As a nurse, one of the first questions I will ask my patients (of any age) is, "When did you have your last bowel movement?" Nurses and doctors are obsessed with poop ... and for good reason. Changes in bowel movements (frequency, consistency, color, etc.) are more often than not some of the first indications of improving or worsening health. While we are all quite familiar with our own bowel movements as adults, knowing what is normal - and not normal - for a baby can be quite a completely new experience. When I first had Little Bear, I was unfamiliar with what I should be looking for with her poops. Knowing what to expect, what is normal, and what should cause concern can help a new mom or dad relax and not be so surprised at what they find in their little one's diaper!
The first rule of baby poop is "there is no normal." While a caring friend may share what to expect based on her own baby's poops, be aware that your experience may be completely different. Remember: this is normal! There are some general rules, however, that you can go by to help understand what you are looking at!
Green-Black. This is what you will most likely see the first few days. This green-black poop is actually called "meconium". This amniotic fluid that has been digested by your little one and has been sitting in your baby's intestines for quite some time. It is often described as having the consistency of "tar" ... and for good reason. It is like tar, and can be quite sticky and hard to wash off. Some babies will have one or two meconium stools. Little Bear had about 15 over a period of 5 days. I literally could not believe that my little baby could be holding that much junk in her intestines! Yet she was, and it is normal! Note: If you see black, tarry poop later on, after all the meconium is gone, this is an indicator that there is blood in the poop. Black specks in poop may occur if your nipples are cracked and bleeding and could simply be your digested blood. To be on the safe side, though, I recommend at least calling your doctor and letting them know what you found.
Green-Brown to Yellow-Brown. As your milk comes in and your little one begins drinking more (or, if you are giving formula, even sooner) the green-black color will slowly begin changing color. It will most likely start to take on a more brown tinge. Over the first week this brown will become lighter and lighter as the last of the meconium moves out of your baby's system (usually by day three). Little Bear took almost 7 days to clear her meconium. The midwives were a little worried that I was not producing enough milk. They weight Little Bear on a scale, however, and saw she was gaining weight - a solid indication that she was getting plenty to eat and all was okay!
Yellow. Bright yellow to brownish yellow, actually. Breastfed babies usually have a bright yellow poop until another food source (formula, solids, etc.) are added. It is usually watery. Often it looks "seedy".
Light Brown. Formula feeding (or supplementing breastmilk with formula) will cause poops to be a pasty light brown - sometimes light, sometimes darker, depending on baby and formula type. At times the poop may appear to have tan or greenish hues.
Green. Iron-fortified formula can cause green streaks in baby poop. Most formula is iron-fortified. Frothy green poop may mean that baby is not getting a proper balance of breastmilk. Breastmilk actually varies (what comes out in the first few minutes of a feeding, versus the last part of a feeding). Making sure baby feeds 10 minutes on one breast before switching can help solve this problem.
Green Specks. Okay, this one freaked me out. I noticed small little specks of green in Little Bear's poop at around 6 weeks. I did some research and found out THIS IS NORMAL and that it has to do with bile being excreted. Whew.
White/Chalky. This is one color you DON'T want to see. It means that there is an issue with not enough bile being produced to properly digest foods. Save a sample of poop and call your doctor for an appointment.
Bright Red Streaks. This means blood. This often occurs if a baby gets constipated, which in turn can cause small skin tears to the anus. If you don't believe constipation is the problem, call your doctor. And save a sample of your baby's poop to bring in!
Black. Just like in adults, iron supplements can cause black colored poop. Did your pediatrician recently add iron supplements to your baby's diet? This is most likely the cause behind that black poop.
Other colors. Once solids are added, poops can vary greatly in color. They may be brown, orange, even blue ... depending on what you are feeding your little one. Little Bear has a lot of bright orange poops because she eats a lot of sweet potatoes!
Smell. Breastfed babies have what is often described as "sweet-smelling" poop. And it's true. Which makes changing diapers much more enjoyable! Formula fed babies will have more "stinky" diapers with "grown-up poop" smells. Once solid food is added to a baby's diet, a range of smells is quite common. Right now we are giving Little Bear lots of vegetables, some fruits, and a few meats. Her poops are still quite pleasant smelling!
Consistency. Watery poop is going to be normal for breastfed babies. Formula fed babies will have a more pasty consistency to their poop. Around 4 months, however, Little Bear suddenly developed beautiful yellow, pasty poop! I describe it as "smooth peanut butter" consistency. We didn't add anything to her diet ... it just suddenly changed! I think her system must have started digesting things differently. Once solids are added, poop will very quickly take on a more formed consistency - similar to ours. It should still be soft, however, and never hard. Little Bear started getting hard stools when I fed her too much banana. This indicates constipation, meaning that stools are sitting longer than necessary in the intestines. Not good. Visit my post on constipation for ideas to solve this issue!
Frequency. Here is another category that can vary greatly depending on baby! It can be very normal for a newborn to poop after every meal! Little Bear had many poops every day the first month. On the other hand, your baby may only poop once every day or two. Breastfed babies are more likely to poop several times a day. Formula fed babies will often poop much less - even during the first month. And it changes, as each baby grows older. It can be quite common for a baby to be pooping several times a day - and then suddenly go several days without pooping. Even a week without pooping is considered normal! Little Bear went 5 days without pooping once. I was a little nervous, but because we were breastfeeding and had not changed our feeding habits, I doubted she was constipated. And she wasn't. When she finally did poop, however, it was quite a sight to see!
Using your mothering instincts, however, is especially important during times like these. If your little ones looks uncomfortable - trust your instincts!
Changes in Frequency and/or Consistency. While there are going to be changes in color and consistency, always make sure to be alert and aware of these changes. As mentioned above, it is very normal to see changes in these patterns as you change food sources and/or your baby grows older. What is not normal, though, is going from formed poop one day ... to multiple watery poops the next. This is an indication that your baby has diarrhea. Again, be aware and trust your instincts!
Grunting/Crying. As an adult, we hear a baby grunting/crying and think: constipation! And perhaps this is true. But more likely than not, your baby is simply getting used to this new sensation of pooping! Little Bear did NOT like pooping once she started having more formed poops. She would sit and scream on her potty, very upset at the whole scenario. She has since gotten used to the fact that pooping is okay and not as scary as she first thought. Very hard poops, however, may very well indicate constipation.
Click here for a wonderful look at various pictures of baby poops!
Remember, though, that every baby is different. Those little GI tracts all work at different speeds - resulting in very different looking poops and pooping patterns. Use your instincts, observe your baby, and if really concerned, call your doctor.
Shopping for Baby
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Breastfeeding: Benefits for Mom
It's easy for moms to look at their little one and decide that breast really is best. All the health benefits for baby are amazing and incredible. Click here to read about many benefits to baby of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. But here is some more great news: breastfeeding isn't just good for baby ... it's good for mom, too!
1. Weight Loss. Okay, it might not be the most important reason to keep breastfeeding, but it definitely is a motivating one! I gained 48 pounds while pregnant with Little Bear. I went from a size 4/6 jeans to a size 14. It seemed that no matter how healthy I ate, the pounds just kept packing on! The female body knows what it needs to do to carry a baby - and gaining weight is part of the process. Two weeks after Little Bear was delivered, though, I couldn't help but wonder if I'd ever fit into my pre-pregnancy pants again. Suddenly, around month three, the weight just started falling off. And falling off. And falling off. Weight loss typically peaks during months 3-6. As Little Bear grew and required me to make more milk for her - my body started burning calories like crazy. Breastfeeding can burn between 200-500 calories/day. That's like going out and running several miles - every day!
Some things to remember: Your body needs lots of calories the first two months after delivery! Don't restrict calories to try and lose weight at this time. Doing so could interfere with your milk supply. Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids. Click here for more information.
2. Uterine Contractions. The sooner a baby is put to her mother's breast after delivery, the better. There are several reasons for this, but one of them is to start uterine contractions. Stimulation of the nipples causes a release of oxytocin in the mother. Oxytocin works naturally on the body to begin uterine contractions. And why is this a good thing? In the first few hours, these contractions will help seal off blood vessels in the uterine walls, lessening the amount of bleeding you experience overall. Over the next 4-6 weeks, these contractions will help the uterus shrink back to it's pre-pregnancy size. Each time your little one suckles at the breast the first few weeks, you may be aware of cramping in your abdomen. This is not only normal - it's good! The drug pitocin was introduced as a man-made alternative to oxytocin. Pitocin also works to contract the uterus after delivery. It is often times given to women after delivery. But why even bother with a man-made alternative when we have the real thing built into our own bodies! Pitocin can have the following side-effects: anaphylactic reaction, postpartum hemorrhage, nausea, vomiting, pelvic hematoma, hypertensive episodes, heart arrhythmias. Oxytocin made in a woman's body has no side effects! So start nursing and get the oxytocin flowing!
3. Reduced Cancer Risk. Here is perhaps my favorite reason for women to breastfeed - other than for the health of the baby, of course. Research done over the past 10-15 years is showing that breastfeeding can significantly reduce a woman's risk of getting breast, ovarian, uterine, and edometrial cancers. And even better news: the longer you breastfeed, the lower the risks. Breastfeeding for a total of 6 years throughout your lifetime (if you have 3 children, that's 2 years for each child ... which is the World Health Organization's recommendation) decreases your risk of breast cancer 63%. That's huge. So here's to less cancer and more breastfeeding!
4. Increased Bone Density. This one is a bit counter-intuitive. One might think that all that nursing and providing nutrients to your little one would actually decrease bone density. And actually, it does, for a while. But studies show that upon weaning, a woman's bone density actually increases again. In a culture where osteoporosis is rampant, this is a good thing (one might also consider giving up those diet sodas that can also cause a loss in bone mineral density - but that is another topic altogether). Dr. Sears states that "non-breastfeeding women have a four times greater chance of developing osteoporosis than breastfeeding women and are more likely to suffer from hip fractures in post-menopausal years."
5. Oxytocin (the "love hormone"). Every time your baby suckles at your breast, oxytocin rushes through your body. It not only helps in the uterine contractions ... it is also considered the "love" or "bonding" hormone. Oxytocin helps reduce post-partum anxiety and depression. It also can help a mother to relax and adjust to all the changes a new baby brings into her life. Oxytocin is a tremendous hormone and anything that helps us get more of it on a regular basis is a good thing!
6. Natural Birth Control. Exclusively breastfeeding can actually work as a natural birth control for the first 6 months, and in some cases, much longer! One must be following what is called the lactation amenorrhea method (LAM) of family planning, however, for it to be effective. If followed, this method has been shown to be over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Here is information on LAM. Be aware of all the specifications that must be met ... women in our culture rarely meet all of them and therefore should not rely solely on LAM for birth control (for example: using a breastpump on a regular basis does not meet the specifications).
7. Saving Money/Convenience. Formula for a baby costs anywhere from $60-$250/month, depending on the brand and type of formula you choose. Wow. Breastfeeding literally costs you $0/month. Even if you factor in the cost of buying a breastpump, you are still saving big time by breastfeeding. The convenience of breastfeeding, in my opinion, cannot be overstated. Whether we decide to go for a drive, take Little Bear on a long hike, or are out to dinner with friends, I never have to think about packing a bottle for Little Bear. Having an instant supply of food for our little ones is another wonderful advantage!
8. Time Together. They grow so darned fast. I can't believe Little Bear turned 7 months yesterday. She has started eating solids and skips 2 breastfeeding sessions each day. Soon, I know, she'll need me even less. I cherish, more than ever, our nursing time together. I love watching her when she finally gets to latch on ... her eyes close and her breathing becomes calm and content. Her little fingers stroke my skin and I can feel her heart beating against mine. I know that all too soon these intimate moments will be nothing more than fond memories. She won't remember these times together, but I will remember them even when I'm old and grey. It's easy to get caught up in the crazy business of our culture. Our forced quiet times together helps me to slow down, enjoy the present, and remember what an incredible gift and blessing it is to be a mom.
1. Weight Loss. Okay, it might not be the most important reason to keep breastfeeding, but it definitely is a motivating one! I gained 48 pounds while pregnant with Little Bear. I went from a size 4/6 jeans to a size 14. It seemed that no matter how healthy I ate, the pounds just kept packing on! The female body knows what it needs to do to carry a baby - and gaining weight is part of the process. Two weeks after Little Bear was delivered, though, I couldn't help but wonder if I'd ever fit into my pre-pregnancy pants again. Suddenly, around month three, the weight just started falling off. And falling off. And falling off. Weight loss typically peaks during months 3-6. As Little Bear grew and required me to make more milk for her - my body started burning calories like crazy. Breastfeeding can burn between 200-500 calories/day. That's like going out and running several miles - every day!
Some things to remember: Your body needs lots of calories the first two months after delivery! Don't restrict calories to try and lose weight at this time. Doing so could interfere with your milk supply. Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids. Click here for more information.
2. Uterine Contractions. The sooner a baby is put to her mother's breast after delivery, the better. There are several reasons for this, but one of them is to start uterine contractions. Stimulation of the nipples causes a release of oxytocin in the mother. Oxytocin works naturally on the body to begin uterine contractions. And why is this a good thing? In the first few hours, these contractions will help seal off blood vessels in the uterine walls, lessening the amount of bleeding you experience overall. Over the next 4-6 weeks, these contractions will help the uterus shrink back to it's pre-pregnancy size. Each time your little one suckles at the breast the first few weeks, you may be aware of cramping in your abdomen. This is not only normal - it's good! The drug pitocin was introduced as a man-made alternative to oxytocin. Pitocin also works to contract the uterus after delivery. It is often times given to women after delivery. But why even bother with a man-made alternative when we have the real thing built into our own bodies! Pitocin can have the following side-effects: anaphylactic reaction, postpartum hemorrhage, nausea, vomiting, pelvic hematoma, hypertensive episodes, heart arrhythmias. Oxytocin made in a woman's body has no side effects! So start nursing and get the oxytocin flowing!
3. Reduced Cancer Risk. Here is perhaps my favorite reason for women to breastfeed - other than for the health of the baby, of course. Research done over the past 10-15 years is showing that breastfeeding can significantly reduce a woman's risk of getting breast, ovarian, uterine, and edometrial cancers. And even better news: the longer you breastfeed, the lower the risks. Breastfeeding for a total of 6 years throughout your lifetime (if you have 3 children, that's 2 years for each child ... which is the World Health Organization's recommendation) decreases your risk of breast cancer 63%. That's huge. So here's to less cancer and more breastfeeding!
4. Increased Bone Density. This one is a bit counter-intuitive. One might think that all that nursing and providing nutrients to your little one would actually decrease bone density. And actually, it does, for a while. But studies show that upon weaning, a woman's bone density actually increases again. In a culture where osteoporosis is rampant, this is a good thing (one might also consider giving up those diet sodas that can also cause a loss in bone mineral density - but that is another topic altogether). Dr. Sears states that "non-breastfeeding women have a four times greater chance of developing osteoporosis than breastfeeding women and are more likely to suffer from hip fractures in post-menopausal years."
5. Oxytocin (the "love hormone"). Every time your baby suckles at your breast, oxytocin rushes through your body. It not only helps in the uterine contractions ... it is also considered the "love" or "bonding" hormone. Oxytocin helps reduce post-partum anxiety and depression. It also can help a mother to relax and adjust to all the changes a new baby brings into her life. Oxytocin is a tremendous hormone and anything that helps us get more of it on a regular basis is a good thing!
6. Natural Birth Control. Exclusively breastfeeding can actually work as a natural birth control for the first 6 months, and in some cases, much longer! One must be following what is called the lactation amenorrhea method (LAM) of family planning, however, for it to be effective. If followed, this method has been shown to be over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Here is information on LAM. Be aware of all the specifications that must be met ... women in our culture rarely meet all of them and therefore should not rely solely on LAM for birth control (for example: using a breastpump on a regular basis does not meet the specifications).
7. Saving Money/Convenience. Formula for a baby costs anywhere from $60-$250/month, depending on the brand and type of formula you choose. Wow. Breastfeeding literally costs you $0/month. Even if you factor in the cost of buying a breastpump, you are still saving big time by breastfeeding. The convenience of breastfeeding, in my opinion, cannot be overstated. Whether we decide to go for a drive, take Little Bear on a long hike, or are out to dinner with friends, I never have to think about packing a bottle for Little Bear. Having an instant supply of food for our little ones is another wonderful advantage!
8. Time Together. They grow so darned fast. I can't believe Little Bear turned 7 months yesterday. She has started eating solids and skips 2 breastfeeding sessions each day. Soon, I know, she'll need me even less. I cherish, more than ever, our nursing time together. I love watching her when she finally gets to latch on ... her eyes close and her breathing becomes calm and content. Her little fingers stroke my skin and I can feel her heart beating against mine. I know that all too soon these intimate moments will be nothing more than fond memories. She won't remember these times together, but I will remember them even when I'm old and grey. It's easy to get caught up in the crazy business of our culture. Our forced quiet times together helps me to slow down, enjoy the present, and remember what an incredible gift and blessing it is to be a mom.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Diapering: Why We Use Cloth
For thousands of years women have diapered their babies using natural ingredients from the earth. It may have been grass stuffed in a rabbit skin. It may have been moss, linens, and leaves. Often times babies were simply naked so mothers used Elimination Communication with their infants. Only in the past 30-40 years have parents used disposable man-made materials on their children's bums (disposable diapers where technically in use beginning in the 1950s, but they were considered a rare novelty and only used during special occasions by parents that could afford them). Growing up as a child I didn't really consider that there was an option other than disposables. They were so popular that I can honestly say I don't ever remember seeing a cloth diaper during my teens or twenties. Slowly, though, the truth began to seep out. And as I began thinking about starting my own family, I started to pay attention.
Environmental Impact. It started out with acknowledging the huge environmental implications of using disposable diapers. In the United States alone, 27.4 BILLION diapers are used each year ... resulting in 3.4 MILLION tons of used diapers ending up in landfills every year. The more I studied the environmental impact of disposable versus cloth diapers, the more convinced I was that I would use the latter. Cloth diapering does not come without environmental impacts, however. Washing, drying (if using a machine), even growing cotton to make the cloth diapers, all impacts the environment. However, with a little education and proper care, cloth diapering can be the more environmentally responsible choice. Some things to consider: 1) wait to wash a full load of diapers, 2) hang diapers to dry in the sun whenever possible, 3) buy 100% organic cotton, hemp or bamboo cloth diapers rather than regular cotton (cotton crops are notorious for using lots of chemicals), and 4) re-use cloth diapers for more than one child.
Did you know that on the package of disposable diapers it clearly states that "when disposing of soiled diapers, empty contents into toilet." First of all, nobody I know of does this. Second, why is this? Because dumps and landfills are not allowed to store human waste. Only sewage systems and septic tanks are made to dispose of human waste. Yet each year millions of towns of human waste are placed in landfills via disposable diapers.
Chemicals. Exactly what is in a disposable diaper remains a mystery. Why? Because the diaper companies won't tell you, and legally, they don't have to. Here is a list of a few ingredients that is known about what is in a disposable diaper: paper pulp, polyethylene (and other plastics), glues, dyes, synthetic perfumes, and sodium polyacrulate (a super absorbent material that absorbs urine in a type of "gel"). And here is why I care. In 1999, a study was published in The Archives of Environmental Health that found that mice exposed to various brands of disposable diapers suffered increased eye, throat, and nose irritation - including bronchoconstriction similar to that of an asthma attack. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that "the prevalence of asthma has been increasing since the 1980s." Of course other environmental factors need to be looked at as well, but with disposable diaper use hitting an all time high in the late 70s and early 80s - it causes one to stop and wonder.
Our skin is like a sponge. It soaks up whatever is on it. That is why we can use patches for medications like birth control, nicotine, and fentanyl (for pain). Why would be want chemicals sitting against our baby's bum all day? The skin WILL absorb them.
Diaper Rash & Fertility. The incidence of diaper rash has increased from 7% in the 1970s to 60% by the mid-1990s ... which happens to coincide with the increase in disposable diaper usage. Wearing disposable diapers make infants feel dry - even when they are wet. Wearing disposable diapers actually cause an increase in skin wetness and pH - which in turn can cause diaper rash. Visit this website for more on diaper rashes. Using cloth diapers alerts an infant immediately when they have soiled. Little Bear cries immediately upon wetting or pooping, notifying me that it is time to change her! Very rarely will she allow me to let her sit longer than several minutes in a soiled diaper! As of yet, we have had no diaper rashes.
Additionally, in October 2000, the Archives of Disease in Childhood speculated that disposable diapers may be partially responsible for the increase in male infertility over the past 25 years. Disposable, plastic-lined diapers keep the testicles hotter than core body temperature - 1.8 degrees hotter that cloth diapers! An increase in testicle temperature for extended periods of time can cause reduction in sperm production and possible long-term infertility. Think about it ... all male babies that wear disposable diapers the first 2-3 years of their life are constantly exposing their testicles to higher than normal temperatures!
Economics (saving money!). Over time, cloth diapering costs less. Here is a great website that looks at the costs associated with each option. Cloth diapering saves you roughly $1000/year ... if not more. This savings jumps even higher if you use the same cloth diapers on baby number two and three!
Potty Training. Children that wear cloth diapers potty train faster and earlier than children that wear disposables. It is assumed that because a child knows immediately when he or she has wet or soiled a cloth diaper that potty training is made easier for them, as opposed to disposable diapers that wick moisture away and cause the child to feel dry - even when they are not. Cloth diapering also, I am sure, makes Elimination Communication (early use of the potty with infants) easier for both mother and baby, as well. Because a baby wearing cloth diapers lets someone know immediately when they have wet their diaper, parents can more easily learn their child's potty cues and potty schedules. This way, a parent can more easily anticipate when their child might need to use the potty - even from a very young age.
I'm sure there are many more reasons to choose cloth over disposable. Feel free to list your reasons in the comments below! And the best part: once you get a routine down with your cloth diapers, they really are just as convenient and easy to use as disposables. Really. So I encourage everyone out there to at least do a little more homework and consider the option of switching from disposable to cloth ... whether it is for the health of your baby, to save money, to assist in potty training, or to help out the environment. It's a choice you won't regret. I promise.
Environmental Impact. It started out with acknowledging the huge environmental implications of using disposable diapers. In the United States alone, 27.4 BILLION diapers are used each year ... resulting in 3.4 MILLION tons of used diapers ending up in landfills every year. The more I studied the environmental impact of disposable versus cloth diapers, the more convinced I was that I would use the latter. Cloth diapering does not come without environmental impacts, however. Washing, drying (if using a machine), even growing cotton to make the cloth diapers, all impacts the environment. However, with a little education and proper care, cloth diapering can be the more environmentally responsible choice. Some things to consider: 1) wait to wash a full load of diapers, 2) hang diapers to dry in the sun whenever possible, 3) buy 100% organic cotton, hemp or bamboo cloth diapers rather than regular cotton (cotton crops are notorious for using lots of chemicals), and 4) re-use cloth diapers for more than one child.
Did you know that on the package of disposable diapers it clearly states that "when disposing of soiled diapers, empty contents into toilet." First of all, nobody I know of does this. Second, why is this? Because dumps and landfills are not allowed to store human waste. Only sewage systems and septic tanks are made to dispose of human waste. Yet each year millions of towns of human waste are placed in landfills via disposable diapers.
Chemicals. Exactly what is in a disposable diaper remains a mystery. Why? Because the diaper companies won't tell you, and legally, they don't have to. Here is a list of a few ingredients that is known about what is in a disposable diaper: paper pulp, polyethylene (and other plastics), glues, dyes, synthetic perfumes, and sodium polyacrulate (a super absorbent material that absorbs urine in a type of "gel"). And here is why I care. In 1999, a study was published in The Archives of Environmental Health that found that mice exposed to various brands of disposable diapers suffered increased eye, throat, and nose irritation - including bronchoconstriction similar to that of an asthma attack. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that "the prevalence of asthma has been increasing since the 1980s." Of course other environmental factors need to be looked at as well, but with disposable diaper use hitting an all time high in the late 70s and early 80s - it causes one to stop and wonder.
Our skin is like a sponge. It soaks up whatever is on it. That is why we can use patches for medications like birth control, nicotine, and fentanyl (for pain). Why would be want chemicals sitting against our baby's bum all day? The skin WILL absorb them.
Diaper Rash & Fertility. The incidence of diaper rash has increased from 7% in the 1970s to 60% by the mid-1990s ... which happens to coincide with the increase in disposable diaper usage. Wearing disposable diapers make infants feel dry - even when they are wet. Wearing disposable diapers actually cause an increase in skin wetness and pH - which in turn can cause diaper rash. Visit this website for more on diaper rashes. Using cloth diapers alerts an infant immediately when they have soiled. Little Bear cries immediately upon wetting or pooping, notifying me that it is time to change her! Very rarely will she allow me to let her sit longer than several minutes in a soiled diaper! As of yet, we have had no diaper rashes.
Additionally, in October 2000, the Archives of Disease in Childhood speculated that disposable diapers may be partially responsible for the increase in male infertility over the past 25 years. Disposable, plastic-lined diapers keep the testicles hotter than core body temperature - 1.8 degrees hotter that cloth diapers! An increase in testicle temperature for extended periods of time can cause reduction in sperm production and possible long-term infertility. Think about it ... all male babies that wear disposable diapers the first 2-3 years of their life are constantly exposing their testicles to higher than normal temperatures!
Economics (saving money!). Over time, cloth diapering costs less. Here is a great website that looks at the costs associated with each option. Cloth diapering saves you roughly $1000/year ... if not more. This savings jumps even higher if you use the same cloth diapers on baby number two and three!
Potty Training. Children that wear cloth diapers potty train faster and earlier than children that wear disposables. It is assumed that because a child knows immediately when he or she has wet or soiled a cloth diaper that potty training is made easier for them, as opposed to disposable diapers that wick moisture away and cause the child to feel dry - even when they are not. Cloth diapering also, I am sure, makes Elimination Communication (early use of the potty with infants) easier for both mother and baby, as well. Because a baby wearing cloth diapers lets someone know immediately when they have wet their diaper, parents can more easily learn their child's potty cues and potty schedules. This way, a parent can more easily anticipate when their child might need to use the potty - even from a very young age.
I'm sure there are many more reasons to choose cloth over disposable. Feel free to list your reasons in the comments below! And the best part: once you get a routine down with your cloth diapers, they really are just as convenient and easy to use as disposables. Really. So I encourage everyone out there to at least do a little more homework and consider the option of switching from disposable to cloth ... whether it is for the health of your baby, to save money, to assist in potty training, or to help out the environment. It's a choice you won't regret. I promise.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Media Representation of Breast & Bottle Feeding
Below is an article from Sheila Kitzinger's website. Kitzinger is a social anthropologist who has studied pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding from women's perspectives from all around the world. She believes that women should "have the information they need to make choices about childbirth" and is a "strong believer in the benefits of home birth for women who are not at especially high risk." She is a firm believer in breastfeeding. Below is a study published in the British Medical Journal looking at how breastfeeding versus bottle feeding is portrayed in the media.
Media representation of breast and bottle feeding
Research on media representation of breast and bottle feeding was published in the British Medical Journal
Representing infant feeding: content analysis of British media portrayals of bottle feeding and breast feeding
Lesley Henderson, Jenny Kitzinger, and Josephine Green
BMJ, 2000, 321(7270): pp. 1196-1198
Media representations of breastfeeding often portray it as unusual, embarrassing, difficult or funny. By contrast, bottle feeding is presented as the normal and socially acceptable way to feed a baby. Analysis of one month of television output located just one TV program, Channel 4's soap opera Brookside , that showed a woman breastfeeding. The researchers found another 9 scenes in which breast pumps appeared (not in use). By contrast there were 170 scenes of bottle feeding (including formula preparation) across all kinds of programmes. Problems with bottle feeding were suggested only once in the TV sample while there were 27 references to problems with breastfeeding, including sleepless nights, 'droopy' breasts, sore nipples and being tied to the baby. Similar findings were echoed in the analysis of newspaper reporting. The conclusion: the media rarely present positive or just routine representations of breastfeeding and this may have profound implications for how women decide to feed their babies and thus for the health of the next generation.
Representing infant feeding: content analysis of British media portrayals of bottle feeding and breast feeding
Lesley Henderson, Jenny Kitzinger, and Josephine Green
BMJ, 2000, 321(7270): pp. 1196-1198
Media representations of breastfeeding often portray it as unusual, embarrassing, difficult or funny. By contrast, bottle feeding is presented as the normal and socially acceptable way to feed a baby. Analysis of one month of television output located just one TV program, Channel 4's soap opera Brookside , that showed a woman breastfeeding. The researchers found another 9 scenes in which breast pumps appeared (not in use). By contrast there were 170 scenes of bottle feeding (including formula preparation) across all kinds of programmes. Problems with bottle feeding were suggested only once in the TV sample while there were 27 references to problems with breastfeeding, including sleepless nights, 'droopy' breasts, sore nipples and being tied to the baby. Similar findings were echoed in the analysis of newspaper reporting. The conclusion: the media rarely present positive or just routine representations of breastfeeding and this may have profound implications for how women decide to feed their babies and thus for the health of the next generation.Exclusive Breastfeeding: The First 6 Months
During the first 6 months of a baby's life, breast really is best. While this seems obvious to many mothers (yes, intuition and instinct is still alive and well for many moms), it really is news to many. Even nurses and doctors have recommended feeding infants rice cereal and other foods starting at 3-4 months of age. Yet as the research emerges, it is hard to argue that this recommendation should be continued.
The journal Pediatrics published a study done in the Netherlands in 2010 that looked at exclusive breastfeeding for various lengths of time. The results are clear: 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding led to a "significant reduction of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in infants," as well as reduced the number of infections for the next 6 months of life. The entire study can be read by visiting this link.
According to the Center for Disease Control's 2009 data, only one-third of mothers are exclusively breastfeeding at 3 months in the United States. By 6 months, only 14% of mothers are exclusively breastfeeding. To see data state-by-state, visit the CDC's website.
Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as giving only breastmilk (no formula, food, juice, or water) to an infant. Exclusive breastfeeding does include giving breastmilk that has been pumped using a breast-pump. Breastmilk contains ALL of the nutrients an infant needs during his or her first 6 months of life. It also contains precious antibodies passed on from the mother. That means that if a mother has built up antibodies in her system to that nasty cold everyone around town is getting ... her baby is most likely going to be protected. It also means protection from serious infections that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, the two leading causes of infant mortality worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 1 million child deaths could be prevented each year by following the recommended 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding. Visit WHO's website for more information.
Science aside, I can attest that as a mother, exclusively breastfeeding for 6 months offers many other benefits to mother and child. Each time an infant suckles at her mother's breasts, oxytocin (the love and bonding hormone) is released into the mother's bloodstream. Oxytocin is not only responsible for feelings of intimacy and love, but also help a mother feel more calm and relaxed. And what new mother couldn't use more of THAT? It also allows for hours of quiet time spent together - offering a place of refuge and quiet for both mom and baby.
While it has become somewhat "un-PC" or "controversial" to talk about the benefits of breastfeeding out of fear of hurting a mother's feelings that either cannot or choose not to breastfeed - I strongly believe that we must continue talking about and encouraging breastfeeding whenever possible. I recognize and understand that not every mother will physiologically be able to breastfeed her child. For those women, formula is a wonderful alternative. Yet many mothers that can are choosing not to breastfeed - often times due to lack of knowledge or convenience. I have known several mothers that stated they had to give formula because they did not produce enough milk, stating they were having to breastfeed every 3 hours or less. Unfortunately for these women, they did not understand that breastfeeding every 2-3 hours is normal ... and that their bodies were producing enough milk. But lack of knowledge caused them to stop breastfeeding. This is unacceptable. Women MUST be informed.
Additionally, the United States has become an overly-sexed culture that often views the woman's breast as merely a sexual object. While this is certainly one function of a woman's breast, it is most certainly not the only function (and I would argue, most definitely not the most important one, either!). We live in a culture where it is okay to have women parade around in underwear (or less) on prime-time television, yet it has not been okay to expose a breast to feed a child. In recent years, most states have passed laws that allow women to breastfeed in public (and sometimes private) locations. While I am grateful that women are finally being protected so that they can feed their children, the fact that we even had to pass these laws speaks volumes about our nation's attitude toward breastfeeding.
I encourage everyone to become a supporter of breastfeeding mothers! Encourage friends and family by sending them information from the above websites. Start conversations. Express support whenever possible. Let's change the attitude toward breastfeeding in our nation, so that when Little Bear is old enough to have her own children, exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is considered the norm - and not the exception.
The journal Pediatrics published a study done in the Netherlands in 2010 that looked at exclusive breastfeeding for various lengths of time. The results are clear: 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding led to a "significant reduction of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in infants," as well as reduced the number of infections for the next 6 months of life. The entire study can be read by visiting this link.
According to the Center for Disease Control's 2009 data, only one-third of mothers are exclusively breastfeeding at 3 months in the United States. By 6 months, only 14% of mothers are exclusively breastfeeding. To see data state-by-state, visit the CDC's website.
Exclusive breastfeeding is defined as giving only breastmilk (no formula, food, juice, or water) to an infant. Exclusive breastfeeding does include giving breastmilk that has been pumped using a breast-pump. Breastmilk contains ALL of the nutrients an infant needs during his or her first 6 months of life. It also contains precious antibodies passed on from the mother. That means that if a mother has built up antibodies in her system to that nasty cold everyone around town is getting ... her baby is most likely going to be protected. It also means protection from serious infections that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, the two leading causes of infant mortality worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 1 million child deaths could be prevented each year by following the recommended 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding. Visit WHO's website for more information.
Science aside, I can attest that as a mother, exclusively breastfeeding for 6 months offers many other benefits to mother and child. Each time an infant suckles at her mother's breasts, oxytocin (the love and bonding hormone) is released into the mother's bloodstream. Oxytocin is not only responsible for feelings of intimacy and love, but also help a mother feel more calm and relaxed. And what new mother couldn't use more of THAT? It also allows for hours of quiet time spent together - offering a place of refuge and quiet for both mom and baby.
While it has become somewhat "un-PC" or "controversial" to talk about the benefits of breastfeeding out of fear of hurting a mother's feelings that either cannot or choose not to breastfeed - I strongly believe that we must continue talking about and encouraging breastfeeding whenever possible. I recognize and understand that not every mother will physiologically be able to breastfeed her child. For those women, formula is a wonderful alternative. Yet many mothers that can are choosing not to breastfeed - often times due to lack of knowledge or convenience. I have known several mothers that stated they had to give formula because they did not produce enough milk, stating they were having to breastfeed every 3 hours or less. Unfortunately for these women, they did not understand that breastfeeding every 2-3 hours is normal ... and that their bodies were producing enough milk. But lack of knowledge caused them to stop breastfeeding. This is unacceptable. Women MUST be informed.
Additionally, the United States has become an overly-sexed culture that often views the woman's breast as merely a sexual object. While this is certainly one function of a woman's breast, it is most certainly not the only function (and I would argue, most definitely not the most important one, either!). We live in a culture where it is okay to have women parade around in underwear (or less) on prime-time television, yet it has not been okay to expose a breast to feed a child. In recent years, most states have passed laws that allow women to breastfeed in public (and sometimes private) locations. While I am grateful that women are finally being protected so that they can feed their children, the fact that we even had to pass these laws speaks volumes about our nation's attitude toward breastfeeding.
I encourage everyone to become a supporter of breastfeeding mothers! Encourage friends and family by sending them information from the above websites. Start conversations. Express support whenever possible. Let's change the attitude toward breastfeeding in our nation, so that when Little Bear is old enough to have her own children, exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is considered the norm - and not the exception.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Learning that Sometimes ... Life Hurts
Even at a very young age, Little Bear is learning that life isn't always fair and that sometimes it just plain hurts! The lessons at this age are simple ones: being forced into the car seat when she'd rather stay in my arms, toppling over while seated and bonking her head on the floor, waving a toy in the air - only to have it, also, bonk her on the head (that one actually just happened while I was writing this intro.).
As a mother, hearing that wail that I've come to know as Little Bear's "I'm unhappy and hurting" cry always takes my breath away, even if just for a moment. It must be physiological and instinctual, something ingrained deep inside a mother's being. It's that "mother bear" in all of us, ready and willing to protect our child - no matter the consequences. Learning to set that instinct aside when appropriate isn't always easy.
When Little Bear topples over and bonks her head on the floor, my first instinct is to scoop her up and comfort her. And sometimes, after a really hard fall, this is exactly what she needs. But most times, what she really needs is simply some reassurance that everything is okay. And this can be done with a simple look from me ... with a smile and calm eyes, rather than a look of panic. Often I will simply set her back upright and say, "You're okay." I find myself saying this a lot lately as Little Bear tests her physical strength more and more each day.
It's a great responsibility, being in charge of life lessons for another little human being as she grows and learns. It's a wonderful privilege, too. We want Little Bear to understand that in order to grow and succeed, risks must be taken (wanting that toy just out of reach might mean toppling over!) ... and that sometimes she'll get hurt along the way (it doesn't feel good at all to fall on your face, either as an infant or as an adult). But we also want Little Bear to know that getting hurt doesn't mean she should stop ... and it doesn't mean that someone is always going to be there to comfort her (though sometimes, of course, we will). Hopefully Little Bear will learn that life isn't always fair, that it sometimes hurts, and that that is okay. Sometimes she simply has to learn patience and acceptance (sorry, kid, you have to stay in the car seat another 15 minutes), and other times she will master what she set out to do (it took her 3 tries, but she finally grabbed that green ball she wanted). Learning when to let go and when to keep at it is a life lesson we all could use more work on.
The world can be a big and scary and wonderful place, filled with unexpected pot-holes, difficult lessons, pain. hurt, and beautiful surprises. Preparing Little Bear for this big world can seem a daunting and impossible task at times. But then I see the little lessons she is learning each day, and I am comforted, knowing she will be ready ... in time ... to step into that big and wonderful (though sometimes painful) world.
As a mother, hearing that wail that I've come to know as Little Bear's "I'm unhappy and hurting" cry always takes my breath away, even if just for a moment. It must be physiological and instinctual, something ingrained deep inside a mother's being. It's that "mother bear" in all of us, ready and willing to protect our child - no matter the consequences. Learning to set that instinct aside when appropriate isn't always easy.
When Little Bear topples over and bonks her head on the floor, my first instinct is to scoop her up and comfort her. And sometimes, after a really hard fall, this is exactly what she needs. But most times, what she really needs is simply some reassurance that everything is okay. And this can be done with a simple look from me ... with a smile and calm eyes, rather than a look of panic. Often I will simply set her back upright and say, "You're okay." I find myself saying this a lot lately as Little Bear tests her physical strength more and more each day.
It's a great responsibility, being in charge of life lessons for another little human being as she grows and learns. It's a wonderful privilege, too. We want Little Bear to understand that in order to grow and succeed, risks must be taken (wanting that toy just out of reach might mean toppling over!) ... and that sometimes she'll get hurt along the way (it doesn't feel good at all to fall on your face, either as an infant or as an adult). But we also want Little Bear to know that getting hurt doesn't mean she should stop ... and it doesn't mean that someone is always going to be there to comfort her (though sometimes, of course, we will). Hopefully Little Bear will learn that life isn't always fair, that it sometimes hurts, and that that is okay. Sometimes she simply has to learn patience and acceptance (sorry, kid, you have to stay in the car seat another 15 minutes), and other times she will master what she set out to do (it took her 3 tries, but she finally grabbed that green ball she wanted). Learning when to let go and when to keep at it is a life lesson we all could use more work on.
The world can be a big and scary and wonderful place, filled with unexpected pot-holes, difficult lessons, pain. hurt, and beautiful surprises. Preparing Little Bear for this big world can seem a daunting and impossible task at times. But then I see the little lessons she is learning each day, and I am comforted, knowing she will be ready ... in time ... to step into that big and wonderful (though sometimes painful) world.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Store-bought versus Home-made: Chocolate Cake
Kyle's 31st birthday is today. Usually, for birthdays, I enjoy making a home-made cake. This year, because we are in the middle of moving and I don't have my kitchen supplies with me, I decided to buy one from the store instead. I bought a chocolate cake with mousse filling from Costco and it only cost $17.99 (not bad, considering it was for an office party and served 48). Unfortunately, the list of ingredients is almost too long to include. To make my point, though, here it is: sugar, enriched wheat flour (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), partially hydrogentated palm and/or palm kernal and/or coconut and/or soybean and/or cottonseed oils, palm oil, canola oil, TBHQ, milk, eggs whites, water, cocoa (with alkali), cocoa, pasteurized milk and cream, contains 2% or less of the following, dextrose, sucrose, emulsifiers (propylene glycol mono&di esters of fatty acids, mono&diglycerides, soy lecithin, sodium steradyl, lactylate, sorbitan monostearate, polyglycerol esters, of fatty acids, polysorbate 60), corn sugar, modified corn starch, leavening (sodium bicarbonate, sodium alluminum phosphate, monocalcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate), salt, caramel, color, nonfat milk, xantham gum, corn starch, rice flour gum, cellulose gum, confectioners sugar glaze, carragenan, high fructose corn syryp, carbohydrate gum, natural and artificial flavors, sodium citrate, disodium phosphate, beta carotene (color), modified food starch, cheese culture carob bean gum, whey, corn syrup solids, sodium caseinate, citric acid, dipotassium phosphate, corn syrup, locust bean gum, sodium tripsterrate, sodium sorbate, artifical colors (FD&C Red #3, Red #40, Blue #1 & #2, Yellow #5 & #6, Blue #2.
Now let's compare that list with that of a home-made chocolate cake with mousse filling: cocoa powder, salt, flour, baking soda, vegetable oil, buttermilk, sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, eggs, water, bittersweet chocolate, heavy cream.
Yes. That's right. And not only can I pronounce the name of every ingredient in the second list, I know what each ingredient is. And we wonder why we have health problems in our culture. Whenever and wherever possible, let's feed our children (and ourselves) REAL food made from REAL ingredients. (even if that food is a chocolate birthday cake!). Point made, I hope.
Now let's compare that list with that of a home-made chocolate cake with mousse filling: cocoa powder, salt, flour, baking soda, vegetable oil, buttermilk, sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, eggs, water, bittersweet chocolate, heavy cream.
Yes. That's right. And not only can I pronounce the name of every ingredient in the second list, I know what each ingredient is. And we wonder why we have health problems in our culture. Whenever and wherever possible, let's feed our children (and ourselves) REAL food made from REAL ingredients. (even if that food is a chocolate birthday cake!). Point made, I hope.
Ina May Gaskin: A Must Read for Mothers-to-Be
Not many people have heard her name, much less know what an incredible woman she is. I didn't learn about Ina May until my last semester of nursing school, when an instructor (and midwife) quoted her in a presentation. I don't even remember what the quote was. But the name stuck with me, and I ordered several of her books. I was blown away by the depth, sincerity, integrity, and strength of this woman, Ina May. So who is she?
Ina May Gaskin is a certified professional midwife. She began delivering babies by accident, back in the early 1970s, when the group of people she lived with needed someone to help out during deliveries. Over the years she taught herself, and others, about childbirth. At first she learned from books. Then, a physician that lived nearby agreed to assist and teach. She has stayed at what she calls "The Farm" (where their midwifery practice continues today) for nearly 40 years now, educating women and assisting in births. But what makes Ina May so different and special?
Over the past 30 years, nearly 96% of births at The Farm occurred at home. Only 1.5% required emergency transport to a hospital. Nearly 99% of the births occurring at The Farm occur vaginally, leaving a c-section rate of just 1.4%. That's right: 1.4% c-section rate! How does that compare to the rest of the United States? Right now the c-section rate stands at 24.4% - and is rising. That's right: one out of every four babies in our country is delivered by major surgery. This is outrageous and unacceptable. It not only puts a mother at higher risk for post-surgery complications, it also puts the baby at risk for a long list of complications (including breathing problems, premature birth, and instrument injury). Additionally, Ina May assists women at The Farm in delivering naturally, with no need for epidurals and other medications (which can not only leave a baby lethargic and "sleepy" upon delivery, but also get in the way of the body's natural production of oxytocin - the "love" hormone that helps mother-child bond during the first few hours after birth).
Ina May teaches internationally about how to improve maternal and fetal outcomes during labor and delivery. She speaks to midwives and physicians all over the world about low-intervention methods during childbirth. Her philosophy toward childbirth includes appropriate medical intervention. She is not opposed to c-sections and other invasive medical techniques when necessary - but she strongly believes (and has shown) that most of the time, these interventions are completely unnecessary! She is a living testament that through proper prenatal care and education, in addition to providing a relaxing and gentle setting for birth to occur in, women in our society can continue to enjoy the experience of natural childbirth.
Ina May encourages women who are pregnant (or thinking of becoming pregnant) to stop listening to and stop watching all the horror stories of labors gone wrong. Because, quite simply, almost 99% of women will delivery naturally. Even with twins. Even with a breech birth. Without serious complications. The media, movies, and television love to dramatize birth and make it into something it simply is not. While pregnant myself, I heeded Ina May's advice. Instead, I picked up Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and Spiritual Midwifery. Whenever I began to doubt my decision to have a natural labor, Ina May's words would encourage and inspire me. Story after story of women telling their experience of labor and delivery. I could hear the pride and joy in their words as they described what it was like for them to labor unmedicated, surrounded by loving and caring midwives, husbands, and friends. There were also one or two stories of women who did need a c-section - and their stories also inspired and encouraged me. The more I would read, the more calm and reassured I became.
I encourage every woman who is pregnant or plans on becoming pregnant to buy a copy of Ina May's books. She has a new one (Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding) which is also a lovely and informative read. It is time to reassess the direction in which childbirth is moving in our country. With infant and mother mortality rates on the rise, we need to decide, as a culture, if modern medicine and hospitals as a first line of defense is really the right choice for most women. It is also time to say STOP to how birth is portrayed in movies and on television, turning it into something that is scary and unbearable - rather than something that is beautiful and empowering. So find a copy of Ina May's books for yourself, read it, re-read it, and buy a copy for your friends and family.
Ina May Gaskin is a certified professional midwife. She began delivering babies by accident, back in the early 1970s, when the group of people she lived with needed someone to help out during deliveries. Over the years she taught herself, and others, about childbirth. At first she learned from books. Then, a physician that lived nearby agreed to assist and teach. She has stayed at what she calls "The Farm" (where their midwifery practice continues today) for nearly 40 years now, educating women and assisting in births. But what makes Ina May so different and special?
Over the past 30 years, nearly 96% of births at The Farm occurred at home. Only 1.5% required emergency transport to a hospital. Nearly 99% of the births occurring at The Farm occur vaginally, leaving a c-section rate of just 1.4%. That's right: 1.4% c-section rate! How does that compare to the rest of the United States? Right now the c-section rate stands at 24.4% - and is rising. That's right: one out of every four babies in our country is delivered by major surgery. This is outrageous and unacceptable. It not only puts a mother at higher risk for post-surgery complications, it also puts the baby at risk for a long list of complications (including breathing problems, premature birth, and instrument injury). Additionally, Ina May assists women at The Farm in delivering naturally, with no need for epidurals and other medications (which can not only leave a baby lethargic and "sleepy" upon delivery, but also get in the way of the body's natural production of oxytocin - the "love" hormone that helps mother-child bond during the first few hours after birth).
Ina May teaches internationally about how to improve maternal and fetal outcomes during labor and delivery. She speaks to midwives and physicians all over the world about low-intervention methods during childbirth. Her philosophy toward childbirth includes appropriate medical intervention. She is not opposed to c-sections and other invasive medical techniques when necessary - but she strongly believes (and has shown) that most of the time, these interventions are completely unnecessary! She is a living testament that through proper prenatal care and education, in addition to providing a relaxing and gentle setting for birth to occur in, women in our society can continue to enjoy the experience of natural childbirth.
Ina May encourages women who are pregnant (or thinking of becoming pregnant) to stop listening to and stop watching all the horror stories of labors gone wrong. Because, quite simply, almost 99% of women will delivery naturally. Even with twins. Even with a breech birth. Without serious complications. The media, movies, and television love to dramatize birth and make it into something it simply is not. While pregnant myself, I heeded Ina May's advice. Instead, I picked up Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and Spiritual Midwifery. Whenever I began to doubt my decision to have a natural labor, Ina May's words would encourage and inspire me. Story after story of women telling their experience of labor and delivery. I could hear the pride and joy in their words as they described what it was like for them to labor unmedicated, surrounded by loving and caring midwives, husbands, and friends. There were also one or two stories of women who did need a c-section - and their stories also inspired and encouraged me. The more I would read, the more calm and reassured I became.
I encourage every woman who is pregnant or plans on becoming pregnant to buy a copy of Ina May's books. She has a new one (Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding) which is also a lovely and informative read. It is time to reassess the direction in which childbirth is moving in our country. With infant and mother mortality rates on the rise, we need to decide, as a culture, if modern medicine and hospitals as a first line of defense is really the right choice for most women. It is also time to say STOP to how birth is portrayed in movies and on television, turning it into something that is scary and unbearable - rather than something that is beautiful and empowering. So find a copy of Ina May's books for yourself, read it, re-read it, and buy a copy for your friends and family.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Tag Blankets!
Over the past few weeks I have watched Little Bear (who is now almost 7 months old) become absolutely fascinated with tags. Whether it is on a stuffed animal, a piece of clothing, or a soft toy ... she zeros in on the tag and ignores everything else! I've watched her sit for 10 minutes with a multitude of toys around her, playing only with a tag. She is getting better at her fine motor skills and enjoys using her fingers to make the tag move. She also seems to love the feel of tags in her mouth and can chew on one longer than almost anything else. One of Kyle's friends informed me about "tag blankets" - something I had never heard of before. I looked them up on the internet and knew instantly that the idea would be a hit with Little Bear.
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| Two sets of tag blankets & bibs. |
A "tag blanket" (or "taggies" ... as I've also seen them called) is simply a small double-sided blanket that has a multitude of tags sewn around the edge of it. It's a simple yet brilliant idea. They are made in many different sizes and cost anywhere from $15 - $30. I thought it would be a lot more fun to sew one myself since I could not only save money, but also personalize it with the colors and patterns I wanted. Little Bear and I made a trip to Jo-Ann Fabrics (in between snow storms) and spent a solid 30 minutes looking at fabrics, ribbons, and iron-on patches. It was a lot of fun - and Little Bear enjoyed riding around in the cart looking at all the colors around us.
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| Close-up of blanket & tags. |
I always recommended going to the "scrap" section of a fabric store where you can find remnants of fabric at really good prices! If you are really feeling thrifty, you can usually find fun shirts/skirts/etc. at Goodwill and re-use that fabric. If you aren't feeling very creative, you can always rely on little bundles that the fabric store cuts and puts together of fabrics that go well together. These usually cost around $10 and will supply you with enough fabric to make several blankets. When choosing ribbons, I suggest buying several different widths of ribbon in order to add more contrast and something a little different.
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| Soft material with sew/iron-ons added. |
Because there are so many websites explaining how to make a basic tag blanket, I won't re-explain the process. My only recommendation in addition to the instructions on the websites would be to have fun with adding iron-ons and sew-ons. Make sure that all iron-ons are also stitched, just to make sure they are secure and can withstand multiple washings and many hours of baby hands pulling on them. Here are several links I found that explain how to make a blanket:
It only takes about 30 minutes to make a tag blanket ... less time once you know what you are doing. They would make a wonderful home-made gift to give a friend with a little one. I went ahead and made matching bibs out of the same material (I just traced a bib onto fabric, sewed them wrong-side out with a few inches to pull them through right-side out, then did a final stitch around the edge and a little velcro on the ends - takes about 10 minutes). They make a great looking gift set! I love receiving home-made gifts from friends and am trying to give more of them this year, as well.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Nursing Pads
Prior to giving birth to Little Bear, I thought I had prepared for everything! I had cloth diapers, clothes, burp clothes, swaddling blankets ... all ready for the big day when our family of two would suddenly become a family of three. Little Bear was born on a Saturday morning. By Tuesday, my milk had started to come in and I was painfully engorged. I remember sitting at my midwife's office with my shirt complete soaked in breastmilk. It was streaming out so hard and fast that I was soon drenched from chest to waist. I suddenly realized that I hadn't prepared for everything: I didn't have any nursing pads!
There are always going to be things during pregnancy and motherhood that take us completely by surprise. Maybe I skipped the chapters on nursing pads in all the pregnancy books I read ... or maybe leaking breasts just didn't seem that exciting to write about. Whatever the reason, I completely neglected to realized exactly how much breasts can leak those first few months!
I was able to find disposable nursing pads at our local drug store. They were made by Lansinoh and worked great. You simply slip a pad between your bra and breast and forget they are even there. I haven't used them for a while, but I believe you put the purple side toward your breast (there were not instructions on the box so I had to figure it out by trial and error). You could use one pair for quite a while (a day usually); it was easy to tell when it was time to toss them because they would feel "crispy" from soaking up the milk. I ordered a pair of washable, plastic pads but never used them. I wasn't sure how they worked when I ordered them, but when I got them in I realized that they put pressure on your nipples and actually stopped the flow of milk. This seemed like a very bad idea (mastitis and clogged milk ducts can occur from this) so I never tried them out.
My midwife said that using nursing pads at times, especially when out and about, is not an issue. However, she did say that the breasts DO need to leak freely and that sleeping without nursing pads and a loose shirt was a good idea. This meant many nights of waking up with a soaking wet shirt AND sheets, but I heeded her advice. I eventually started sleeping with a towel under me so I didn't have to change our sheets every other day.
I eventually found washable nursing pads made from organic cotton which I liked A LOT. I bought 3 pairs so that I'd always have a clean pair available.
I noticed that after 4 months my breasts stopped leaking so much - both in the day time and night time. The exception is when "let-down" occurs while nursing Little Bear. Milk begins flowing out of BOTH breasts (not just the one they are nursing on), so I still will stick a nursing pad or burp cloth on the opposite side I'm nursing on. This is usually worse in the mornings, or after going several hours without nursing (when the breasts are more full). Everyone, I'm sure, is different. The amount of milk produced will vary from woman to woman ... and the amount a baby demands will vary from baby to baby. Women may also notice engorgement and leaking more when their baby begins to sleep through the night (I noticed this immediately), or their baby begins eating solids and skipping one or more nursing sessions. That is the beauty of the human body: it adapts and varies to best meets the needs of each individual mother and child. Wonderful, isn't it?
There are always going to be things during pregnancy and motherhood that take us completely by surprise. Maybe I skipped the chapters on nursing pads in all the pregnancy books I read ... or maybe leaking breasts just didn't seem that exciting to write about. Whatever the reason, I completely neglected to realized exactly how much breasts can leak those first few months!
I was able to find disposable nursing pads at our local drug store. They were made by Lansinoh and worked great. You simply slip a pad between your bra and breast and forget they are even there. I haven't used them for a while, but I believe you put the purple side toward your breast (there were not instructions on the box so I had to figure it out by trial and error). You could use one pair for quite a while (a day usually); it was easy to tell when it was time to toss them because they would feel "crispy" from soaking up the milk. I ordered a pair of washable, plastic pads but never used them. I wasn't sure how they worked when I ordered them, but when I got them in I realized that they put pressure on your nipples and actually stopped the flow of milk. This seemed like a very bad idea (mastitis and clogged milk ducts can occur from this) so I never tried them out.
My midwife said that using nursing pads at times, especially when out and about, is not an issue. However, she did say that the breasts DO need to leak freely and that sleeping without nursing pads and a loose shirt was a good idea. This meant many nights of waking up with a soaking wet shirt AND sheets, but I heeded her advice. I eventually started sleeping with a towel under me so I didn't have to change our sheets every other day.
I eventually found washable nursing pads made from organic cotton which I liked A LOT. I bought 3 pairs so that I'd always have a clean pair available.
I noticed that after 4 months my breasts stopped leaking so much - both in the day time and night time. The exception is when "let-down" occurs while nursing Little Bear. Milk begins flowing out of BOTH breasts (not just the one they are nursing on), so I still will stick a nursing pad or burp cloth on the opposite side I'm nursing on. This is usually worse in the mornings, or after going several hours without nursing (when the breasts are more full). Everyone, I'm sure, is different. The amount of milk produced will vary from woman to woman ... and the amount a baby demands will vary from baby to baby. Women may also notice engorgement and leaking more when their baby begins to sleep through the night (I noticed this immediately), or their baby begins eating solids and skipping one or more nursing sessions. That is the beauty of the human body: it adapts and varies to best meets the needs of each individual mother and child. Wonderful, isn't it?
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Breastfeeding & Sore Nipples
This is my first post that directly references breastfeeding, though I promise there will be many more in the weeks and months ahead. I am an avid believer that, whenever possible, breast milk should be a baby's only source of food for the first 6 months of life. Because formula companies almost ended breastfeeding back in the 1940's, nearly two generations of women were raised without putting their own children to their breasts. The image of a baby eating was synonymous with an infant with a bottle in his mouth.
When I gave birth to Little Bear at age 29, I had only witnessed firsthand one or two babies breastfeeding. My knowledge on the topic was limited to what I read online or in books, or what my own mother and midwives shared. My mother told me that breastfeeding would come naturally, because babies are made to breastfeed, and we are made to feed them. She said that my nipples would toughen up and eventually it would be second nature. She told me to feed the baby when the baby cried. My midwives gave me instructions on proper latch, when to breastfeed, etc. They also instructed me to feed Little Bear for 20 minutes every 3 hours. Some of the books I read reiterated this recommendation. My mother made it sound so simple; the midwives and books made it sound a little harder.
And I'll be honest, it wasn't easy at first. And I did struggle. Little Bear was learning, I was learning, and we had our fair share of frustrations. Little Bear would make a very loud slurping/clicking sound with her tongue when she fed. My midwives told me to pull her off the breast and start over with a wider latch if she did this because it would make my nipples sore. I would pull Little Bear off, start over, she'd make the slurping/clicking noise, I'd pull her off, start over, etc. I wanted to cry. Little Bear would cry. It was awful. And my nipples DID hurt. At first they were just a little sore. After a week I dreaded the next breastfeeding session, always relieved when it was over for another few hours. My nipples burned every time anything touched them. I even started pumping once or twice a day to give them a rest. My midwife gave me exercises to try and help Little Bear stop the slurping/clicking sound. They didn't work.
It took almost 2 months before my nipples stopped being sore. But guess what, my mother was right. They toughened up and quit hurting. Sometimes I think I made it harder than I needed to. I can't help but wonder if I listened to my mother's advice and just let it all go ... if it would have been easier. Perhaps my nipples would have hurt, but perhaps I would have been more okay with it. Instead, I felt like Little Bear was nursing "wrong," I was doing something "wrong," and that we needed to "fix" something. I can't tell you how frustrating that was. If I didn't have the expectation that my nipples should stop hurting after 4-5 days (as all the books say), then maybe I would have been okay. Maybe I would have accepted sore nipples as part of becoming a new mom, instead of feeling like I was doing something wrong.
A few things I found helpful: Lanolin ointment (a natural oil taken from sheep wool), frequent feedings, and time.
I think that I will do a few things differently the second time around. I don't plan on keeping track of time and feedings the way I did with Little Bear. Women didn't have clocks for thousands of years and babies still managed to get fed. I hated looking at the clock and deciding if it was time to feed or not. Relying on Little Bear's hunger cues would have been a better indicator of when to feed. It also would have helped to strengthen that very intimate mother-baby communication which is so important! Staring at a clock instead of listening to my baby was, I believe, a mistake. I will also not try to over-correct my baby's latch. While a wide "fish mouth" is important, it is fairly easy to tell when they have just the nipple or more. Getting worked up about more detail than that is, in my opinion, only going to frustrate everyone involved. Of all my friends that had babies the past several years, ALL of them said that they had sore nipples for an extended period of time. In other words, perhaps that 5-6 day thing is not as normal as they make it sound. Perhaps sore nipples, on the other hand, IS normal.
I feel strongly that I share my story with others because I know women who gave up nursing because of sore nipples. They felt that after several weeks that they shouldn't hurt anymore and that something was wrong. I want to tell women that mine hurt for a long time. But if you keep with it, it does get better. And before you know it, breastfeeding will become a very intimate, enjoyable time together. It does happen. And the hours, weeks, months, and years spent with your little one on your chest is more than worth the brief pain of sore nipples. Of that, I'm certain.
When I gave birth to Little Bear at age 29, I had only witnessed firsthand one or two babies breastfeeding. My knowledge on the topic was limited to what I read online or in books, or what my own mother and midwives shared. My mother told me that breastfeeding would come naturally, because babies are made to breastfeed, and we are made to feed them. She said that my nipples would toughen up and eventually it would be second nature. She told me to feed the baby when the baby cried. My midwives gave me instructions on proper latch, when to breastfeed, etc. They also instructed me to feed Little Bear for 20 minutes every 3 hours. Some of the books I read reiterated this recommendation. My mother made it sound so simple; the midwives and books made it sound a little harder.
And I'll be honest, it wasn't easy at first. And I did struggle. Little Bear was learning, I was learning, and we had our fair share of frustrations. Little Bear would make a very loud slurping/clicking sound with her tongue when she fed. My midwives told me to pull her off the breast and start over with a wider latch if she did this because it would make my nipples sore. I would pull Little Bear off, start over, she'd make the slurping/clicking noise, I'd pull her off, start over, etc. I wanted to cry. Little Bear would cry. It was awful. And my nipples DID hurt. At first they were just a little sore. After a week I dreaded the next breastfeeding session, always relieved when it was over for another few hours. My nipples burned every time anything touched them. I even started pumping once or twice a day to give them a rest. My midwife gave me exercises to try and help Little Bear stop the slurping/clicking sound. They didn't work.
It took almost 2 months before my nipples stopped being sore. But guess what, my mother was right. They toughened up and quit hurting. Sometimes I think I made it harder than I needed to. I can't help but wonder if I listened to my mother's advice and just let it all go ... if it would have been easier. Perhaps my nipples would have hurt, but perhaps I would have been more okay with it. Instead, I felt like Little Bear was nursing "wrong," I was doing something "wrong," and that we needed to "fix" something. I can't tell you how frustrating that was. If I didn't have the expectation that my nipples should stop hurting after 4-5 days (as all the books say), then maybe I would have been okay. Maybe I would have accepted sore nipples as part of becoming a new mom, instead of feeling like I was doing something wrong.
A few things I found helpful: Lanolin ointment (a natural oil taken from sheep wool), frequent feedings, and time.
I think that I will do a few things differently the second time around. I don't plan on keeping track of time and feedings the way I did with Little Bear. Women didn't have clocks for thousands of years and babies still managed to get fed. I hated looking at the clock and deciding if it was time to feed or not. Relying on Little Bear's hunger cues would have been a better indicator of when to feed. It also would have helped to strengthen that very intimate mother-baby communication which is so important! Staring at a clock instead of listening to my baby was, I believe, a mistake. I will also not try to over-correct my baby's latch. While a wide "fish mouth" is important, it is fairly easy to tell when they have just the nipple or more. Getting worked up about more detail than that is, in my opinion, only going to frustrate everyone involved. Of all my friends that had babies the past several years, ALL of them said that they had sore nipples for an extended period of time. In other words, perhaps that 5-6 day thing is not as normal as they make it sound. Perhaps sore nipples, on the other hand, IS normal.
I feel strongly that I share my story with others because I know women who gave up nursing because of sore nipples. They felt that after several weeks that they shouldn't hurt anymore and that something was wrong. I want to tell women that mine hurt for a long time. But if you keep with it, it does get better. And before you know it, breastfeeding will become a very intimate, enjoyable time together. It does happen. And the hours, weeks, months, and years spent with your little one on your chest is more than worth the brief pain of sore nipples. Of that, I'm certain.
Best Nightlight Ever!
For Christmas this last year, Aunt Amy gave Little Bear a Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light. At the time I wasn't sure if we would even use it - and boy was I wrong. What a great gift! It takes three AAA batteries (included) and shines either green, amber, or purple. The turtle shell is made up of a constellation pattern - so the light that is emitted actually shines a whole bunch of little stars all over the room, like a miniature planetarium. It comes with an informational guide so that kids can actually pick out the various constellations when they are older. The guide also gives a brief history of the constellations, the character they were named after, etc.
Right now, Little Bear LOVES playing with her nightlight. It has a soft body and hard shell ... and she is absolutely enthralled by the colorful light shining off the back of it. Whenever I need to keep her entertained for 10-15 minutes, I simply hand her the turtle, turn on the light, and walk away.
We've only used it as an actual nightlight once or twice, but I'm sure it will be put to good use as she gets older. Apparently Cloud b also makes a Sea Turtle and Lady Bug nightlight, as well as Sheep that plays music and a Polar Bear that shivers/vibrates. So if anyone is looking for a fun, inexpensive, and entertaining nightlight - I recommend the Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light.
Right now, Little Bear LOVES playing with her nightlight. It has a soft body and hard shell ... and she is absolutely enthralled by the colorful light shining off the back of it. Whenever I need to keep her entertained for 10-15 minutes, I simply hand her the turtle, turn on the light, and walk away.
We've only used it as an actual nightlight once or twice, but I'm sure it will be put to good use as she gets older. Apparently Cloud b also makes a Sea Turtle and Lady Bug nightlight, as well as Sheep that plays music and a Polar Bear that shivers/vibrates. So if anyone is looking for a fun, inexpensive, and entertaining nightlight - I recommend the Cloud b Twilight Constellation Night Light.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Swaddling Little Bear
And so we used trial and error, mixed with my mothering instincts, to figure out what worked best for Little Bear. For us, swaddling was exactly what Little Bear wanted and needed. I have read that swaddling helps mimic the sensation of being in the womb … feeling all wrapped up and cozy. That makes sense to me. I’m not sure if that’s what Little Bear felt, but whatever the sensation, it worked.
I do recommend watching “The Happiest Baby on the Block.” My midwife loaned it to me; you can also
check it out at your library, or order it online. It is short, to the point, and (according to many parents I have spoken to) very helpful. We did not have to use many of the techniques discussed in the DVD, but I did absolutely love the way it demonstrated swaddling. As a nurse, I have been taught various ways to wrap and swaddle a baby. After trying the different ways out, I believe that “The Happiest Baby on the Block” DVD demonstrates the best way. It was the only swaddle that Little Bear could not wriggle her way out of. It stayed snug and secure all night long, didn’t mess around with trying to wrap up her legs, and was easy and simple to learn.
check it out at your library, or order it online. It is short, to the point, and (according to many parents I have spoken to) very helpful. We did not have to use many of the techniques discussed in the DVD, but I did absolutely love the way it demonstrated swaddling. As a nurse, I have been taught various ways to wrap and swaddle a baby. After trying the different ways out, I believe that “The Happiest Baby on the Block” DVD demonstrates the best way. It was the only swaddle that Little Bear could not wriggle her way out of. It stayed snug and secure all night long, didn’t mess around with trying to wrap up her legs, and was easy and simple to learn.
For swaddling, I only use Muslin Swaddling Blankets. They are a little more spendy than other blankets – but well worth the extra money you pay. They are very light weight and can be used in the summer and winter, have just enough stretch to allow a tight swaddle, and can easily be used for a nursing cover, impromptu sun cover over a stroller, etc. I tried swaddling with regular cotton blankets and they simply don’t work as well. Like the Ergo, this is another baby item I highly recommend to those looking for baby shower gifts.
I swaddled Little Bear for 6 ½ months. This is longer than recommended by many pediatricians, but again, I have to trust my mothering instinct. It is often recommended in books and on websites to only swaddle a baby until they can turn over. Little Bear started turning over at 4 months. About this time I started swaddling her with one arm out, one arm in. I also always put a rolled up towel on either side of her, so that she was nice and snug in her cradle. I felt that this would make rolling over much more difficult (if not impossible). I have yet to find Little Bear on her tummy upon awakening. Little Bear is now sleeping without being swaddled, and seems to have adjusted very well to the new arrangement.
Do all babies need or want to be swaddled? I’m almost certain the answer to that would be “no, of course not.” Try it out. Little Bear fought it the first week of her life, then learned to love it. For us, it worked. For others, it may not. Use your mothering (and fathering) instincts and find out what is right for your little one.
The Ergo Baby Carrier
The Ergo Baby Carrier was developed in 2001 by Karin Frost, and began being marketed in 2003. The company is owned and operated out of Maui, Hawaii, and all the baby carriers are made according to Fair Labor Practices in China and India. You can read more about Fair Labor Practices used by Ergo Baby Carrier here.
So why do I love the Ergo so much? I started using it with Little Bear when she was only several weeks old. Special infant inserts are made to fit inside the Ergo to make carrying very small babies easy and safe. I did not have one (I didn't even hear about them until Little Bear was too big to need one), but instead gently positioned her against my chest with her feet sticking down through the belt. It worked, but I would definitely invest the $25 for an insert with our next child. The Ergo Baby Carrier company states that inserts are needed for children weighing less than 12 pounds - and I would agree. Chest-to-chest, Little Bear could hear the beating of her mommy's (and daddy's) heart, feel the sway of us as we walked about, and be rocked gently to sleep. Because I walked so much during my pregnancy with Little Bear, I think she found the rocking motion of walking especially soothing. It also freed my hands. This was a miracle for me, since I had not had both hands free for several weeks. Suddenly, I could chop vegetables, fold laundry, sweep the floor, type on the computer ... all while cuddling my baby.
The Ergo make trips to the grocery store 100% easier. Because we do not have a detachable car seat (I knew I wanted to carry Little Bear as much as possible, and felt I would be tempted to use the car seat too much if it came out easily), I use the Ergo whenever we are at a store. With a simple snap of the belt around the waist, a quick positioning of Little Bear, and a snap behind the back - I am free to grocery shop away with two free hands. Everyone loves seeing Little Bear in her Ergo, too. From elderly men to young women to the middle-aged checkout lady, everyone agrees that Little Bear looks like one comfy, happy baby.
Because Little Bear is still small (6 months old and about 16 pounds), we mainly use the Ergo to carry her in the front position. However, the Ergo is designed so that it can quickly be adjusted to a side-carry position, as well as a back carry (piggy-back) position. As babies grow older and bigger, the piggy-back position is obviously more practical and comfortable. I have friends who still use their Ergo with their 3 1/2 year old daughter (the directions state that the Ergo can safely be used to carry up to a 45 pound child).
The Ergo Baby Carrier can be found in regular and organic cotton, and is now offered in a variety of great colors. It can easily be thrown in the wash, as well. I highly recommend the Ergo and often suggest it to people that are looking for a baby gift to buy a friend or relative. We use ours constantly and love the intimacy, closeness, and practicality it offers us as parents.
** Please note that in the photo above, we are not using the Ergo as intended. It is not designed for chest front-facing positioning.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Why I Love a Good CSA
It's already the middle of February, which means that spring is just around the corner ... which means that CSA sign-ups are in full gear! And exactly what is a CSA you might ask? For those of you that have never heard the term before, it stands for Community Supported Agriculture. And it is exactly what it sounds like: farms that are supported by their local communities. Depending on exactly where you live, you may have an abundance of CSA's to choose from - or you may have none. More and more CSA's are cropping up, however, and this is a good thing ... for several reasons.
Reason one (and perhaps the most important reason for me) is that the food delivered by a CSA is guaranteed fresh. It is usually picked the morning of delivery (perhaps a day earlier, at the latest). This means that the fruits and vegetables are vine-ripened and contain plenty of phytonutrients. So much of our produce is picked WEEKS (if not months) before reaching our supermarkets and dinner plates! This means that many of the healing properties that should be present in our foods ... aren't. No wonder we are a nation riddled with allergies, illness and disease! We are eating dead produce! But with a CSA, fresh, alive fruits and vegetables are back on the table and in our bodies.
Reason two is that CSA's are more environmentally friendly. Because the food stays local - in the community - pollution involved in transporting items is almost cut-out altogether. No semi-trucks, airplanes, and trains hauling your food thousands of miles to your grocery store. Usually, a truck from the farm delivers their produce once a week to a specific "drop-off" point in the community where members of the CSA arrive to pick-up their box of goods. Sometimes CSA's will allow individuals to come directly to the farm for pick-up, as well. Also, many CSA's are very mindful of the land they use and what is put onto/into the foods they deliver. Many are 100% organic. This means that the chemicals and pesticides that would normally be put into the soil, the groundwater, and our bodies are eliminated. This is a VERY good thing.
Reason three is that CSA's support the local community. They are often run by one or two families and are relatively small compared to the giant industrialized farms. This means that you can meet the farmer, tour the farm, and know exactly where your food is coming from. I LOVE this about CSA's. The food chain is not a mystery that ends in the supermarket aisle ... it is a very real, very alive process that we should all better understand and appreciate. For those unable to have their own gardens, CSA's allow us to explore this life process in a more intimate way. It also keeps your money local. Instead of paying a huge corporation in California or South America, paying for shipping, and paying for grocery stores to stock and sell your food - you pay a local farmer directly. He or she takes that money, and turns it into food, which he returns to you. It sounds so simple, because it is! It is they way we used to farm and eat for thousands of years. They say "if it's not broke, don't fix it." If humanity has survived off of local farming for as long as it has, I say let's stick with it.
Reason four: it challenges me in the kitchen! I have brought home vegetables and legumes that I have never even heard of before! It forces me to be creative with meals, as well as eat foods that I normally would never pick-up in the supermarket. CSA's usually provide suggested recipes with their weekly boxes - so when celery root suddenly appears in your fridge, you're not at a complete loss.
Reason five is that is actually does save you money, even if it doesn't seem like it at first. Yes, it can be a lot of money upfront. I just wrote a check for $540 yesterday and couldn't help but wonder, "is it really worth it?" But for 25 weeks of organic vegetables and fruits, the answer is "yes", it really is. Again, the money goes directly to the farmer, cutting out all the middle men involved in grocery stores and industrialized farming. This means there are less people to pay, and the farmers can charge you less and still turn a decent profit.
So how exactly does a CSA work? That depends on the CSA. Most CSA's require that you pay upfront, at the beginning of the season. This allows the farmer to get an idea of exactly how many individuals he or she needs to plant for. Most CSA's run somewhere between 5-7 months (May/June - October/November). A few run year round. A good CSA will give you an idea upfront of what you will be receiving over the next several months. For example, they may tell you that in June you will be receiving strawberries, basil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, etc. In October, however, you will be receiving a very different variety of foods: squash, potatoes, onions, apples, etc. The food is seasonal (that's why it is fresh) and varies over the course of several months.
You may or may not be able to pick a "drop-off" site; some give you several options so that you can choose one closest to where you live or work, others only have one drop-off location. The CSA will specify the day of week and hours they will be available for pick-up. The one we belong to, for example, is every Wednesday from 3:00-8:00 PM. Sometimes boxes are pre-made and ready to take home. Other times you are told how many of each item to pick from each box (3 tomatoes, 2 cucumbers, etc.) and you go around and help yourself. Either way, it is simple and always fun to see what beautiful, colorful fruits and vegetables await!
CSA's are often thought of as only providing produce: fruits and vegetables. If this once was the case, it isn't the case anymore. CSA's now offer cheeses, milk, meats, and grains. In our town, one can buy goat, chicken, beef, lamb, buffalo, turkey, eggs, as well as a variety of sausages and cheeses from local CSA's. Because raw milk cannot be sold in the state of Oregon for human consumption, raw dairy products cannot be sold through a CSA. It can only be bought via "herd-sharing." I will post on that another time.
So really, what is there NOT to love about a good CSA? I encourage you to find out what local CSA's are available in your town. Local Harvest is a wonderful resource for finding out more about what is available in your area. And don't wait too long to sign-up ... many have limited amount of space available. So do some research, sign-up for one if you can, and enjoy the benefits of it all spring, summer, and fall long!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Let the Teething Begin
While teething actually starts several months before the actual first tooth erupts through the baby's gums, it usually begins with very mild symptoms such as drooling and sticking objects in the mouth. Little Bear started this at about 4 months, which put her right on track to get her first tooth around 7 months (which is average for a first tooth ... though many babies get teeth earlier or later; in some rare cases, babies are even born with a few teeth!). Little Bear is now 6 1/2 months old and I can start to see a few white spots starting to show through her top right gum. She started teething in earnest about 2 weeks ago. What a change it brought on in my little baby girl!
Before teething, nightly routines were easy. She would sleep 9-10 hours straight at night. Now I'm lucky if she goes 3 hours in a row. It reminds me of the first month after she was born: I am exhausted every morning and night-time seems to drag on for an eternity. After spending the last 2 weeks thinking I needed to "solve" this issue, I read a wonderful post on the wonderful pediatrician Dr. Sear's website. He basically states that once teething begins, all bets for a restful night's sleep are off. He also reminds parents that it is a fairly recent myth (started sometime in the 1970's) that infants should be sleeping through the night. He suggests that it is actually more normal for a 6-10 month old child who is teething to be waking up off and on throughout the night. This instantly made me feel better about the situation, and helped me relax. Sometimes I just need a kind reminder that Josephine is a baby, babies have their own sleep routines, and we as parents signed-up for respecting their routines while they are small.
That said, Dr. Sears (and others) do suggest a few things that can be done to help a teething baby feel more comfortable, which may in turn help mom and dad (as well as baby) get a few more hours of sleep each night.
1. Cold things (wet rag in freezer, frozen waffle, frozen banana, cold chewy toys, etc.). We have two frozen toys that are soft and made for teething that we give to Little Bear during the day. We have two so that one can always be in the freezer, ready to go. She LOVES them and knows exactly what they are. As soon as she sees it she gets excited, reaches out for it, and sticks it directly in her mouth. Great for day time, not so much at night.
2. Camilia liquid vials. I started using these vials several weeks ago when I noticed that Little Bear looked uncomfortable. It seemed to help a little. The effect at night, however, didn't seem to be as strong as in the day. They contain German chamomile (relieves teething pain), poke (also relieves pain), and Chinese rhubarb (relieves stomach upset related to teething). They come in small plastic vials of clear liquid that have no flavor.
3. Hyland's Teething Tablets. Small little pellets that can be dissolved in water and then rubbed on the gums, or placed directly in the mouth. They are cherry flavored and Little Bear loves them. I've only used them twice so far, but they seem to work for short periods of time (1-2 hours). They contain chamomile (calming and pain relieving), coffea cruda (helps calm the nervous system and assist in getting rest), Belladona (eases redness, inflammation, and discomfort), and Calcarea Phosphorica (supports teeth formation). I was a little concerned when I read "Belladona" on the ingredient list. I recognized it as a pain medication we used at the hospital on patients. After reading information on the dosage amounts in the tablets, however, I felt 100% comfortable giving it to Little Bear. Here is information from their website: "The amount of Belladonna alkaloids in teething tablets is minuscule, especially when compared to conventional medicine. Conventional medicines typically use 0.2 to 5 mg of Belladonna alkaloids per tablet as an anti-spasmodic – roughly 1,000 to 25,000 times larger than the quantities used in Hyland’s Teething Tablets. The side effects sometimes caused by conventional medicines delivering more than 0.2 mg of Belladonna alkaloids – such as dry mouth, blurred vision and urinary retention – are not associated with homeopathic medicines because of their minute dosage.To put homeopathic dosages in perspective, typically a 10-pound child would need to ingest 1,000 Hyland’s Teething Tablets (at least 6 bottles of 125 tablets) to exhibit even the first possible side effect of Belladonna."
There was recently a recall on Hyland's Teething Tablets. Please visit this website to see specific UPC codes that were recalled.
3. Infant's Tylenol. I haven't used this yet, but I think I will pick some up today at the store to see if it helps Little Bear at night. She is definitely uncomfortable during the night hours and I'd like to find something to help! Dr. Sears recommends 7 mg per pound of body weight every 4 hours. Little Bear weighs 16 pounds, so she would receive 112 mg. Make sure that you calculate dosages right for infants if you choose to use Tylenol (Children's Tylenol is usually 160 mg per teaspoon ... I am not sure what infant dosages are). It takes 45-60 minutes to kick in, so plan accordingly if giving before bedtime. NOTE: Overdosing a child on Tylenol is extremely serious and can cause long-term injury or death. Make sure you use Infant or Children's Tylenol and dose correctly!
4. Infant/Pediatric Motrin. This medication can also be used for teething, like Children's Tylenol. I have yet to use this, either. Though it does not give dosing for under 2 years of age on the box, it has been approved down to 2 months of age. The dose is 4.5 mg per pound of body weight every 6 hours. It takes about 30 minutes to begin working. NOTE: Like Tylenol, Motrin is medication and can cause overdose if not given properly. Make sure you use according to dosing instructions.
5. Children's Benadryl. This one is not recommended by all doctors, but is by some. A local pharmacist gave me this suggestion, so I did some research on it. If using Children's Benadryl for teething, it should only be used as a topical solution to rub on the gums in very small amounts (dip your finger in the liquid medication once or twice and rub on gums). NOTE: Benadryl can cause respiratory depression in larger amounts. Personally, I felt safe rubbing it on Little Bear's gums. However, it only worked well for 2-3 hours and then wore off. I feel better using the Tylenol or Motrin as a medication.
6. Breastfeeding and Bed-sharing. Little Bear usually sleeps in our room, in her own crib. However, with her frequent awakenings during the night, I found that moving her into bed with us and allowing her to nurse helped to calm her and get her back to sleep. We don't normally bed-share with Little Bear because I just don't sleep well with her moving around right next to me. So while this solution works great for Little Bear, it doesn't work well for me. It is better than getting up, nursing, then trying to put her back in her crib, though.
I'm sure there are many other medications and natural remedies to help ease the pain of teething. I'm open to suggestions and possibilities. In the meantime, I'm trying to be patient, take more naps when Little Bear does, and remember that "this too shall pass."
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Beloved Sheepskin Baby Rug
Before Little Bear was born, a friend suggested I order a sheepskin rug for her. I had never heard of using one before with babies and did a little research on the subject. Turns out that sheepskin rugs became popular in the 1970's, then sort of died-off in popularity. Recently, however, they are making a comeback. And for good reasons. Anyone that has ever worn a pair of Ugg boots (or any other brand of lambswool-lined moccasin or shoe) knows how absolutely divine real lambswool is. It keeps your feet warm, yet not sweaty. It wicks away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable. And it is so soft and comfortable! The baby sheepskin rugs work the same way. They are incredibly soft and comfortable for babies to lie on, and help to keep them warm in the winter, and cool in the summer.
I ordered a small one for Little Bear. It was shorn to 3/4" (companies usually offer shorn as well as unshorn rugs) and roughly 34" x 22". I got mine from the Overland Sheep Company off of Amazon.com. If I had it to do over again, I think I would order the unshorn as it would be even more soft and comfortable!
For the first few week of Little Bear's life, we used the sheepskin for laying on during the day. I would often put her on it naked, with a cloth diaper beneath her bottom, and let her have "belly-time" outside in the shade. Now that she is older, I use it for sitting. It makes a much softer landing when she topples backwards or sideways. I am also starting to use it for sleeping. I read that sheepskin is not safe to use during the first few months when the baby is so tiny. The surface is just too soft to be recommended for this use (although I am sure that many cultures all over the world have been doing this safely for thousands of years). Being a hyper-vigilant American, I chose not to use it for sleeping at night. Now that Little Bear is 6 months old, however, I feel perfectly comfortable using it for nighttime sleeping. In fact, it has really made a difference now that Little Bear is in the throws of teething and very uncomfortable at bedtime. I have found that she more easily falls asleep with her sheepskin beneath her!
Caring for a sheepskin rug is easy. They are machine washable. Simply put on "wool-cycle" and use warm (never hot) water. Wash with a mild liquid detergent (never bleach, as it can harm the skin of the rug). The rug may be tumble-dried (never spin dry) on warm/cool. Preferably, it can be dried outside, avoiding direct sunlight. The wool may become curly again. If this occurs, simply brush out with a wire pet-brush until soft and fluffy again. It is recommended to wash sheepskin rugs 1x month. Honestly, that seems to be overdoing it for me. I've been careful not to get it dirty by laying blankets over the top of it, or placing diapers beneath Little Bear if she was on it naked. I say wash it when it is dirty, and not before! =)
All in all, I highly recommend the baby sheepskin rugs. I might invest in one that fits in Little Bear's stroller (like a sleeping bag) to keep her warm in the cold Bend, Oregon weather!
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