You can ask your partner to avoid the perineum and vagina if they're still sore.

Once you're feeling ready to give intercourse a try, you might experiment with different positions (like the woman on top) where you can control the depth of penetration. If you had a c-section, consider making love side-by-side so there's no pressure on your wound. Using a lubricant should reduce any discomfort you might feel from vaginal dryness. Be sure to let your partner know what feels good and what doesn't as you're going along.

How can we find the time for sex with a baby around?

If possible, set aside time to be alone for sex. If you find you're distracted and always listening for the baby, perhaps you can arrange to leave the baby at a neighbor's or with Grandma or a sitter for an hour or two. If you can't, then you'll have to work around the baby's nap or bedtime.

Your baby will no doubt wake up at the most inconvenient time. It helps to keep your sense of humor. And be patient. Things will get easier when your baby starts sleeping through the night. And you'll be less tired then, too.

How can I keep intimacy alive if I'm not ready for sex?

There are many ways to be intimate. Take a few minutes to kiss and cuddle before falling asleep at night. Ask your partner for a massage or foot rub. Let him know that you appreciate his affection outside of lovemaking by saying things like, "I love it when you stroke my hair." He'll know the spark is still there if you let him know that a kiss on the back of your neck while you're tending to your baby sends shivers (the good kind) down your spine.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Introducing your breastfed baby to the bottle or cup

2009-08-07T01:36:00.000+07:00

What's the best way to introduce my baby to a bottle?

Most lactation experts suggest you wait until your baby is 3 to 4 weeks old and breastfeeding is well established before introducing a bottle. If you're returning to work, start bottle-feeding at least two weeks before your start date so you can work out any glitches ahead of time. (You can get more information on such topics as sterilizing bottles and how often to bottle-feed in Bottle-feeding basics.)

Because sucking milk from a bottle requires different mouth and tongue movements than breastfeeding, it may take your baby a little time to get used to the change. Try these tips for a smooth transition:

• Offer her a bottle a little earlier than her regular feeding time so she'll be hungry and interested, but not so hungry that she'll be frustrated by the cold nipple.

• Let someone else feed her the first bottle.Your baby will be less confused if you don't give her the bottle yourself, since she may wonder why she's not getting your breast. Instead, ask someone who might feed her in your absence — your mother, your partner, a childcare provider, or another mother — to make the first introduction.

• Try to be out of the house for this event; babies can smell their mother from a distance of at least 20 feet, and she may know that you (and your breasts) are around even if you're in another room.

Tory Winnick introduced her son Philip to the bottle when he was 3 weeks old. "I pumped and put my breast milk in a bottle so my husband, Mike, could experience feeding the baby," she remembers. "We had to try a few different nipples until we found one that most closely simulated the breast. It really made Mike feel great that he could feed the baby, too."

Bottle-feeding can be just as nurturing physically as breastfeeding if you cuddle the baby close. Some babies like to be held in a nursing position while drinking from a bottle; others find that position disconcerting. Ask whoever is offering your baby the bottle to experiment while maintaining eye contact with her, and give her a chance to get used to this new experience.

Some babies don't eat very much when mom isn't home, and if they are away from her all day may begin waking more frequently at night. Don't be surprised if this happens; treasure these quiet and intimate times and use them to reconnect with your baby.

What do I do if my baby resists taking the bottle?

If your baby isn't having any of it, try these techniques:

• Use a bottle nipple similar to her pacifier. If she sucks on a latex pacifier, use a latex bottle nipple rather than a silicone one, and vice versa. Heat the nipple with warm water to make it more appealing.

• Put some breast milk on the nipple. When your baby tastes it she may start sucking to get more.

• Let your baby play with the nipple so she can familiarize herself with it. If she just chews on it, let her. She may actually start sucking it soon.

• Try holding her in a different position: Put her in an infant or car seat so she is semi-upright, and then feed her the bottle while facing her. Once she is used to taking a bottle, you can hold her as you usually would for feedings. One enterprising father put on his wife's bathrobe and tucked the bottle under his arm while holding the baby in a breastfeeding position. That won't work for you, but it might work for Dad!

Make sure you have lots of time to put your feet up and relax during this process. If she starts crying and pushes the bottle away, back off, comfort her, and then try again. The last thing you want is a bottle battle. If you've tried three times and she's refused three times, then call it a meal. Don't breastfeed her immediately. Wait five or 10 minutes, and do something else before you put her to the breast so she won't associate her refusal to bottle-feed with immediate gratification.

Many babies who have been getting bottles all along will suddenly decide at about 3 months that they don't want a bottle anymore, that they simply prefer breastfeeding. And why not? It's warm, cozy, sweet-smelling, and done with their favorite person — Mom. So early success isn't necessarily an ironclad guarantee that your baby will take the bottle when you really want her to.

What if I want to skip the bottle and start my baby out on a cup?

In some countries, babies who can't nurse are taught to drink from a cup from the get-go — even the tiniest infants can learn to do it. There are some advantages to this method: There's no chance of nipple confusion, you won't be tempted to prop your baby up with a bottle (sucking on a bottle at nap time or bedtime can lead to tooth decay), and you'll never have to break a bottle habit. Of course, helping your baby drink from a cup is time-consuming; unless you use a cup with a spill-proof top (commonly known as sippy cups) or a built-in straw, you'll have to help her drink and be prepared for the inevitable mess. Daycare providers may not be comfortable with this arrangement.

Many of the same principles of introducing your baby to a bottle hold true for the cup. Have your child get used to a cup at an early age (but not until breastfeeding has been well established), and introduce it gradually — one feeding a day. If you are going back to work, start a few weeks before you actually head off to the office; your child needs time to get used to this new feeding method.

My baby absolutely refuses to take a bottle. What should I do?

Some people will tell you that if you just wait her out, she'll eventually be hungry enough to take a bottle. That's not necessarily true, and starving a baby into submission isn't a good idea. Don't make mealtime into a battleground — now, when she's 2 years old, or ever.

If all attempts to bottle-feed her fail, go the cup route. Hold her upright in one arm and bring the cup to her mouth, tilting it gently until a wee bit of milk, formula, or juice (depending on the age of your child) goes in. She'll begin to lap and then to drink it. You can also use a hollow-handled medicine spoon to do the same thing.

Young babies often favor the bottle because it satisfies their sucking needs; older babies and toddlers like the novelty of drinking out of a cup. Once she can drink from a cup fairly proficiently, you have an alternative for when you are at work — either cup or bottle — and her caregiver can try both.

In situations like this, it's not uncommon for a mother to blame herself, saying, "If only I had given her a bottle a day from the beginning, this wouldn't be happening." But this just isn't true. Some babies never take a bottle.

What if I decide to wean my baby from the breast?

If you've decided to wean your baby, or to cut back nursing to before and after work, you deserve congratulations and support for having given your baby weeks or months of breast milk. Just be sure that your baby gets the same one-on-one, physically nurturing and affectionate time with you and a bottle that she did with you and the breast. For more information on easing this transition, see our article on how to wean your baby.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Hair loss

2009-08-07T01:35:00.002+07:00

My newborn is losing his hair. Is this normal?

Newborn hair loss is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. Babies often lose their hair during the first six months. This kind of hair loss is called telogen effluvium.

Here's why it happens: Hair has a growth stage and a resting stage. The growth stage lasts about three years, and the resting stage lasts about three months (although anywhere from one to six months is normal). During the resting stage, the hair remains in the follicle until the new hair starts coming in.

About 5 to 15 percent of hair on the scalp is usually in the resting phase at any one time, but stress, fever, or a hormonal change can cause a large number of hairs to stop growing all at once. The shedding begins when the next growth stage starts up about three months later.

A newborn's hormone levels drop right after birth, which can cause him to lose the hair he was born with. (New moms often lose large amounts of hair for the same reason.)

Parents are sometimes surprised to discover that when a baby grows a new head of hair it's a completely different color and texture than what he was born with. BabyCenter reader Julie's son Will was born with a full head of thick black hair. "He looked just like Elvis — he even had sideburns," she says. "Both my husband and I are blond, and we wondered where the dark hair came from. Almost immediately after birth, though, it started falling out. The hair that replaced it is a beautiful wheat color."

If you notice that your baby has bald patches, observe the way he sits and sleeps. If he always sleeps in the same position or tends to sit with the back of his head against a baby seat, he may lose hair in that area. He may also develop a bald spot if he rubs his head against his mattress.

There are other conditions that cause hair loss, but they're very uncommon in children under 12 months old:

• Patchy bald spots with red, flaky scaling (and sometimes black dots where the hair has broken off) may mean that your baby has a contagious fungal infection called tinea capitis, or ringworm.

• Physical damage — from tight ponytails, for example — can result in hair loss called traction alopecia.

• Irregular patches of hair may fall out if your older baby twirls or pulls his hair compulsively. This is called trichotillomania.

• If your baby has smooth, round, totally bald areas, he may have alopecia areata, a condition in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, drastically slowing hair growth. This type of hair loss usually appears in isolated patches, although it can affect all of the hair on the body.

• Some medical conditions — such as hypothyroidism (a thyroid disorder) or hypopituitarism (an underactive pituitary gland) — can cause hair loss all over your child's head.

What can I do about my baby's hair loss?

There's nothing you can do about newborn hair loss related to hormone levels except look forward seeing your baby's new 'do.

If the bald spot is the result of your baby spending too much time in the same position, try alternating the way your baby sleeps during naps and at night. If you usually put him to sleep on his back with his head at one end of the crib, try putting him down with his head at the other end every other night. Your baby will naturally turn his head to the side to look out of the crib, so he'll be resting on a different part of his head.

If you have a sleep wedge to keep your baby from flipping over onto his stomach, you can try putting him to sleep on his left side, the next night on his back, and then the next on his right side.

Also make sure your baby spends some time on his tummy every day. In addition to giving the back of his head a break, tummy time is essential for your baby's overall physical development.

Mention your baby's hair loss to his doctor, especially after your baby's half birthday. Chances are the hair loss is normal, but his doctor can make sure that there isn't an underlying medical condition and help with treatment if there happens to be a problem. If your child has ringworm, for example, she'll prescribe an antifungal medication.

If the doctor suspects alopecia areata, she may refer you to a dermatologist for further evaluation. (Some children simply outgrow alopecia areata without treatment. Others — usually older children — receive medication to stimulate hair growth.)

If your baby's hair loss is due to breakage, you'll just have to treat his hair and scalp tenderly for a while until it grows back. (Keep in mind that a baby's hair is finer and more delicate than an adult's. Opt for natural styles and brush gently.)

There are no guarantees, but in most cases a baby's hair loss is temporary. There's a good chance your child will sport a full head of hair within a year.

What if my baby's completely bald?

Many new babies are bald, although upon close examination of your baby's scalp, you will probably see pale, downy, extra-fine hair. This type of baldness can sometimes last until a baby's first birthday. Until then, enjoy the maintenance-free style!

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Doctor visit worksheet: The 9-month checkup

2009-08-07T01:35:00.001+07:00

THE DOCTOR WILL...

weigh and measure your baby to make sure she's growing at a healthy, steady rate (if she's slowed down a little, that's okay — most babies do at this age as they settle into a long-term growth pattern).
give your baby any missed immunizations.
discuss general safety for your baby such as car seat safety, childproofing your home, and poison control.
make a note of how your baby looks (babies this age are generally plump and round, with extra chins and folds in their thighs).
make sure your baby doesn't look overly pale (pale skin can be a sign of iron deficiency and anemia).
answer any questions you have about vitamins (most babies don't need them, but ask about this if you're concerned).
address any worries about your baby's health, including symptoms of and how to treat colds, fevers, diarrhea, croup, and ear infections (this is a prime age for many of these).
give some insight into your baby's development, temperament, and behavior.
look at your baby's eyesight and hearing.

QUESTIONS THE DOCTOR MAY ASK

Read this worksheet all the way through — it links to more detailed information. Then click here to print a clean worksheet you can fill out and take to your doctor.

1. How is your baby sleeping? (Your baby may be waking up often at night these days. She misses the fun and companionship of daytime and will be reluctant to go back to sleep. The doctor may have some helpful suggestions, especially if you have detailed information on how much your baby sleeps and when. Most nine-month-olds are still sleeping about 11 hours at night and three during the day.)

2. How is your baby eating? (At this point your baby has probably begun feeding herself a few finger foods, so the doctor will ask how that's going. Tell him if your baby is having trouble with solid foods or drinking from a cup.)

3. Is your baby crawling? (By now your baby should be crawling or getting around by some other means — scooting, slithering, bottom-shuffling, etc. If she hasn't already, she'll also soon start pulling up to stand.)

4. What does your baby say? (At this age your baby can join syllables together and is probably jabbering wordlike sounds. She may even be saying "mama" and "dada" — though many children still can't at this age. Also let the doctor know what your baby understands. By now she should know and respond to her own name and a few other familiar words; if she's not making any sounds or is making fewer than she was before, tell the doctor, and print out our list of early warning signs.)

5. Does your baby point at objects? (Between the ages of nine and 12 months, most babies start pointing at things that catch their attention such as dogs, and toys. It's a non-verbal way of trying to communicate with you and an important step in language development.)

6. What games does your baby like to play? (Most 9-month-olds love imitative games like peekaboo and patty-cake and find great fun in banging and rattling toys — it's all part of finding out how the world works.)

7. How are your baby's fine motor skills developing? (At this age your baby is learning to use her thumb and forefinger in a pincer grasp that lets her pick up even the tiniest objects. She probably also likes using her index fingers to poke at and explore things.)

8. How does your baby react to strangers? (Lots of nine-month-olds are in the throes of separation and stranger anxiety. They love their parents and family members but are wary of people they don't know.)

9. How are your baby's gross motor skills developing? (By now your baby should be able to bear weight on her feet when she pulls herself into a standing position or you hold her up. If she can't yet get up on her hands when you put her on her stomach, or if she seems to favor using one side of her body over the other, tell the doctor, and click here for our checklist of warning signs.)

10. How is your baby's vision? (Your baby's sight is almost adultlike in its clarity and depth these days. But if you're concerned about her vision in any way, tell the doctor.)

11. How is your baby's hearing? (If your baby doesn't turn toward sounds, be sure to tell her pediatrician; the sooner potential hearing problems are investigated, the sooner they can be treated.)

12. Have you looked at your home from your baby's point of view? (Now that your baby's mobile, there may areas you haven't childproofed yet, such as electrical outlets. Now's also a good time to make sure all medicines and cleaning products are safely locked away, and to post the poison control hotline phone number in an obvious place. You'll also want to review car seat installation instructions if you're going to switch to a convertible-type seat.)

QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE

To find out what parents of nine-month-olds most want to know, and what our experts had to say about those issues, click here.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Doctor visit worksheet: The 4-month checkup

2009-08-07T01:34:00.000+07:00

THE DOCTOR WILL...

weigh and measure your baby to make sure she's growing at a healthy, steady rate.
measure your baby's head size to make note of her brain growth.
give your baby her second big round of immunizations (she'll probably get vaccines for DTaP, Hib, polio, and may get a hepatitis B vaccine).
address any health concerns that he notices (constipation, colds, and the flu are common in babies this age).
answer any questions you have about childcare and transitions.
give some insight into your baby's development, temperament, and behavior.
look at your baby's eyesight.
look at your baby's hearing.
identify ways of setting up a bedtime routine that will help you and your baby get more sleep.

QUESTIONS THE DOCTOR MAY ASK

Read this worksheet all the way through — it links to more detailed information. Then click here to print a clean worksheet you can fill out and take to your doctor.

1. How is your baby sleeping? (Your baby's sleep patterns probably haven't changed that much over the past couple of months, though she may be shifting even more of her sleep time to night rather than naps.)

2. When, how, and how often is your baby eating? (Some babies aren't ready for solids quite yet — 4 to 6 months is the recommended time — but it can't hurt to talk to the doctor about it now. Ask him how and when you should begin, and whether your baby needs any extra vitamins.)

3. What are your baby's bowel movements like? (Soft feces are best, color can vary. If your baby has ever frequently passed smelly, watery, mucus-streaked stools, it's probably diarrhea. Ask the doctor about the best way to treat it.)

4. Can your baby roll over one way or sit with support? (Both of these are skills that your baby will begin to develop around now, though she probably won't be able to roll over both ways or sit without support until she's about 6 months old.)

5. Can your baby do a mini-pushup? (This skill is typical for 4-month-olds and shows that their physical development is on track. If she's still having difficulty controlling or lifting her head, let the doctor know.)

6. What sounds does your baby make? (At this age your baby's language skills may include babbling, squealing, and even laughing. She's probably smiling at you even more now, too, sometimes even before you smile at her, and her mouth is getting quite active — exploring objects, drooling, and blowing bubbles. If your baby is making fewer sounds than she did before, tell the doctor.)

7. How are your baby's motor skills developing? (At this age your baby may reach for and grab things, and she may also be able to bring her hands together in front of her. If she uses one hand more than the other, bring it up with the pediatrician. At this age she should also be kicking with both legs and bouncing on them when she's held upright above your lap or the floor; if she holds her legs straight a lot of the time, tell the doctor.)

8. Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby's eyes or the way he looks at things? (Check our eye examinations article to learn how to spot potential problems.)

9. How is your baby's hearing? (If your baby doesn't turn toward sounds, be sure to tell his pediatrician; the sooner potential hearing problems are investigated, the sooner they can be treated.)

QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE

To find out what parents of 4-month-olds most want to know, and what our experts had to say about those issues, click here.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Doctor visit worksheet: The 2-month checkup

2009-08-07T01:33:00.000+07:00

THE DOCTOR WILL...

weigh and measure your baby to make sure he's growing at a healthy, steady rate.
give your baby his first big round of immunizations (he'll probably get vaccines for hepatitis B, pneumococcal vaccine, DTaP, Hib, and polio).
address any health concerns that she notices (cradle cap, baby acne, and diaper rash are common in babies this age).
answer any questions you may have about breastfeeding or making the transition to going back to work.
give some insight into your baby's development, temperament, and behavior.
check your baby's eyesight.
check your baby's hearing.

QUESTIONS THE DOCTOR MAY ASK

Read this worksheet all the way through — it links to more detailed information. Then click here to print a clean worksheet you can fill out and take to your doctor.

1. How is your baby sleeping? (At this age, many babies are starting to sleep a little longer at night and less during the day. The average is about nine to ten hours per night — though not all at once — and five or six during the day, broken up into two or three naps.)

2. When, how, and how often is your baby eating? (Most babies still eat every two or three hours at this age, though the frequency may begin to diminish slightly later this month. The doctor asks feeding questions to determine whether your baby is getting enough breast milk or formula to thrive.)

3. What are your baby's bowel movements like? (Soft feces are best, color can vary. Dry or pellet-like stools may be a sign of dehydration or constipation in a formula-fed infant. Tell your doctor if you notice any.)

4. What is your baby's crying pattern like? (If your baby is particularly fussy, the doctor may suggest ways you can soothe her.) Have you noticed a change? Many babies begin to "settle" at about 6 to 8 weeks.

5. How is your baby's head control developing? (Head control is an important developmental milestone. By now your baby should be able to hold his head up when he's on his stomach.)

6. Can your baby push up on his forearms? (This development in your baby's strength and coordination, which could happen this month or next, is the precursor to the mini-pushup he'll master at about 4 months.)

7. How does your baby respond when you talk to him? (At this age your baby should be cooing on his own and at you — it's one of the first steps in his language development.)

8. Does your baby smile on his own? (Most babies are smiling voluntarily by this age — it's one of their earliest social behaviors.)

9. Have you noticed anything unusual about your baby's eyes or the way he looks at things? (Check our eye examinations article to learn how to spot potential problems.)

10. How is your baby's hearing? (Your baby's hearing is mature from birth, so if he's not turning toward voices, especially familiar ones, you should tell the doctor.)

11. What is your baby's posture like? (By now your baby should have relaxed a bit from the scrunched-up fetal position; his legs should come down when he's lying on his back. But if he's overly limp — he feels like he'll slip out of your arms — or has uneven movements, tell your doctor.)

QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE

Click here to see some of the most common development questions among parents of 2-month-olds and how our team of child development experts answered them.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Colds

2009-08-07T01:32:00.000+07:00

Why does my baby get so many colds?

One reason that babies get a lot of colds is that their immune systems are immature, making them more vulnerable to illness. Also, your child can develop immunity to only one of the more than 200 different viruses that cause the common cold at a time. Think of all the colds you've had in your lifetime. Your baby would have to get all of those — and more — to be immune to all cold viruses.

As your baby grows, he's likely to be exploring a lot and touching (and licking!) everything, so it's easy for him to pick up a cold virus on his hands. Then all he has to do is put his fingers in his mouth or nose or rub his eyes, and the virus will get a chance to set up shop.

Your baby may get sick more often during the fall and winter months because cold air and indoor heating dry out his nasal membranes, making it easier for a cold virus to get a foothold there. He also spends more time during cold weather cooped up indoors, where viruses can spread more easily from one person to another.

Most children average between six and ten colds per year. In families with children in daycare or school, the number of colds can reach 12 per year! (The average adult gets two to four colds annually.)

How can I tell if he has a cold and not the flu or some other illness, or even allergies?

It can be tricky. If your baby has a cold, he might have a runny nose with clear mucus that may thicken and turn gray or yellow or green over the next week or so. He might have a cough or a low-grade fever.

If your baby is running a fever, watch him when his fever comes down. If he plays and eats normally (or almost normally — he might eat a bit less and drag a little), then it's probably a cold. If he acts ill even when his temperature drops, though, he may have something more serious than a cold. Also, a flu or other illness is more likely to have an abrupt onset, and is more likely to be accompanied by diarrhea or vomiting. On the other hand, if congestion or coughing shows up before any fever, it's more likely that your child has a cold.

Itchy, watery eyes and nose are hallmarks of an allergy, as are repeated sneezing attacks and itchy skin that lasts for weeks or months. Also, the mucus coming out of your baby's nose will continue to run clear, rather than thickening and turning yellow or green as it tends to in children with colds. Allergies won't cause your child to run a fever, and they tend to show up in the spring, summer, and early fall.

How should I treat my baby's cold?

No medicine will make a virus go away faster, but you can help your baby feel better and prevent the infection from getting worse by making sure he gets plenty of rest and liquids. For babies under 4 months, that means breast milk or formula. At 4 months your baby can also have a little water, and at 6 months he can start drinking juices.

Since most children can't master nose blowing until about age 4, here are a few ways to help ease your baby's congestion.

• Tip your baby's head back and squeeze over-the-counter saline (salt water) drops into his nostrils to loosen up the mucus. Then suction out the liquid and mucus a few minutes later with a rubber bulb syringe. If your baby is having trouble nursing with a stuffy nose, try this tactic about 15 minutes before a feeding. He'll then be able to breathe and suck at the same time. Apply petroleum jelly to the outside of your baby's nostrils to reduce irritation. (Don't use nasal sprays on your baby unless his doctor says it's okay. They may work temporarily but can cause a rebound effect in which the congestion gets worse with continued use.)

• Use a humidifier or a cool-mist vaporizer to moisten the air in your baby's room. Or take your baby into the bathroom with you, turn on the hot water, close the door, and sit in the steamy room for about 15 minutes. A warm bath can accomplish the same thing.

• Elevate the head of your baby's mattress by placing a couple of towels between the head of the mattress and the crib springs. Sleeping at a slight incline may help relieve his postnasal drip, but don't overdo it. If your baby is a restless sleeper, he could end up flipping around so his feet are higher than his head, defeating the purpose of the elevation. (Never use pillows to prop up your baby as they could suffocate him. And don't put anything under the legs of the crib because that could make it unstable.) You might even consider letting your baby snooze in his car seat in a semi-upright position.

For more safe ways to soothe your baby's symptoms, see our article on home remedies that really help..

Is it okay to give my baby over-the-counter cold medicine?

Most experts say no. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises doctors to tell their patients that OTC cough and cold medicines aren’t effective in children younger than 6, and can sometimes have dangerous side effects. You may want to ask your child’s doctor what she suggests.

Keep in mind that cough and cold medications won’t shorten the course of your child’s cold or prevent further complications such as such as ear infections or sinus infections.

If your baby is feverish, ask your doctor about giving him infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Never give your baby aspirin as it makes him more susceptible to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal disease.

What natural or alternative treatments can help relieve my baby's cold symptoms?

Adding a few drops of menthol, eucalyptus, or pine oil to a vaporizer or bath may help your baby feel less congested, says Kathi Kemper, professor of pediatrics, public health sciences, and family medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and author of The Holistic Pediatrician. (You can get these oils at most natural food stores.) If your baby is at least 6 months old, a weak, lukewarm solution of chamomile tea can also be soothing.

For more safe ways to soothe your baby's symptoms, see our article on home remedies that really help..

A word of warning: Never use the Chinese herb Ma Huang, also known as ephedra or ephedrine, an herbal decongestant. Its potency can vary widely, and the Food and Drug Administration has linked it to bad reactions in adults, including high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, seizures, heart attack, and stroke. Always talk to your doctor before giving your baby any kind of medicine, conventional or otherwise.

When should I call the doctor?

If your child is younger than 3 months, you should the doctor at the first sign of illness, particularly if your baby has a fever higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (taken rectally) or a cough.

If your baby is between 3 and 6 months, the doctor may want you to call if his temperature reaches 101 degrees F, and if he's over 6 months, 103 degrees F. (Ask your baby's doctor for her guidelines.)

No matter what your baby's age, call if you notice any of the following:

• Your baby takes a turn for the worse instead of starting to improve after five to seven days, or if his cold symptoms last for more than 14 days.

• His cough gets worse and he's wheezing or gasping. These symptoms could be a sign of pneumonia or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a relatively common but potentially serious respiratory illness in babies under age 1.

• He cries when sucking during a feeding, or pulls and rubs his ear. This could be a sign of an ear infection.

Is there anything I can do to cut down on the number of colds my baby gets?

You can't prevent every cold, but there are things you can do to minimize your baby's exposure and boost his defenses. For starters, make sure family members and friends wash their hands before picking up your baby (this is particularly important around newborns, who are even more susceptible to illness than 1- or 2-month-old babies).

To the extent you can, keep your baby away from sick children or adults. They'll understand if you ask them to postpone a visit until they're not contagious. Keep in mind that babies in daycare get more colds than those kept at home simply because they're exposed to more kids and, hence, more germs. Make sure your childcare provider is conscientious about washing her hands. And make sure you wash up, too — especially after changing diapers and before preparing food.

Keep your baby well hydrated. Again, for babies under 4 months this means making sure they continue their normal breast- or formula-feeding routine. After that age, you can give your baby a little water as well, and at 6 months you can introduce your baby to juice. If your baby is hydrated, he should be wetting at least five or six diapers a day.

Secondhand smoke can put your baby at higher risk for upper respiratory problems, so stay clear of cigarette smokers and keep your baby away from areas where someone has been smoking. Children who live with cigarette smokers have more colds and their colds last longer than those of children who aren't exposed to smoke.

Finally, breastfeed for as long as you can. (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for a year to reap the health benefits of breast milk.) Although it's not a fail-safe guard against infection, studies have shown that breastfed babies get sick less often than their formula-fed peers because the antibodies in breast milk protect against a host of germs.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Childcare options: Pros, cons, and costs

2009-08-07T01:30:00.000+07:00

Finding quality childcare can be a major parenting challenge. In essence, you're looking for a mommy or daddy substitute — someone who will nurture, love, cuddle, play with, and care for your child in your stead. If you're returning to work, start thinking about childcare soon after your baby's born — or as early as your second trimester if you live in a big city or anyplace where good childcare is scarce or in high demand. It takes time to find the right situation, and competition for the best providers can be intense.

Our chart helps you compare and contrast your options: daycare center, home daycare, nanny care, preschool, relative care, and staying at home.

Last updated August 2007

Type of childcare	Average cost for full-time care	Advantages	Disadvantages
Daycare center To find one, click here	$316 to $1221 a month for babies and toddlers (average $679)	• More affordable than nanny care • Reliable (won't call in sick) • Ample supervision • Toddlers can socialize with other children of same or other age groups • Staff members are trained in early childhood education • Licensed and regulated	• Teachers care for more than one child; recommended ratios are typically 1 to 3 for babies, 1 to 4 for toddlers, but requirements vary from state to state • Centers that care for infants can be hard to find — or full • Kids get sick more often • Most centers won't provide care for sick children • Closed during most holidays • Rigid pickup and drop-off times
Home daycare To find one, click here	• $344 to $792 a month for babies and toddlers (average $525) • $295 to $750 a month for preschoolers (average $474)	• Nurturing, homelike atmosphere • Smaller groups of children than at large daycare centers • Less expensive than most other childcare • Kids socialize with children in the same and other age groups • Usually more flexible pickup and drop-off times than a center	• No backup if provider gets sick • Most providers don't have formal schooling in early childhood education • No caregiver supervision • Less stringent licensing requirements
Nanny To find one, click here	$500 to $700 a week ($2,167 to $3,033 a month); live-in nannies usually receive a bit less	• More personalized attention • In-home care is more convenient than out-of-home care • More flexible than daycare and home daycare centers • Children stay in familiar surroundings	• Most expensive childcare option • No nanny supervision • Playtime with other children must be specially arranged, either by you or the nanny • Extensive paperwork and taxes (read about hiring a nanny legally) • Can leave you in the lurch if she quits, becomes sick, or is otherwise unavailable
Relative care	Often free, but if you choose to pay, aim for minimum wage in your state or more. You can also offer to do chores, give gift certificates, or pay an occasional bill for a relative caregiver.	• More personalized attention • Caregiver has personal interest in your child • You may share the same values • Very inexpensive (many relatives refuse payment)	• Employee-employer relationship is hard to establish with a relative • Your childcare philosophies may conflict • Playtime with other children must be specially arranged, either by you or your relative • No caregiver supervision or regulation • Older relatives may have a hard time handling active toddlers
Stay-at-home parent	No extra cost — but income drops if you were working before	• No one truly replaces Mom or Dad • You get to be there for your child's developmental milestones • You control the quality of the care • You don't have to explain your rules or parenting philosophy to others • You avoid the work-family tug-of-war	• Possible isolation and loneliness, especially if you give up a job you cherished or don't know many other stay-at-home parents • Physical and emotional strain on you • Some people feel an identity loss from shelving or leaving a career • Playtime with other children usually must be specially arranged • Loss of income — you may need to make some lifestyle changes
Although preschools technically fall in the same category as daycare centers — they're licensed and regulated by the same bodies — they typically have a more academic focus. If you have an older toddler or young child (2 through 5), preschool is definitely an option.
Preschool To find one, click here	$316 to $910 a month (average of $535 a month)	• Structured environment • Well regulated • Reliable (won't quit on you or call in sick) • Developmentally appropriate learning curriculum • Teachers are trained in early childhood education • Built-in chance for your child to socialize with other kids • More educational activities and outings	• Teachers have to care for more than one child; minimum ratio is 1 to 8 • Kids get sick more often — and schools don't let sick kids attend • Closed during most holidays • Rigid pickup and drop-off times

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 4 - Your 7-week-old

2009-08-07T01:29:00.000+07:00

How your baby's growing:

Your baby's brain is expanding in size and complexity. It will grow about 5 centimeters during the first three months.

You may notice short periods of time when your newborn is quiet and alert. This is prime time for learning. Use these calm intervals to get better acquainted with your baby — talk to her, sing to her, describe the pictures on the walls. She may not be able to add to your conversation just yet, but she's learning nonetheless.

New textures for her hands to feel and new sights and sounds (all in moderation) are all learning opportunities. Even bath time becomes a laboratory for understanding the world around her.

• Learn more fascinating facts about your 7-week-old's development.

Your life: Guilt over not breastfeeding

Today's society puts a lot of pressure on new moms to breastfeed. No doubt breast milk is the perfect first food. However, there are many reasons why breastfeeding just doesn't work for some women and their babies, including illness, discomfort, and frustration.

Guilt over not breastfeeding can hit especially hard if you had planned during pregnancy to do so but then circumstances made it impossible or more difficult than you'd expected.

Both breast milk and commercial formula nourish growing babies. If you've given up on breastfeeding — or are thinking of doing so — be sure to discuss your choice with your doctor or a certified lactation consultant. Talk through your feelings and don't be too hard on yourself. The main thing to remember is that how you feed your baby is ultimately not as important as providing her with love and care.

3 questions about: Hearing

How do I know if my baby can hear well?
"She sleeps through everything!" you might marvel. "But is her hearing all right?" All babies should receive a newborn hearing screen before leaving the hospital, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Institutes of Health. (Estimates show that 2 to 3 of every 1,000 babies are born with some degree of hearing loss.) Luckily, most babies are born with excellent hearing. A baby who turns when you enter the room or is beginning to coo and make pre-speech sounds probably hears just fine. You can check your baby's hearing in a simple way: When your baby is awake and alert, stand behind her and clap your hands behind her head. If her hearing is good, she should startle at this loud, sudden noise. Repeat the experiment a couple of times to be sure. A baby with normal hearing may respond to noise by turning her head to find the source of the sound. If your baby doesn't notice you until she can see you, it could be a sign that her hearing is impaired.

What can cause hearing problems?
Some babies are born with hearing difficulties because of a hereditary problem. A family history of deafness can be a red flag. Other causes include exposure to infections such as rubella (German measles) or CMV (cytomegalovirus) in utero, problems during delivery that compromised the supply of oxygen to the baby, meningitis, hypothyroidism, or prematurity. Some birth defects also cause deafness. In some cases, a hearing problem is temporary, caused by a cold, a middle ear infection, or a large buildup of earwax. Or the inner ear could be damaged because of an injury, a tumor, or a virus.

What if there's a problem?
If you have any concerns about your baby's hearing, be sure to tell your baby's doctor, who can examine your baby's ears, run hearing tests, or refer you to an audiologist (hearing specialist) or a pediatric ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor), who can do a more in-depth ear examination.

Early diagnosis is important for hearing problems. Hearing loss that goes untreated can cause your baby to have trouble with learning and language development in the future, but early diagnosis and treatment usually leads to normal development of language skills. Treatment for impaired hearing may include a hearing aid, which can be made to fit even a tiny baby. Later, such children may be candidates for a cochlear implant, a device that uses electrodes to process sound, as well as speech therapy.

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2009-07-28T00:44:00.004+07:00

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1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Your 6-week-old's development

2009-07-27T22:36:00.000+07:00

Music appreciation

Now that your baby's awake for longer periods during the day, you can use these times to support his sensory development. Try singing your favorite lullabies or playing music.

You don't have limit yourself to children's songs. Fill the house with the sounds of music — from the Black Eyed Peas to Mozart — and watch as your baby expresses his pleasure through coos, lip smacks, and jerking arm and leg movements.

Your baby might also enjoy the sound of wind chimes or a ticking clock. The more varied the offerings, the richer the impact. Inevitably, you'll notice that your baby responds to and favors some selections more than others as he begins to develop preferences.

Don't feel like you need to bombard your baby with music all the time, though. Babies need quiet time, too. An overstimulated child may cry, look away, tense up, arch his back, and become irritable. Try giving your little one time to regroup before moving on to more play.

Self-expression

Your baby may not be able to talk yet, but his face is sure telling you a lot. He's experimenting with different facial expressions — pursing his lips, raising his eyebrows, widening or squinting his eyes, and furrowing his brow.

Your baby may be trying to tell you something — perhaps a diaper change is in your future — or maybe he's just exploring his newfound abilities.

Remember, your baby is an individual

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Traveling with a newborn to 8-month-old

2009-07-27T22:35:00.000+07:00

Have an older baby or young toddler? See Traveling with an 8- to 15-month-old.

You'll probably want to stick pretty close to home in the first few months after your baby's born. A new baby requires almost nonstop attention, feedings, and diaper changes, and the risk of catching something while traveling is too great. Besides, you'll probably be exhausted.

But by age 3 months or so, babies are pretty good candidates for travel, as long as the trip's fairly mellow. Infants aren't as fragile as parents sometimes fear. And your baby's less likely to view travel as a disruption now than later on. He also can't run around yet and get into trouble. So enjoy this time: Once he starts scampering about, travel becomes a far greater challenge.

Health and safety

• Prepare a first-aid kit so you'll have the supplies you need for dealing with minor medical problems while traveling with your baby. Be sure to take along any prescription medications that your baby requires, even if only on occasion. (It's always when you leave the inhaler at home that your little one has an asthma attack at Grandma's.)

• Fill out an emergency sheet containing contact names and numbers and your child's health information, including the names of any medications he takes, so it's handy if needed.

• Take a hat for your baby to shade him from the sun in warm weather or keep his head bundled in cool weather. Sunscreen is a must, too, if you'll be spending time outdoors — no matter what season. Use sunscreen of at least SPF 15, with both UVA and UVB protection. Apply in small amounts to the face and back of hands in babies under 6 months, or more liberally wherever skin is exposed in older babies.

• In the car, your baby should always ride in the back seat, in a rear-facing car seat — never in a front seat with (or without) a passenger air bag. Before you leave, make sure the car seat is properly installed and that the seat's belts are correctly threaded. Make sure the harness fits your baby snugly and securely.

• Get removable shade screens for the car's side windows — available at baby supply and discount stores — to shield your baby's eyes from the sun and keep him from getting too hot. Peel-and-stick shades are more secure, and therefore safer, than those that attach with suction cups.

• Keep your baby as safe as possible when you take public transit (like a bus, train, or taxi) by bringing along a car seat. The car seat will provide some protection even when there are no seat belts to strap it in.

• If you've purchased an airplane seat for your baby, bring an FAA-approved car seat for your child to sit in (this is the safest way for babies to fly). If you haven't bought a ticket for your baby, you'll be able to use the car seat only if there are empty seats on board. (For more about flying with a young child, see our list of questions to ask your airline ahead of time.)

• If your baby seems to be experiencing ear pain from air pressure changes during takeoff and landing, encourage him to breastfeed or suck on a bottle, pacifier, or sippy cup. If your baby's strapped into a car seat, it's better to have him suck on something from there than to breastfeed, since it's safest for both of you to be properly restrained. Keep in mind that not all babies need rescuing from ear pain — there are no firm medical guidelines on the topic, so just use your judgment. If your baby's sleeping soundly, leave him be and he might get through the takeoff or landing without any trouble. (He'll wake up and show his discomfort if he's bothered.)

• If you're crossing time zones and are worried about upsetting your baby's schedule, take steps to fight jet lag like shifting your baby's sleep hours for the few days leading up to your departure and exposing him to sunlight once you reach your destination. Try to avoid overscheduling the first few days of your trip, since you can't predict how disrupted your baby's rhythms might be.

Food and comfort

• If you're breastfeeding, pack a water bottle or thermos filled with extra liquids to help you stay well hydrated.

• If you're not breastfeeding, ready-to-use formula is the most convenient thing to bring for your baby. Or just make a few bottles of formula at home to bring along.

• If your baby has started on solids, bring only as much baby food as you'll need for the journey. You can always buy more once you reach your destination. (Exception: If you're traveling internationally or to a place where it might be tough to find what you need, it may be less of a headache to pack a full supply of food.)

• Also helpful if your baby is eating solids: A bib that's large enough to cover most of his outfit, has a plastic or waterproof coating that allows it to be easily wiped off and reused, and can be folded or rolled for easy packing.

• Bring enough diapers for the trip (or enough to last until you reach your destination and can buy more), bags for dirty diapers, and diaper-rash lotion. Diaper covers provide added insurance against leaks.

• Pack at least one extra set of clothes for yourself and your baby that's easily accessible (for instance, in your carry-on bag). You never know when a diaper leak, spit-up, or other mess might render an outfit unwearable.

• Travel with a blanket so that when you're stopped in a park, a motel, or an airport, you can offer your baby a nice spot in which to lie down, crawl, roll, or otherwise stretch his little limbs.

Entertainment

• Bring along a goody bag containing a few of your baby's favorite toys, plus some surprises. Possibilities include nesting toys, baby-proof mirrors, rattles, musical toys, soft animals, pop-up toys, plastic keys, and teething rings. Limit the number to a handful to make packing easier.

Travel gear

• Stick a travel-friendly changing pad in your diaper bag for use in public or airplane bathrooms.

• Stash some large, resealable plastic bags in your car trunk or diaper bag. They're a simple solution for the temporary storage of messy items like dirty diapers, clothes, and bibs.

• If you need both a car seat and stroller for your trip and your baby is still small enough for an infant car seat (around 20 or 22 pounds maximum, depending on the seat), a stroller or stroller frame that will carry the car seat cuts down on the gear you have to lug, as well as the hassle of getting in and out of cars and airplanes. It also allows you to move your sleeping babe from the car to the restaurant without disturbing his slumber.

• A lightweight stroller (sometimes called an umbrella stroller) makes sense for babies who can sit up. It isn't as cushy as a larger stroller, but is tops for travel because it can be carried easily and folded compactly — and even stowed in a plane's overhead bin, if permitted by your airline.

• To keep your hands free, front-carriers or slings are great for carting around younger, lighter babies, while baby backpacks do the trick for heavier kids who can sit up.

• If you'll be staying in a hotel or motel, request a crib when you make your room reservation or you may be out of luck when you arrive. Another option: Bring your own portacrib, play yard, or portable bed.

• A portable play yard makes an instant, child-safe area that you can plunk down in relatives' homes, hotels, or other places that may not be childproofed.

• See our detailed packing checklist for traveling with a baby.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Top tips for dads on bonding with your baby

2009-07-27T22:33:00.002+07:00

One of my clearest memories of early motherhood involves early fatherhood. I never would have expected my husband — a champion coach in the delivery room — to be so indifferent to the trophy we were taking home. Sure, he loved our son, but he insisted it wasn't the same for him as it was for me. I got to feed Kyle, spend the day with Kyle, rock him to sleep; my connection to our new son was so profound that he might as well have still been linked by an umbilical cord. On the other hand, my husband would come home from work and seem completely baffled by the baby.

Well, Tim found out quickly what most moms know from the very start: namely, that a baby's got charm and grace galore. I'd hand him Kyle to watch for a moment, and come back to find the two of them grinning like fools on the couch.

Now, after having three children, I realize my husband was just shy. Taking care of a newborn is often elementally reduced to feeding and comforting, and some new dads don't know if they've got the right equipment for the job. The real secret of male-bonding with a baby is realizing that you're not supposed to try to be another mother. Your child already has one of those, and what she really needs is for you to be yourself. Still feeling a little shy? Try these break-the-ice activities.

Give a midnight bottle

After I began to supplement breastfeeding with formula, my husband offered to get up for the middle-of-the-night banquet. Okay, so maybe I bullied him into it at first, but before long he told me he enjoyed having that time with the baby. No one else around, crickets chirping outside, and bizarre infomercials on TV. Once, I overheard my husband having a 3 a.m. conversation with a sound-asleep Kyle. "You know what, buddy?" he was saying. "We're the only two people in the universe who know that they aired that same show about Wilt Chamberlain four nights in a row."

Have a staring contest

Prowess is a guy thing, right? Lest you believe that little baby of yours is a pushover, engage her in a time-honored ritual of seeing who'll blink first. She may surprise you. Babies love to contemplate faces, and chances are that before she gets bored you'll have dropped your gaze, wondering where she got that incredible dimple, or whether her ears look like your mom's or your wife's.

Play kangaroo

My firstborn was a colicky baby who was never happy unless someone was holding him. At the end of the day, Tim used to come to the rescue by strapping on a Snugli and going about his business — raking leaves, setting the table, tossing a ball for the dog — all with Kyle cuddled against his belly.

Take a bath together

A new dad we know dreaded the nights when it was his turn to bathe his son — the combination of screaming baby and slippery skin made him nervous. One night, he simply stripped down himself and took the infant into the tub with him. Lo and behold, the baby was calm for the entire duration of the bath. Being snuggled against his father's chest made all the difference.

Read the sports page

Aloud. Let's face it: Goodnight Moon can get you only so far. After the 1,500th reading of the classic book, my husband finally threw in the towel. I walked by the nursery at bedtime to hear him very sweetly crooning the details of a Patriots game to Kyle. The baby loved every minute of it ... it didn't matter what his father was reading, just so long as he was.

Set a table for two

If your baby is old enough to be eating solid food, then you might as well be the maitre d'. It's entertaining — see the food go in, watch it come right back out!

Change a diaper

Talk about bonding at the earthiest level — with babies, the bottom line (no pun intended) often involves cleaning up a mess. During a change you get to touch the baby, and talk to him, but it's sometimes hard to see a silver lining when a soggy lining is so much more evident. Still, fair's fair. My friend Mary's husband once asked her what she did all day with the baby, so she lined up 18 dirty diapers in neat, plastic piles on the front stoop for him to see when he came home.

Be there for a cold or fever

Nobody wants their baby to get sick, but there's nothing like an illness to prove how much the little guy really needs you. A night spent rocking a sick child will make you painfully, preciously aware of what parenting is all about.

Bench press

The bad news is that once you're a parent, you don't have much time to get to the gym. The good news is that you have just acquired a fabulous set of hand weights, approximately 7 to 20 pounds. Once our kids' necks could support the weight of their heads, Tim would balance their bodies on his palms and then carefully curl them, bench them, whatever struck his fancy ... and both his biceps and the babies loved it.

Be a texture board

One of the greatest attributes of men is that they feel great (or they probably wouldn't be daddies in the first place). From the rough shadow of beard to a silky moustache to a crewcut hairdo, a father is a tactile delight. Beware: Little fingers can get a punishing grip on chest hair.

Take pictures

Nothing makes as flawless a subject as your own child. An added benefit? All the grandmas and grandpas and uncles and cousins who are the recipients of the prints can't help but notice what a great time you're having being a dad.

Roughhouse (within reason)

Studies have shown that mothers and fathers hold their babies in very different ways. Moms are more likely to cuddle; dads tend to get a little more physical. You should never shake a baby, but you can certainly stimulate her muscles. If your child is old enough to sit up, she might like being tossed gently in the air, or getting bounced on a knee, or being carried beneath the arm like a football ... things that Mom isn't as likely to do, but that are sure to bring squeals of delight.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Swaddling your baby

2009-07-27T22:33:00.001+07:00

What does it mean to swaddle a baby?

Swaddling is the art of snugly wrapping your baby in a blanket for warmth and security. It can keep him from being disturbed by his own startle reflex, and it may even help him stay warm and toasty for the first few days of life until his internal thermostat kicks in. Most important, it can help to calm your baby.

Nowadays, you probably won't leave the hospital without a little lesson in this technique. Try it, after you've made sure your baby isn't hungry, wet, or tired. It can be used to help settle your baby down when he's overstimulated or when he just needs to feel something close to the tightness and security of the womb.

Once your baby is about a month old you might want to stop swaddling him while he's awake, as it may interfere with mobility and development in older babies. It's fine to keep swaddling your baby for naps and nighttime if he seems to sleep better that way. He'll let you know by crying or kicking when he no longer wants to be bundled up.

How do I perform this cozy art?

• Lay a blanket on a flat surface and fold down the top-right corner about 6 inches.

• Place your baby on his back with his head on the fold.

• Pull the corner near your baby's left hand across his body, and tuck the leading edge under his back on the right side under the arm.

• Pull the bottom corner up under your baby's chin.

• Bring the loose corner over your baby's right arm and tuck it under the back on his left side. If your baby prefers to have his arms free, you can swaddle him under the arms. This gives him access to his hands and fingers.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Supplementing with formula

2009-07-27T22:30:00.000+07:00

Is it okay to supplement my breastfed baby's diet with formula?

Yes, it's perfectly safe to supplement a breastfed baby's diet with formula. Some moms decide to supplement with formula when they go back to work. They may have trouble pumping regularly, but they don't want to give up nursing altogether. Others supplement because their baby isn't getting enough breast milk to grow properly. And many moms just want the freedom to let a family member or babysitter give an occasional bottle.

Whatever your reasons for supplementing, keep in mind that some breast milk is always better than none, so the longer you can nurse your baby, even if it's just once or twice a day, the better. That's because even though formula provides all the nutrients that your baby needs, it lacks unique immune factors that can protect your baby from some illnesses.

Remember that your supply of breast milk depends on your baby's demand for it, so the less frequently you nurse, the less milk your breasts will produce. If you start supplementing with formula regularly, even for just one feeding a day, your milk supply will decrease (at least until you reinstate the missed feeding). On the other hand, if you supplement with one or two bottles a week, the effect on your milk supply should be minimal.

How do I know whether my baby's getting enough breast milk?

Many mothers worry that they're not producing enough milk for their babies, but most women make plenty of milk. Here are three ways you can tell whether your baby's getting enough:

A baby under 1 month old who's nursing well will have frequent mustard-yellow stools. Some babies have one after every feeding. Your baby will also have six to eight wet diapers a day if he's getting enough breast milk.
Your baby's gaining an average of an ounce a day during the first three months and half an ounce a day between 3 and 6 months.
You're nursing often, at least seven times every 24 hours (during your baby's first month, you should nurse even more, at least eight to 12 times per day).

Even if your baby wants to nurse all the time, that doesn't necessarily mean he's hungry. Some babies nurse for comfort, have a strong urge to suck, or simply crave contact with their mother.

What are some signs that my baby needs supplemental formula for growth?

You should talk to your baby's doctor if you have any concerns about your baby's weight gain, growth, or eating habits. Here are some symptoms that warrant a call:

More than normal weight loss in a newborn. Babies lose between 5 and 10 percent of their birth weight during the first five days of life. By day five, they start to gain about an ounce a day and by 2 weeks they should be back up to their birth weight.
Fewer than six wet diapers in a 24-hour period once your baby is 5 days old.
Fussiness or lethargy most of the time.
Your breasts don't feel soft or empty after nursing, which could be a sign that your baby isn't taking in enough milk.

When can I start supplementing with formula?

If your baby's a newborn, you should probably wait until he's at least a month old before you introduce formula. Lactation consultants recommend that you wait this long to allow your breastfeeding routine and your milk supply to become well established, so an occasional bottle won't disrupt the routine too much. At this age most babies aren't completely reluctant to try a bottle or a new food source. If your baby is over a month old, you can offer formula at any time.

What's the best way to start supplementing?

Unfortunately there's no perfect way to start supplementing. Some babies will just go with the flow and, if they're hungry, take whatever you give them. Others may refuse a bottle the first few times it's offered, especially if you're the one offering it. That's because your baby can smell you and would probably prefer the real thing. If your baby is used to taking a bottle of breast milk, the transition may be a bit easier, though he may turn up his nose at what's in the bottle.

To make this transition smoother, let your partner or a friend offer the first few bottles. You might also try giving the bottle when your baby is hungry rather than at a feeding when he might be nursing as much for comfort as for nourishment. Don't try a bottle for the first time when your baby is so hungry that he's crying, though. He'll be too frustrated to try something new.

Can I mix breast milk and formula in one bottle?

Lactation consultants say it's better not to mix breast milk with formula because you may end up wasting that hard-earned breast milk if your baby doesn't finish the bottle. Instead, feed your baby the pumped breast milk first, and if he still seems hungry, offer a new bottle with formula.

How will supplementing with formula affect my baby?

If you start supplementing regularly, your baby might start refusing the breast. A bottle delivers milk faster than a breast, so if your baby's an enthusiastic eater, he might prefer the bottle's quick delivery system. You might also notice that your baby's willing to go a little bit longer after a meal of formula. That's because babies don't digest formula as quickly as they digest breast milk, so they're likely to feel full longer.

Your baby's bowel movements will be markedly different once he's drinking some formula. They'll be firmer than they were when he was drinking only breast milk, about the consistency of peanut butter. They'll be a tan or brown color, have a strong odor, and probably be less frequent than when he was drinking only breast milk.

You may find that your baby goes a few days between bowel movements because there's more protein in formula, which slows down the digestive system. If your baby's vomit or stool contains spots of blood after you introduce formula, call your baby's doctor. This is a sign of milk intolerance.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Establishing a bedtime routine with your baby

2009-07-27T22:28:00.000+07:00

What are the benefits of a bedtime routine?

Your baby will be more relaxed if she knows what's coming next. The more relaxed she is, the more likely she'll go to bed easily and fall asleep quickly. Stick to your routine as best you can even when you're not home — it can make it easier for your baby to settle down in unfamiliar surroundings.

The sooner you establish a bedtime routine, the better. When your baby is as young as 6 or 8 weeks old, start following a set pattern every night; she'll quickly come to appreciate the consistency and predictability. And remember that a bedtime ritual is often good for parents, too. It's a special time set aside for you to spend with your baby, something you can plan on.

How can we establish a good bedtime routine?

Make sure to start early enough in the evening so you have time to get through the sequence before bedtime. For young babies especially, you may find that it's best to keep it short and simple: washing up, diaper and jammies, and a story or song in the rocking chair.

And while you can certainly start your ritual in the bathroom or the living room, it should end in your baby's bedroom. It's important to teach your baby that her room is a nice place to be, not just where she's "banished" at bedtime.

What kinds of things should we include in our routine?

The following bedtime routine ideas are ones that have worked for other BabyCenter members. Maybe you'll find something here that's right for you.

Let off some steam
Sometimes it helps to let your baby get any pent-up energy out of her system before you try to settle her down for the night. So feel free to dance around with her to a favorite song, give her a "horsey" ride, or let her bounce in the bouncer if she's in the mood. As long as you follow up any rowdy play with something calmer and quieter — like a bath and bedtime story — before she goes to sleep, it can be the first step toward bedtime.

Give her a soak
One of the most popular parts of many bedtime rituals is a bath. Sitting in warm water is a soothing experience, and getting your baby warm and clean and dry is a great way to ease her into bedtime. A bath is also a wonderful way for your partner to spend some special time with the baby, especially if you're breastfeeding and he can't help as much with meals.

If your baby gets excited during baths or doesn't enjoy them, though, it's probably better to leave them out of the nighttime ritual. Babies don't need a bath more than once or twice a week, so don't feel bad about forgoing it if it's not pleasurable for you both.

Take care of business
Your baby's getting-ready-for-bed routine can include washing her face and hands, wiping her gums or brushing her teeth, a diaper change, and getting into her pajamas. It's particularly important to start the habit of teeth brushing at a young age so your baby gets used to it.

Play a game
Playing a quiet game in the living room or on the floor of your baby's bedroom is a great way to spend some fun time with her before it's time for bed. Your game can be as simple as a round of peekaboo. Whatever entertains your baby without getting her overly excited is fine.

Another fun idea is to hide something in your child's crib or bed for her to find before you lay her down — a toy, a postcard, an interesting object — and then talk to her about it. (Just be sure to remove the object from her crib before you leave.)

Have a chat
Bedtime is a nice chance for parents to spend some time talking to their baby. You don't have to wait until your baby's old enough to give you a narrative of the day's events. Simply review her day for her.

"After our son Jacob is in his crib, one of us sits in a rocking chair next to the crib with the light off and we talk about his day," says Heidi Sheppard of Lafayette, Louisiana. "It relaxes him."

Say "Goodnight Moon"
Many babies enjoy being carried around the room or the house and saying goodnight to favorite toys, people, and other objects, much as the baby rabbit and his mother do in Goodnight Moon.

"Our favorite bedtime ritual is saying good-bye and goodnight to the sun," says Kim Callahan of Burlington, Vermont.

Read a bedtime story
Rivaling the bath as an all-time favorite nighttime ritual is reading a bedtime story. "We rock our son Adam and read two to four books to him every night," says Kira Palmer of Vandalia, Illinois. "He's been read to since he was 8 weeks old."

Not only will your baby learn to recognize new words — studies have shown that language skills and even intelligence can depend on a baby's daily exposure to a large vocabulary — but she'll also benefit from time spent with you.

See our list of favorite bedtime stories.

Sing a song
Singing a lullaby is a time-tested way to help a sleepy baby drift off. Your baby loves hearing her favorite sound — your voice — and the soft, soothing melody may calm her.

"I choose two different songs every night and then close with our 'night-night' song," says Susan Webb of San Francisco, who has two boys. "The kids have come to recognize that as the final goodbye." If you can't remember the words or tune to your favorite ditties, turn to our lullaby library for a refresher course.

Play some music
Playing a CD or tape of lullabies, classical music, or other kids' favorites while you settle your baby to sleep — and then leaving it on at low volume after you leave — can help ease the transition from being awake to falling asleep. A sound machine may soothe her, too, with the added benefit of drowning out outside noise.

Parents' voices

"I think it is a mistake to have an elaborate routine. It is exhausting. A short simple routine works just as well and it isn't such an ordeal for you. My 5-month-old just needs a bottle in a dark room, a song, and a binkie. Stroking her forehead also helps."
— Happy Momma

"Setting up a bedtime routine for my now 9-month-old was a really great idea. We usually start at 8 o'clock with 15 minutes of play. Then it's to the tub for play/bath. After that I give him an oil massage and bottle, and last I give my 'lil linus' (his beloved blanket) and paci to fondle and suck himself to sleep. Works like a charm every time."
— 1stimemom

"My son, who is now 3 1/2 months, sleeps through the night pretty regularly. Our nighttime routine consists of a walk around 6:30, bath at 7, eating and playing calmly after that, and when he starts showing signs of being tired (jabbering and yawning), I hold him and bounce gently on a bouncy ball or rock him until he can't quite keep his eyes open."
— Jenny

"I love lying down with my daughter at the end of the day and letting her fall asleep in my arms. I'll put on a lullaby CD and she and I 'talk' until she's sleepy. Then I'll give her a bottle or pacifier until she falls asleep. Once asleep, I put her in her crib and she sleeps through the night. It only takes about 15 minutes out of the evening, but it's so worth it and the time is precious. I know not everyone agrees with this method, but it works in our home."
— Cathy

"My daughter is 3 months old. Our nighttime routine is to take her upstairs to our room where her crib is and turn all the lights off except one small light by her crib and the rocking chair. Then I put her in her PJs, feed her, hold her upright in rocking chair and talk softly, then lay her down in her crib with a pacifier and sing a lullaby while letting her hold only my hand until she closes her eyes. She's not necessarily asleep at this point but she is calm enough to get to sleep on her own."
— Diane in CO

"Our bedtime ritual consists of a warm bath in which I let her play. We then go to her room and I give her a massage with some baby lavender bedtime lotion for about 15 minutes. This tends to relax her and it's also a great time to let her bottom be exposed to the air for a bit. I give her vitamin D (since I'm breastfeeding), then brush her gums. I turn out the lights, play her classical CD, and nurse her and she usually passes out while on the breast. This ritual is time-consuming but I have three kids so I enjoy spending some quality one-on-one time with her, and I think she enjoys it too."
— Channa

"My son and I take a bath together, I put his PJ's on, and I read him a story. Also I play a lot of classical music. Do it every day around the same time if possible and it will get better. Mine just turned 1 and he basically sleeps through the night."
— Ethan's mommy

"My baby is 11 weeks now and since she came home from the hospital at 2 days we have set a routine for bedtime. It isn't strict to the point of saying 8 p.m. "BATH TIME," but between 8 and 9 we bathe her. Then after she is washed, dried, and dressed in clean jammies, we cuddle a little. Between 9 and 10 p.m. we give her a bottle of warm formula. By 10:30 she's out for the night, and usually sleeps until after 6 a.m. A bedtime routine can really be a lifesaver as I didn't have one with my older children and I can really see the difference in her behavior during the day."
— Danielle

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Developmental milestones: Socialization

2009-07-27T22:26:00.002+07:00

Socialization

How does your baby learn about his connection to other people? When does he start making friends? It all starts with you, his parents. You are your child's first playmates, his favorite people. He delights at the sound of your voices, the sight of your faces, and the touch of your hands. With your help, your baby will become familiar with others and begin to enjoy their company, too. This is the beginning of the development of your child's social skills.

When it develops

From the moment he's born, your baby will respond to others. His ability to socialize will be largely limited to you during his first year, as he focuses most of his efforts on discovering what he can do on his own — like grabbing and picking up objects, walking, and other skills.

Around the time he turns 2, your child will begin to enjoy playing interactively with other children. As with any other skill, he'll need some trial and error to polish his social skills. At first, he'll be unable to share his toys, but as he learns to empathize with others he'll become a better playmate. By age 3, he'll be well on his way to making friends.

How it develops

1 month
Your baby is a social creature from the get-go. He loves to be touched, held, and cooed and smiled at. As early as the first month, your child will begin to experiment with making faces at you. He'll enjoy watching your face and may even mimic some of your gestures. Stick out your tongue and watch as he does the same.

3 months
Now your baby will spend many of his waking hours watching what goes on around him. He'll even flash his first genuine smile, a momentous event for most parents. Soon he'll be an expert at "smile talk," starting an interaction with you by sending a smile your way and gurgling at the same time.

4 months
Your baby is becoming more open to new people at this age, greeting them with squeals of glee. Still, no one comes close to Mom and Dad. Your baby will reserve his most enthusiastic reaction for you, a sure sign that you've bonded.

7 months
For the most part, your little guy is far too busy honing his skills to be really engaged with another child. When two babies under 1 are put next to each other with a set of toys, they usually play side by side but not with each other.

Your baby may start to take a fleeting interest in other babies now that he's more mobile. Most of the interaction will be limited to a glance and a grab, but once in a while he'll smile and coo or imitate another baby's sounds.

He still prefers his immediate family to all others. He may even begin to be afraid of unfamiliar people and struggle with separation anxiety.

12 months
Toward the end of his first year, your child may begin to seem antisocial — crying when you leave his side or anxious when he's in the arms of someone other than you or your partner. Many kids go through separation anxiety, which peaks sometime between 10 and 18 months. Your child will prefer you to the exclusion of others and may be distressed when you're not around. Sometimes only your presence will calm him.

13 to 23 months
Your toddler is interested in the world — in particular, how everything in it relates to him. As he learns to talk and communicate with others, he'll also learn to make friends. He'll enjoy the company of other kids now, both his age and older. Between ages 1 and 2, however, he'll be fiercely protective of his toys, which can be hard for parents who think their child should be learning to share.

You may notice your child imitating his friends and spending lots of time watching what they do. He'll also want to assert his independence — by refusing to hold your hand when you walk down a street, for example, or by throwing a tantrum when you tell him he can't carry the grape juice into the bedroom.

24 to 36 months
Between the ages of 2 and 3, your child is likely to be pretty self-centered. He's not very interested in putting himself in other people's shoes, and he assumes that everyone feels the way he does. Don't worry. As he gets older, he'll learn how to share and take turns, and he may even end up with one or two special friends.

What comes next

As your child grows, he'll enjoy and gravitate toward other people, especially other children. He'll learn more about how to respond to others in social situations, and his enjoyment of his playmates will grow. He'll gain a tremendous amount from watching and interacting with other children. Once he learns how to empathize with other children and how much fun it is to have playmates, he'll develop true, lasting friendships.

Your role

Spend plenty of face-to-face time with your baby, especially in the first few months. He'll love the attention and will enjoy making faces with you. Invite friends and relatives over. Babies love visitors, young and old alike, especially when they're all making a fuss over him.

Don't be upset or embarrassed if your child develops stranger anxiety. It's perfectly normal, beginning at around 7 months.

If your baby cries when you put him in a relative's arms, take him back and try a slow desensitization process. Let him be comfortable in your arms while the other person is around. Then, have the individual talk and play with your child while you hold him. Then, hand him over to the other person for a short time and stay close. Finally, try to leave the room for a few minutes and see how it goes. If your child bawls, try again later.

"Go in and out of the room, and eventually your child will be secure in the knowledge that even though you're not around at the moment, you'll always return shortly," says pediatrician David Geller.

Your toddler can benefit from having peers around, so arrange playdates with other kids. Make sure you have plenty of toys for everyone, though, because they might not be up to sharing with one another.

While being self-centered is perfectly natural for your 2- or 3-year-old, it's not too soon to set an example of good social behavior for him. Let him hear you say "please" and "thank you" and compliment someone on a job well done. Let him see you share your dessert or your newspaper. Sign your child up for playgroups or classes so he gets a chance to be with other kids. Soon he'll learn how to make and keep friends.

When to be concerned

If your baby seems uninterested in relating to anyone except you and your partner by the time he's 1, no matter how much effort you put into drawing him out, or if he doesn't even want to interact with you, talk to his doctor.

Your toddler (1 to 3 years old) may become unfriendly to other children, especially over toys. (He may even become a mini Count Dracula, biting his playmate as he explores what he can do with his teeth.)

If he seems overly aggressive and is incapable of spending time with other children without biting, hitting, or pushing them, you may want to discuss these behaviors with his pediatrician. (Behavior like this often arises out of fears or insecurities.) While all kids become unfriendly occasionally, it's unusual for them to be aggressive all the time.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Coping with sleep deprivation

2009-07-27T22:26:00.001+07:00

Bleary-eyed new parents don't need anyone to tell them they need more sleep. But if you can recognize the signs of sleep deprivation, you'll be better equipped to cope with it.

Keep in mind that while one or more of the tips below may help you survive a busy day, the only cure for a lack of sleep is getting some zzz's. "There's simply no replacement for a good night's sleep," says Gary Zammit, director of the Sleep Disorders Institute at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York.

Of course, you knew that already. In the meantime, here are the top signs of sleep deprivation and some simple ways of coping with it in the short term. (If you're still feeling wiped out even after your baby has started to sleep through the night — or if you find yourself unable to sleep — you might have a sleep disorder. Talk to your doctor about possible causes and solutions.)

Sleeping through the alarm

You routinely roll over and fall back to sleep when your clock radio goes off in the morning.

What to do: Turn up the volume and get out of bed. You may also want to put your alarm clock across the room so you're forced to get up to turn it off. It's better to set your alarm for the time you actually need to get up — or just five to ten minutes before. Setting the alarm much earlier just so you can hit the snooze button a couple of times will only disrupt the precious sleep that you're getting.

Feeling groggy all day

You feel groggy and lethargic after waking up in the morning and struggle to stay awake during the day.

What to do: An early caffeine boost is the hands-down choice for sleepy parents. "I survived by drinking coffee and Cokes, and I tried to get to bed as early as possible," says Allyson Appen.

Try to avoid drinking caffeine after noon. It could affect your ability to get to sleep at bedtime. If you're breastfeeding, you'll have to watch your caffeine intake. Try a tall glass of cold water as a substitute pick-me-up.

Spacing out at work

You have a hard time concentrating on important tasks at work.

What to do: "In managing my work schedule after an all-nighter, I take on less-demanding projects that day and save the challenging ones for another day," says Susan Santoni.

If you can't reschedule, tackle your most challenging task first thing in the morning when you'll probably be most alert. Save your least-demanding projects for the mid-afternoon slump when your eyelids are starting to droop.

Napping through meetings

Long meetings in an overheated conference room can make you very drowsy.

What to do: Open a window (if you can), step out and get some fresh air, or splash some cool water on your face. Take a tall, cold drink with you to the meeting. Or get creative: "When I first returned to work after maternity leave, I would nap in my car and have a friend at work call me on my cell phone to make sure I got back to the office on time," says Sherri Jordan.

Naps are a great way to recharge your batteries, agrees sleep expert Gary Zammit: "Employers let you take a 15-minute coffee break. Why not a 15-minute nap break?"

Heavy food weighing you down

You feel yourself slipping into that post-meal food coma.

What to do: Ann Spivack, a mother of twins, found that what she ate had a lot to do with how she felt during a sleep-deprived day. "If I ate pizza, burgers, and heavy food, I couldn't stay awake when I needed to. If I ate mostly fruit and veggies with a little bread, pasta — light carbs — then I could stay awake much more easily," she says.

Nodding off behind the wheel

You're more accident-prone or come close to nodding off while driving.

What to do: If you must drive or operate heavy machinery, try to take a quick nap before you have to get behind the wheel. Or have a cup of coffee and roll down the windows.

If you're driving and start nodding off, pull over at a safe place and take a nap or get out of the car for some fresh air. (For safety reasons, you'll have to forgo the nap if you have a child with you, of course.) And remember that a cup of coffee or a caffeinated soft drink will give you a quick boost, but it's no substitute for more sleep.

Snapping at the kids

You're increasingly grumpy and irritable with your partner and children.

What to do: Try to avoid getting into situations that are emotionally draining and don't let minor irritations turn into full-blown confrontations. When you feel your temper rising, take a couple of deep breaths and think before you speak. Going into another room for a few minutes can help calm you down, too.

Letting the housework pile up

You have a hard time completing simple chores.

What to do: Simplify your daily routine and try to tackle one small task a day — say, cleaning the kitchen floor or folding the laundry. And if a load of laundry sits for a day, don't sweat it. Sleep is definitely more important right now than a clean home.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 3 - Your 6-week-old

2009-07-27T22:22:00.001+07:00

Your 6-week-old

How your baby's growing:

Your life: Sex after the baby

You're tired beyond belief. Your sexual desire is nil (thanks to readjusting hormone levels, particularly if you're breastfeeding). Everyday life with a baby is so different from the life you were living when he was conceived that those days seem a distant memory. Just because your doctor proclaims you physically ready for intercourse doesn't mean the rest of you is ready to go along, even if your mate is.

Whether or not you feel like making love, you and your partner can still focus on loving one another. According to a University of Wisconsin study, 65 percent of women did some sexual touching with their partner during the first month after childbirth and 34 percent performed oral sex, while only 17 percent had intercourse.

Here are a few common postpartum concerns about sex:

Will intercourse hurt?
If you had any stitches due to a tear in your perineum, an episiotomy, or a difficult delivery, your vagina may still feel tender, and it may be months before the soreness goes away. If you're recovering from a cesarean section, you may still feel sore along your lower abdomen, where you have a scar. The missionary position may put pressure where you're sorest, so consider other positions. If you're breastfeeding, changes in your hormone levels may lead to vaginal dryness. If so, try using a lubricated condom or a water-based lubricant.

Has my vagina been stretched out?
The vagina is very elastic, expanding to accommodate a baby and often reverting pretty close to pre-pregnancy size afterward — but it's normal for it to be larger than it was before. How much larger depends on various factors: how big your baby was, how many children you've had, and whether you do Kegel exercises regularly to help strengthen your vagina's muscle tone.

Will my husband still be attracted to me sexually?
If your husband seems distant or less interested in sex himself, remember that he's going through a lot too. It's likely he's exhausted and stressed by the new demands of having a baby in the house. He may also need time to get adjusted to the fact that his sexy wife is now a mother. Talking frankly about your feelings and all the weird changes having a baby brings can draw you closer. If the time's not yet right for sexual intercourse, you can still cuddle, kiss, hug, and please each other in other ways.

3 questions about: Fever

Why does my baby have a fever?
This may be your baby's first fever, so you're probably nervous. But take heart in knowing a fever is a sign that your baby's immune system is doing its job in fighting an infection. When your baby becomes ill because of a virus or bacteria, his body responds by raising its temperature. A fever is actually a good thing rather than a problem in and of itself.

Should I call the doctor?
Until your baby reaches the 3-month mark, you should always seek medical advice if:
• Your baby has a rectal temperature higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
• Your baby looks pale or flushed, is listless, or has no appetite, or if his behavior and appearance have changed in ways that worry you.

When you call your doctor, it's important to tell her how high your baby's temperature has gone, how you took it, and what other symptoms your baby's having. Based on this information, your doctor will help determine how serious your baby's fever is and tell you whether it's safe to give him medicine. Be sure not to give your baby medicine before talking to a doctor — it can be dangerous to give him the wrong dosage, and medication can mask your baby's symptoms, making it hard for the doctor to give appropriate care. If the fever is higher than 100.4 degrees, your doctor will probably ask you to bring your baby to the office to be examined and treated.

How can I make my baby more comfortable?
• Cool him off by removing layers of clothing or giving him a sponge or tub bath with lukewarm water for about five to ten minutes. This will reduce his body temperature as water evaporates from his skin. Avoid cold baths, which may cause your baby to shiver, raising his core body temperature even more.
• Feed him regularly and offer extra feedings to help prevent dehydration.
• If the doctor recommends it, give your baby the appropriate dose of acetaminophen.
• Never try to cool a baby by putting rubbing alcohol on his skin, as it can be absorbed into his bloodstream and cause seizures or other serious problems.

Hot topics this week

Tips for new dads
• Quiz: Test your new-father IQ
• Great ways to bond with your baby
• Sex: What to expect
• Connect with other fathers like you
See all our resources for new dads

Sleep deprivation
• Tips for getting through the day after being up all night
• Strategies for getting a better night's sleep
See all our parents' sleep information

Getting your finances in order
• Nine ways to cut your family's expenses
• Trade tips with other bargain-hunting moms and dads
• Why it's important to create a will
• How to choose life insurance
See all our family finance information

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - What every baby needs to thrive

2009-07-24T10:59:00.002+07:00

What every baby needs to thrive

You don't have to be a child development expert to give your baby a great start in life. Recent research confirms what we've known all along: Love, attention, and basic care are all your baby really needs and wants. To help your baby reach his full potential, follow these eight simple steps.

Show your love

Children need love. Your emotional caring and support give your child a secure base from which to explore the world. This isn't just touchy-feely advice. Hard scientific evidence shows that love, attention, and affection in the first years of life have a direct and measurable impact on a child's physical, mental, and emotional growth. Love and touch actually cause your child's brain to grow, according to Marian Diamond, a neuroscientist at the University of California, Berkeley, and author of Magic Trees of the Mind: How to Nurture Your Child's Intelligence, Creativity, and Healthy Emotions From Birth Through Adolescence.

How do you show your love? Hug, touch, smile, encourage, listen to, and play with your little one whenever you can. It's also important to answer his cries immediately, especially in the first six months or so, when experts say it's impossible to spoil a child. In fact, responding to your baby when he's upset (as well as when he's happy) helps you build trust and a strong emotional bond, according to Zero to Three, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of infants, toddlers, and families.
Care for your child's basic needs

Your baby needs all the good health and energy he can muster for learning and growing, and you can help by covering his basic needs. Take him for regular well-baby checkups and keep his immunizations up to date.

Sleep is anything but wasted time for your baby, so help him get plenty of shut-eye. During REM (rapid eye movement) sleep your baby's brain cells are making important connections. These synapses, as they're called, are the pathways that enable all learning, movement, and thought. They're the keys to your baby's understanding of everything he sees, hears, tastes, touches, and smells as he explores the world.

Breast milk or formula will provide all the nutrients your baby needs for the first six months, and will be an important part of his diet until his first birthday. Breastfeeding is best for your baby — among other benefits, studies show that breastfed babies have lower rates of allergies, diarrhea, respiratory problems, and ear infections. Breast milk may also give your baby's IQ a boost. Although formula can't replicate all of the unique properties of breast milk, formula-fed babies can thrive, too, so don't beat yourself up if you're unable to breastfeed.

(If you're worried about your baby's sleeping or eating patterns, talk to your doctor.)

Tend to your baby's physical comfort promptly. Be sensitive to the fact that he's too warm or that his diaper is wet. You and your baby are a team, and one of your jobs is to take care of the basics so he can get on with his challenging tasks!
Talk to your child

Research shows that children whose parents spoke to them extensively as babies have significantly higher IQs and richer vocabularies than kids who didn't receive much verbal stimulation. You can even begin during your pregnancy — it's a great way to start the bonding process.

Once your child is born, talk to him as you diaper, feed, and bathe him. He'll respond better if he knows the words are directed at him, so try to look at him while you're speaking. Don't worry about words of wisdom. Just describe what you're doing: "Mommy is putting warm water in the tub so she can clean you up." Try to avoid baby talk, though. Once in a while it's okay, but your baby can develop good language skills only if you speak to him correctly.
Read to your child

Reading out loud is one of the most important things you can do to help build your child's vocabulary, stimulate his imagination, and improve his language skills. It also gives you an opportunity to cuddle and socialize.

Jim Trelease, a reading expert and author of The Read-Aloud Handbook, says even newborns enjoy listening to a story. Make a point of reading to your child from day one.
Stimulate all his senses

For your child to learn about people, places, and things, he needs to be exposed to them. Every new interaction gives him information about the world and his place in it. Studies show that children who grow up in an enriched environment — where they are presented with new experiences that engage their senses — have larger, more active brains than those who grow up without adequate sensory stimulation.

Of course, children can become overstimulated; you don't want to bombard your child 24 hours a day or try to engage all his senses at once. When he's interested in playing, though, provide a variety of toys and other objects. Choose things with different shapes, textures, colors, sounds, and weights. Learn about the effect of music on your child's development at different ages, and sing the lyrics to your favorite lullabies. Play interactive games such as peekaboo and patty-cake, go on walks and shopping trips together, and let your baby meet new people. Even the simplest daily activities will stimulate your baby's brain development.

It's also important to give your child room to roam. To develop strong muscles, good balance, and coordination, he needs plenty of space to crawl, cruise, and eventually walk. He'll also benefit from safe spaces where he can explore his surroundings without hearing "No" or "Don't touch." The easiest way to do this is to childproof your home (or at least the common areas). Keep dangerous objects out of your baby's reach and safe ones accessible. For instance, in the kitchen, put childproof locks on all the cabinets except one. Fill that with plastic bowls, measuring cups, wooden spoons, and pots and pans that your baby can play with safely.
Encourage new challenges

It's important not to frustrate your child with toys and activities that are way beyond his abilities, but a little struggling goes a long way toward self-improvement. When an activity doesn't come easily to your baby, he has to figure out a new way to accomplish the task. That type of problem-solving is the stuff better brains are made of. If he's attempting to open a box, for example, resist the urge to help him. Let him try first. If he continues to struggle, show him how it's done, but then give him back a closed box so he can try again on his own.
Take care of yourself

Parents who are depressed or upset are often unable to respond swiftly and sensitively to their child's needs. One study, published in the journal Child Development and Psychopathology, found that children whose mothers were chronically and clinically depressed had abnormal patterns of brain activity, suggesting that the children also suffered from depression. Seek advice about coping with postpartum depression, and talk with your caregiver any time you think you may be struggling with depression.

If you're feeling drained, find ways to divide the household and parenting responsibilities with your partner. If you're a single parent, surround yourself with people who can offer you help and support. And don't forget to treat yourself to some time alone once in a while. Being a parent — especially an involved and active one — is tiring, and you need time to re-energize.
Find good childcare

If you work and aren't able to care for your baby during the day (or need a babysitter regularly), a quality childcare provider is essential to your baby's healthy development. You'll want to find someone who can do all the things mentioned above when you're not around. Whether your childcare provider is a nanny, a relative, or a daycare worker, she should be experienced, caring, and reputable, with a genuine love for children and the energy to help your baby thrive.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - The six-week postpartum checkup

2009-07-24T10:58:00.003+07:00

Why you need a postpartum checkup

This visit is the last in the long line of checkups that started with your first prenatal appointment. Although practices vary, most doctors and midwives will want to see you approximately six weeks after you give birth to make sure you're recovering well, physically and emotionally. If you had a c-section, you'll likely see your practitioner a few weeks earlier to make sure your incision is healing properly.

You'll probably have a lot of questions about how your body has changed. And you may still be contending with some childbirth-related aches and pains. Make a note of your questions before your visit so you won't forget to ask them.
What to expect during your postpartum checkup

At your postpartum checkup, your caregiver will:

• Check your weight and blood pressure.

• Check your abdomen and breasts. She'll feel your belly to be sure that there's no tenderness and check your breasts for lumps and abnormal nipple discharge. If you're breastfeeding, she'll make sure you don't have any clogged ducts or the beginnings of a breast infection.

• Inspect your perineum and do a speculum and internal exam. During the speculum exam she'll check to make sure any bruises, scratches, or tears to your cervix or vagina are healing properly and she may do a Pap smear. During the internal exam she'll feel your uterus and ovaries, and check your vaginal muscle tone. She may do a rectal exam as well.

• Probably give you the green light to start having sex again. But don't worry if you don't feel up to it yet. Many new moms don't feel like having sex for several months (or more!) after having a baby. Your caregiver will talk to you about birth control options during this visit, too. Remember: You can get pregnant even if you're breastfeeding and your period hasn't returned.

• Talk over any concerns. You might also have some questions about what exactly happened during delivery and why. Even if your caregiver explained to you what was happening at the time, you may not remember everything that was said. Don't be shy. Ask again now that you're able to listen to and think about the information.

• Ask how you're feeling. Make sure to use this visit to talk about any emotional problems you may be having, too. It's normal to have occasional mood swings at this point, but if you think you're suffering from postpartum depression, ask for a referral to a therapist.

• Order lab tests (if necessary), and let you know when you should return for routine care, including any follow-up for your chosen contraceptive method.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Sex and the new dad

2009-07-24T10:57:00.001+07:00

How long do we have to wait before having sex again?

Doctors and midwives advise that you wait four to six weeks after the birth of your baby. The uterus and cervix undergo significant changes during childbirth, and they need time to heal. During this healing phase the lining of the uterus, especially the site where the placenta was attached, is susceptible to infection. Intercourse, tampons, and anything placed in the vagina may introduce bacteria and cause an infection. The flow of lochia, which is a sign that the lining is healing, can last from three to eight weeks. When the lochia flow is no longer bright red, it signals that healing is near completion, and it's probably safe to have intercourse again. However, if your partner is healing from an episiotomy or vaginal tear, you'll need to wait longer still. She'll find out at her first postpartum exam (usually four to six weeks after delivery) whether she has the green light for sex.

But just because you can't have intercourse doesn't mean that you have to rule out intimacy altogether. Oral sex and other forms of "outercourse" like masturbation are safe a few days after delivery. If your mate has stitches from an episiotomy or vaginal tear, be sure you avoid contact with that area in order not to disrupt the healing. While you may be concerned that the bacteria in your mouth could increase your partner's risk of infection, you needn't worry as long as the stimulation is strictly external (in other words, stick to the area around the clitoris). Stay away from the vagina and the perineum and everything should be fine.

Even if you're not up for sexual activity, it's still important to stay physically connected to each other through hugs, kisses, massages, or just holding hands.

For more advice on sexual activities that are safe in the first few postpartum weeks, click here.
Is it true we don't need to worry about birth control for now?

Absolutely not — unless you're ready for another baby! While it's true a woman isn't fertile immediately after birth, especially if she's nursing, it's impossible to predict how long this stage will last. Although she may not menstruate for months after giving birth, her body usually releases its first postpartum egg before she gets her period. So she won't know that she's ovulated until about two weeks later. And if you're playing birth-control roulette, that's two weeks during which you might have hit the jackpot.

Those carefree days during pregnancy when you didn't need to think about birth control are definitely over, so do put some time into figuring out what type of contraception will work for you. Chances are your mate's healthcare practitioner will bring up the topic of contraception at her first postpartum checkup (usually four to six weeks after delivery) — a good time for her to get refitted for a diaphragm, pick up a new Pill prescription, or discuss other options. But it's a good idea to check out contraception choices before you show up for your first postpartum checkup so you'll be prepared to make a decision if you need to have a prescription filled.
We've gotten the green light for sex, but my wife doesn't seem to be into it. Am I doing something wrong?

Reality check: There can be a huge gap between physical and emotional readiness for intimacy. Even if it's been six weeks, even if your partner's been told she can go ahead and have sex again, she may not be ready. She may be afraid of pain, she may need more time, and she may just be exhausted. Your best bet: Give her some space, lots of affection, and no pressure. A few well-placed compliments won't hurt either.

And don't hesitate to put yourself in your partner's shoes: She may have barely regained her strength from giving birth, and now she's giving what energy she has to the baby. If she's breastfeeding, her body is constantly in demand, and even if she's not, taking care of a newborn is an intensely physical job. Finally, don't forget that during the recent miracle of your baby's birth, your partner spent several hours with the most private parts of her body on display to a roomful of nurses, midwives, and doctors.

"After giving birth, a woman may feel like her body is not her own, and she will want to reestablish some boundaries," says Judith Steinhart, a certified sex therapist. "Sex can seem like one more demand, meeting one more person's needs."

As your partner adjusts to a whole new role, she may have little energy left at the moment for physical loving. But that doesn't mean she loves you any less. In fact, many couples find the period after childbirth very romantic, if not very sexual.
How can I woo my wife back into the mood?

Wooing is exactly the right approach; you need to romance your wife almost as if you were dating again. In a sense, she's not the same person you drove to the hospital a month or two ago. She's still your wife, but now she's also a mother. And while you both love each other, you're each going through the process of falling in love with a whole new person that you created together.

These can be bewildering, enchanting, and exhausting times — for both of you. While your partner's hormones and her body are doing things they've never done before, you're both coping with sleep deprivation and adjusting to the joys and stresses of your new addition.

So if you're ready to get intimate and she's not, courtship is key. Keep things simple at first. Start with cuddling, since this may be all that either of you has the energy to handle. Remind her that you find her attractive, and make her feel like a woman, not just a mother It may take time to resume some normalcy, but sex will be part of your lives again. Really.
We're ready for the big night. Anything I should know?

Remember to take things slowly, find a comfortable position, and let your partner control the pace. She may still be sore, or afraid of any pain. And don't forget about foreplay: Not only is it fun, but it enhances lubrication. Postpartum women tend to be rather dry during sex, even more so if the baby is nursing. So don't assume she's not turned on, but do use some lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Astroglide to ease any awkwardness or discomfort.

One other thing: Be prepared for your baby to interrupt your first forays into sexual intimacy. Whether it's naptime or the middle of the night, assume the baby will wake up crying at exactly the wrong time. But don't let this deter you from making another date to make love. Welcome to the world of parenting.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Pumping your breast milk: An overview

2009-07-24T10:56:00.002+07:00

Why would I need to pump my breast milk?

The most common reason to pump is to collect your milk so your baby can have it when you're not around, and to maintain your milk supply for when you're together. This is essential if you're going back to work but want to continue nursing.

Pumping also means you don't have to be on call for every feeding when you're at home. Your partner (or another helper) can feed your baby your milk from a bottle, allowing you to get more uninterrupted sleep or take a break from baby care. (Letting Dad take over some of the feedings also helps him bond with your baby!)

You may also use a breast pump to stimulate your milk production and increase your supply, to collect milk to feed a premature baby or one who can't latch on to your breast, or to relieve the pain and pressure of engorged breasts.

Finally, pumping allows you to keep your milk supply up if your practitioner advises you to stop nursing temporarily because you're taking medication that might be harmful to your baby, for example, or if you're hospitalized for a short time and can't breastfeed throughout the day.

Most women express their milk using an electric or manual pump. (Some women prefer to express their milk by hand, but most feel that using a pump is faster and easier.) Although it may feel strange at first to use a machine to get milk from your breasts, it usually doesn't take long for the process to become quick and easy.
How do I use a breast pump?

To use an electric pump, you put a breast cup or shield over your breast, turn the machine on, and let it do the work of suctioning your milk into an attached container. Manual pumps also use a breast cup or shield, but you extract the milk by operating a squeeze mechanism or pulling a plunger with your hand rather than relying on a motor. It usually takes ten to 15 minutes to pump both breasts with a good electric pump and up to 45 minutes with a hand pump.

Good breast pumps mimic the sucking action of a baby and won't cause you pain. Be sure to use the right size plastic cups for your breasts and position them just right so you don't pinch or irritate yourself. Initially you'll feel quite a tug from a fully automatic pump. It shouldn't hurt, but it may feel a bit odd. Consider buying a pumping bra so you don't have to hold the cups on your breasts. (That way, your hands are free to hold a book or magazine, so you can read or work while you're pumping.) Remember to clean the pump parts carefully after each session to prevent bacteria from getting into them.
What kind of pump should I use?

Choosing the breast pump that's right for you depends on how often you plan to use one and how much time you can devote to pumping. If you work full time and have to find time to pump during a busy workday, you'll want to use a fully automatic pump so you can pump both breasts at the same time. But if you only need to pump a few ounces occasionally so your partner can feed the baby while you're out for a short while, an inexpensive manual pump may do just fine.
When would I express milk by hand and how do I do it?

If you only need to express milk every once in a while — say, to relieve engorgement or for a rare bottle-feeding — you may be able to get by with expressing by hand, although it might take a bit of practice to get it down. (Also, if you have sore, cracked nipples, you might want to express a little breast milk by hand after each nursing session to rub over them and soothe them.) Expressing milk by hand is time-consuming, though, so it isn't usually feasible if you need to express milk regularly.

Wash your hands before you start. Then, place your thumb and your fingers across from each other at the edge of the areola, and squeeze, pushing your fingers back against the chest wall, to express the milk. If your areolas are large, position your fingers so they're at least an inch behind the nipple. Use any wide-mouth container to collect the milk.
How do I store breast milk?

It's best to put breast milk in plastic or glass feeding bottles with secure caps to seal in freshness. You can also use plastic bags made especially for storing milk or disposable baby bottle liners (although they may break more easily because the plastic is thin). Remember to write the date on the bottle or bag before putting it in the refrigerator or freezer so you'll know when you pumped it. You may be surprised to see what breast milk looks like. It's normal for the fat to separate and float to the top, and sometimes the milk has a bluish hue.

Use fresh, refrigerated milk within 72 hours. Milk can last at least three months in the freezer of a double door fridge. or three to six months if you have it in a stand-alone freezer set no higher than zero degrees Fahrenheit. Once you've thawed frozen milk, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. (If you haven't used it in that time, you'll have to throw it away, since you can't refreeze it.) The process of freezing destroys some of the antibodies in the milk, so don't freeze it unless you have to. But frozen breast milk is still healthier and offers more protection from disease than formula does.

To thaw frozen milk, place the bottle or bag in a bowl of warm water and run it under warm tap water, or defrost it in the refrigerator overnight. Don't use the microwave for defrosting or warming because it kills the nutrients in breast milk. Most health professionals recommend throwing out any milk that's left in your baby's bottle after a feeding, though some may tell you it's okay to save a bottle of partially drunk breast milk as long as you refrigerate it right away and use it within four hours.
What can I do if I'm having trouble pumping?

For many women, the most difficult thing about pumping is finding the time to fit it into their schedule during the workday or finding a comfortable, private space to do it in. But pumping doesn't come easily for everyone. Here are some reasons you may be having trouble getting much milk out and some tips for what to do about it:

• You may be pumping too soon after your last session of nursing or pumping. You won't get much milk out of your breasts if you or your baby has just recently done a good job of draining them.

• You may need to change the settings on your pump. It can be hard to get enough milk if the suction pressure is too low or the cycling speed is too fast. In some cases, your pump may not provide the right pumping pattern for you no matter how you adjust it. The most advanced pumps now come with a reprogrammable setting card that you can send back to the manufacturer for adjustment.

• You may not be using a very good breast pump. Some women have trouble getting enough milk out if they're using a manual pump or an electric one that doesn't work very well. You'll get the best results from a high-quality, fully automatic pump.

• You may be using shields that are too small for your nipples. This is a common problem because most pumps come with shields that are designed for women with small nipples. If this is the case for you, your nipples may swell up once you start to pump, and that can reduce the amount of milk you'll be able to get out of your breasts. Many breast pump companies now make breast shields in larger sizes. Make sure you're using the size that's right for you.

• You may just not be producing very much milk. There are many reasons for this, including not nursing often enough.

If you're having trouble or feeling discouraged, call a lactation consultant. Or talk to the women on our Pumping Moms bulletin board. They can often help with problem-solving and be a great source of support.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Immunizations: What you need to know

2009-07-24T10:55:00.000+07:00

Why are so many immunizations recommended for children?

No parent likes to watch her child getting shots or medicine. But immunizations are designed to provide protection against serious diseases and many people consider them the most important part of well-child checkups. Some of those diseases (such as polio and diphtheria) were much more common a hundred years ago, but are rarely seen now in the United States, thanks to immunizations.
How do immunizations work?

Immunizations are vaccines made of either weakened or "killed" versions of the bacteria or virus that causes a particular disease. When these altered viruses and bacteria are injected or taken orally, the immune system mounts an attack that stimulates the body to produce antibodies.

Once produced, these antibodies remain active in the body, ready to fight off the real disease. For example, if whooping cough broke out in your area, an immunized child would be much less likely to contract the disease than one who wasn't immunized.
What are the immunizations and when can I expect them?

These immunizations are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

DTaP, to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough):
• At 2 months
• At 4 months
• At 6 months
• Between 15 and 18 months (can be given as early as 12 months as long as it's at least six months after the previous shot
• Between 4 and 6 years old
• A booster shot at 11 or 12 years of age

Hepatitis A, to protect against hepatitis A, which can cause the liver disease hepatitis.
• Between 12 and 23 months, two shots at least six months apart

Hepatitis B (HBV), to protect against hepatitis B, which can cause the liver disease hepatitis:
• At birth
• Between 1 and 2 months
• Between 6 and 18 months.

Hib, to protect against Haemophilus influenza type B, which can lead to meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis:
• At 2 months
• At 4 months
• At 6 months (If your child receives either the PedvaxHIB or ComVax vaccine at 2 and 4 months, he won't need the 6-month shot.)
• Between 12 and 15 months

HPV, to protect against human papillomavirus, the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States and a cause of cervical cancer:
• Three doses between 11 and 12 years (girls only)

Influenza (the flu shot), to protect against influenza (the "flu"):
• Age 6 months and up, every year in the fall or early winter

Meningococcal, to protect against meningococcal disease. Before the vaccine came along, meningococcal disease was the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children in the United States:
• Between 11 and 12 years

MMR, to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles):
• Between 12 and 15 months
• Between 4 and 6 years old — although the second dose can be given at any time as long as it's at least 28 days after the first.

Pneumococcal (PCV), to protect against pneumococcal disease, which can lead to meningitis, pneumonia, and ear infections:
• At 2 months
• At 4 months
• At 6 months
• Between 12 and 15 months

Polio (IPV), to protect against polio:
• At 2 months
• At 4 months
• Between 6 and 18 months
• Between 4 and 6 years old

Rotavirus, to protect against rotavirus, which can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration. This vaccine is given orally, not as an injection:
• At 2 months
• At 4 months
• At 6 months (not needed if the Rotarix brand of vaccine was given at 2 and 4 months)

Varicella, to protect against chicken pox:
• Between 12 and 15 months
• Between 4 and 6 years.

For an easy way to track your child's vaccines, try our handy Immunization Scheduler.
Our experts answer your most pressing questions about vaccine safety and effectiveness

Are these shots really my child's best protection against these diseases?
If no one gets these diseases anymore, why does my baby need to be immunized?
Weren't the diseases we vaccinate for already disappearing, thanks to better hygiene and sanitation?
Can't my child still get a disease even after being immunized against it?
Can a vaccine ever cause the disease it was meant to protect against?
Do vaccines really work?
Isn't my child better off getting chicken pox than getting the vaccine?
Why does my child need the hepatitis B vaccine if only teens and adults get this disease?

What kinds of bad reactions can these vaccines cause and how can I protect my child from them?
How can I tell if my baby is having a bad reaction to a vaccine?
Will getting more than one vaccination at once overload my child's immune system?
Do vaccine sensitivities run in families?
Can I do anything to avoid the "hot lots" of vaccines that I've heard are more likely to cause reactions?
How can I minimize my baby's risk of having a bad reaction to a vaccine?
If my baby is sick, should her immunizations be postponed?
What should I do if I think my baby is having a bad reaction to a vaccine?
My child has never had a bad reaction to a vaccine. Does that mean he won't react to future shots?

Can these vaccines cause other illnesses?
Does the MMR vaccine put my child at greater risk for autism?
Does the hepatitis B vaccine increase the risk of SIDS?
Does the hepatitis B vaccine increase my child's risk for multiple sclerosis?
Does following the current vaccination schedule put my child at higher risk for diabetes?
Do vaccinations put my child at higher risk for ADD or ADHD?
Do vaccinations put my child at higher risk for asthma?
My baby developed a rash about a week after receiving the MMR vaccine. Could she have measles?

What else should I know about vaccines?
Can a daycare center require me to have my baby vaccinated?
What are the risks and benefits of delaying vaccinations until my baby is a little older?
Where can I get more information about the risks and benefits of vaccines?
Where can I get vaccines at low cost?
What new vaccines are on the way?

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Baby acne

2009-07-24T10:52:00.003+07:00

My baby has pimples on his chin. Could it be acne?

Yes, it could. Baby acne is very common. It can be present at birth, but more often it shows up after a couple of weeks, usually on the cheeks and sometimes on the forehead, chin, and even the back.

These small whiteheads might be surrounded by reddish skin. They can become more pronounced when your baby is hot or fussy or if his skin is irritated by saliva, spit-up milk, or fabric that's a little rough or that's been washed in strong detergent.

By the way, if your baby had tiny bumps on his face at birth that disappeared within a few weeks, these are called milia and they're unrelated to acne. If the irritation looks more rashy or scaly than pimply or it appears elsewhere on his body, your baby may have another condition, such as cradle cap or eczema.
What could be causing my baby's acne?

As with adolescent acne, there's no clear answer. For some time, experts have pointed to the hormones babies receive from their mother at the end of pregnancy as a cause of baby acne. But researchers continue to study other factors and have yet to agree on one culprit. If you take certain medications while nursing, for example, or if your baby takes certain medications, they might trigger baby acne.
How long will it last?

Baby acne usually clears up within a few weeks, but it can linger for months. If it doesn't clear up within three months or you're concerned about it, talk with your baby's doctor.

What can I do about my baby's complexion in the meantime?

Well, there are some things you should not do. Don't put creams or oils on your baby's skin, because these can make the acne worse. Don't use over-the-counter acne medicines. And don't scrub. Baby acne isn't caused by dirt.

In fact, too much washing can further irritate your baby's skin, so don't overdo the cleansing. Simply wash your baby's face with mild baby soap and water once a day. Gently pat it dry.

Patience is usually the best course of action. Your baby's acne doesn't bother him in the least, so try not to let it bother you, either.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Forty-two things that change when you have a baby

2009-07-24T10:52:00.002+07:00

What changes when you have a baby? A better question may be: What doesn't change? Here, writer and mom Rebecca Woolf lists her most notable post-baby observations. Then scroll down to read our favorite comments from readers about how their babies changed their lives.

1. You finally stop to smell the roses, because your baby is in your arms.

2. Where you once believed you were fearless, you now find yourself afraid. [See a reader's perspective in #22, below.]

3. The sacrifices you thought you made to have a child no longer seem like sacrifices.

4. You respect your body ... finally.

5. You respect your parents and love them in a new way.

6. You find that your baby's pain feels much worse than your own.

7. You believe once again in the things you believed in as a child.

8. You lose touch with the people in your life whom you should have banished years ago.

9. Your heart breaks much more easily.

10. You think of someone else 234,836,178,976 times a day.

11. Every day is a surprise.

12. Bodily functions are no longer repulsive. In fact, they please you. (Hooray for poop!)

13. You look at your baby in the mirror instead of yourself.

14. You become a morning person.

15. Your love becomes limitless, a superhuman power.

And from our readers...

1. "You discover how much there is to say about one tooth." — Ashley's mom

2. "You finally realize that true joy doesn't come from material wealth." — Anonymous

3. "You now know where the sun comes from." — Charlotte

4. "You'd rather buy a plastic tricycle than those shoes that you've been dying to have." — Sophie's mom

5. "You realize that although sticky, lollipops have magical powers." — Roxanne

6. "You don't mind going to bed at 9 p.m. on Friday night." — Kellye

7. "Silence? What's that?" — Anonymous

8. "You realize that the 15 pounds you can't seem to get rid of are totally worth having." — Brenda

9. "You discover an inner strength you never thought you had." — Ronin and Brookie's mom

10. "You no longer rely on a clock — your baby now sets your schedule." — Thomas' mom

11. "You give parents with a screaming child an 'I-know-the-feeling' look instead of a 'Can't-they-shut-him-up?' one." — Jaidyn's mom

12. "Your dog — who used to be your 'baby' — becomes just a dog." — Kara

[Many readers begged to differ, saying things like, " I disagree with number 12. My dogs are my additional children," "Nothing about previous babies, whether two- or four-legged, changes when a new miracle comes along," "My dog will never be 'just a dog," and "This is sad to me. My dog is still my baby too."]

13. "You take the time for one more hug and kiss even if it means you'll be late." — Tracey

14. "You learn that taking a shower is a luxury." — Jayden's mom

15. "You realize that you can love a complete stranger." — Dezarae's mom

16. You find yourself wanting to make this world a better place. — Arizona

17. If you didn’t believe in love at first sight before, now you do! — Ciara

18. You start to appreciate Sesame Street for its intellectual contribution. — Anon.

19. You have to quit watching the news because you see every story from a mother's perspective and it breaks your heart. — Brooke&Boys

20. You just plain love life more - everything comes together and becomes better because of one tiny person and your love for them. — Anon.

21. You finally find out the real reason you have those breasts. — Anon.

22. In response to #2 [above], I'd say that where you were once afraid, you're now fearless. I was always very timid and shy and let myself get walked all over … but now where my kid's concerned, I'll speak my mind and really connect with my inner "b"! — gummismom

23. The support you get from other people surprises you, because the people giving it are not always the ones you'd expect. — japanese_macaque

24. Nothing is just yours any longer. You share EVERYTHING! — DylanLsMom

25. No matter what you've accomplished in life, you look at your child and think, "I've done a GREAT job!" — Anon.

26. You want to take better care of yourself for your child. — Treasor

27. You can have the most wonderful conversation using only vowel sounds like "ahhh" and "oooo." — littlehulk2008

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Are you ready for a babysitter?

2009-07-24T10:48:00.003+07:00

ow will I know when I'm ready to leave my baby with a sitter?

This is a very personal decision, so you'll need to figure it out on your own. But it may help to talk to other parents and find out what they're doing, so you can feel comfortable with your decision.

Whether it's your first-ever separation or you're leaving your child with a caregiver daily when you go to work, trusting your baby to another's care is never easy for any parent. But sooner or later, every mother or father has to get past his or her anxiety since none of us can be expected to care for our child 100 percent of the time.

In order for you to feel comfortable leaving your baby with a caretaker, it's important to get her accustomed to being cared for by someone else. And it's wise to start this process relatively early, before separation anxiety sets in, so it's less difficult for all of you. If your baby recognizes right from the get-go that when you go away for a while you always come back, her distress and your guilt will be hugely diminished.
How do I get my baby used to my leaving?

Begin with short periods of time away, about 15 minutes to start. Then gradually work up to longer periods. This will help your baby get used to your being gone, and she'll soon learn to trust that you'll be back.

If possible, try letting your partner handle a feeding while you leave the house for a little while. (The first few times you might just take a short walk or run a quick errand.) This will help him bond with your baby. And if you're breastfeeding, this will mean teaching your baby to take a bottle of pumped or expressed breast milk — something that will help greatly with longer absences in the future.

How do I ease the separation?

Try not to let your child pick up on any feelings of apprehension. If you're worried, she'll pick up on your anxiety and then she'll feel anxious too.

Treat brief separations casually — don't get worked up or linger over saying goodbye, for example — and your baby will learn that that there's nothing to worry about. And if she's happy, you're happy.

Remember, you not only deserve but need to have a little time to yourself. And don't count time spent at work as time spent alone. If you work, you'll still need occasional time away to exercise, see friends, or spend an evening with your partner.

Of course you'll miss your baby, and you may feel guilty about going, but take it easy on yourself. If you find that you feel so guilty that it interferes with your ability to enjoy your time away, try leaving your baby with someone she's already familiar with — this will help ease separation anxiety for both of you.

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Your 5-week-old's development

2009-07-15T13:05:00.001+07:00

Your 5-week-old's development

Head's up!

Your baby's neck muscles are getting stronger, which allows her to hold her head up for short periods. She can support it for a few moments while lying on her stomach, for example, and she can probably turn it from side to side. She may be able to hold her head up when she's in a car seat or front carrier.

The first real smiles

Smiling happens at about the same time in all cultures, so get ready for your baby to reward all your loving care with a beaming, toothless, just-for-you smile. This will probably make your heart melt, even if you've just had your worst night yet.

For Ron Heckman, a new father in Piedmont, California, that first smile from his 6-week-old daughter, Hadley, brought tears to his eyes. "It was a lousy day at work," he recalls. "I was sleep-deprived and the commute traffic that day was incredibly thick. When I finally got home and my wife handed me the baby, who looked straight at me and smiled this gorgeous all-gums grin, I remember thinking, 'She knows me' — and nothing else mattered."

Sound asleep

Your baby may start sleeping longer at night (maybe four to six hours) sometime between 6 weeks and 6 months of age. It's a broad range, and much depends on your baby's development and your behavior.

Most sleep experts suggest putting your baby to bed while she's still awake, but drowsy. This will help her learn to fall asleep on her own, a skill that will come in handy for you both when she wakes in the wee hours of the night. You can help your baby reach that milestone sooner rather than later by establishing healthy sleep habits from the start, such as a bedtime routine with a calming bath, a baby massage, or a bedtime story.

Remember, your baby is an individual

1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - Your 11-month-old's development: Week 2

2009-07-15T13:03:00.002+07:00

Your 11-month-old's development: Week 2

Very easy readers

Your baby probably enjoys looking at books and leafing through the pages, though she won't always turn them one by one. Indulge in great picture books, like Anno's Journey, by the great Japanese artist Mitsumasa Anno, Tamara Hoban's Is It Red? Is It Yellow? Is It Blue?, which introduces primary colors through photos of everyday objects, and The Snowman, by Raymond Briggs, a full-color cartoon book about a snowman who comes to life. Or stick with sturdy and inexpensive board books that can stand up to small fingers.

To add variety to your baby's reading time and to find out what appeals to her the most, try your local library or the kids' section at a family-friendly bookstore.

It's hard to say goodbye

Your baby has probably been wrestling with bouts of separation anxiety during the last several months. This is natural: She loves and depends on you, so she's distressed when you leave.

To ease departures, make them short and sweet. Be matter-of-fact when you leave your child at daycare or with a babysitter at home, and don't prolong the agony with extended goodbyes. Your baby's tears will subside soon after you're out of sight.

You can help your baby feel more independent by not hovering over her all the time. Of course, she still needs to know that you're around and dependable. So if she toddles to another room, wait a couple of minutes before following. If you go to another area of the house, call to her when you're in the next room — but don't come running every time she squawks.