Becoming a mother is an extraordinary experience but also filled with questions. In this article, we will answer the sixteen main questions that young mothers frequently ask themselves when they begin this new adventure.
Breastfeed or bottle-feed?
The choice between breastfeeding and bottle feeding depends mainly on the personal needs of the mother and baby. The main thing is to provide a healthy and balanced diet to your child. Consult your doctor for guidance in this important decision.
How do I know if my baby is eating enough?
Regularly check his weight and height with the pediatrician to make sure he is growing well. Also, a good sign that your child is full is when they sleep peacefully after eating.
Daily bath or not?
Daily bathing is not necessary for infants as long as sensitive areas such as the face are cleaned daily with a soft washcloth soaked in lukewarm water without superfatted soap.
Should I sterilize everything related to my baby's meal?
During his first weeks, it is important to sterilize all the material for the baby's meals. However, this practice can be gradually reduced as your child begins to grow and develop their immune system.
How do I help my baby sleep at night?
Establishing a nighttime routine with soothing rituals like reading a story or singing a lullaby helps your baby know it's time to rest.
When can I go out with my newborn?
Your doctor will give you specific advice on when to take your newborn baby out of the house, but usually this can be done after a few days or a month if no medical complications are present.
Should I put my baby to sleep on his back or on his stomach?
Always lay your infant on their back to prevent choking and reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
What to do in case of colic?
Tip: try different positions to relieve his intestinal gas such as the "knees-on-chest" pose, give him a good hot bath, practice light circular massages in his abdomen or consult a pediatrician who may recommend other natural remedies.
Does he cry too much?
All children are different; some cry more often than others. Try to determine the cause of the child's crying (hunger, sleepy, discomfort) and try different techniques to calm him down.
When to start food diversification?
Food diversification can be introduced between 4 and 6 months when your baby shows an interest in solid foods. Consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods to their diet.
Should I use washable or disposable nappies?
It entirely depends on your personal preferences and which ones best suit your lifestyle. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages.
At what age can I take my baby to the dentist?
As soon as their first tooth appears it is recommended to take baby to a dentist who specializes in infant oral care in order to establish a healthy routine from the start.
Should baby wear shoes as soon as he starts walking?
No, it is best for children to learn how to stand without any support or restrictions in their movements initially. Gradually introduce shoes as they become more confident in their gait.
Why does he need so much sucking?
The natural sucking reflex not only helps the child to obtain food but also soothes his anxieties and fears.
Should I give her a blanket?
The use of a transitional object such as a cuddly toy can facilitate the separation between mother and child, create a reassuring feeling of security for baby when he has to fall asleep alone in an unknown environment in particular.
How to avoid constipation problems?
Feeding your child well with a balanced diet, encouraging them to drink plenty of fluids such as water or unsweetened juice, and encouraging exercises such as rolling onto their sides to stimulate their digestion can prevent constipation in very young children.
In conclusion, it is normal that you have many questions as a new mother. Do not hesitate to seek advice from professionals, as well as to share your experiences with other mothers in order to take full advantage of this beautiful adventure that is motherhood.
