The task of both giving birth and raising a child is enormous. To anyone who has not experienced it, it’s all fun and games. The grim reality is it takes a strong and resilient person to carry a child for nine agonizing months, give birth to them, and then provide for them until they’re independent. You have a myriad of things to take care of as a parent. These include raising, grooming, and educating them, among other duties. You and your loved ones are all overcome with intemperate joy, and rightfully so. But what’s crucial is what comes next; your baby’s health.
A newborn is prone to get sick by catching a virus or flu during peak seasons, mainly because of its untested immune system. Keeping yourself safe from viral infections is challenging; imagine how you’d look after the baby. You can tackle all problems, including these, breezily with the right amount of dedication and care. Here are some tips to guarantee a healthy life for your newborn.
Check whether your baby has any existing health issues
Your newborn doesn’t need to catch a viral infection from someone else; they can also have hereditary diseases or disorders. Inherited health issues are passed down generations and are more common than you think. Although unavoidable, if identified early, your offspring can receive treatment.
Birthplace injuries are also a contributing factor to disorders and other health issues. These include the likes of cerebral palsy, which happens when there is a weakness or difficulty in using muscles because an injury is caused to the brain, more specifically, the white matter. To learn more about cerebral palsy, you can visit cerebralpalsyguide.com and educate yourself on this group of disorders in case of an unforeseen event.
Take them out only if need be
Public spaces have hundreds to thousands of people, even millions, who breathe and exchange the same air. The air in conversation comprises innumerable bacteria, viruses, and many more harmful living things that can have an adverse effect.
Everyone wants to see your newborn, that’s for sure. They are now the talk of the town and also a huge blessing. But are you willing to risk their health? Of course not. Avoid taking your baby out of your home unnecessarily for the first two weeks following its birth. With a brand spanking new immune system, taking your baby out into the open where there are millions of dust particles and bacteria is fraught with danger. There are innumerable germs in the air and on everything you will touch.
However, this does not entirely mean you and your baby need to be in quarantine. Going to open spaces like parks is beneficial as the two of you will catch some fresh oxygen directly from its source and strengthen your breathing and immunity. Just avoid people getting too close while you’re at it.
Continue breastfeeding even when ill
Generally, a mother will think of putting breastfeeding on pause when ill. However, she should do the exact opposite. When you are sick, your body produces antibodies that fight off the cold or flu and help you get back to your very best. Breastfeeding your child during illness will transfer some of these antibodies to them through breast milk and strengthen their immune system. A large chunk of your strength at your current age and size will go onto the baby, drastically improving their immunity. If you still do not feel well enough to breastfeed your child you can always use formula but make sure that you are providing your loved one with only the best organic baby formula such as HiPP Comfort.
Don’t compromise on cleanliness
Being a clean freak can get annoying, but it is a force of habit. However, after having a baby, this force of habit must prolong. Being cynical and pedantic are an absolute must when keeping clean, especially around your newborn. If someone is adamant about holding your baby, make them wash their hands first. The hands are the part of the body you use most, which is why it is pivotal to ensure they are germ-free.
Holding the little one with clean hands will prevent the rampant spread of any viral infections. If someone is sick, request them to fully recover before coming into proximity of the baby, let alone holding it.
Get vaccinated – pronto
Infants cannot get vaccinations until they are at least six months old. Moreover, not all vaccines work instantly – some require multiple doses over the following years. To help your baby receive the perks of vaccinations, consider getting vaccinated if you haven’t already.
Getting immunized allows you to focus more on the baby’s health and worry less about yours as you are freshly and fully immune. Furthermore, getting a booster shot is like icing on a cake. Doing so will guarantee your and your baby’s health and immunity.
Have an elder child? Train them
An older child at home alongside having a newborn is like having a powdered keg – anything they do will directly or indirectly affect the infant. Kids of all ages are mischievous and full of beans, which is why it is challenging to control them. Along with children being inquisitive, newborns can also intrigue them.
Try to make them indulge by taking preventive measures to avoid germs. You will get them to bond without worrying about sidelining your elder child or taking grave steps like sending them to live with a relative. Taking such a measure can distance your elder child from you and your newborn.
Teach them the basic rules – wash your hands, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, be careful around the baby, and maintain personal hygiene.
Respect the ones helping you
Daycares worldwide have rules, and you need to follow them. If a baby is sick when brought to the daycare, the parents will get it back when it has recovered. Daycares will go to all extents to ensure your child’s proper upbringing.
Conclusion
The preemptive measures following the birth of your infant can be backbreaking. With the right amount of help, knowledge, and precautions, you can ensure a healthy and alimental life ahead for them and yourself. The tips above will help ensure your baby is in great shape for the initial months and allow you to get a good night’s sleep more often.