Vaccinate
If your baby is six months or older, be sure to get him a flu shot. Keep in mind the vaccination takes two weeks to start working. For good measure, have the entire family vaccinated to prevent unnecessarily exposing your baby to the flu.

Stay Home
Keep your child at home as much as possible between October and April. Avoid attending events involving large public crowds in an effort to prevent exposing him from dangerous viruses.

If you do attend an event, such as a holiday party, keep your baby close to you by declining others who ask to hold him or kiss and hug him. A good way to prevent unwanted contact is to keep your child in a car seat or stroller during these outings. This makes them less accessible to the public.

Sanitize
Adopt the practice of sanitizing incessantly. When away from the house, carry hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Sanitize your hands prior to holding or touching your baby.

When going to the grocery store or restaurant, wipe down any surfaces (highchair, shopping cart, table, etc.) you might touch with a wipe.

Also be sure to clean your baby’s hands and face with warm, soapy water frequently and pay special attention to items he tries to put in his mouth. Your overall objective is to maintain a sterile, clean environment for your child.

On the same note, remember to sanitize your home often. Concentrate of frequently touched items and surfaces in the home. This includes phones, remote controls, keyboards, doorknobs, counters, toilet handles, etc. Sanitizing can be done with a sanitizing wipe or an easy to use sanitizing spray.

Keep The Sick Away
If a family member becomes sick, keep them as far away from you and your baby as possible. Along with preventing the spread of germs to your baby, you want to ensure that you do not become sick as well. In the event you fall ill, consider handing over your parenting duties to a trusted family member to limit contact between you and the baby.

Utilize the “Well Room”Most doctors’ offices have a well room and sick room in their waiting areas. If your child is due for an appointment, keep him or her in the well room and away from any children or adults who appear sick. The waiting area is packed with germs, making this an especially important aspect of keeping your baby healthy.

According to the Department of Agriculture, on average, parents can expect to dish out nearly $300,000 from the time a baby is born until he or she reaches the age of 17. Compare this figure to just nine years ago in 2000 when experts calculated the 17-year expense of a child at $165,000.

The first year of a baby’s life can quickly add up to nearly $12,000 in expenses including babysitters, food, clothes, and the infant’s share of transportation, utilities, and housing.

The good news is there are ways to save while providing for your baby. The following five tips are designed to keep money in your pocket without compromising the life you envision for your child.

Secondhand Doesn’t Mean Second-rate
Think twice before you decline hand-me-down items offered by friends and family – especially when they are for your baby. Infants tend to grow so fast and have very little time actually do damage to their clothing. Sure some clothes are lost to inevitable food stains. But overall, the clothing isn’t worn out.

Even better, if someone offers you clothes in styles you aren’t fond of or clothes for a different gender, sort through the items, keep what you want and take the rest to your local second hand store that will trade you cash or store credit for the items.

Also, don’t be afraid to explore the aisles of local second hand stores (or online auction sites such as eBay). Keep in mind there are hidden treasures waiting for you to find them. Ask the store cashier when they usually put new merchandise out and make it a point to be at the store during this time so you have first pick of quality clothes for a less expensive price.

Keep It SimpleMost stores would like for you to believe that you need an assortment of products to properly care for your child. This is not the case. If you have a car seat, crib, diapers and milk for your baby, the rest can wait.

Don’t Fill The Toy Box
It’s easy to lavish our babies with fun and exciting toys, but the truth is your baby’s favorite toy is most likely you or a caregiver. Your baby doesn’t need all those other items and while it would be nice to provide such toys, it isn’t necessary.

Opt For Breast Milk
According to Consumer Report, parents spend nearly $2,000 on formula per baby each year. While some women have medical reasons that prevent them from providing their child with breast milk, most do not. Consider either breast feeding your child or pumping your breast milk to bottle-feed.

Sign Up For Coupons
There are plenty of manufactures out their who would love to send you coupons and welcome kits (that include free samples) for you and your child. Don’t be shy. Sign up to receive your free gifts.

At this time, there is no morning sickness drug approved for consumption in the United States. Statistically, most women suffer from morning sickness during the first trimester of pregnancy. Some are subjected to morning sickness considerably longer and a small percentage is sick during the entire pregnancy. In the past, physicians have utilized strategies including eating small meals on a frequent basis or eating crackers to ward off nausea.

In Israel, the study examined approximately 82,000 births in which metoclopramide was used. The research indicates that there is no difference regarding natal problems and birth defects between women who did or did not take the drug.

According to New York’s Mount Sinai M.C. obstetrics director, Dr. Keith Eddleman, said, the study’s findings are “comforting.” Eddleman went on to say that many mothers are unwilling simply based on stories they have heard and the idea that they might cause injury to the baby.

The complete results were recently printed in the New England Journal of Medicine. While its findings are encouraging, it is important to note that the study did not consider the effectiveness of the drug itself.

For many, morning sickness is less than a nuisance, but for others, it can make the pregnancy extremely difficult. Some expecting mothers have experienced severe weight loss during pregnancy. Regardless, mothers and doctors alike have been reluctant to utilize drugs to combat the illness because of the possibility of complications in the pregnancy or fetus.

For example, in the 1960’s both Canada and Europe utilized a drug called Thalidomide that was later found to produce newborns with shortened or missing limbs. In the 1980’s another company released Bendectin that many claimed also caused deformities in the limbs. Studies of the drug never actually linked the drug to the deformities. But still, the idea of harming the fetus lingers in the minds of mothers and their doctors.

Studying the use of anti-nausea medication in pregnant women is considered controversial considering the possibility of accidentally harming the fetuses involved in the study.

Researchers in Thailand and Hong Kong now say they have discovered a method in which to diagnose inherited “monogenic” diseases with a simple blood test. The monogenic diseases are sparked by a single inaccuracy in one gene of the DNA.
“Such diseases can be diagnosed by a simple blood test ... and by counting the relative ratio of the mutant genes against the normal genes,” Dennis Lo, researcher leader at Hong Kong’s Chinese University, said. The blood test, Lo said, is taken from the mother and bares no risk to the fetus.

According to Lo, the maternal blood test is possible because the DNA of the fetus circulates in the mother’s blood. Lo and some fellow researchers discovered this known fact many years ago.
Several researchers have since attempted to determine the best method to make a distinction between maternal DNA and fetal DNA, before it is possible to identify anomalies found in the DNA from the fetus. These efforts, however, have been unsuccessful for the most part.

In a recent article found in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Lo and his researchers claimed they designed a counting structure that may possibly bring non-invasive prenatal analysis of monogenic disorders into the realm of reality.
Using exceedingly exact digital testing equipment, both normal and mutant DNA sequences are reviewed in maternal blood. The blood count is then utilized to determine the amount of distorted genes inherited by the unborn child and to decide the likelihood of the baby developing a monogenic disorder.

Lo, did note the accurateness of his technique depends on the amount of DNA from the fetus present in the maternal blood during testing.

If identified at its earliest stage, physicians have a better chance of treating the monogenic disease and gaining the best results. For example, thalassaemia is known to cause a reduction in fertility or, in some cases, infertility. However, when treated early, the quality of the patient’s life is greatly improved.

Choosing Organic Baby Toys
When shopping for organic baby toys, avoid phthalates that are known to cause cancer and are associated with infertility. In addition, keep in mind that polyvinyl chloride (also known as PVC) is found in plastic baby toys. PVC has also been linked to many health ailments including cancer. Lastly, consider the materials that plush toy is made of before it makes its way into the nursery. Mostly likely (unless otherwise indicated) stuffed animals contain synthetic fibers that contain petrochemicals. While the industry standards find this acceptable, organic mommies think twice about the idea of letting their babies roll around with a toy that gives off toxic gas even after being washed.

Organic Diapers
Making the switch from disposable to organic diapers is a major lifestyle change. In the long run, however, cloth diapers are not only environmentally friendly, but baby friendly as well. Before deciding on which is best for your family, consider this – disposable diapers are filled with gels, pesticides, chlorine, and other toxins. These toxins can be absorbed through the skin of the baby and straight into the blood stream. Once a disposable diaper is thrown away, it takes up to 500 years for it to break down in a landfill. Compare that figure to organic cloth diapers that can be used as many as 150 times and then recycled into hand rags.

If cloth diapers are a bit too much to take on, consider a combination of the two. You can utilize chlorine-free disposable diapers for outings and bedtime and reserve the cloth diapers for times when you and your baby are at home. Remember, every little bit helps.

Organic Skin Care For Baby
Did you know that a baby’s skin exceptionally thinner than yours? In fact, your baby has skin that is five times thinner than the average adult. Keep this fact in mind when considering what skin care products to use on your child. Ask your pediatrician to refer you to a baby skin care product that is both safe and age-appropriate.

Organic Labels
Perhaps you have already seen the USDA “Organic” label in stores and on baby products. When you buy USDA Organic labels, you are purchasing an item that is free of antibiotics, genetically modified organisms, food additives, pesticides, irradiation, and other synthetic chemicals that are dangerous to your baby. Organic labels can be found on a variety of items including cotton, skin care items, and food.

So what should you expect on the day? While labor pains may greatly differ from one woman to another, you will know you are in labor when you feel regular and frequent contractions. These contractions cause the cervix to open and shorten in the body’s preparation for delivery.

Call your doctor when:
• Your water bag breaks, most especially if the fluid is greenish brown or stained dark
• In cases of vaginal bleeding
• When contractions is 5 to 10 minutes apart
• When you cannot walk during contractions
• If you have concerns about your personal well-being and that of the baby

Hospital Arrival

Upon arrival to the hospital, you or your husband will be asked to fill out hospital admission paperwork. This will include insurance information, although this can be done in advance through your doctor. You will be led to the delivery room and be asked to change into a hospital gown to prepare for the examination to see how dilated the cervix is.

Labor Stages

Stage 1 - Contractions
• Dilated and open cervix up to 10 centimeters
• Regular contractions

Stage 2 – Pushing and Delivery
• The average length of this stage is one to two house
• Cervix is fully open to make way for the baby

Stage 3 – Delivery of the Placenta
• After the birth of the baby, the placenta follows

Coping with Labor Pains

The intensity and difficulty of labor differ among women, and is greatly dependent on the size and position of the baby. Most women are able to manage the contraction pains through breathing techniques that are usually taught during childbirth classes. However, there are actually a number of ways to make labor as comfortable as possible. This includes the following:

• Relaxation techniques
• Breathing exercises
• Pain-relieving drugs

It is important for parents to learn the possible options available at the birthing center or hospital. It is equally important to go over and discuss in detail these options as well as personal preferences with your healthcare provider before the delivery period. This will help you gain better perspective on what’s to come as well as what to expect.

Most medical experts advise that it is best to remain flexible as the labor progresses as it may take an unexpected turn, which may require you a change of plan. So be sure to explore the possibilities and make all the necessary preparations.

But before you do raid the malls with loads of baby stuff you plan to buy before the arrival of the baby, it is important to know the essential baby products that you should be on your list. Take a cue for some veteran mothers share the essential products that your baby would need to ensure optimum safety and comfort.

Car Seat - this gear is simply a must for traveling your baby from point A to point B or even if you don’t intend to take the baby out by car. Most hospitals today ensure that a car seat is available before agreeing to release the infant and the month. It is also a government regulation to use a car seat when traveling with an infant.

Baby Carrier – carrying a baby around can b a tiresome business. A good front or back carrier is important to help you carry your baby around with more ease. It will free up your hands at the same time promote more physical closeness between the baby and the parent.

Baby Stroller – A sturdy stroller becomes highly useful as a safety mechanism when bringing the baby for a walk. Strollers have breaks to help you maneuver even uneven terrains and an adjustable hood to protect the baby from direct sunlight.
Diaper Changing Station – a portable changing station becomes a convenient way to change your baby’s diaper both at home and away.

Soft Baby Toys – let’s admit it, you cannot expect your bundle of joy will not be always on his/her best behavior at all times. Make sure to bring along his/her favorite toys to keep them entertained and preoccupied when the need arises as well as help improve their motor skills.

Baby Wipes – aside from wiping poops and urine, baby wipes becomes handy in cleaning and wiping just about any accidental spills and dirt. Most healthcare providers advice to use unscented baby wipes to avoid skin irritation to sensitive baby skin.

There are a number of plausible causes for diaper rash but it is primarily due to the wetness of the feces and urine. It is important that the diaper is changed frequently to prevent rashes and the baby skin will not be exposed to waste for prolonged period. It is also important to remember that baby wipes may also contain chemicals that can aggravate the rash. Warm water and soft tissue would be the simplest way to clean your baby when changing the diaper.
Preventing diaper rash:

While it is true that diaper rashes are a common occurrence among babies, there is preventive measure available to avoid it altogether and save your baby from discomfort.

• Frequently change diapers
• Change soiled diapers right away
• Try different brands of diaper
• Wipe well
• Use unscented wipes or simple plain water
• Use petroleum ointment or white zinc oxide

Homemade Treatment for diaper rash

Step 1
Mix cornstarch and Desitin Original in a bowl, stir and add small amounts of Mylanta until it forms a nice smooth paste. You can store this concoction for future use.

Step 2
Change the baby’s diaper using water. Gently wipe the baby’s bottom and let it air dry for a few minutes. Apply the ointment liberally into the affected area. Let the mixture dry and rinse off before reapplying it again on dry skin.

Step3
As much as possible avoid sugary juices that can help the yeast grow and aggravate the condition.

There is no question why there are so many numerous drugs and prescriptions on the marketplace. Each disease, infection, or challenge requires a different kind of treatment in order to correctly solve what is wrong. The same holds true when treating yeast infections with your infant. Every case is different which makes it all the more important you understand how to appropriately care for your infant.

One of the most commonly found yeast infections with infants is typically thought to be a diaper rash. Yeast feeds off of moist areas which is exactly what you will find in any baby's diaper. For this reason, it is important you keep your baby's skin as dry as possible.

You can do this by using a liner that will help wick away moisture from the skin. After all, it can be difficult to know every second when your baby has gone to the bathroom. An alternative recommendation is to place your baby on an open diaper when they are sleeping so their skin can air dry. The more time your infant's skin has to air dry the better off they are.

Another kind of yeast infection that is common with babies is thrush. Thrush is an oral form of yeast infection that is found in the mouth. This is one of the most common reasons infants do not want to drink formula or breast feed. If you begin to notice a change in their eating and drinking habits you are going to want to get this checked out.

Oral thrush with babies is typically seen as white unpleasant patches on the tongue and gums. As the mother breast feeds, the yeast infection will many times show as sore or cracked nipples. The best way to go about treating yeast infections that are oral is to visit a health care provider.

No matter what type of yeast infection you are treating, make sure you stay away from using creams with boric acid, phenols or methyl salicylate unless it is recommended by your health care provider. The reason for this is because the doses that are placed in these creams can be detrimental to a small infant. Health care providers will in general prescribe these types of creams if the baby will be under their supervision.

It is valuable you understand how to go about treating yeast infections with your infant accurately. There is not a single method that will work every time being that there are several another kinds of infections and numerous places the infection can arise. For this reason, take the time to investigate and learn about yeast infections so you can treat your child the best way possible.

To cure yeast infection please visit: http://www.cureyeastreview.com and http://www.CenterforHealthControl.com

Felix Babanao-Frankson

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In today's society, it can be difficult for a mom to find the time to breast feed her child. Or it may simply be inconvenient because of being out in public. In these circumstances, many women choose to use expressed breast milk. Expressing is the act of mechanically squeezing milk from the breast and storing it in a bottle. The expressing is normally done using a pump. Expressed milk also comes in handy if the mom cannot be around and has to leave her baby in the care of a baby sitter, nanny, or her husband.

Expressed milk can remain good for quite a while if stored correctly. There are plastic bottles and bags made especially for holding and storing this milk. The milk can be placed in the freezer and refrigerator to extend it's shelf life. It is true that expressed milk stored in the freezer will lose some of it's nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes, much the same as any other food. But even so, unless you are sick, it will most likely still be healthier for your child than any formula that you purchase from the store.

To test if expressed milk is good, simply smell it. As long as it doesn't smell bad, it's probably still good. You should be able to store expressed milk at room temperature for up to six or eight hours with no ill effects from it.

Sometimes babies that have been used to breastfeeding have difficulty learning to suckle milk from a bottle. In these cases, the probable culprit is that sucking from a bottle requires a slightly different set of mouth motions than sucking from a breast. So the baby has to learn new eating habits, which most infants are reluctant to do after about 4 weeks. Now, nearly all babies will be bottle fed at some time or other. So to avoid or lessen problems later, it's probably best to at least introduce a child to a bottle a few times in the first 4 weeks or so. This way it's not a foreign experience to her when you try to get her to suckle from a bottle at a later time.

When choosing a baby bottle in which to store milk, you will typically have a choice between the 4 ounce and 8 ounce sizes. You can probably count on using both sizes at some point or other, so you may as well get one or more quantities of both sizes. You can also choose to buy permanent bottles or disposable ones. One of the most important features to look for in a feeding bottle is one with anti-gas properties. Anti-gas features can do a lot towards preventing your child from sucking in air with her milk which can cause cramps and other discomforts.

Normally, when breastfeeding her child, the woman should sit in a near upright position, leaning slightly backwards. This decreases the chance of the baby swallowing air. It's also a very comfortable position for the woman, enabling her to hold the child firmly while she wraps the baby around her.

Jill Viland writes articles on children, weddings, and baby related topics. For her latest article on feeding baby please visit her web page.

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