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Twins occur when a woman becomes pregnant with two children from one conception. Twins are carried in the womb together and delivered at the same time. Irish twins occur when a woman has a baby within 12 months of having another child. As you can tell twins and Irish twins are very different, but that still doesn’t explain everything. Why are they called “Irish twins” if they aren’t twins? Where did the term come from? Are women even able to have children so soon after birth? What does it look like for your health and well-being to have two children so close together? In this article, we will explore the answer to those questions and more. What does the phrase Irish Twins Mean? “Irish” twins is a phrase that refers to when two children are born within 12 months of one another to the same mother. These siblings are born so close together that they are practically twins. Is it Offensive? Many people use the phrase as a way to describe the small age gap between siblings. Some people who are “Irish twins” may even use the phrase to describe themselves. However, the phrase originated as derogatory slang towards Irish Catholic people, so it is in its essence offensive. History of the term “Irish Twins” During the early 19th century when many Europeans were emigrating to the United States, the term Irish Twins became a popular derogatory slang against Irish Catholic people. The Catholic faith is the dominant faith of Ireland and therefore many people who immigrated to the U.S. from Ireland were practicing Catholics. In the Catholic faith, birth control is thought to be sinful and against the will of God. Therefore, many practicing Catholics are taught to avoid birth control. This avoidance causes many women to become pregnant soon after they give birth. Because of this, many Irish Catholic families are quite large with many children. With a large family and few work opportunities in the U.S., many of the Irish immigrants were poor. Therefore, “Irish twins” was a slur that was used to imply that a family had more children than they could support. Today, there is not a negative stigma against Irish people in the United States so many people do not think of the term as offensive. However, based on its history, it is probably wise not to use the term. Instead, you can just refer to them as siblings who are close-in-age or as closely spaced siblings. Risks of Having "Irish Twins" Recent research has discovered that becoming pregnant within six months of giving birth does lead to increased risks on the fetus. These risks include Higher chance of a premature birth Placental abruption Low birth weight Congenital disorders Maternal/Gestational anemia The precise reason for these risks is still unknown. However, researchers believe it has to do with the mother’s inability to heal properly between pregnancies. Pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding all deplete a woman’s nutrients--particularly folate. These nutrients are essential when a baby is growing, so if there are not enough of these nutrients it can lead to problems. Waiting an extended period of time between pregnancies, preferably 18-24 months after giving birth, allows your body to heal fully. Pregnancy with Irish Twins Depending on how quickly your body begins its ovulation cycle after giving birth it is possible for a woman to have two children 9.5-10 months apart. While this is possible, it is not likely. For the majority of women, their first ovulation cycle does not occur until about one month after they have given birth. In addition, the majority of healthcare workers will suggest you wait 6 weeks after birth before having intercourse. So while pregnancy with close-in-age siblings is still viable, it is becoming less popular. Spacing between your pregnancies is ultimately a choice you and your family need to make on your own. There are many reasons that a woman may choose to space her children close together. And you should not feel any shame if you want to do the same. It's ultimately up to you and your family, but there are a lot of different things that might affect the decision. Some people prefer a short time between each child because they enjoy having their children close in age and are excited to see them grow up together. Other people prefer a longer time between each because they want the first child to have more attention. The spacing between births is also affected by many different factors—such as if you have had a Cesarean section, if you have a history of miscarriage or infertility. Postpartum Recovery with Irish Twins Due to the limited amount of healing time between pregnancies, many women have a very different labor experience the second time around. With a closely spaced pregnancy, there is an increased risk that your labor will be premature and fast. While a fast labor sounds great, there are some complications that you can experience from it as well. If the contractions are coming too quickly, it can be difficult to manage the pain. Similarly, fast contractions can lead you to want to push which can cause lacerations and tears to your vagina and cervix. In addition, pregnancy hormones and breastfeeding hormones can be at odds with one another and cause problems. Some of these include Braxton-Hicks contractions and your milk drying up. Not only will your physical recovery take a toll, but your mental health may take a toll as well. Postpartum depression is common among mothers who have had closely spaced siblings. Postpartum depression is a pretty common experience for women who have given birth, but many new mothers are unaware that it can also be experienced by those who have recently had a baby after having had a previous one who was born less than two years ago. Is Raising Two Children Close In Age Considered Irish Twins? Postpartum recovery is a struggle in general and raising a toddler at the same time can be difficult. You will have to deal with twice the number of diapers, twice the amount of supplies, navigate two separate schedules, and deal with different developmental struggles. That being said, raising "Irish twins" is a great journey and a wonderful experience. They will have a friend for life and as they grow older the journey will continue to change. Raising two children close in age will come with its struggles but it is all worth it. Postpartum Recovery of Irish Twins As you know, having a baby requires special care for the recovery of the mother's body. Having Irish twins is no exception. Having two babies within a short time of each other, whether that's less than a year or even just a few months, puts a lot of strain on the body. After giving birth to your first baby, you're still experiencing all the hormonal changes and physical recovery from labor and delivery, but now you have another being growing inside you. The result is that the body goes through the typical changes of pregnancy without having fully recovered from the birth of the previous pregnancy. The most common issues are fatigue and nausea. With one baby, it may not be a problem for you to go about your daily routine and keep up with your usual activities. But when there's another baby inside you, everything is harder: work, playtime with your first child, even sitting up in bed. You can expect to feel exhausted much more often than before—not tired while you're taking care of one child but tired all day long because your body has to work hard to take care of two children at once. Here are some tips for recovery after giving birth to 2 babies born less than 12 months apart. Food Tips for Mothers of Irish Twins Women, and the nature of their bodies, are designed to ensure the survival of children. When a mother has another baby a short time after having her first, she has not had a sufficient period of time to recover the essential vitamins, minerals and fats lost during pregnancy. This means that in pregnancy while the first baby is receiving optimal nutrients for development during breastfeeding, the fetus may not be receiving adequate nutrition. Likewise, when the second baby is born, nutrients may not be sufficient to nourish both babies. To avoid this, it is important for the mother to eat a nutrient-rich diet in order to feed both babies well. A nutrient-rich diet will help ensure that you are providing your body with all of the vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients it needs to boost your fertility and increase your chances of delivering healthy babies. But what exactly does a nutrient-rich diet look like? And how can you make sure you're providing your body with everything it needs? While the placenta is working hard to supply the baby with nutrients, it is important for the mother to eat a nutrient-rich diet in order to feed both babies well. She may need to eat a special diet and eat more but always controlling portions and especially the nutrients contained in each food. High protein foods can be good choices as they contain amino acids which help build muscle and tissue. Calcium is also essential for bone health and should be included in the diet as much as possible. Dairy products, dark leafy greens, tomatoes, beans, fish, nuts, seeds and fruits all contain calcium. Proper nutrition will help the mother regain all the nutrients she has lost during the pregnancies and births and help her stay strong and healthy to care for her Irish twins. Mental Health Care for Mothers of Irish Twins It can take several years for a woman to recover from a pregnancy. A lot of women find themselves struggling with physical, emotional and financial changes that last for a long time after the birth. There are steps you can take to minimize the effects of pregnancy on your life, though. Take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. It's important for you to recognize what symptoms are normal and what ones might be signs of a problem, like needing medical attention. And it's also important to try to stay as healthy as possible while pregnant and while breastfeeding so that you can get back up on your feet faster after the baby arrives. Also, it's really important to stay in touch with those who matter most in your life—your partner and family members—throughout this time so you don't feel isolated or alone during your recovery. The physical exhaustion that comes with having a baby, from birth to care such as feeding, carrying and diapering is unavoidable. Having Irish twins means even more fatigue as these activities must be done with two babies. Physically, the mother's body is undergoing wear and tear. However, it should be noted that emotional exhaustion can also be a complication if not properly treated. Postpartum depression is a condition that requires professional help. One really important recommendation is for the mother of Irish twins to see a mental health professional to help her through the process of caring for one baby while she is expecting the next. Or, once she has had both children. Creating Routines In order for a mother to have a proper recovery after giving birth twice in a short period of time, she needs to get a good night's sleep. Although it sounds a bit complicated with two babies in your care, it can help if you create strict routines for performing day-to-day activities. Having children so close together requires a military-style schedule. The parents' activities should have scheduling rules that will benefit the babies' development. Parents who want to do more than just survive their children's infancy and toddlerhood can make their lives easier by establishing a schedule for sleep. By keeping it consistent, parents can get both children to sleep at the same time and use that time for other household activities—whether it's doing housework, going out with friends or even starting a new hobby. A healthy amount of sleep is important for everyone in the house, but as parents know, getting a young child to sleep is not always easy. They're easily distracted by noises in the house—a ticking clock, a refrigerator running, even a conversation between adults or siblings. But if parents establish a set time and place for sleep, they can help their children be less distracted and get the rest they need. It might seem counterintuitive to have all the children in the house sleeping at the same time, but actually having everyone in bed at 8 p.m. will give your family its own time away from everyday activities. This is an opportunity to relax on the couch, get some chores done or have an adult conversation with your spouse or family members. Children who have a greater age difference between them, have different schedules and habits. In theory it is more complicated to align the schedules of both children. On the other hand, having Irish twins can be easier when it comes to instilling schedules in them. With this, the mother will be able to have time to rest and dedicate it to her personal care. Exercise Tips for Irish Twin Mothers Having two births within such a short time of each other is comparable to a multiple birth whether it is vaginal or cesarean. It will take much longer for a mother's body to return to its original size and shape. We are talking about your body not having recovered from one pregnancy when you have already entered another. You must be patient with yourself and your body and follow all medical indications. You have probably gained more weight after going through two continuous pregnancies. Your back, knees and hips are not in the best condition so you must take it one step at a time. When the doctor says so, you may be able to start some exercises in order to gradually regain your body's mobility. Walking is a good physical activity to start with. The advantage of this exercise is that you can do it with your family and your beautiful Irish twins. @carakuulei Baby 3 due Nov 2022! 3 babies under 2, all 11 months apart…LET’S FREAKING GOOOOOOO!!! 👶🏽👶🏼👶🏻#babiesoftiktok #christiantiktok #irishtwins #irishtriplets #irishtwinmama #irishtripletmom #foryou #foryoupage #fyp ♬ original sound - Cara Postpartum Products for Irish Twin Mothers It is very likely that the belly and breasts of a woman who has gone through two pregnancies and two continuous breast feedings are sagging. This can affect the mother's self-esteem and she may become unmotivated or depressed. Initially, you may not be able to do an exercise routine that will allow you to tone your body. However, we can recommend that you look for recommended postpartum garments. Some people might be surprised to learn that what they're wearing on their body could have an effect on their mental state. A postpartum girdle is a type of undergarment made with medical-grade materials to help the wearer recover from pregnancy and the effects of childbirth. A postpartum girdle is a tool used to help your body return to its original shape after pregnancy. It helps you get back in shape by providing compression, helping your postpartum body return to its original size as it recovers from childbirth. Postpartum girdles are available in many different styles, from undergarments that flatten the stomach and provide back support to full-body garments that look like tights. In addition to getting the body back into its original pre-pregnancy form (or getting close), girdles can also help with other postpartum concerns. Some are breathable, which is helpful for women who experience swelling in their legs and feet from retaining fluid. Since they fit like a second skin, many women report feeling less soreness in their abdominal muscles thanks to the support they provide. The corset-like garment also helps with postpartum recovery by providing abdominal support during activities such as breast feeding and walking. If you decide to purchase one, it is important to select one that will fit your body type and be comfortable enough for everyday wear. Most importantly, when purchasing one of these postpartum girdles, it is important to read reviews from others who have already used these garments to ensure that you purchase the best option for your needs. Be sure to purchase one that will provide you with ample support, as well as comfort. There are also bras that are designed for new moms so they can regain their firmness. On the other hand, the use of firming creams is also a good option to help your skin recover from having Irish twins. Takeaways Irish twins refer to siblings who are under 12 months apart in age. The phrase is an outdated slang term that can be offensive to some people, so it is best to refer to them as something else. If you've given birth to two children close in age, chances are you've got a few physical challenges to overcome. Between the demands of caring for a newborn and your already-tired body, it can be tough to get back into shape after childbirth—but that doesn't mean it's impossible! By investing in a good postpartum girdle (and other postpartum shapewear) you can feel better equipped to make it through your second pregnancy and come out the other side in good health. A postpartum girdle is worn under clothes and applies gentle pressure around the waist, abdomen, hips and buttocks in order to provide support and help to realign the body after pregnancy. Most are made of firm fabric with fastening mechanisms on the sides or at the back (or even both). These medical garments provide you some much-needed relief from pain by compressing the abdomen. Make parenting your two bundles of joy much easier by investing in a Bellefit postpartum girdle today. A postpartum girdle is much more comfortable than it looks—it is made out of soft material that works with your body to give it support. It's important that you use one that is adjustable, so that you can adjust it as your body changes. A lot of women don't know what size they should buy, but check out our sizing guides and instructions on how to measure yourself. Sources https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang/irish-twins/ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2708196 https://www.babygaga.com/10-dangers-of-having-irish-twins-and-5-ways-to-survive-it/ https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/twins-and-multiples/giving-birth/your-recovery.aspx

Now that your newborn is home with you, part of their new routine is making sure they are clean and comfortable. Bathing a newborn can be a little nerve-racking but is a necessary care routine. When your baby is first born, they will still have their umbilical cord, and so you will need to be extra careful while giving them their bath. Until the umbilical cord comes off, it is best to provide them with a sponge bath. There will be many new experiences with your newborn child, and bathing can sometimes be a scary one. With a little bit of guidance and practice, you can feel comfortable and at ease with this new step in your weekly practices. How Best to Give your Newborn a Bath We have put together some simple tips for new parents on how to give your baby their first bath. 1. Babies Bathing is a new experience for first parents as well as their babies. At first, your newborn may not like the uncomfortable feeling of water, so don’t be too worried if they cry or make a fuss. After several times your child gets at least a little bit used to the idea. So no need to panic if your baby is giving you a hard time. 2. Wash their face first When babies are naked, damp, and cold that is when they start to feel very uncomfortable. So before removing all their clothes, you can start by washing their face. Use a damp washcloth, ensuring the water is not too hot nor cold. Wipe their faces with the washcloth, over their eyelids, and gently over the corners of their eyes. Also, clean around their nose and in the crevices. You do not need to use soap; warm water will do the trick and hopefully keep your baby cozy for the time being. 3. Clean their ears Do not use a cotton swab to clean your baby's ears. This can be very dangerous and may damage their eardrums. Instead, again use warm, damp washcloths and your finger to get in and around their ears. 4. Wash their hair You can also start by washing their hair while they are still clothed or have a towel wrapped around to keep them warm. To wash newborn babies' hair, remember to support their spine and neck with one arm while you are tipping their head backward. Using child-safe shampoo, first, lather it between your palms before gently applying it to your baby's head. Softly massage the shampoo into their hair with warm water and then rinse it out using a damp washcloth. Once all the shampoo is out, you will want to towel dry their heads so they can stay warm. 5. Wash their body After washing their heads and hair, you can now remove their clothing so you can clean your baby's body. It is easier to lay them down flat on their backs in a safe place that won't be too slippery. Use a washcloth or bathing sponge, warm water, and gentle baby soap to wash every part of their bodies. Remember to gently scrub their necks, getting into all the little crevices in between their cute baby rolls. You will want to avoid washing over their umbilical cord and try to keep that area dry. Also, don’t forget their hands and feet. You can then use a clean damp cloth to rinse off the body wash and gently turn your baby over so they are lying on their tummies to clean their backs as well. Once they are clean and fresh, use a dry towel to dry them off again, remembering to dry in between any crevices. Then wrap them in a towel or blanket to stay warm 6. Lotion their body It is also an excellent idea to lotion your baby’s skin after bathing, remembering to use a baby-safe product. Softly apply the lotion to their clean, dry skin, massaging it in. This can be an extraordinary intimate moment between a parent and child, hopefully, one that your baby will enjoy as well. When Should Your Baby’s First Bath Happen If you are giving birth in a hospital, generally, nurses will give your baby a quick sponge bath after they are born. Otherwise, it is recommended to bathe your baby 24 hours after birth for the first time. This will, of course, be a sponge bath, and you should continue to give your baby a sponge bath until their umbilical cord has fallen off. You do not want to use a baby bath right away since soaking the umbilical stump is not good and will not allow it to heal, dry, and fall off. Babies' skin is very delicate, and you do not need to be bathing your child every day. Doing a full sponge bath approximately three times a week is sufficient in keeping your baby clean and healthy. However, as part of a daily routine, your child's face and hands should be consistently washed since this is where a lot of milk can build up, and other germs are gathered. Also, your baby’s diaper area should be wiped and properly washed as well to ensure their skin is protected. Make sure you are getting both the front and back of the genital area, so your baby remains fresh and clean. What do I Need to Give My Baby and Sponge Bath Before your baby arrives, you will want to be equipped with a few essentials to help with your bath time routine. When it is bathing time, have your supplies ready near the bathing area so that you can keep your eyes and hands on your newborn at all times. Being prepared before the first bath time will help you feel a little more comfortable with the process. Here are a few essential items to have ready and nearby before bathing your baby. Washcloths (at least 2) Baby body wash Warm water Dry towel Baby lotion A clean diaper A clean, warm outfit With these quick tips and essential items, you will be all set to give your baby the best first bath.

Although traveling with a newborn breastfeeding baby can be a challenge, as long as you are prepared and up for the task, you will be able to continue your traveling plans. All you need are a few essential tips and the appropriate gear to make your journey enjoyable while you have a breastfeeding newborn. Tips for Traveling while Breastfeeding Below, we have put together a few essential tips to help mothers be more comfortable with the idea of breastfeeding while traveling and ensure that they are well equipped to set out on their trip. 1. Take your time If you are traveling with a newborn, you will want to give yourself a little extra time than usual to ensure you are not rushing to get things done, for example, the needs of your baby. Set some time aside within your travel plans so that you can breastfeed your baby and be relaxed while doing so. 2. Plan Ahead Take a look at your travel route and see where any convenient stopping points will be, then you can plan out different places that would be most comfortable to breastfeed. For example, if you are on a road trip, you may want to look at cafes or restaurants along the route where you can stop for both you and your baby to eat. 3. See if there are breastfeeding areas Again depending on where you are traveling or what transportation you are using, there may be designated breastfeeding areas. Some airports, for example, have breastfeeding pods so that moms can nurse their babies in private. 4. Choose a window seat on the plane If you will be traveling on the plane, chances are you may have to breastfeed on the plane. Having the window seat will allow you to have a little more privacy. 5. Pumping Another piece of advice is to try to pump some milk into bottles whenever you can. You can pump before heading off on your trip or perhaps when your travel partner is driving. This way, you can more easily feed your baby with a bottle in a crowded area or while in the car. 6. Hydrate As for any breastfeeding mom, you want to ensure that you are drinking enough water, especially when breastfeeding. When you are traveling, thinking about drinking water may not be of top priority, but it should be since your baby needs adequate hydration too. 7. Wash your hands frequently When you are traveling, you will encounter many different people and travel through other areas. Remember to wash your hand before breastfeeding to safeguard against spreading germs to yourself and your baby. While traveling, you will often stop at gas stations, restaurants, train stations, or airports filled with many people and many germs daily. Stay safe so that your newborn is safe as well. 8. Baby bag Traveling with a baby bag will be extremely helpful to stay organized and ensure that all your essentials are in one place. Now that you have a newborn, you will need a few more items while traveling than usual, and having one designated place to put them will help with the traveling process. What Extra Breastfeeding Gear Do I Need to Travel Before you set out on your trip, pack your baby bag equipped with a few extra items that will help you while breastfeeding on the go. Planning ahead to make sure you have everything you may need will help relieve some unneeded stress and focus on enjoying your time. 1. Nursing blanket or top Throughout your travels, there may be times that you will need to nurse in public, and having something to cover yourself with will help you feel more comfortable and intimate. You can use a nursing cover or blanket to drape over your shoulder while breastfeeding. Alternatively, you may want to wear a nursing top that is designed for breastfeeding easily. 2. Cooler bag If you are pumping your breast milk, you will need somewhere to keep the bottles. While you are on the move, having a cooler bag or pouch is a great place to store your bottles safely. Keeping the milk fresh doesn’t just improve the taste; it protects your baby from any bacteria or other problems that spoiled milk might create. 3. Portable breast pump Since you will be traveling, having a portable pump will make pumping much easier. You may not always be near an outlet or want to fuss with always trying to find one, and you may want to try pumping in the car, so having a portable version will be beneficial. Traveling With a Newborn Hopefully, these tips will help with planning your travels and packing the right gear for breastfeeding while on the road. If this is your first time traveling with a newborn baby, as long as you are organized beforehand, you should be set to go on your adventure. Remember to try and relax and take some time for yourself too. If you are traveling with someone else, swap duties throughout your trip so neither of you are overwhelmed. If you are going to pump, your travel partner can take over feeding the baby so you can focus on yourself even for a few minutes. As a new mother, you will likely still be dealing with some of the natural postpartum consequences that will be different if this is the first time traveling after having a baby. Maybe pack a book for a little bit of me-time or to get it done at the same time as pumping. Also, try wearing a girdle while traveling. They are designed to make you look and feel great after giving birth and will also make moving around just a little more comfortable for you. Traveling can be stressful under normal circumstances, so the added pressure of postpartum traveling with a newborn and breastfeeding may seem like a lot, but as long as you are prepared, we know that you can handle it!

Swaddling is a recommended way to soothe your baby. It is an excellent hack for parents of small infants. Swaddling is a technique in which a baby is wrapped tightly with a blanket and is shown to help them sleep better. Wrapping your baby nice and snuggly is supposed to resemble the warmth and comfort of the womb. When done correctly, swaddling is a safe and effective way to calm down your baby and promote sleep. How to Swaddle Correctly There are a few simple steps that parents should follow to ensure that their baby is being wrapped up properly before you place them down to rest. If swaddled correctly, you can be more confident that your child is safe when they are sleeping. We will go over these steps and some tips to ensure the safety of your child. Spread out your blanket on a soft flat surface and slightly fold in one corner Place your baby down on their back, with their head poking out the top of the folded corner Keeping their arms inside, wrap one side (left or right) of the blanket over the top of your babies body, ensuring that their head and neck are out of the blanket Tuck that corner of the blanket between their body and opposite arm Pull the bottom corner of the blanket up over the baby's feet and body and tuck to one side of their body Fold over the remaining side of the blanket and tuck underneath their body Following these simple steps will help guide you in how to effectively and safely swaddle your baby so they can sleep better. In addition to the swaddling procedure, there are a few key things to remember as well to ensure it is being done correctly. Things to Remember When Swaddling your Baby When you are swaddling your baby, you want to wrap the blanket tightly but not too tight. The blanket should feel secure around their body but not overly tight. When you wrap the baby's legs, you want their hips to be loose so they can move them slightly. They should be able to bend their legs. You will want to be careful not to restrain their hips; this can cause damage and possible hip dysplasia. Another thing you want to keep in mind is the type of blanket you are using to swaddle your baby. There are specific blankets made for swaddling that are thin and breathable. They are easy to wrap and won’t be too warm for the baby. The blanket should be a baby-sized blanket that is not too large and bulky. One that can wrap entirely around your baby and keep its shape throughout the night. How to Put your Swaddled Baby to Sleep Once your baby is wrapped up in their swaddle blanket, you want to place them down into their crib or napping area safely. Firstly, it is recommended that you place your baby down flat on their backs. This position is safe and will reduce the risk of SIDS. Monitor your baby while they are sleeping, so you ensure they do not roll over. It is also vital that you do not have other loose blankets or cushions in the crib. Having loose objects in their crib could also put your baby at risk of suffocating while sleeping. Similarly, you don't want any other hard object in their bed either, which could also be harmful. Lastly, since swaddling may increase the chances that your baby overheats, ensure that you are monitoring them and look for signs of sweating or flushed cheeks. The blanket you are using may be too thick for swaddling. When do You Swaddle your Baby? Swaddling is appropriate for babies up until they are about 3 or 4 months old. It is intended for newborn babies that have minor mobility capabilities to help them calm down and get used to being out of the womb. Once a baby is able to roll over on their own, it is no longer a good idea to swaddle them. They are more likely to roll over in their sleep, and if they are swaddled, this could be very dangerous. Once your baby is able to roll over on their own, they may be used to and still need that tight feeling in order to fall asleep quickly. When a baby is no longer being swaddled, there are some ways that you can still create this comfort and help them with this transition to sleeping freely. There are unique sleeping sacks that are made for older infants that still wrap around their feet so that they are snug but still allowing their arms to be free. Why Should I Swaddle My Baby? There are a few great reasons why swaddling can be beneficial for both you and your baby. Swaddling often helps babies fall asleep and allows them to stay asleep for longer periods. It helps to refrain them from their natural startle movements, where otherwise they may wake themselves up. Wrapping your baby at night has also been shown to calm down colicky babies. Even if your baby is not sleeping, it helps to soothe them and keep them relaxed. Ultimately, swaddling your baby will help your baby get more rest and relax more easily. Additionally, if your baby gets more rest, as a parent, you have more time for yourself. The extra time your baby spends sleeping will allow you to either get rest yourself, spend on some much-needed you time, or possibly give you more time to cook healthy meals. New mothers will have more time to focus on themselves and get their minds and body back to what they used to be. Maybe you can splurge on a new outfit. Or perhaps you might want to buy one of Bellefit's multiple Girdles to find a design that works for you and help boost your body confidence. Wearing a girdle or a new outfit can do wonders for a new mom's confidence and help you be more you. All in all, if your newborn baby rests well, you will also have more time for yourself. You deserve it.

Let’s be honest, having a baby isn’t as easy and comfortable as the media would like us to believe. You see these beautiful girls in commercials having babies looking flawless and snatched after delivering their baby and it is simply not true. Having a baby is hard work for your body and your mind. You made it through labor and all the pain throughout it and now what? There is this little human that you and your partner need to take care of but how can you survive this stage of chaos? You might experience pain, swelling, and more after you give birth and all you want to do is rest but a baby needs attention 24/7 a day. Being a mother and away from your baby isn’t as easy as it is for fathers. So you are there around your child all the time breastfeeding, changing diapers, calming it when it cries and you think all I want to do is sleep but it seems impossible. If you wanna know how to survive the newborn stage then you are at the right place. What is The Newborn Stage? The newborn stage is the phase from birth to two or three months after. Your baby may start to smile, raise their head, take objects and follow objects with their eyes. This stage is hard for most mothers as it is right after labor when their own body is sore and might be swollen and they need to take care of the baby. As the baby has to get used to living outside of the womb it is a whole new world for them and it takes a while to get into a rhythm with your baby. The stress is understandable and there are ways to make this stage a little easier. Ways to Survive the Newborn Stage Think About Having The Crib Next to Your Bed If your baby wakes up at night you want to calm it down right away and not run around the house first. Having your baby close can help to get your baby to sleep better as well, as it is close to you and your partner. Think about taking turns with who wakes up to check on the baby and who gets to sleep in. Expect to Feed The Baby Around The Clock Babies need to eat around the clock so waking up at night to a crying baby won’t be a rarity. Prepare yourself to make that easier and quicker for you. After a while, you can also ask your partner to take over and feed pumped breast milk to get more sleep for yourself. It’s teamwork after all. Ask Your Doctor for Help if Breastfeeding Hurts Breastfeeding might be a little uncomfortable at first but shouldn’t cause pain. Try to reposition your baby to see if the pain eases. Otherwise, consult a doctor as this might have different reasons. Take Naps When Your Baby Naps As your sleep schedule might be all kinds of messed up after giving birth and your baby might not let you sleep through the night, you should sleep and take naps whenever your baby does. As you will need the rest for yourself. Get YOU Time in It sounds silly but making time just for yourself is actually incredibly important to survive the newborn stage. With all the new things happening around you and your body trying to recover, rest and some time away are needed. Ask family or your partner to lend a hand with your baby. As always it is not selfish to take time for yourself. Recharging and getting your time in should be on your daily schedule. Your body just worked really hard and might be sore and swollen after labor, hormones change and feelings are all over. Do whatever you feel like you need during that time of day that you have to yourself. Check-in With Your Feelings Many women are affected by postpartum depression which can go undetected for a while. Check-in with how you are feeling. A new baby means a new routine, new tasks, and a new schedule that you have to figure out yet. It can make you feel angry, frustrated, and even lonely sometimes. Talk to someone you trust, that might be your partner, a parent, or a friend, and tell them how you feel. Sharing emotions is good for your soul and might take some of the weight off your shoulders. Talking about your problems can reduce stress which makes it easier to rest at night. If you think you might suffer from postpartum depression, call your doctor or a therapist to get the help you need. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and speak honestly about what you are feeling and experiencing. It’s different for everyone and you are not alone. Split the work with your partner As this is a team effort, let your partner do tasks like changing diapers, cleaning, cooking, laundry, waking up at night to get a bottle, etc. Mothers often feel like they are responsible for everything but it is completely acceptable to let your partner do half of the work. Many tasks around the house might feel like too much for you after labor and can be easily done by your partner. When does the newborn stage end? It’s hard to answer when your child gets easier but usually around three months your baby will get used to a routine and things might seem less impossible. As the baby grows it won’t need food every hour and can also sleep longer during the night. Summary It won’t be easy to get rest during the newborn stage but there is light at the end of the tunnel and things will get better. Having a new baby is always hard at first as you still have to establish a schedule and rhythm around the baby. It is therefore important that you take care of your own body as well. Getting enough rest might look like asking someone to watch the baby for a few hours or letting your partner help with chores. It will be hard but everything will work out in the end.

Childbirth is perhaps one of the most natural procedures and is a seminal moment in every mother’s life. For almost all first-time moms, it can be a strange and confusing process. Although there is a lot of information online, even the most well-researched soon-to-be mom often seeks the preparation of childbirth education classes. These classes provide new moms with hands-on techniques and knowledge about the entire childbirth process that ultimately reduces stress when the day finally comes. Some of the main topics of these classes include: Pain relief Relaxation Different labor positions Advice on where to give birth Firsthand testimonies about the experience Medical Interventions Class Logistics (Size, Curriculum, Methodology) Childbirth classes can range from private care sessions to large groups. Classes of 10-12 or more tend to be far too big since the teacher is not able to provide the required attention to each couple. Private sessions tend to allow more individual attention from the teacher but do not allow for any bonding between different couples going through the pregnancy process. Most experts believe the ideal class size should be around 5-6 couples. The class is also often taught in different ways. Many use slideshows and lectures while others put more effort into interactive based activities. The curriculum often deals with both the physical and psychological aspects of the birthing process and some of their processes include massage, aromatherapy, or epidural anesthesia. These classes are run by both public hospitals and private practitioners and differ in many ways yet all share a common goal of preparing both the mother and their spouse for the birthing process. Types of Childbirth Classes There are many different types of childbirth classes and it's key that soon-to-be moms research the different options available and decide what’s right for them. There are numerous types of childbirth classes that range in group size, teaching methodology, ideology, and birthing techniques. Listed below are the most known childbirth class programs. Many classes use different variations of these techniques and may even use a melange of a few of them, but they can be roughly categorized as such. Lamaze When one thinks of childbirth classes, this tends to be the first name that comes to mind. Since the 1950s Lamaze classes have been a staple of naturalized childbirth classes that place heavy emphasis on maintaining calm through rhythmic breathing exercises. These classes center around a more naturalized method approach to childbirth rather than modern medical techniques used to artificially reduce the mother’s pain. While this name is often used to refer to childbirth classes writ large, it is only one of the many approaches to parturition. Bradley Pioneered by Dr. Bradley through his work on ‘Husband-Coached Childbirth’, the Bradley method believes that women have been proven to have better birthing experiences when their husband is there to support them in the delivery room. The study also claimed that if the father was present during the birth, the father developed a stronger bond much quicker than they would have otherwise. This work was enormously helpful and helped advocate for fathers being more present in the birthing and pregnancy process. The Bradley method also emphasizes an acceptance of pain as part and parcel of the birthing process and mothers who take these classes rarely use painkillers. Alexander While some of the other approaches emphasize breathing or relieving stress, the Alexander technique appears to place emphasis on physical exercises to make sure the mom’s body does not tense up during the delivery. These classes force the moms to cope with pain by teaching them to deal with uncomfortable physical positions. These students also learn to properly squat to move their body in conjunction with their pelvic floor to smoothen the process through the birth canal. International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) The International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) has a more progressive philosophy when it comes to childbirth. It has a more interdisciplinary approach to parturition which incorporates ideas from the fields of sociology, anthropology, midwifery, psychology, nursing, and medicine. It also believes in the principle that each mother should choose their own preferences for the delivery room and tries not to sway them in one direction or another. However, the ICEA does mirror the Bradley method, emphasizing a family-focused approach to childbirth rather than keeping the mother as the only focus of attention. Hypnobirthing This technique emphasizes a more epicurean approach to birthing that aims to help moms achieve the most relaxed state possible during the birth. These techniques aim to reduce discomfort and apprehension and even help the mother deal with stressful situations after the baby is born. It avoids the use of drugs or medication and instead focuses on the mother’s mental state through neurological training exercises. When should you take a class? During the first and second trimesters, new moms should take ‘early bird’ classes that center around diet, exercise, sex, and fetal growth. These allow the mother to slowly ease into the pregnancy process and help them get their body ready for birth down the line. However, there are also 4-10 weeklong prep classes that moms usually take in the last couple of months of their pregnancy which focus more directly on going into labor, contractions, delivery, and post-natal care for the mom. Frankly, it is never too early in your pregnancy process to take these classes, but most experts believe that it is best if you enroll during month 6 or 7 of the pregnancy process. Even if this is the mother’s 2nd or 3rd child, it still is worthwhile to investigate some childbirth class options. No delivery is the same and even those who have had ample natal experience can benefit from a review of some birthing techniques. It's also true that new research often emerges during the time between the mother’s 1st and 2nd pregnancy so it may always be great to learn as much as possible to make the 2nd time smoother than the first. At the end of the day though, these prep courses can only go so far in preparing women for the birth of their child. But it is always best to be as prepared as possible to make sure you feel ready for such a seminal moment in your life.

Although the days of needing to always be with your baby to breastfeed are over, there are still some challenges every mother encounters when breast pumping. Being able to maintain breastfeeding with the help of a breast pump is incredibly useful and increasingly essential, but it can be difficult to maintain. Increasing your supply and finding the time are two of the most common challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers. If you want to be able to feed your baby breast milk while having the flexibility to be away from your baby occasionally, here are five things you can do to make it work: Pump at Work Although it might take some planning, pumping at work is a great way to keep pumping through the day and maintain your supply. Thanks to the federal Break Time for Nursing Mothers law, employers must provide basic accommodations for breastfeeding mothers. This means your place of work should have a private space to pump or breastfeed and give you the time to do so. You should also check your state laws to make sure because the rules change depending on whether you are paid hourly or you are a salaried employee. Your supervisor will be able to help you find a place, get you the time to pump, and the rest is up to you! Pump A LOT The more you pump, the more milk you will make. If your breasts are full, this is a signal to your body to stop making more. To trigger milk production, a signal should be sent to your body that your breasts are empty and production needs to start. A popular technique is cluster pumping which means pumping every five minutes for repeated stimulation. This isn’t practical for many mothers, especially at work, but when it is possible, give it a try! Eat Healthily Maintaining a healthy diet is critical to maintaining a healthy milk supply. Make sure you are getting enough calories, and are staying hydrated by drinking water and other clear liquids. If you can, start eating a bit more. Some breastfeeding women need to add about 450 to 500 calories per day to their diet. Of course, the kind of calories you are adding is important, just like when you were pregnant. Stay Calm Soothing and calming sounds can sometimes help produce more (and fattier milk) if listened to while pumping. If you’re looking to increase your milk production, this is a simple but fun way to make the experience more enjoyable. Relaxing while you pump is important, and particularly if you are pumping at work, don’t check your phone or respond to messages and calls while you’re pumping. Additionally, focusing on the task at hand sometimes makes the task and its outcome more stressful. Try not to think about how much milk you’re producing, and avoid any other stressors. The Right Gear Your pump, the breast shield, and the speed of suction will all affect how much milk you can get while pumping. It’s important to keep the machine clean and replace anything that needs replacing right away. Sometimes you can rent a hospital-grade pump for a week or month to get more milk when pumping. The Joy of Breastfeeding No matter how much or how often you pump, these tips will help you on your nursing journey and let you and your baby enjoy it every step of the way. If you’d like more information about this or other similar topics head over to our site!

If you have read up on labor and delivery, you may have come across the term “breech baby”. What is a breech baby? It is when the baby is positioned with its feet down near the cervix instead of the head. This can occur throughout the entire pregnancy, but as you move closer to your delivery date this can pose problems. In this article we want to give you all the information you need to know in order to be prepared. What is a Breech Baby? As your baby grows, they will constantly be moving around in your uterus. And most of the time this isn’t a problem, we all need to adjust ourselves and get comfortable. But as you move closer to your due date, their moving around can cause them to get into some interesting positions. This can be a cause for concern in some cases, particularly when your baby’s head is not near the birthing canal. Between the 32nd and 37th weeks of your pregnancy your baby should be moving into a position to prepare for birth. Their head should move towards the birthing canal, and their feet should be in the opposite direction towards the top of your uterus. If a baby doesn’t properly move into place, they can be born feet-first. And this can cause harm to the baby. Possible Complications with a Breech Baby Due to the nature of labor, the best position for a baby to be in for vaginal birth is with the head towards the cervix. The head is the baby’s largest part of their body, and is the most difficult to get out of the birthing canal. If the feet come out first, it becomes more difficult for the baby’s head to come out, because the birthing canal has not opened up wide enough. Another potential problem occurs when the umbilical cord prolapses. This means that the umbilical cord is being squeezed, cutting off the baby’s oxygen and blood supply. This can cause birth defects. Babies are more likely to be breech if: They are premature There is more than one baby (twins, etc.) There is an abnormal level of amniotic fluid The mother’s uterus is shaped abnormally While these complications are serious, there are many ways you can try to move them into the correct position. Can you change a Breech Baby position? As you attend your check-ups and doctors appointments, your doctor will be checking to make sure your baby isn’t breeched. In the early stages of your pregnancy, a breech baby is not a problem. The closer you come to your due date the more likely your doctor is to suggest measures to change the baby’s position. Non-Medical methods to change position Acupuncture – This form of Chinese medicine involves placing tiny needles at several pressure points on the body. When stimulated this can relax the uterus, causing the baby to shift position. Chiropractic Care – A chiropractor adjusts your posture and alignment to ensure that your hips and pelvis are aligned. This will relieve pressure off of the uterus, which can promote the baby to turn. Child’s Pose – Another technique uses gravity as a way to persuade the baby to turn. One option is to rest in the yoga pose known as child’s pose for 10-15 minutes a day. Pelvic tilt – Another option that uses gravity is known as a pelvic tilt. The mother rests on her back with her knees up and her feet on the ground. Then she lifts her hips up off the ground into a bridge position. The mother is supposed to maintain this pose for 15-20 minutes. Some women find this pose difficult to maintain and use an ironing board and a couch for some extra stability. They lean the ironing board against the couch and lie on it with their feet on the couch. Music – Some babies are very fond of music. If you have noticed your baby move in the past when you play music, this might be a good option for you. Play music in the area when you want their head, and some babies will move their head to hear the music better. Temperature – Similarly, some babies are very sensitive to temperature. By placing a warm cloth at the bottom of your stomach and a cold cloth at the top, your baby may be enticed to move toward the warmth. Medical methods to change position If these non-medical methods are not working for you, your doctor may suggest the use of a procedure known as External Cephalic Version (ECV). An ECV is typically had at around 37 weeks of pregnancy. It is a non-invasive procedure where the physician will apply pressure to your stomach in various areas to push the baby into the proper position. Some doctors choose to use an ultrasound also to make sure they can see the baby move into the correct position, while also monitoring their heart rate. This procedure is non-invasive, but it can be painful. Some doctors choose to administer some medication before the procedure to relax your muscles and reduce discomfort. C-Section for Breech Baby Sometimes, no matter what you or your doctor do, your baby will not move out of the breech position. In these cases most physicians will recommend a c-section delivery. While some breech babies are ok to be delivered through a vaginal birth, a c-section is the safer option. A clinical study conducted and published in Lancet found that a “Planned caesarean section is better than planned vaginal birth for the term fetus in the breech presentation.” C-Section Recovery If this happens to be the case, the baby will be safely delivered, but your recovery time may be much longer. A c-section involves a large incision across your abdomen that takes a while to heal. Movement becomes difficult and the stress of caring for your newborn is only added on top of that. Thankfully, Bellefit has developed a line of postpartum girdles that help you heal faster and help you feel more confident. These postpartum girdles were designed with all women in mind. They come in many different sizes, shades, and types. Buy one online today and find out how so many women have healed faster and with less pain.

Here is what you need to know about pregnancy and hot tubs, sauna -- in other words, heat during pregnancy!

Newborns grow by leaps and bounds into infancy. In fact, you’ll have a hard time believing that your tiny little baby is now reaching toddler stage. So, how do you know if your child is at a healthy weight? Are there concerns that come with your baby being underweight or slightly overweight? Know some of the best methods about how much weight should baby gain! Table Of Contents What is the Average Birth Weight for Newborns? How to Closely Monitor Your Baby’s Weight Gain? Keep Track of Your Baby’s Weight Gain While Monitoring Your Weight Loss Take Care of Yourself This guide provides insight on the subject of monitoring your baby’s weight gain after you’ve given birth. That way, you know exactly how your child compares to other children of a similar age. What is the Average Birth Weight for Newborns? How much weight should a newborn gain? The average birth weight for newborn babies depends on a couple of factors. The first is the nutrition the infant received while in the womb. The second is whether or not the child was a twin, triplet or quadruplet. Multiples play a role in the overall health of the children because the babies are sharing a space and nutrition. If a baby is carried to full-term which is 38 to 40 weeks, they usually weigh six to nine pounds. If they are born prematurely, they likely will weigh significantly less because they haven’t had as much time to grow and develop. Babies also lose some weight during their first weeks of life. It’s not unusual to see a bottle-fed baby losing 5 percent of their birth weight. Breastfed babies lose up to ten percent of their birth weight right after they are born. How to Closely Monitor Your Baby’s Weight Gain? You can monitor your baby's weight even without the scale. Using a scale is the easiest way to know your baby’s weight. If you don’t have one available, you can ask for their weight in pounds at the time of their next doctor’s appointment. You can also note how many times they are wetting and soiling their diapers. On average, you should be changing your baby’s wet diaper five to seven times a day. Soiled diapers occur less frequently with three to four diaper changes a day being the norm. You’ll know that your baby is getting enough hydration and nutrition based on the number of times they relieve themselves daily. You don't always need a measuring scale to monitor your baby's weight. Another way to know that your child is gaining weight is to note how satiated they are once they’ve been fed. Babies love to eat and need a lot of nutrition in their earliest stages of life to grow and develop into healthy toddlers. Because they can’t walk or move yet, they aren’t burning as many calories as they will when they’re mobile. You should notice a difference in the way your baby’s body looks and how heavy they feel once they do start putting on weight. If you have concerns about your child’s weight gain, let your paediatrician know so they can monitor the baby closely. They’ll be able to give you sound medical advice on what to do to encourage better eating habits or more movement once the child does start crawling or walking. Keep Track of Your Baby’s Weight Gain While Monitoring Your Weight Loss Monitor your own weight post delivery of your child. Monitor your baby’s weight gain right away. That way, you know how well they are and if they’re getting adequate nutrition. By keeping close track of your baby’s weight, you’ll be able to identify any potential problems your child has as they grow and develop. Take Care of Yourself Your body changes a lot after giving birth, and sometimes this can lead to feelings of low self-confidence and frustration. You can take care of yourself by ensuring that you feel confident and beautiful. It's important to care for your new family member, but don't forget to take care of yourself too. Bellefit's postpartum girdles and corsets can help you feel more in charge of your own body, and can speed the recovery process. With our design, you can look and feel your best in no time, and when you feel your best - so does your baby. Bellefit® Postpartum Girdles & Corsets – Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Doctor-Recommended since 2008. All the new moms would love to learn from your experiences and learning regarding the babies and weight gain. Let us hear back from you too! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEYrWAepqzQ

Protecting your child from accidents, illness, and injuries is your role as a mother. What if you could baby proof your home better with the right tools in terms of child safety products? Table Of Contents 1. Cabinet Latches : Baby Proofing Product 2. Outlet Covers : Enhances Child Safety 3. Safety Gates : Another Baby Proof Home Necessity 4. Bed Rails : Prevents Newborn from Falling 5. Night Lights : Better Visibility 6. Inflatable Neck Cushions for Babies Traveling in Car 7. Window Shades : Prevents Harmful Sun Rays 8. Bath Supports with Foam Padding : Child Proof Home Necessity 9. Step Stools for Naughty Children : Baby Proof House 10. Water Spout Covers Saves Kids from Scalding Keep Yourself Safe Too Thanks to all the incredible child safety products existing today, you’ve got more options than ever to child proof your home and ensure the health and well-being of your little one after giving birth to them. Here are ten of the most sought-after child safety products easily available in the market today. 1. Cabinet Latches : Baby Proofing Product Varying sizes of cabinet latches are good for your child's safety. Keep curious kids from opening drawers and doors by installing latches of various sizes throughout the home. Each style has its own advantages but what they have in common is that they’re all easy to install and baby proof. 2. Outlet Covers : Enhances Child Safety Cover all power outlets so that the young ones don't insert their fingers. Prevent little ones from shocking themselves by covering all power outlets with plastic caps. Hard to remove without the strength of an adult, this product is a must-have for parents and grandparents with small children living or visiting the household. 3. Safety Gates : Another Baby Proof Home Necessity Installing safety gates to block entrance of your kids to risky zones is another safety measure. Keep little ones out of places that aren’t safe for them by installing safety gates. There are many different types to choose from with some being pressure mounted and others being hardware mounted, whichever is preferred. 4. Bed Rails : Prevents Newborn from Falling Putting railings along the bed of your child prevents them from falling accidentally. Prevents children who are transitioning from crib to bed from falling out and injuring themselves. They’re easy to remove and wash as well, making them a staple in many households across the country. 5. Night Lights : Better Visibility A night light switched on for the entire night in your child's room can save everyone from falling accidentally in dark. Allow parents, caregivers, and children to see things in the dark so they don’t get harmed. Little ones who are potty trained and get up in the night to use the bathroom have an easier time finding their way back to bed on their own. 6. Inflatable Neck Cushions for Babies Traveling in Car Inflatable u-shaped neck pillow for your baby is required during long drives. The u-shaped pillow provides neck support for babies and small children. It’s essential for long car rides where little ones are sure to fall asleep and need something to keep their head propped up. 7. Window Shades : Prevents Harmful Sun Rays Your newborn's skin is tender, so install window shades to block harmful sun rays. Harmful UVA and UVB rays can damage your child’s skin. It’s important to install window shades on all back windows to keep your baby or toddler comfortable. 8. Bath Supports with Foam Padding : Child Proof Home Necessity Baby proofing your house starts with your bathroom, install foam padding support. Gives babies upper support while bathing. The support is designed to keep the child upright while the mother and father wash the baby’s body and hair. 9. Step Stools for Naughty Children : Baby Proof House Step stool is another addition to the many products you can bring to ensure your child's safety. Allows children who are ambulatory to climb onto toilet seats and access sinks on their own without assistance. Step stools give kids leverage which could be problematic if a parent hasn’t prepared by safety-guarding cabinets. 10. Water Spout Covers Saves Kids from Scalding Water sprout cover is another necessity item to make your home childproof. Prevents babies and young children from being scalded by hot water. Installing water spout covers in the bathrooms and kitchen in homes is imperative as it prevents harmful accidents from occurring. Now that you know which products are best at protecting your child, you’ll have a much easier time buying some of them for your home. You won’t leave any stone unturned because you’ll anticipate your child’s behavior and go to the lengths necessary to prevent accidents and preventable illnesses from occurring. You’ll sleep more soundly at night knowing that your son or daughter are successfully protected from dangers inside and outside the home. Keep Yourself Safe Too I know, as a mother, it's difficult to focus on yourself. Hopefully this list has helped you feel a little more prepared for the journey ahead, but don't forget about yourself too. Your safety is just as important - how can you care for someone if you're not caring for yourself? Postpartum girdles can help lessen your recovery time, and prevent you from hurting yourself after the birthing process. No matter how many children you have, each birth story is different, so you want to be prepared for anything. Bellefit® Postpartum Girdles & Corsets – Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Doctor-Recommended since 2008. Investing in a Bellefit postpartum girdle can give you the peace of mind you need to put all your energy into caring for your new child, while also caring for yourself. Do let us know of any other child safety products you know. We would love to include in the list so as to help new parents baby proof their house. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kdn4wj5PtYc

Is it possible to give a newborn baby too much attention? Do you risk spoiling them by picking them up every time they cry, or feeding them when they’re hungry? What about all the rocking, cooing, and singing you do for them? Will your child grow up to be a tantrum-throwing brat because you actually nurtured and cared for them as an infant? Table Of Contents "> You can't spoil a Baby Bonding with your baby now, helps them self-soothe later on. A newborn does not have the ability to problem-solve let alone manipulate. Tell the Naysayers to Go Bye-Bye Spoil Yourself You can't spoil a Baby No you cannot spoil a baby. All that loving on your baby will do nothing to spoil them, because newborns are not manipulative. You don't have a spoiled baby, they just have basic needs that they’re crying to have met. For instance, while adults have mastered language, babies have not - so they express their discomfort by crying. You’ll do your part to comfort them by learning to discern their cries. Some will be short-lived after a good meal or fresh diapers. Others will let you know that they’re ill or in pain. In addition, those cries are distinctly different than anything else you’ve heard or dealt with. Bonding with your baby now, helps them self-soothe later on. Bonding with the baby is essential, as it helps them develop healthy coping mechanisms. When babies trust the world around them, they’re able to develop healthy coping mechanisms that get them through troubling experiences without their parents. They’re able to comfort themselves through self-soothing. That’s why you may see a child sucking their thumb or clutching onto their blanket or stuffed animal. Through your example, they’re able to get past their fears and sleep through the night. That’s a huge advantage for any parents. Sleep training can be very difficult for all parties involved but babies who were cared for intently as newborns face greater ease as older babies in acclimating to their new environment thanks to knowing how to imitate their parents by self-soothing. A newborn does not have the ability to problem-solve let alone manipulate. Love your baby with all your heart and shower them with as much attention as possible! Babies are largely feeling creatures when they’re first born. They must learn critical thinking skills and behaviors before they can manipulate you into doing things for them. If you think that all the attention that you’re giving your infant now is going to turn them into a surly, unforgiving toddler, you’re wrong. They will never remember all the attention you showered them with during their first few months of life. Let the people that you know who beg to differ with you know that you’ll continue to parent your baby the best way you know how, by loving them and making them a VIP in your life. That way, there is never any question as to your child’s motives. You’ll simply be a mother loving your kid with all your heart. Tell the Naysayers to Go Bye-Bye Your baby deserves all the love and attention in the world, so don't let anyone tell you otherwise. If someone accuses you of overcoddling your child, tell them with a straight face that it’s your job and you take it seriously. There is no way to spoil a newborn baby because they aren’t demanding designer clothes and five-star restaurant meals. Their needs are basic, their minds innocent, and their bodies responding to the feelings they experience in the moment. Use this list to challenge the people in your life who claim that you're spoiling a newborn by doing what you were born to do for them, care for them the way a loving mother would. Spoil Yourself While you can't spoil a baby, you can spoil yourself. After almost a year of bodily changes, it is not selfish to want to look and feel your best. You may not ever get back to how you were pre-baby, but you can make sure you look and feel as confident as you can. Your health is important too. A happy baby needs a healthy mother! Speed up your recovery process and support your lower back with Bellefit's postpartum girdles and corsets. Not only will you be able to heal quicker, but you'll also get back into shape faster! What do you think is the best way to deal with individuals that constantly accuse you of spoiling your newborn baby?