How many ounces of formula does a newborn drink?
Infant Formula Dos and Don'ts for New Parents When it comes to formula feeding, there are some things that are a must. There also are things that will be a definite no-no. Here is my list of infant formula do's and don'ts for new parents. Newborn Feeding Guide for New Moms If you're a new mom, you likely have many questions about feeding your new baby. Being a mom to multiple kids, as well as a former nanny, I offer tips and advice related both to formula feeding and breastfeeding based on my experiences and research. Soy Baby Formula Benefits Choosing the right formula can be a challenge. There are many great options for parents to consider. This article discusses some of the benefits of formula feeding a baby with a soy-based formula. How to Tell If Your Baby Has a Soy Allergy Cow's milk may be the most popular formula allergy to be discussed, but it isn't the only one. Did you know that a baby can be allergic to soy milk based formula as well? This article explains common soy allergy warning signs when formula feeding a baby. How to Reduce Infant Spit Up Infants spit up. That's a fact that cannot be completely avoided. However, there are ways to reduce infant spit up, whether formula feeding a baby or breast feeding. This article gives tips and advice on reducing the occurrence of infant spit up. How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby's Vomiting? Spitting up is normal in babies. But vomiting is a warning sign. How can you tell which one your baby is experiencing? How can you cure vomiting in a formula feeding baby? This article can help parents faced with this issue. 5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant Feeding your baby can often be a challenge, no matter the method. Here are 5 secrets to successfully bottle-feeding your infant. What NOT To Do When Bottle-Feeding An Infant So you’ve read up on successfully bottle-feeding your baby. Now, here’s what NOT to do. Crying Baby with Colic? Soothing Sounds Plus Bonus Tips to Comfort a Colicky Baby Babies who are breastfeeding, as well as those who are formula feeding can develop colic. Colicky babies often are uncomfortable and cranky. Many times soothing sounds will help. Here are some of the best soothing sounds for babies with colic. How to Help a Newborn Poop Sometimes your newborn may have difficulties making a bowel movement. Learn how to help a newborn poop safely. *This is not meant to be a complete guide on formula feeding a baby. It also should not substitute the advice of a licensed medical professional. Your child's pediatrician is always the best source for health matters.
How Often Should I Feed My Newborn Baby?
A newborn baby should feed every 2 - 3 hours, but might go up to 4 hours without feeding on occasion. If your newborn sleeps past 4 hours or doesn’t demand to be fed at that point, you will need to feed him or her anyway. Newborns should never go longer than 4 hours without eating. If your baby asks to be fed more often, that’s fine. Some babies feed on demand. A newborn won’t feed if they’re not hungry. Therefore, you can’t overfeed a newborn. How Long Can Formula Sit Out? Follow the instructions on your exact infant formula package, as they can vary. Most formula can remain unrefrigerated for up to two hours if the baby hasn’t drank from the bottle. If the baby has drank from the bottle, instead it will last only an hour, due to bacteria concerns. Formula Feeding Safety Tips
How to Get Free Baby Formula If you’re a low-income family, many food banks will provide infant formula for free, as will other charitable organizations. You can also sign up for discounts and free samples on infant formula websites, such as Enfamil.com. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) also provides free formula to those who qualify. *This is not meant to be a complete guide on formula feeding a baby. It also should not substitute the advice of a licensed medical professional. Your child's pediatrician is always the best source for health matters.
your baby needs, but don't buy the cheapest just to save money. Always do research and listen to the pediatrician. It's good to save money in most cases, but not at the expense of your infant's health and nutrition.
DO Stock Up When Practical Sometimes stores will have sales on baby formula. When baby has no issues with formula, it can be practical to stock up. It's wise to be sure you have been using the same formula to feed your baby for a while before stocking up. DON’T Switch Brands Too Often Switching formula can be tough on a baby's stomach. Try not to switch from the type of formula you are using unless recommended by the pediatrician. DO Prepare Formula in Advance Where Practical Some new moms may find it easier to prepare bottles in advance when using formula to feed a baby. However, if there is not a practical and safe way to store the bottles, it may not be a good idea. DON’T Feed Baby Formula That Has Been Out Longer Than Recommended New moms can check the label of the infant formula to see how long it can be unrefrigerated before going bad, as well as how long it can be refrigerated before it spoils. DO Follow Preparation Instructions Exactly Baby formula is developed in a way that provides a particular amount of nutrition to the infant. If it is prepared wrong, the nutritional value is altered. DON'T Use More or Less Powder or Mixture Than Suggested Using formula to feed a baby can be healthy if done right. Using too much mixture can cause gas, constipation, and other complications. Using less than suggested can cause poor nutrition and take away essential nutrients. DO Heat Baby Formula Before Feeding Babies should drink their bottles heated at an appropriate temperature. Room temperature is ideal. Babies should not drink cold bottles or those that are too hot. Both can be dangerous. DON’T Use a Microwave For Heating Formula Do not use a microwave to heat formula in a baby bottle or other container. Because microwaves heat unevenly, this could result in scalding. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters. 
If you are pregnant or have a newborn baby, you may be wondering about the health benefits of soy baby formula, compared to breast milk, cow's milk-based formula, or another formula type. Are there health benefits to soy formula over other formulas, and when should a baby drink soy formula?
Soy Formula May Decrease Rotavirus Infections According to ScienceDaily, research has shown that soy isoflavones found in soy baby formula may help decrease the likelihood of rotavirus infections. Rotavirus infections are the leading cause of diarrhea in infants. Also, just like cow's milk baby formula, soy baby formula can be an adequate source of nutrition during baby's first year. This may leave some parents wondering if they should use soy baby formula from the start or make the switch to soy baby formula for their infant's health. Are Soy Baby Formula Benefits Worth The Risks? While there are health benefits to soy baby formula, that does not mean it is the correct choice for every infant. Each baby has unique medical and nutritional needs. Therefore, any dietary habits should be discussed with the baby's pediatrician. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), soy-based infant formula should be used only in certain circumstances. Soy baby formula used to be a common alternative for infants who were lactose intolerant, but that is no longer the case. There now is lactose-free baby formula, as well as hypoallergenic baby formula. Many babies who have an allergic reaction to cow's milk will also have an allergic reaction with soy based formula. In fact, a significant percentage of infants who have severe gastrointestinal problems as a reaction to cow's milk baby formula will likely have similar reactions to soy baby formula. Which Babies Should Consume Soy Baby Formula? The benefits of soy baby formula are said to be recommended to infants who have strict vegans as parents. Infants who have true lactose intolerance (not to be confused with a cow's milk allergy) could also benefit from soy baby formula. Although, as mentioned above, there are other options. Another group of infants that is said to gain health benefits from soy baby formula are those with congenital galactosemia. Babies with this rare condition do not have the enzyme that would turn galactose into glucose. Galactose is found in breast milk, cow's milk, and other dairy products. If too much galactose builds up in the body, it can lead to serious health concerns, including death. Therefore, soy baby formula is recommended for infants who have congenital galactosemia. Discuss Soy Baby Formula With Your Pediatrician If you are concerned about your baby’s health or are curious about soy baby formula, ask your pediatrician. The research and information above is not intended as a replacement for discussing a child's health and nutritional needs with a qualified pediatrician. Before starting, switching, or stopping any type of baby formula, the child's pediatrician should always be consulted. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.  Six onesies we won for free on Listia ~~~ Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved If you have a baby on the way, you likely already know just how expensive some of those essentials can be. But did you know you can get most or all of them for free? Dealing with a huge financial setback, due to a high risk pregnancy has taught me how to prepare for the baby with very little to spend. Here’s how myself and my partner got most of our baby’s items for free. Utilize Listia Listia is a free auction-style site that doesn’t actually require real money. You use credits to bid on items that people list. When you sign up for free using my Listia link, you get 1000 bonus credits for free to start with. We actually won a ton of baby items for free using Listia. In fact, a large portion of what we got for the baby came from here. To earn more credits after you run out, you can do a variety of things, such as doing simple tasks, taking surveys, or listing your own items for auction. Items can be new or used and you choose what you bid on. You can also buy credits. But I would only recommend doing so for items that are worth it and would cost less that way than it would to buy them the usual way. Just to give an idea, some of the things we won for free include a Tommee Tippee electric bottle & food warmer, hand knitted baby socks and gloves, newborn onesies and pajamas, crocheted booties, lots of various infant clothing, a sock monkey, baby books, parenting books, breastmilk storage/feeding bottles, brand name baby bottles, baby prewalker shoes, cloth diapers, breastfeeding cover, car seat strap covers, baby car magnet, car seat/carrier toy bar, and more. Just a small dose of the many free baby items we've won on Listia (more ways to get free baby stuff under the gallery) Contact Product Companies Sometimes people don’t think of this one. But did you know that if you simply ask companies for a sample, many will give you one? I’ve found it even more successful if you have a baby on the way. Companies like to get new parents to try out their items because if they like them, that’s repeat business. Simply contact them on social media or via their website, explaining that you’re a new parent (if you’re a writer or blogger and/or have a large social following, that helps even more) and would like to try out their product. Some will say no, but many will say yes and get you something in the mail. We’ve gotten response from cloth diapering companies, baby bottle companies, leg warmer companies, car seat cover companies, and many more. Some might ask for a simple review on Amazon or your blog. Some might ask you to post a picture via social media. Some may not ask for anything at all. Just remember, if you do a review, it’s the law to disclose that you got the item for free. Government & Other Assistance Programs If you qualify for WIC, medicaid, or other government assistance, ask about the free car seat program. Many states will provide one to each baby born to a qualifying family. Some will distribute the car seat at the hospital when the baby is born. Others have specific distribution locations. Be sure to get all the details before your little one arrives. There are also often local food banks and other charitable organizations that give out free baby items, such as car seats, clothing, strollers, nursery furniture, and more. Some divisions of Catholic Charities have been known to help in some of these areas. Craigslist Free Section Did you know that the for sale section in Craigslist also has a free section? People often post completely free items there. We check all the time to see if there’s anything available that we need. One really awesome item we got on there is a normally pricey 3-in-1 swing, infant seat, and rocker. We got it completely free. All we had to do is drive to the person’s house and pick it up off their porch. Yup, that’s it. We sanitized and cleaned it, then replaced the batteries, and it works just like new. (more ways to get free baby stuff under the image)  The swing we got for FREE ~~~ Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved Free Baby Sample Sites, Promo Codes, and Clubs Don’t forget to join clubs for all of the companies you may use if they have them. Enfamil, Similac, and Pampers are three of the more popular ones. Also, there are many sites that offer free baby items if you pay shipping. If you enter promo code “babyleggings6” at the following sites, you’ll get the items for free. You just pay S&H. Free Car Seat Canopy ($50 value) Free Udder Covers Nursing Cover ($35 Value) Free Nursing Pillow ($40 Value) Free Seven brand baby carrier/sling ($40 Value) 10 pairs of free Breast Pads ($35 Value) 2 Belly Button Maternity Bands OR 1 Belly Button Body for free ($40 Value) 5 Baby Board Books ($40 Value) You can also do a search for “free baby samples” to find a bunch of sites. Just be careful when you enter your information that these are legitimate sites. There are many scams out there that are only trying to harvest your info. (more ways to get free baby stuff under the image)  Free baby leggings we chose ~~~ Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved Amazon Baby Registry This one is kind of a given. Most people with a baby on the way have a registry. Amazon is the easiest way to make one, as the Amazon Baby Registry is designed so that you can add items from any online page, not just Amazon. It’s also completely FREE and they give you a welcome box of FREE surprises for the baby and parent/s. This alone is worth using the registry. Our welcome box had things like baby wipes, an Avent bottle, breast pads, bath items, pacifiers, and more. Your friends and family likely want to help anyhow. If you’re having a hard time, this is a simple way to let them know what’s needed. We actually created ours as a way for us to organize and we greatly underestimated the generosity that would ensue because of it. We never expected anyone to help, but the generosity of family and friends has been overwhelming (in a good way). I wouldn’t consider this “free”in the usual sense, as most people create these for the same organizational purpose we did. However, because others may be purchasing some of the items, it should be on this list. Quick tip for the registry: When you purchase items elsewhere, add them to the registry and then mark them as purchased. That way, you and other people always know what you need and what you don’t. This makes it so much easier to plan for the baby.  What we received in our Free Amazon Baby Registry Welcome Pack ~~~ Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved 
Some mistakenly think that healthy skin comes naturally for a baby. In a sense, it does. But, to keep infant skin healthy, proper skin care techniques should be applied. I am a mother experienced in infant skin care for several children, as well as keeping my own skin healthy. I feel my experience could be useful to many parents interested in baby skin care. Over the years, I have gained knowledge through trial and error, the advice of doctors, and also through research.
Getting Started With Healthy Infant Skin Care Before starting to care for your baby’s skin, do a product inventory. Read labels of cleansing products, lotions and moisturizers, and laundering products. Check for unnecessary chemicals and fragrance. Products that promote healthy infant skin should include mainly water, moisturizers, disinfectants (for cleansing products), and vitamins and minerals. Beyond that, there shouldn't be many other ingredients. While fragrance is included in many baby care products, it often is not good for promoting healthy skin care. Some babies are sensitive to fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals. Even those who are not should be limited to their exposure. I personally do not use any commercial baby products and opt for making my own, due to difficulty finding any that do not contain harmful chemicals. Cleansing Your Baby’s Skin For Optimal Health The first step to maintaining healthy skin for an infant is properly cleansing the skin. A baby should not necessarily be using the same cleansers as an adult. Some of those can be harsh on a baby's skin, causing it to dry out or get irritated. Dry or irritated skin is not healthy skin. A good baby cleansing product should contain a cleanser or disinfectant, possibly a moisturizer, water, and vitamins or minerals. Other ingredients should be minimal or non-existent. Soft cloths made of 100% cotton are best for applying cleansers to infant skin. Plain, fragrance free glycerin soap with only oatmeal and almond oil (not to be confused with almond extract or scented essential oils) is a good choice. It’s actually quite easy to make your own. Moisturizers For Infant Skin Health Moisturizing is another important step to healthy skin care in infants. Many babies naturally have soft skin, but to maintain that soft, healthy skin, frequent moisturizing is necessary. Using just any moisturizer is not necessarily better than none. The harsh ingredients in some of them can be detrimental to healthy skin care for a baby and can actually deplete moisture. If you can’t make your own products, check labels to be sure the ingredients consist of a proper moisturizer, preferably some vitamins and minerals, as well as purified water. I personally recommend simple coconut or almond oil infused with pure (unfragranced) vitamin E oil. Bedding and Clothing Play an Important Role in Infant Skin Care Often overlooked are the garments babies wear, as well as their bedding. Anything that comes in contact with a baby's skin should be considered in maintaining healthy skin care habits. Be cautious of the fabrics used to make the bedding and clothing. Also, pay attention to the laundering products used. Avoid products that contain chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Natural laundry detergent is best for maintaining healthy skin care in an infant. To avoid wrinkling in the clothing, try hanging the clothing neatly on the clothesline in the sun. The sunshine method also can help to freshen the clothing, taking away the need for a fabric refresher. Another freshening method is to add a small amount of baking soda (maybe a teaspoon) to the washer with a cup of vinegar. This can serve as a cleanser, disinfectant, de-wrinkler, and fabric softener all at once. Things to Remember:
*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network 
If you are breastfeeding, you'll want to know when to begin weaning your baby from breastmilk. There is no generalized answer to that question. However, the following information may be helpful in determining an answer. Some may be weaning in order to go back to work while others may be weaning for other reasons, such as the transition into solid foods.
When Should I Start Weaning My Baby? According to KidsHealth.org, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies are breastfed until at least 6 months of age. At that point, it is recommended that a combination of breastmilk and solid foods be given until the baby is at least 1 year old. Experts will vary on the exact time when moms can begin weaning their baby. Consulting with your child's pediatrician is a great way to be sure that the choice you make is catered to your baby's individual needs. Beyond that, watch for cues from your baby's actions, combining that with the doctor's advice. I always found that combining the doctor's advice with baby's cues led to a successful weaning process. Transitioning to Solids Some babies will wean on their own naturally during the transition to solid foods. Others may need their mother to take a leadership role when it comes to weaning. Some are not as willing to wean as others. It may be the easiest to begin weaning your baby when solid foods are a particular interest or distraction. The excitement of new foods may distract the baby's attention from breastfeeding. When a baby is showing more interest in transitioning to drinking liquids in a cup and eating more solid foods, this is a good indication of when to begin weaning. Baby food and liquid amounts should be discussed with the pediatrician to be sure that baby is eating the correct amount. Reducing & Eliminating Nightly Feedings The nightly feedings seem to be the hardest to shy the baby away from. Therefore some mothers opt to use transitioning to solid foods as a perfect opportunity to eliminate nightly feedings. Some mothers may still choose to offer a nightly feeding while transitioning the baby to solids. Importance of Gradual Weaning During the process of weaning, you don't want to just stop breastfeeding all of a sudden. Weaning a baby should involve gradually decreasing the amount of breastmilk given, while gradually increasing other forms of nourishment. This helps to ensure that the baby is getting the proper nourishment needed to thrive. If you are at all unsure of what to do during the process, don't hesitate to talk to your child's pediatrician to accurately assess what is healthy for your baby. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.  Image © MarkDoliner; Flickr.com Newborns can have the tendency to get gas pains and there are some signs parents should be aware of. Paying attention to your baby's actions and cries can help aid in determining if your newborn is experiencing gas pains. As a mother and former nanny, I have had plenty of varied experiences related to newborn gas pains. I have also researched the topic extensively over the years.
When a newborn has gas pains, the sooner a parent figures this out, the better for the newborn. This way, steps can be taken to relieve the gas and hopefully alleviate the pain. It isn't always easy, especially for a new parent, to determine which symptoms are indications a newborn has gas pains. The information below is not meant to be a complete diagnostic guide, but may help parents find some of the answers they need. Crying Not all crying is an indication of gas or gas pains. Because newborn babies cannot talk, crying is the most common form of communication for a variety of their needs. They will learn to use it as a means of communication. Generally, sharp and piercing cries will indicate pain, but not all babies are the same. If you notice such a cry after feeding, this may be one of the varied indications your newborn has gas pains. Crankiness A baby can be cranky for several reasons. Before deciding it's one of the indications your newborn has gas pains, consider other reasons. Is the baby sleepy, hungry, or in need of a diaper change? Does the baby want to be held, swaddled, or given a pacifier? If none of those apply and the crankiness cannot be soothed with conventional methods, your newborn may have gas pains. Movements Pay attention to your baby's movements. Some newborns will draw their legs in toward the chest and then push them straight out when gas pains are present. Although, some infants do this for other reasons as well. Another common movement that may be related to gas pains is clenched fists. If your baby is doing one or both, these are possible indications your newborn has gas pains. Feeding Habits When newborns are experiencing gas pains, they may refuse the breast or bottle. Refusing to feed does not always indicate gas pains, but it can. The baby may also just be tired, not hungry, or need to burp but is not necessarily in pain. Sleep Habits If a baby is having a tough time sleeping, it may be one indicator of gas pains. But, babies can remain awake for a variety of reasons. Pay attention to other cues, like those above as well. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters. 
Whether it’s for natural care reasons or health care benefits, parents may request soy-based baby gifts for their newborn. Know an expectant parent who is into natural care, being eco-friendly, or who has an infant with lactose intolerance? This gift guide to soy-based baby products may help you decide what gift is best. As a mom who's into natural living and researching new things all the time, I've come across a variety of potentially useful products.
Soybean Fiber Baby Clothes For the eco-friendly mom or dad, there are companies who make baby clothing out of soybean protein fibers. These baby clothes are eco-friendly, all-natural, and can by quite stylish too. Baby clothing made from soybean fibers is very soft to the touch and makes great soy-based gifts for newborns. Baby Soap Enriched With Soy Proteins Many natural organic soaps are made with protein oils, such as soybean oil. Soy proteins are great for the skin. As long as Baby isn't allergic to soy, baby soap enriched with soy proteins would be an appreciated gift for newborns. If you feel like being creative, you may even want to look up a recipe and make homemade soap using soybean oil and other ingredients. Soy Baby Formula If the newborn you are buying a gift for is lactose intolerant or requires soy baby formula for another reason, this could be a good gift idea. The best newborn baby gifts are those that will actually get used. Baby formula does not exactly sound like a pretty or fancy gift, but it's definitely useful. Formula prices can be costly to some, so soy baby formula could be a well-appreciated gift for newborns who can use it. Soybean Crib Mattress Did you know that soybean fibers can be used to make a crib mattress? Mattress foam made from soy fibers is said to reduce sagging and increase durability in infant mattresses. This could add to the firm support required for newborns. Since soybeans are a renewable resource, this likely is a more earth-friendly purchase than other mattresses. As long as the baby's parent/s don't already have a mattress, a soybean crib mattress could make a great soy-based gift for newborns. Homemade Soybean Puree If you like to cook, you could try making homemade soybean puree baby food and freezing it to make a parent's job easier a few months down the line. Keep in mind that frozen baby food should not be kept frozen too long. Three months is a general time limit, but it could keep longer (or for less time) depending on the freezing and storage method. Another option is to gather some great baby food recipes involving soybeans and assemble them in a homemade recipe book made from recycled papers. **Author’s Note: Not all experts agree on the health benefits of soy, so it's best to know the family's stance on this before giving a soy-based newborn baby gift. The author is not a licensed medical professional. Always consult a licensed physician for health matters.  Image © Daddy-David; Flickr.com After giving birth, you can expect to feel a variety of emotions, such as relief and joy. Along with that joy might come questions of what to expect, as well as how to care for your infant. Below are some newborn baby care tips that should help you care for your baby and relieve concerns and experiences you might encounter.
Feeding Your Newborn Baby The decision to breastfeed or bottle feed your infant will be one of the very first decisions you will have to make as a mother. This decision should be made very soon after the baby is born so that he or she can feed. When making this decision, consider which option is best for the health of both you and your baby. Our Newborn Feeding Guide For New Moms might help. Newborn Baby Sleeping Schedule Newborn infants will be sleeping the majority of the time. This is completely normal. However, if your newborn baby is not sleeping much, that could be cause for concern. Newborn babies will not sleep through the night and should not be expected to, as they need to feed often. If you are concerned about your newborn’s sleep habits, always ask the doctors in the hospital before discharge (or your baby’s pediatrician afterward). Diapering Diapering might be confusing at first, especially for those who have never changed a diaper before. Choosing between cloth and disposables is one of several things you may be pondering. You also might need to know exactly how to change a diaper, including how often to do so. There might also be concerns as to what a baby's stool should look like or whether or not to use any rash creams or powders. You can expect the doctors to instruct you about these subjects or refer you to the free classes in the hospital. Either will be very beneficial. Visitors Some mothers may enjoy having visitors after birth, while others may not want to be bothered by anyone but another parent of the baby. Whatever your decision, be sure to make it clear before giving birth. That way, you don’t have the stress of unwanted visitors at the hospital. Pacifiers Pacifiers have proven to decrease the risk of SIDS. They should be given to an infant shortly after birth. It can be helpful to bring more than one type of pacifier to the hospital, in case your baby does not prefer those offered in the hospital. You should expect the doctors to discuss pacifier use with you. Congestion If your baby is congested, be sure to mention it to the doctors right away, as it could be a sign of RSV, a very serious illness, especially in infants. Preemies are the most at risk for this, but any infant can develop RSV. Always immediately inform the doctor of any congestion in your infant. Fever Infants rarely get a fever. A fever could be a sign of infection, especially RSV. Inform the doctor right away if your baby has a fever. Since you will still be in the hospital, the doctors may even discover the fever before you do. It is routine for the doctors to keep track of a newborn's temperature. Lanugo Lanugo is thick hair in places on the infant you wouldn't normally see hair. This will disappear over time. Jaundice Jaundice is when the baby's skin is yellow in color. This can be a sign of infection. If you notice jaundice, tell the doctors right away. More From Lyn: How To Help A Newborn Poop Caring For Sensitive Baby Skin 5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant How Can I Cure My Formula-Fed Baby’s Vomiting? Cure Baby Diaper Rash Quickly and Naturally  Image © VaMedia; Flickr.com Caring for sensitive baby skin can seem like a difficult task at first. With some possible minor adjustments and a regular skin care routine, caring for sensitive baby skin is simple. As a mom to four children who have had eczema, I am very experienced with caring for sensitive baby skin. My knowledge on the topic has come from research, advice of doctors, as well as personal experience through trial and error.
Be Careful About Products One culprit for dry or irritated skin in babies lies in the products used to cleanse the skin. Many brands of soap and baby wash contain fragrances, dyes, and other unnecessary chemicals. These ingredients can be harsh, flaring up eczema or drying out sensitive baby skin. Unfortunately, products designed especially for babies can be some of the worst ones. Soap or baby wash that is fragrance free and made of pure ingredients is a better choice. Glycerin and oatmeal are some of the milder ones. Just be cautious that the soap doesn’t contain scents or other chemical ingredients. Some babies are even sensitive to plants, such as lavender or dandelion. Moisturizing Is Only Good If It’s Not The Culprit Not all moisturizers are equal in strength. Another thing to remember about caring for sensitive baby skin is that most moisturizers and lotions will contain chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. As mentioned in regards to the baby soap and wash, these ingredients are not good for a baby's sensitive skin. When looking for a lotion or cream for sensitive skin, check the ingredients. Even lotions and creams that say they are for sensitive skin may still contain fragrance. In our family’s case, pure organic coconut oil has been the best choice. The only ingredient should be the coconut oil. Pure tea tree oil buffered by pure olive oil is another solution. Again, the oils themselves should be the only ingredient. Detergents & Laundry Care Products sometimes forgotten about when caring for sensitive baby skin are things like detergent and other laundry care products. These products sometimes can irritate a baby's sensitive skin. In line with previously mentioned products, the ingredients could cause skin irritations. Babies need mild detergents and laundry care products for their clothing. Check the labels to be sure you are caring for sensitive baby skin with a fragrance free (and preferably all-natural) laundry soap with no harmful chemicals. Even sensitive products can pose a problem. So, it’s important to pay attention to the reactions of your baby’s skin. Some people like to use fabric refresher products, wrinkle care, or other products during storing and ironing baby clothing. Again, as with other products, many of these products contain fragrances, chemicals and dyes that can irritate the sensitive skin of babies. It is best simply to wash and dry baby clothing and avoid softeners and dryer sheets. A vinegar/baking soda detergent can be a safer alternative to your usual laundry detergent. Hanging them to dry in the sunshine can add freshness and possibly de-wrinkling properties. What’s In Your Baby’s Diapering Products? Baby wipes and other diapering products often contain chemicals and fragrances that are unnecessary and can be irritating to baby's skin. If you must use baby wipes and diaper creams, be sure to choose products that do not contain chemicals or fragrances. The best baby wipes for caring for sensitive baby skin are those whose ingredients list only purified water and possibly a vitamin or moisturizer. The cloth should be 100% natural and organic. It also should be unbleached. The best diapering creams should contain only a moisturizer and possibly some vitamins and minerals, such as with original A+D ointment. More From Lyn: How To Prevent Diaper Rash Common Causes Of Diaper Rash Be Green And Healthy With Natural Homemade Shampoo Homemade Moisturizing Body Wash 5 Green Ways To Make Homemade Hair Conditioner  Image © iskir; Flickr.com Oftentimes when thinking of baby formula allergies, parents may think of cow's milk baby formula. Did you know that babies can also be allergic to soy baby formula? In fact, if an infant is allergic to cow's milk, there is often an increased risk of that baby having a soy allergy as well. Perhaps my experiences with infant soy allergies can help you learn how to tell if your baby has a soy allergy.
Soy Milk vs Cow’s Milk Information found on the KidsHealth.org website states that the American Academy of Pediatrics purports a significant amount of babies with cow's milk allergies to have soy milk allergies as well. That definitely falls in line with my experiences. The first time one of my babies experienced an allergy to cow's milk formula, soy baby formula was recommended. She turned out to be allergic to that as well. Each subsequent child with a cow's milk allergy also had an allergy to soy milk. Even though my situation dealt with soy baby formula, breastfeeding moms who consume soy should also be aware of soy allergies in babies. Feeding Habits and Detecting a Soy Allergy To tell if your baby has a soy allergy, pay attention to feeding habits. It is much the same as figuring out if your baby has a cow's milk allergy or is lactose intolerant. Some of the common symptoms of a soy allergy in infant can include asthma, dermatitis or eczema, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pains, nausea, and many more. Much like any other food allergy, the symptoms may depend on the individual or the severity of the allergy. In rare, but severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur. Remember that some of these symptoms can also indicate or other issues or may be unrelated to the baby's diet at all. The only way to tell for sure that your baby has a soy allergy is to have it diagnosed by a pediatrician. However, observing the baby's actions can help you gather information that will help tell the pediatrician if your baby has a soy allergy. Therefore, even though you cannot accurately diagnose the allergy yourself, it is still important that you keep track of baby's symptoms and habits. Colic vs Food Allergies In some cases, it will be easy for you to tell if your baby might have a soy allergy. The symptoms might be so obvious that you know something has to be wrong. Also keep in mind that a gassy baby or one that is frequently fussy doesn't always indicate colic, even though this is sometimes the first thought. It could actually be a food allergy, such as soy. Look for the symptoms to occur shortly after feedings. They don't always happen like that, but if symptoms are generally appearing after feedings, that can be a good indicator that you're dealing with a soy allergy. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters. Sources: KidsHealth Wholesome Baby Food Mayo Clinic Mayo Clinic More from Lyn: What NOT To Do When Bottle-Feeding An Infant Newborn Feeding Guide for New Moms 5 Secrets To Successfully Bottle-Feeding Your Infant 5 Natural Ways to Relieve Infant Constipation Easy Discipline Tricks For Babies: How To Discipline Your Baby  Image © jchongstudio; Flickr.com Is your newborn baby struggling to make a bowel movement? You're not alone. Here's some tips on how to help a baby poop if he or she is constipated. This happens often and likely has nothing to do with you. However, pooping is important and a sign your baby is doing well. Therefore, not pooping can be a sign something is wrong with your newborn. Every parent needs to know how to make an infant poop without causing further issues.
Call the Doctor Not pooping could be nothing, but it also might be an indication something is wrong. Your first step should be a phone call to the pediatrician. Your baby can be examined and weighed to find out what’s going on. Sometimes constipation or inability to poop can indicate low breast milk production or that Baby isn’t getting fed often enough. It also may indicate a food or formula allergy, dehydration, or something more serious. Only your baby’s doctor can determine these issues. How Often Should a Newborn Poop? Most newborns will poop between 8-10 times per day because of their need to feed often. Missing a few of these isn’t usually a big deal. However, a parent should never hesitate to call the doctor if a newborn hasn’t had a bowel movement in 24 hours. If tips on how to help a baby poop aren’t working, this could be an indicator that something is wrong. Also, baby’s stools should not be too firm. Soothing Motions With Tummy and Back Rubs Sometimes, all it takes is the right motion or rubbing of the tummy. Some people will naturally want to bounce a fussy baby up and down. However, this is the wrong move for a cranky baby, especially one with an upset stomach or constipation, since it can worsen the symptoms. Instead, lie Baby across your lap on their tummy. Very gently sway your legs back and forth as you pat baby’s back softly. Also, gently massage baby’s sides. Repeat the same motion with Baby on their back, rubbing the tummy instead. Make sure the head is supported the whole time and your motion is gentle and not fast. This should help your newborn poop or at least make them comfortable until they can. Warm Cloths Can Be Stimulating If the above method doesn’t work, try placing a warm (not hot) cloth on Baby’s tummy and back. Do this for a few minutes at a time at the usual times Baby poops. Sometimes, a bowel movement may be more firm than Baby is used to, causing the baby to get stressed out and resist the urge to make a poop. The warm cloth can soothe the area and help the baby and their bowels relax more. Corn Syrup and Juice Warning for Newborns Infant juice can be used to ease constipation in infants over 2 months of age (who will take a drink other than formula and can support their head - water is thin and may pose a choking risk to younger infants). However, this method should never be used for a newborn baby. To help a newborn baby poop, instead use safer methods. Newborns can choke on juice, water, corn syrup, and other liquids that are not breast milk or approved infant formulas. A corn syrup and water mixture should not be used for any babies, for several reasons. Constipation in a newborn baby is painful and can be a cause for concern. Hopefully these tips to help a newborn poop will prove useful. But again, never hesitate to contact your baby’s doctor for the best advice and also if Baby hasn’t pooped at least once in a 24 hour period. More on Infant Constipation and How to Help a Baby Poop: 5 Natural Ways to Relieve Infant Constipation Crying Baby with Colic? Soothing Sounds Plus Bonus Tips to Comfort a Colicky Baby by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer  Because babies have unique laundering needs, special care should be taken when choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothes. There are a variety of factors to consider during the process. A good laundry detergent for baby clothes needs to do a good job of cleaning, but also should be sensitive to baby's clothing. Also to be considered is baby's skin. As a mom to multiple children, I have dealt with choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothing many times.
Planet Ultra Liquid Laundry Detergent Planet products are designed with eco-friendliness in mind. However, they also are a great option when choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothes. Planet Ultra Liquid Laundry Detergent works great on stains, is gentle on baby clothes, and most importantly is gentle on baby's skin. When choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothes, Planet Ultra Liquid Laundry Detergent is an excellent choice. It contains no fragrances, dyes, enzymes, or brighteners. Seventh Generation Baby Laundry Liquid Detergent Seventh Generation makes a special laundry detergent just for babies. When choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothes, Seventh Generation Baby Laundry Liquid Detergent is a great choice. This detergent is natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, hypo-allergenic, fragrance free, dye free, phosphate free, kosher certified, and not tested on animals. In addition, it cleans baby clothes very well, which makes it an even better choice when choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothing. Seventh Generation is named after the great Law of the Iroquois: "In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations." BabyGanics When choosing a laundry detergent for baby clothing, BabyGanics, like these other products, also should be high on the list. BabyGanics is fragrance free, contains no harsh chemicals, is dye free, and does not lower the effectiveness of fire-retardant sleepwear often worn by babies. In addition, BabyGanics laundry detergent is excellent at keeping baby clothing clean. BabyGanics promises its customers VOC free, organic, non caustic products that do not contain any harsh chemicals. They are committed to helping families obtain clean, chemical-free homes. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer 
What Happens when a Baby Never Crawls? Is This Dangerous?
More and more babies seem to be skipping the crawling milestone. Should this be cause for concern? While crawling is an important milestone, not every baby who doesn't crawl will be in danger further down the road, but it's possible that some very well could be. Crawling is usually viewed as a major milestone. However some babies are failing to crawl at all. Instead of crawling, they may just scoot to their favorite object or even pull up on furniture and use it to inch their way toward what they want. What many parents want to know is if their child skips crawling, could it be cause for concern? In retrospect, it seems to make sense that a child who doesn't crawl may lack intelligence or muscle development. However, there isn't any research that proves this theory and not enough evidence to show effects later in life. Many babies who don't crawl will still walk by the age of one, or even sooner, which is still in line with babies who do crawl. This fact alone could act as a small point of proof that development isn't affected, although there could be other effects not so noticeable. Many experts agree that failing to crawl, alone, is not enough evidence to show that a baby is behind in development, either physically or mentally. A concerned parent should look for more than one missed milestone. Missing just one milestone is not enough to prove that a problem exists, especially if a child hits a milestone that uses the same muscle or brain coordination and that milestone is above the missed one, such as replacing crawling with walking. However, missing more than one major milestone could be a valid reason for concern. This could signify either physical or mental problems and should be looked into as soon as possible, before any potential problem further escalates itself. If you are concerned about your baby, the best thing you can do is consult your child's pediatrician for the most accurate advice and diagnosis. A pediatrician can appropriately assess your child for proper physical development. This assessment is normally done at each routine physical, but if you are concerned at a time when a physical is not near, do not hesitate to contact your child's pediatrician. The sooner a potential problem is found, the sooner you, your child, and the pediatrician can work together at the appropriate solution.  Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved A good diaper changing station must have safety, comfort, and convenience in mind. Everything you need to diaper the baby should be right there where you'll use it. With those factors in mind, here are some of the items I recommend as diaper changing station must-haves.
Comfortable Changing Pad A comfortable baby is a happy baby. When the changing pad is comfy, baby can be more receptive to getting a diaper change. Just be sure that the changing pad you choose also meets safety standards. Safe changing pads will list the safety standards being complied with and should have the complementary label. Safety Strap Check to be sure your changing table includes a safety strap. If not, it may not meet safety standards. A safety strap is necessary to prevent falls or injuries to the baby during changing. Original A+D Ointment Instead of diaper creams and ointments, I always found original A+D ointment to be the most effective. This seems to be especially true in infants with sensitive skin issues. Diapers While I'm sure that having diapers in the diaper changing station area is a no-brainer, I couldn't leave it off a list of diapering supplies. Whether you use cloth diapers or disposable ones, be sure to keep plenty on hand. With cloth diapers, this means keeping up with laundering them and with disposables, make sure to always purchase extra. It’s always better to have too many than not enough. Onesies and T-Shirts Babies can go through onesies and t-shirts quite fast. I always have several on hand at the diaper changing station in case they are needed. These sometimes get soiled as often as diapers. So, changing them at the same time diapers are changed is a good habit to keep. Toys Baby toys are a great addition to the diaper changing station, as they keep baby occupied. This is especially helpful for babies who aren't too fond of changing time. Be sure that the toys at the changing station are different from the regular toys and that they are switched out every so often. Baby Wipes Like the diapers, this is probably an obvious recommendation. However, it also cannot be left out. Baby wipes are essential to changing a baby. Whether you go the natural route with homemade baby wipes or purchase store-bought disposables, keep plenty on hand. Cleaning Supplies Always make sure the diaper changing station is clean for your baby. Just like you would wash your hands before and after each use, clean the changing station that often as well. Be sure the cleaning supplies you choose are appropriate for cleaning in nursery areas. Clean Blankets Even if your baby is no longer a newborn, receiving blankets are the perfect size for covering the diaper changing station. They are easy to replace in between diaper changes and are thin enough so that plenty can be stocked for use. Diaper Pail It can be very convenient to have a diaper pail near the diapering area. Whether you use a system designed to seal away the diapers until emptied or a more simple design, choose one that will easily fit in the area without blocking the path to the baby or to essentials. This is true for both cloth diapers and disposables. Although, depending on the way you change and clean up after your baby, it’s sometimes more convenient to keep the diaper pail in or near the restroom. *I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network
Eliminate The Need To Haul Playpen/Bassinet To Park Or Other Outing
Baby can get worn out in the most inconvenient places, but it's up to the parents to prepare for this. With a double stroller, you can just lie the back seat down and bring up the footrest or under-attachment for protecting baby from falling. All four sides will be secure and create a quick napping spot that is also safe and comfortable. It can also act as a bassinet for smaller babies. If you have a particularly fussy baby, this can come in handy. Just pull the stroller back and forth to create motion for a cranky baby. Most double strollers also have a 4-way harness system (much like that of a car seat, but a bit thinner) in the back seat to prevent a small baby from rolling. The footrests usually also will latch upright. Some models may allow two such resting areas. No Need To Hunt Down a Sanitary Changing Station Changing a baby when you're on the go can be a challenge. You need a place to do it, which can't always be found and then if you do find a spot, it is rarely clean or sanitary. That's when your back seat in the double stroller comes in handy. Lie it all the way back and strap baby in with the correct buckle (harness or regular), depending on baby's age. Now you have a clean and safe surface for changing baby. This can also be a good spot to change baby's clothing if it gets soiled. If You Get Pregnant Again, It's One Less Item To Buy Sometimes a new baby will come right after the first or at least two years apart. The first child is still in the stroller, but now a second child will be in the stroller as well. Well, have no fear. You've already purchased the double stroller, so you're one step ahead in that department. Most Infant Car Seats Can Attach To Both Seats Lugging around the car seat of a sleeping baby is not exactly fun, but you don't want to wake baby, either. Most double strollers allow for two infant seats to be attached to the stroller easily. You may only need to attach one, but if so, you'll still have room for another child or some cargo. Cross-branding is okay, too because many models, like the Graco DuoGlider (mentioned above), will give instructions for latching other brands into the stroller properly. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network
by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer
 Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved You've made the decision to bottle feed your infant. Now you want to be sure it's successful. Whether you are using breast milk or formula, these 5 secrets to successfully bottle feeding your infant may come in handy. My experiences as a mother and former nanny, in addition to research over the years, has taught me some great lessons that I hope will help others. Choose the Proper Nourishment Infants have sensitive stomachs. They also each have their own specific nutritional needs. A big part of successfully bottle feeding your infant is the choice of formula. You may use breastmilk exclusively, a combination of breastmilk and formula, or formula alone. If you are choosing formula, it is important to check with the pediatrician to be sure the brand and type you choose meets the needs of your baby. Choose the Correct Bottles Successfully bottle feeding an infant also lies in the bottle choice. Choose a bottle design that allows for the least amount of air bubbles to flow out with formula. Too many air bubbles can cause gas. Check not only the bottle itself, but the nipples and attachments as well. If the nipples flow too quickly, that also can cause too much air to escape while baby is feeding. The best bottle systems are designed to keep out air and have choices of nipples with varying flow levels. For instance, newborns should use nipples with a slower flow. However, older babies will swallow too much air from trying too hard on a nipple with very slow flow. The flow should match the baby’s efforts and abilities. Burp Baby Often Even with the best bottle systems, a baby is still going to need to be burped frequently. This does not mean the bottles aren't working. It is simply a normal action that should occur during and after feeding. Successfully bottle feeding an infant is about nourishing the baby as well as making sure the baby is comfortable as possible. Relieving the baby by burping him or her is part of that. Talk with your pediatrician about proper burping techniques if you’re having difficulties with what was instructed by the medical professionals at your birthing location. Keep Bottles at Correct Angle There is no general angle that will apply to all bottles because there are so many different designs. However, keeping bottles at the correct angle for their design and baby’s needs will be integral to successfully bottle feeding your infant. The bottle should be held at an angle that allows the formula or breast milk to flow without any air pockets. Some bottles are designed with a tilted position that helps with this, while others are not. Follow the directions that come with the bottle, as well as instructions from the pediatrician. Hold Infant Close and at Proper Angle Another very important aspect of successfully bottle feeding your infant will be bonding. Be sure to hold the baby close and at an appropriate angle for feeding. Baby's head and chest should be elevated and your baby should be supported at all points. Perhaps the most common bottle feeding position is to lie baby in the lap and support his or head with one arm, holding the baby close. Use the opposite hand to feed the bottle to the baby. Ask the pediatrician to instruct you of proper feeding positions shortly after birth. -- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters. *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network  Image © Roger Schultz; Flickr.com According to reports from various sources, such as TheFrisky and DailyMail, parents have been using baby wigs to enhance the look of their infants. This trend may be most popular with parents of bald babies. Is a baby wig necessary for a bald infant? Is it safe? Bald Babies Probably since the beginning of time, some babies are naturally born bald. It's simply a fact of life. Does this mean there is something wrong with the way these babies look? Apparently, that depends on who you ask. Some parents support the use of wigs on babies, especially girls, for reasons like making them appear more girly or look like celebrities. Other parents, such as myself, oppose the use of wigs on infants for any reason. Which of us is right? Why Some Parents Support Using a Baby Wig According to another report on TheFrisky.com, one mother sent pictures of her infant in a lace front wig to another website. The report stated in the mother's view it's never too early for a child start looking as glamorous as stars like Beyonce. Looking at the picture, to me the baby looks no more than six months old. Another website, Baby Bangs, creates hairbands for baby girls that have hair attached to them. This site claims that the wigs allow baby girls who have little to no hair the chance to look girly. Why Some Parents and Experts Are Against Wigs for Babies According to DailyMail, Michelle Elliott of Kidscape said "This is ridiculous. Any parent who buys one of these wigs for their child needs their head examining." The report also says that she pointed out how dangerous wigs could be for babies. Apparently, this was her response to the wigs on BabyToupee.com that are modeled after hairstyles of current superstars such as Lil Kim, Bob Marley, and Donald Trump. As a mother, stepmother, and former nanny, I do not agree with wigs for infants either. This especially is true when it comes to wigs that require gluing. Another thought that comes to my mind is safety. Are Baby Wigs Safe? The FAQ on the Baby Bangs website states that the Baby Bangs hair+bands have been safety-tested and approved for infants ages 0-9 months. I could find no information on who conducted the safety testing. That's not to say that it isn't valid, but upon my visits to the site, I could find no information regarding the source of any safety testing. As for the other types of wigs, BabyToupee.com states on the front page that the wigs are safe for ages 0-9 months as well. I could find no other safety information regarding these or any other wigs for babies. As a mother, the fact that I am unable to locate any specific safety information does not make me very comfortable. Should Parents Really Use Baby Wigs for Bald Babies? Because baby wigs are more of a vanity accessory than an actual need, I would have to conclude that they are not necessary. My personal thoughts are that all babies are beautiful no matter how little or how much hair they have. There have been bald babies for ages and it's very likely that the majority went without a wig as a baby. My take is that kids can already pick up on so many vanity and self-esteem issues as is. Why add to that by covering up their natural beauty, especially at such an early age? That's not even taking into account any safety issues that may arise. Should parents use them? I can't be the judge of what others do. But I do hope that parents do their research and make a wise decision. UPDATE: Since I first published this story several years ago, many more wig stores featuring products for babies have come about. *I originally published this content via Yahoo Contributor Network  Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved As you get closer to that big day, the day of your precious baby's birth, a variety of things will be going on inside your head, as well as your home. You probably will find yourself on a countdown of sorts. Anxiousness and excitement are just a couple of the emotions you might be feeling. Likely, with the help of your newfound "nesting" instinct, your home will be undergoing changes, preparing for the arrival of the new baby. Seeing your precious little one through ultrasound or sonogram and hearing his or her tiny persistent heartbeat during the final stages of pregnancy may have you steadily finding yourself on a countdown. How many days until it is time for baby's arrival? You have been carrying and nurturing this sweet bundle and you are anxious to not only see the fruits of your labor but to meet this little person you have somehow come to love without yet seeing in the outside world. It can be beneficial to feel excited or anxious, but it can also cause stress. One way to avoid this type of situational stress is to pour that anxiousness and excitement into planning for the baby's arrival. This is where the excitement and anxiousness actually will come in handy. There is plenty to do and plan for. Keep busy at it and before you know it, your pregnancy will be over and you will have given birth, in what can seem like a blink of an eye. Creating lists for each task can help make this aspect easier. Writing is also a great stress reliever, so the lists could have more than one benefit. One thing you may be planning on your countdown is the type and style of furniture you would like in your baby's nursery. There could also be wall decorating or painting, the choosing of the nursery bedding, packing the hospital diaper bag for mom and for after the birth of the baby and many more tasks. A baby needs various supplies, some small and some large. It may take some time to come up with everything you feel is necessary, which is perfect for keeping your mind busy and focused, rather than stressed about the countdown to the big day. Another great thing to do while on your birth countdown is to talk to family and friends who have experience with pregnancy and birth. Asking them what they did in their final days could yield some great tips and possibly uncover some ideas on preparing for the baby that you may not have thought about previously. Spending time laughing with friends and family can also be beneficial in preparing for the new baby. Not only can it be a stress reliever, but once baby comes, you may not be as available for this special time. For this reason, getting plenty of rest during the birth countdown is also a good idea. *I originally published a version of this content via Yahoo Contributor Network 
Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved
It's three o'clock in the morning and your baby is not happy. You check all the usual needs. It's not yet time for a feeding. The baby does not seem to have gas. The pacifier is not satisfying him. You then check to see if the diaper is soiled. Now you know why the baby is upset. He is uncomfortable, due to a diaper rash. But, you have a problem. You have no diaper rash ointments and the stores are all closed.
Having multiple children, I've been there a time or two (or more). Don't worry. Those over-the-counter products are not always the best for baby's skin anyhow. Many home diaper rash remedies are simple to prepare and very effective. Below are three of my favorite home diaper rash remedies. You likely have at least one of these home diaper rash remedies on hand already. An oatmeal bath is one of my favorite home diaper rash remedies. This simple homemade diaper rash remedy takes away the itching and discomfort. It also helps to heal and soften the skin. To make an oatmeal bath suitable for home diaper rash remedies, you'll need an adult-sized tube sock and some old-fashioned oats. Generic brands work just as well as brand names. Fill the tube sock about halfway with the old-fashioned oats. Then, tie the open end with a knot. Run the bathwater as usual. Swish the sock around in the water for about 30 seconds. Remove the sock from the water and squeeze the excess liquid into the water. Then, give the baby a bath as normal. This method works in a baby bathtub or regular bathtub. Use the appropriate bathtub for your baby, depending on his or her age. Another of my favorite home diaper rash remedies, homemade baby powder, has been around for centuries. Home diaper rash remedies are often very simplistic in nature, but many are effective as well. For this homemade diaper rash remedy, it is no different. All that is need for homemade baby powder is flour and a saucepan. Heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat. Add 1 cup of flour. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until lightly browned. Pour into a cup. Test the flour before applying to baby's diaper area. The flour should be warm to the touch, but should not be warm enough to irritate the skin. This should be applied after each diaper change. This home diaper rash remedy helps to soak up excess moisture. Excess moisture is a leading cause of many different types of diaper rash. While a common ingredient in over the counter baby powders, talc (or talcum) can be harmful when breathed into a baby's lungs. Milk of Magnesia (commonly used as a treatment for heartburn) is also on my favorite list of home diaper rash remedies. This simple home diaper rash remedy only requires a bottle of milk of magnesia and a soft cloth. Simply apply milk of magnesia to the affected area with the soft cloth after each diaper change. Allow the area to fully dry before placing a clean diaper on baby. Note: These home diaper rash remedies are for common diaper rashes. Diaper rashes due to a bacterial or viral infection must be examined by a licensed medical professional. If a baby's diaper rash is not improving, see a licensed medical professional. These tips are intended for informational purposes only. RELATED: How to Prevent Diaper Rash Cure Baby Diaper Rash Quickly and Naturally Diaper Rash Treatment * I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network
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Diaper rashes can be very uncomfortable for babies. Therefore, parents must learn about diaper rash treatment to keep an affected baby happy. There are many different causes for diaper rash in infants. Therefore, diaper rash treatment will vary, depending on the cause and symptoms.
In simple terms, diaper rash is an irritation to baby's diaper area. Diaper rash does not always appear the same, due to the variety of causes. No matter the type of diaper rash, it can be uncomfortable to a bay, so prompt treatment is necessary. The most common symptom of diaper rash is obviously a rash in the diaper area. Diaper rash may also be accompanied by pain, itchiness, or discomfort by baby. In some cases, the skin also may become raw, which is painful. The first and best treatment for diaper rash is prevention. Because diaper rash can be caused by many things, preventing diaper rash lies in understanding the main causes. The most common cause of diaper rash is diaper chafing. Diaper chafing can occur for various reasons, many of which link to excess moisture or skin irritants. To prevent diaper rash from diaper chafing, keep the baby's diaper clean with frequent changes. Also, make sure the diaper is not too tight or too loose. The materials should be 100% natural and if they are cloth diapers, should be cleaned only in mild detergents that do not contain chemicals, dyes, or fragrances. All natural detergents are best. Never use bleach on cloth diapers or baby clothing and always use an extra rinse cycle. Other causes for diaper rash include infection and allergic reactions (from detergents, diaper fibers, clothing fibers, elastic, baby wipes, foods, etc...). Treatment of diaper rash will depend on the cause. Aside from keeping baby changed frequently, heated, unbleached flour can be used to keep moisture away from the affected area. An oatmeal bath can also be given to baby. This will moisturize the skin and ease the discomfort from the itching and pain. Allow baby to air dry after each change, as well as after the oatmeal bath. Fresh air can help the healing. Also, keeping the skin dry can prevent excess moisture in the diaper area. If the diaper rash is due to a yeast infection or other infection, the doctor will likely prescribe a topical treatment in an ointment form. Follow those guidelines as directed by a licensed medical professional. It is normal for babies to get a yeast infection in the diaper area, due to the possibility of excess moisture. Any diaper rash that does not show improvement after a day or so should be followed up with an appointment at the pediatrician's office. Only a licensed medical professional can diagnose an infection and make the recommended treatment. It is better to go and find out that it is a normal diaper rash than to avoid going and learn through your baby's discomfort that you should have gone sooner. Note: The author is not a licensed medical professional. She simply is an experienced parent, sharing knowledge she has gained through years of parenting and research. This guide is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed medical professional for medical advice. RELATED: How to Prevent Diaper Rash Cure Baby Diaper Rash Quickly and Naturally *I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network
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Lyn Lomasi is founder and owner of the Brand Shamans network. She is your brand healing, soul healing, marketing & content superhero to the rescue! Running a network of websites, tackling deadlines single-handedly, and coaching fellow writers, brands, & entrepreneurs to be thought leaders is her top priority.
While rescuing civilians from boring content and brands, this awesomely crazy family conquers the world, managing Intent-sive Nature while going on Upstream Parenting adventures & lessons, sometimes in an RV. They strive to cuddle with lions and giraffes. Until then, they settle for rescue dogs and cats. By supporting us, you support a single parent, healer, and minority small business that donates to and/or stands for several causes, including homeless pets, homeless people, trans youth, equality, helping starving artists, and more! A portion of all proceeds from our all-inclusive store, Intent-sive Nature goes toward worthy causes. For guidance in the world of freelance writing or for advice on her specialty topics, Ask Lyn. Archives
July 2016
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