http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/tips - Health tips
http://kpatra.com/beauty%20home.html - Beauty Tips
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/////////// MEN HEALTH TIPS //////////
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CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL
http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/tips
Variety, Balance, and Moderation
There is no secret to healthy eating. Be sure to eat a variety of foods, including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products. Also include low-fat dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, and legumes. Drink lots of water and go easy on the salt, sugar, alcohol, and saturated fat. Good nutrition should be part of an overall healthy lifestyle, that also includes regular physical activity, not smoking, and stress management. If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation.
Here are some tips for healthy eating at home, work, and elsewhere to help you get started. Try some of these ideas.
Holiday Tips
Even holiday treats can fit into a healthful eating plan. The key is balance and moderation.
Tipping the Scales in Your Favor
Weight management ideas.
5 A Day Fruit and Vegetable Quick Tips
Quick tips and recipes to help you meet the "5 A Day" goal for fruits and vegetables.
Healthy Children, Healthy Choices
Advice and tips for parents to promote healthy weight in growing children.
Staying Strong: Calcium Cool-Cuisine Tips for Girls
Great ideas for quick ways to make sure you eat plenty of calcium every day.
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Overhydration Series: ADH Abnormality
You can cause an ADH abnormality. For example, if you
voluntarily consume an excess amount of water over a long
period of time, you may inadvertently depress the brain's
production of ADH. Again, the result is that you drink
increasingly more fluid, but absorb very little of it.
Whether your ADH abnormality is existing or self-induced,
it's pretty serious. Absorbing water is an essential body
function. An inability to do so may result in severe
electrolyte imbalances, frequent fainting and other more
serious health problems. If you suspect that you have this
condition, see your doctor. A simple blood flow test will
confirm this condition.
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***Series on Body Piercing
Thinking about getting pierced? Infection and scarring are
more likely at "hard" sites (the upper rim of the ear and
the hard part of the nose) than at "soft" sites (the
earlobe, eyebrow and nasal septum). The reason: the hard
parts are made of cartilage, which doesn't heal very well.
Special note for winter sports enthusiasts: wearing body
jewelry at exposed facial sites such as the ear or nose can
increase your risk of frostbite. (Recall what happens when
you touch cold metal in freezing weather…)
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***Tongue Piercing
Body piercing is risky business, and the tongue is perhaps
the riskiest of all sites. Unlike most other piercing
sites, the tongue swells a lot and bleeds a lot. Swelling
often makes talking and eating difficult for days or weeks
after the piercing. A few people have actually come close
to dying after tongue pierces — either from uncontrollable
bleeding or from swelling so severe that it interfered with
breathing.
Even after the piercing heals, your troubles may not be
over. Because the jewelry is moving around in the mouth
(and you may have a tendency to play with it), it can
damage your gums and chip or crack your teeth. Your
piercing may also cause speech problems that last as long
as you keep the jewelry on.
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Tension Headache Prevention
Do you suffer from tension headaches? Exercise helps to
reduce mental stress and ease tension in the body, so it
follows that it can help alleviate tension headaches. Along
with exercise, eating regular and healthy meals is
essential for mental and physical maintenance. Your body
works with what you give it, right? Lots of vegetables and
regular meals with other nutritious components can work
wonders for your overall health — and those headaches.
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///////////// MENS HUMOR ///////////////
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////////// WOMENS FASHIONS /////////////
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Hot For Fall Pt 1.
The shoe of the upcoming fall style season is a T-strap
high heel with a rounded toe. It's a highly vintage look
and if you can score a fresh looking pair in rich velvety
tones like chocolate or burgundy, you are going to be so of
the minute, you'll be making enemies. They'll swear you got
on the waiting list before they did!
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////////////// WOMENS BEAUTY ////////////
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http://www.divamommies.com/beauty.html
http://www.health-x.com/health-x/beauty-tips.html
http://kpatra.com/beauty%20home.html
KPATRA WOMENS HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS
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Make Time For Beauty
In today’s hectic World many of us women have little or no time at all to take care of ourselves. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a couple of hours just for yourself? Or simply have a more put together look? Here are some tips that will allow you to make time for your own beauty routine!
Schedule the beauty routine in your weekly schedule beforehand; even if you are going to do it at home.
Make it a routine and stick to it, for example: I will do my hair and nails every Thursday night.
Do you have dry skin and no time for daily moisturizing? Try buying soap for dry skin.
Delegate at least one of your chores to your partner or a family member.
Cut off your cooking time, and order out or prepare microwave dinner. You can also cook for two days and take the next day for your beauty routine.
If you can afford it pay someone to do a portion of your chores.
Have all the necessary items for your beauty routine in one place, to avoid wasting time looking for them.
Do not take phone calls during your beauty time.
Cut off or limit time wasting habits such as TV.
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Perfect Makeup in Minutes
Adding The Foundations
Foundation should be the perfect match to your skin tone. Nobody looks good when you can see a line just at the face ending a different color than the neck! Always make sure that your foundation is well blended if you want to avoid looking like you’re wearing a mask.
Dark Circles?
There is a large selection of products on the market for different tones and textures of concealer. Make sure the conecalers you get, matches your skin color! If you get a shade that is to light to try and cover those dark circles, it will make them look gray! And be careful not to lay it on too thick. Apart from the fact that it looks like you’re wearing too much makeup, it may also damage the delicate skin beneath your eyes.
Powder
Keep your powder application light by using loose powder and a big brush for application. Less is definitely more here. Make sure that you buy a good powder that will sink into your skin, rather than visibly lie of the top of it and look flaky.
Top tip - before applying your powder, try blotting your foundation with a tissue. This will remove any excess oils, and help to stop you from getting shiny and oily looking.
Blushing Beauty
Only apply your blush to the apples of your cheeks, and build up the color layers slowly. Next, blend the blush in so that the color looks natural. Remember, you’re just trying to enhance the facial definition that you already have.
Top tip - if you make a mistake and put too much blusher on, don’t panic! You don’t need to start over. Instead, just moisten a sponge and gently dab your cheeks with it.
Full Beautiful Lips
Whatever lipstick you use, there is one golden rule to follow... just make sure that it is right for your skin tone, hair and eye coloring. For the night time use darker shades, and keep it light and cute with tinted lip-gloss during the day.
Top tip - if you want great looking shimmery lips try applying sparkling eye shadow over the top of your lipstick to create a new shiny shade, absolutely free!
Powerful Eyes
Use lighter shades of eye shadow during the day, and go darker at night. A shimmering highlighter applied just beneath the eyebrow gives even the most tired looking eyes a lift. And always apply your mascara in thin coats, building up the length and thickness slowly. This helps to avoid clumping which can happen if you apply too much, too soon.
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***Want healthy glowing skin?
Are you struggling with skin problems like acne, eczema, psoriasis etc.? Various factors such as toxins, vitamin, mineral, protein deficiencies, long-term exposure to sun light, dehydration etc. might be the cause of your skins unhealthy state. Would you like to have beautiful glowing skin again? Luckily there are several options that can help you restore your skins healthy glow.
Stay hydrated- drink 8-12 glasses of water a day.
Avoid direct sun light- by wearing protective clothing, staying on the shade and applying sunscreen (Free Somme Institute Double Defense Body SPF 30) daily.
Avoid or limit your toxins intake this includes alcohol, coffee, spicy food, drugs, limit sugar intake etc.
Get rid off dead skin cells; exfoliate regularly at least once a week. "AHAVA Advanced Gentle Mud Exfoliator"
Maintain a cleansing routine- remove makeup daily (do not wash more than two times a day), and get a facial every 7-10 days.
Exercise regularly, to reduce stress and brings more oxygen to your skin resulting in firmer and nourished skin.
Maintain a healthy diet, eat foods rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B this include fruits, vegetables, fish, liver. Take supplements if necessary.
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HOW TO LOOK AND FEEL YOUNGER
Luckily for us in this day and age, we all look much younger than did people our age fifty, or even thirty, years ago. The great advances made in our knowledge of nutrition and their application by most of the population are in part responsible. The same factor has a lot to do with our feeling younger. Another contribution to our ability to look younger is our increasing knowledge of how to use makeup, clothing, cosmetics and other things to help achieve our ends.
Your philosophy of life is the most important single factor in determining the way you look and feel. It is, after all, the basis of everything you do, whether you've consciously formed such a philosophy or not. One cannot exist without it, but many people are unconscious of having one.
First, decide what's important to you and what isn't. This philosophy of yours goes into every area of your life and affects every member of your family. It should, therefore, in most instances, be a family-shared thing. You and your husband and children can well work out a family plan for living together. Some families would rather leave a bit of dust on the furniture and under the rugs if it means they can have junkets together to the beach in summer and the skating rink in winter. Others would rather never go anywhere than occupy a dusty house for one minute. Each attitude is very much the business of the person who adopts it, though frequently neither person has the slightest understanding of the other.
In our quite proper eagerness to look and feel younger, do not let any one of us lose track of the fact that maturity is a condition greatly to be looked forward to and desired. Maturity is a state of mind. It does not mean old age. It can happen to people at almost any stage of life. And immaturity is a sign of a lack of development for the chronological age one happens to have achieved. When you reach maturity you are self-disciplined, thoughtful, understanding, self-confident, and most of all loving - of yourself and other people, despite acknowledged faults.
The way you decide to keep your mind lively and stimulated is up to you, but do realize that the best way is to encompass as must of the world around you as you possibly can. One of the best ways to be stimulating and interesting and thus attractive and desirable to others is to decide what work you'll do in our community - and do it. What about your participation in community activities? In other words, it's an absolute certainty that there are all sorts of interesting things going on around you; to become involved in them will not be at all difficult and will add variety and spice to your life as well as to that of others.
There's another characteristic of youthfulness - optimism. You needn't be a Pollyanna to be optimistic. You need only to have the happy faculty of looking on the bright side of things, which is really a habit of mind. Pessimism puts wrinkles in your forehead, draws down the corners of your mouth and makes you very unhappy, usually for no reason at all.
Looking and feeling younger is first of all an attitude of mind. But it is a great deal more than that. You might try to just think yourself younger in appearance and in spirit and find that nothing much happened at all. It takes real work and enthusiasm in a variety of areas to gain the end results!
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Seal Your Skin
You can't control the humidity when you're out and about, so even if the environment in your home is perfect, you may still have problems with dry skin.
Again, there's a simple solution: Rub on some lotion.
In general, dermatologists recommend skin lotions that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, a term called "hypoallergenic." But experts say you need to watch out for gimmicks.
"Don't be fooled by labels that say, 'All natural,'" says Walter Unger, MD, a dermatologist at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. You can still have allergic reactions to all sorts of natural ingredients, he warns.
Unger says you should get the heaviest lotion you're comfortable using. "The greasier it is, the better," he says. That's because you want to trap your skin's moisture so it won't evaporate. But if you're prone to acne, you'll want to use a lighter lotion on the parts of your body where you tend to break out. Look for a lotion that's labeled "non-comedogenic." That means it won't clog pores and cause pimples.
Also, you should avoid taking long, hot baths in wintertime. A hot, soapy bath feels wonderful after trudging through sleet and snow, but it also will wash away your skin's natural oil, taking moisture with it.
A lukewarm bath, however, will help replenish the moisture you've lost. Unger says you should soak until your palms and the soles of your feet are white and wrinkled like prunes, which means they're saturated with water. (It usually takes about 10-15 minutes -- just watch out for the amount of soap you use, which can send your skin back to the dryness drawing board if you use too much or a harsh type.) Also, try draping a wet washcloth over your face while you bathe. Then, as soon as you get out of the tub and towel off, apply a generous amount of lotion all over your body to seal in the moisture.
Prevent Dryness
Preventing dry skin is as important as treating it. "Once it's dry, it's more subject to getting even drier," Unger says. That's because dry skin is rough and irregular and loses more moisture than healthy, compact skin.
Here are some prevention tips to keep in mind:
If you don't want to give up hot baths, use bath oil.
If your lips start to feel dry, resist the temptation to lick them. Saliva is not a moisturizer. It removes oil and makes your lips even drier. Instead, you should use lip balm or petroleum jelly. Smoking makes lips dry, too.
Mild, unscented soap is what you want to use in the winter. Deodorant soap may make you feel cleaner, but it is harsh on the skin.
If you use the acne medication Retin-A (tretinoin) in a gel form, talk to your doctor about switching to the cream form. The gel contains alcohol, which dries the skin. The same goes for facial cleansing pads and rinses that have alcohol in them.
Be careful not to overuse products containing alpha-hydroxy acids. They exfoliate the top layer of the skin, which is good for dry skin, but they leave the new layer of skin unprotected against the bitter winds.
Try shaving with lotion instead of regular shaving cream, which may contain detergents.
Drink plenty of fluids. You won't have supple skin if you are dehydrated.
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Tales of Tumeric
Have you ever heard of tumeric? This spice, which gives
many Indian foods their yellowish cast, also acts as a
flavor booster. Tumeric, a member of the ginger family, is
used fairly extensively in Middle Eastern and Chinese
recipes, and is a standard ingredient in many curry blends.
In addition, tumeric gives American-style mustard its
bright cheerful yellow color.
Besides adding taste and color to your foods, tumeric may
also have a positive effect on your health. This spice is
often called "nature's arthritis fighter" because it
inhibits the action of the COX-2 enzymes, in a way similar
to the action of the newest arthritis medications Celebrex
and Vioxx. Blocking those enzymes seems to prevent
inflammation in blood vessel walls, which might explain why
tumeric is believed to have a positive effect on your
heart.
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The Mystery of Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP)
If you are among the nearly 15 percent of American women
age 18 to 50 who experience chronic pelvic pain
(CPP)-described by the National Women's Health Resource
Center as pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area that
has been present [constantly or sporadically] for at least
six months--most likely you're trying to uncover the cause
of this pain. Be prepared, you may never find an answer.
While in many cases, CPP is found to be linked to a
physical condition, such as endometriosis, fibroids, scar
tissue (from previous surgery) or pelvic infection, in 20
percent of cases there is no diagnosable condition to
explain the pain.
Whatever you do, don't listen to anyone who tells you it's
"all in your head" (even if the cause were psychological,
you would still need treatment). Seek out a healthcare
provider that will validate and treat your condition.
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The greatest destroyer of peace is abortion because if a
mother can kill her own child, what is left~ for me to kill
you and you to kill me? There is nothing between.
-- Mother Teresa
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PREGNANCY ////////// PREGNANCY /////////// PREGNANCY
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Choosing a midwife?
If you have your heart set on a natural birth in a comfortable setting
(possibly even your home) with family and friends around, take a
closer look at a midwife. Many certified nurse-midwives work out of
freestanding childbirth centers that specialize in family-centered
care. Birthing centers are known for natural births with no routine
interventions and for welcoming family, friends, and even siblings in
the delivery room. If you want to give birth at home, you can choose
either a certified nurse-midwife or a direct-entry or lay midwife to
attend you.
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Managing heartburn
Many women have heartburn for the first time when they're pregnant --
and though it's common and harmless, it can be scary and painful.
Heartburn is a burning sensation that often extends from the lower
throat to the bottom of the breastbone. It is caused by both hormonal
and physical changes in your body. Progesterone relaxes the valve that
separates the esophagus from the stomach, allowing gastric acids to
seep back up the pipe, and also slows down the wavelike contractions
of the stomach, making digestion sluggish. In later pregnancy, the
growing fetus crowds the abdominal cavity, slowing elimination and
pushing up the stomach acids to cause heartburn. Though you may not be
able to eliminate heartburn entirely, you can take steps to minimize
it:
- Avoid rich or spicy dishes, chocolate, citrus, and coffee.
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Try not to lie down for at least an hour after eating.
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Feeling Your Baby Kick
While an ultrasound can easily identify fetal movement as early as
seven to eight weeks, women generally don't begin to feel the baby
move until sometime between the 16th and 20th weeks. Remember, the
initial sensations you'll notice aren't real kicks -- instead, some
women describe the feeling as being like "popcorn popping" or
"butterflies in the stomach." And also remember that during your first
and second trimesters, you'll feel these sensations only every once in
a while.
Your baby's activity level reaches its peak between 28 and 32 weeks,
then decreases gradually until birth. You'll begin to discern a
pattern to your baby's movement, and you'll know when something's
amiss. If she's not moving as often as she usually does, your baby may
be in distress. Call your healthcare provider if you're really
worried.
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Anemia (iron deficiency) in pregnancy
Before you conceived, you needed about 15 milligrams (mg) of iron each
day -- and that's a lot (the average American woman doesn't reach the
RDA). Now you need twice as much, since the volume of blood in your
body increases by nearly half during pregnancy. If you don't have
enough iron to fuel hemoglobin production for yourself and your baby,
you're likely to develop iron-deficient anemia.
As with most vitamins and minerals, iron is often best gotten from
food. Load up on potatoes, broccoli, raisins, beans, oatmeal, leafy
green vegetables, whole-grain breads, lean red meat, shellfish, and
iron-fortified cereals. But even if you eat exceptionally well, you'll
have a hard time getting enough iron. It's common, therefore, for iron
supplements to be prescribed at some point during pregnancy. Iron
supplements can cause constipation, so try countering the effect by
adding more fiber to your diet. If that doesn't help, ask your
provider whether it makes sense to take a stool softener.
Even if you're not anemic early on, you may become so later. Routine
blood tests you take throughout your pregnancy will verify whether
your hemoglobin levels are normal. If you do become mildly anemic,
don't worry about your baby. Your body will make sure he gets adequate
iron before you do, so you'll be short of iron long before he is.
Generally, your baby will be drawing most dramatically on your iron
reserves by about week 20.
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Heartburn heartache
Many women start getting heartburn and indigestion in the second half
of their pregnancy. The burning sensation that often extends from the
lower throat to the bottom of your breastbone usually comes and goes
until your baby is born. During pregnancy, the placenta produces the
hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus
and also relaxes the valve that separates the esophagus from the
stomach, allowing gastric acids to seep back up the pipe, which causes
that uncomfortable sensation of heartburn. There's no surefire way to
avoid getting heartburn or indigestion, but you can take some steps to
minimize the problem: Avoid rich or spicy dishes as well as chocolate,
citrus, coffee, and alcohol (which you shouldn't be drinking anyway).
Eat small, frequent meals and chew your food slowly and thoroughly.
Give yourself two or three hours to digest before going to bed. Sleep
with two or three extra pillows to keep your head propped up about 6
inches from the mattress. You can try sleeping upright in a comfy
chair, too.
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Household chemical safety
It's safe to use bleach and other household cleaners when you're
pregnant as long as you make sure you have good ventilation where
you'll be working, and use gloves to avoid getting the cleaning
products on your skin. Skip cleaning the oven, though, since it's hard
to get good ventilation in such a tight space. If any fumes make you
feel nauseated, have someone else do the cleaning, or, better yet,
pick supplies that are more environmentally safe, such as vinegar and
baking soda. Natural food co-ops and some mainstream supermarkets sell
cleaning products that are free of harsh and toxic chemicals. Reducing
the number of harmful chemicals in your house is probably a good idea
for the future anyway, since you won't want your child exposed to too
much of that stuff. Finally, regardless of whether you're pregnant,
remember never to mix different chemicals, such as ammonia and bleach,
as the fumes that result can be very dangerous to anyone inhaling
them.
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Baby shower invitations
You can buy baby shower invitations from drugstores, card stores, or
specialty gift shops. You can also get a good stationery store to
print them up for you, or you can do them at home with a laser
printer. If the shower has a theme (or if you're feeling creative),
use construction paper or other craft materials to create handmade
invitations with suitable designs -- from storks and diapers to baby
bottles or something that matches your particular decoration scheme.
In addition to including the basic who, what, when, where, and RSVP
information on the invitation, it never hurts to spell out the
shower's theme inside. If the expectant parents are registered for
baby gear anywhere, it's fine to mention that, too, but it may be
easier (and even a bit more tasteful) to offer that information when
guests call to respond.
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Is it safe to refinish furniture when I'm pregnant?
Some evidence suggests that exposure to chemical solvents during
pregnancy may increase the risk of having a baby with birth defects.
One study, by the California Birth Defects Monitoring Program, found
that women who regularly engaged in hobbies that used solvents -- such
as repairing cars, painting, and furniture ********* -- had a two to
four times higher risk of having a baby with gastroschisis (an opening
in the abdomen through which the intestines protrude). In other words,
these women had a one in 1,250 to one in 2,500 chance of delivering a
baby with gastroschisis, compared to one in 5,000 for women not
exposed to solvents. Of course, the degree of chemical exposure is
much higher for someone inhaling solvents on a regular basis.
Researchers don't know what the effects are on a pregnant woman who
just wants to refinish one piece of furniture. If you've already been
exposed to furniture-********* chemicals, but haven't felt ill, don't
worry. Chances are that if any harm had been done to your baby, you'd
be feeling sick too and would already have contacted your doctor.
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Is it safe to use an asthma inhaler during pregnancy?
Not only is using an asthma inhaler safe during pregnancy, it's
recommended to keep your asthma under control. According to a 1993
report from the National Institutes of Health Working Group on Asthma
and Pregnancy, "The known risks of uncontrolled asthma are far greater
than the known risks to the mother or fetus from asthma medication."
Although most women with asthma have perfectly normal, healthy babies,
uncontrolled asthma can result in too little oxygen getting to the
baby, increasing the risk of low birth weight and other problems.
Uncontrolled asthma can also increase your risk for pregnancy
complications such as preeclampsia (development of swelling, high
blood pressure, and protein in the urine) and excessive vomiting. In
general, physicians recommend using the minimum amount of medication
necessary to maintain control of asthma symptoms during pregnancy.
They also recommend using the drugs that have been around the longest
because they know more about their safety. Healthcare providers prefer
inhalers over pills because less medicine reaches the baby.
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Is it safe to use insect repellent?
It depends on the type you choose. Use caution with any product that
contains the chemical Diethyltoluamide, more commonly known as DEET. A
certain amount of the chemical is absorbed through the skin into your
bloodstream. In large doses, it can make you seriously ill. DEET has
been shown to increase the risk for birth defects in chicks, but not
in rats or rabbits. Unfortunately, not much information is available
on the possible harmful effects in human pregnancies. But because DEET
is considered toxic in high enough doses, it is generally recommended
that pregnant women either avoid using repellents containing DEET or
use them only in small amounts. If you're looking for a more natural
alternative, try using something with citronella oil in it. Citronella
oil comes from a type of grass and is considered safe for pregnant
women, and is an active ingredient in products such as Avon's Skin So
Soft.
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How can I prepare for my arrival at the hospital?
Long before you go into labor, you and your husband or partner should
map out the most direct route to the hospital or birth center. Find
out where to park, keeping in mind that you'll be leaving your car for
at least 24 hours. And ask the hospital staff where you should enter
if you arrive after hours. You may have to come in through the
emergency room. Most hospitals offer tours of the obstetrical floor at
designated times. It's a good idea to take advantage of them if you
can. The more familiar you are with your surroundings, the less
intimidating labor will seem. Some hospital maternity centers also
have monthly open houses that give expectant parents a chance to
mingle, fill out pre-registration forms, and get acquainted with the
labor and delivery units.
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Rubella
Rubella, or German measles, is an infection characterized by a
pink-red rash that first appears on the face and later spreads to
other parts of the body, a mild fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The
virus runs its course in about three days. Although rubella is a
relatively mild illness, it's very dangerous for a pregnant woman as
it can cause birth defects from deafness to encephalitis (inflammation
of the brain) and heart defects. Fortunately, at least 75 percent of
women in their childbearing years are immune to the disease, either
from a childhood vaccination or a bout with German measles as a child.
Ideally, you should get vaccinated before you get pregnant and then
wait three months before trying to conceive. This gives your body
enough time to completely kill off the injected virus so you won't be
in danger of passing it to your baby. If you got the vaccine in the
early weeks of your pregnancy before you knew you were carrying a
child, don't worry; the chances it will harm your baby are very low.
Still, your doctor may recommend a detailed ultrasound at 18 weeks to
give you some reassurance.
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How can fathers-to-be best prepare for delivery?
Childbirth classes are invaluable. Many men feel more confident after
learning the mechanics of childbirth and acquiring techniques to help
their wives through the experience. If a man still feels anxiety about
his role, a birth assistant, or doula, can help tremendously in the
delivery room, not only coaching the mother but also encouraging her
partner to relax and participate comfortably. But talk to each other
about this in advance -- some men may feel left out of the loop. Make
sure you know the rules of the hospital where you plan to deliver.
Take a tour of the neonatal unit, decide what kind of room you want,
and make sure that husbands or partners can be present throughout the
labor, birth, and postpartum period. Most hospitals have come into the
modern age, but some have restrictions about who can be present during
a c-section or at other times.
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When Work Is Dangerous
The American Medical Association recommends that expectant women who
spend stretches of more than four hours a day on their feet should
quit or switch to a desk job by week 24, and that those who spend more
than half of each hour on their feet should try shifting into a more
sedentary position by week 32. A job change is in order if you're
required to work with heavy metals such as lead and mercury. These are
teratogens -- agents that can cause birth defects when a woman is
exposed to them during pregnancy. Lead is often used in industries
such as pottery glazing, shipbuilding, and printing. Tollbooth
attendants and others who work on heavily traveled roads may inhale
high levels of lead from car exhaust. If you think you may be exposed
to a harmful substance at work, talk to your boss or the human
resources department. You may be able to switch to another job for the
duration of your pregnancy.
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Food and Fertility
For the record, there is no scientific data to support the idea that
eating sharks' fins, camels' humps, ginseng, pine nuts, prunes, or
even chocolate can help you become pregnant. Also, no evidence proves
the theory that eating spicy foods can increase sexual potency by
raising your blood pressure and pulse rate. There is, however, some
scientific basis for recommending oysters. Oysters are packed with the
nutrient zinc. Several studies have shown that zinc deficiencies can
impair both male and female fertility. Zinc plays a role in semen and
testosterone production in men, and in ovulation and fertility in
women. That doesn't mean you should down a plate of oysters on the
half shell at every meal. Maintaining the recommended dietary
allowance of zinc (15 mg a day) can help keep your reproductive system
working properly, but excessive amounts of zinc (or any nutrient for
that matter) will not turn either of you into a baby-making machine.
In fact, super-high doses of vitamins and minerals may actually reduce
your fertility.
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Ease the Pain of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Pain and numbness in your hands and fingers, as opposed to the
pins-and-needles sensation you may get when your hands or feet fall
asleep, is most likely caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, which is
common among pregnant women. The pain is usually centered in the
thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of your ring finger. If
you're like many pregnant women, you will most often have symptoms at
night. Whenever you feel the twinges, shift your sleep position --
this may alleviate a great deal of discomfort. Regardless, avoid
sleeping on your hands. If you do feel pain while in bed, try shaking
your hands until the pain or numbness dissipates. Flexing your fingers
and hands regularly throughout the day also helps. If possible, avoid
jobs requiring repetitive hand movements.
*********************************************************
Take Advantage of Your Gorgeous Hair
During pregnancy, your hair goes into a growth phase -- good news for
some women who find they now have shinier, thicker hair. But if you
normally have a thick head of hair, and fear that any more will be
unmanageable, you may find a short cut easier to wear while you're
pregnant. "You don't have to go through a dramatic change," says Amina
Rubio, stylist and colorist at the David Oliver Studio, a San
Francisco hair salon. "Women get overwhelmed by the results when they
do." Your body is going through enough changes as it is. Work with
your stylist to find a cut that suits you. Rubio, a hair accessories
designer, recommends using clips, barrettes, and combs to enhance your
style. But don't overdo it: "Less is more," Rubio says. "Simplicity is
better."
********************************************************
Not Every Pregnant Woman Should Exercise
Sometimes exercise during pregnancy is strictly forbidden to protect
the health of the mother, the baby, or both. Check with your
healthcare provider before starting, continuing, or changing an
exercise regimen. If you have any of following conditions, you'll
probably be advised not to exercise for the duration of your
pregnancy.
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Preterm rupture of membranes
- Preterm labor, now or during a prior pregnancy
- Incompetent cervix
- Persistent second- or third-trimester vaginal bleeding
- Intrauterine growth retardation
- Heart disease
Be sure to ask your healthcare provider exactly what type of activity
is forbidden. You may still be able to do some limited exercises, such
as routines to strengthen your arms and back.
***************************************************
Should You Cut the Caffeine?
Whether you're a diehard java junkie or just enjoy an occasional cup
of coffee, you'll want to at least consider weaning yourself from
caffeine. That's especially true if you take in more than 300
milligrams of caffeine per day (the equivalent of three cups of
coffee): A recent study showed that more than that may reduce your
chances of conceiving by 27 percent. If you take in 100 to 200 mg per
day (equivalent to one to two cups of coffee or two to four cans of
cola), your chances of conceiving go down by 10 percent. Some research
suggests that drinking more than 400 mg per day can increase your risk
of miscarriage and birth defects, although the data do conflict.
Caffeine also hinders your body's ability to absorb iron and calcium,
two crucial minerals you need before and after pregnancy.
****************************************************
Managing Morning Sickness at Work
Sixty to 90 percent of women have some degree of nausea or
full-fledged morning sickness during pregnancy. (One mother we know
couldn't stomach salad dressing or anything with vinegar in it for the
entire nine months.) Chances are, morning sickness will hit you during
a workday. If you know you're prone to vomiting, keep towels and
mouthwash in your car, figure out the quickest way to the bathroom,
and -- if you haven't told your workmates your news yet -- try to come
up with a few convincing lines about food poisoning or the stomach flu
in case someone comes in while you're throwing up. If your morning
sickness is particularly severe and prolonged -- constant nausea or
frequent vomiting -- you may have to tell your supervisor about your
pregnancy earlier than planned. This can be tricky, as you don't want
to be perceived of as a lame duck. So before you tell her, figure out
what you want: Compassion? Time off? A flexible schedule until you get
through the worst of it? Figure out what she wants -- probably a
commitment that you will get your work done, even if that means on
your own time. And finally, assure her that morning sickness usually
ends right around the end of the third month.
*************************************************
Drink Your Water
Water plays many vital roles in a healthy pregnancy. Think of water as
your body's transportation system -- it carries nutrients through your
blood to the baby. Water also helps prevent bladder infections, and
can stop constipation and help prevent hemorrhoids. Although it may
seem counterintuitive, the more water you drink during pregnancy, the
less water your body will retain. Also, drinking enough water prevents
dehydration. This is especially important in the third trimester when
dehydration can actually cause contractions that can trigger pre-term
labor.
How much water is enough? You should drink at least six to eight
8-ounce glasses per day (48 to 64 fluid ounces) plus one 8-ounce cup
for each hour of light activity. Juices can contribute to your fluid
intake, but keep in mind that they can also provide a lot of extra
calories. Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, colas, and teas, do
not count as part of your fluid intake because they are diuretics --
they make you urinate more so you actually lose water.
***************************************************
Feeling Dizzy
It's not at all uncommon to feel dizzy occasionally throughout
pregnancy for a number of reasons: You might feel dizzy if you haven't
eaten in a while and your blood sugar is low, especially in the late
afternoon, if you're overheated, if you stand too quickly (also called
postural hypotension), or simply because your growing uterus is
putting pressure on blood vessels.
A best first step: Sit down. Not only will that help the dizziness
subside, but also you'll keep yourself from falling. If you're in a
stuffy office or crowded subway, then fresh air may be a solution. Or
if you haven't eaten for an hour or two, a quick, healthy snack will
help boost your blood sugar. Also try drinking some water or juice.
(In general, keep yourself well hydrated by drinking at least eight to
ten glasses of water a day.) Simply moving into a lower gear can help
-- for instance, getting up slowly and smoothly instead of springing
from a chair or bed. In some cases you can't do anything except sit or
lie down and wait it out.
************************************************************
Sleep medications during pregnancy
If you're having night after night of restless or disturbed sleep
because of nausea, restless legs, heartburn, or just plain insomnia,
you may be tempted to take an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription
drug to help you catch up on your zz's. Worrying that your lack of
sleep may harm your baby can make falling asleep even harder. But
before you head for the medicine cabinet or call your doctor for a
prescription for sleeping pills, think again.
You need to stay away from all sleep-inducing OTC and prescription
drugs, as well as many herbal remedies, during your first trimester.
Ideally, you shouldn't take any medication during your second or third
trimester, either. But if you really are suffering from sleep
deprivation or you're developing a serious sleep disorder, your
physician may recommend something to help you sleep. In the meantime,
other tricks can help you get through the night, such as guided
imagery, yoga, deep breathing, or even taking a warm bath before bed.
******************************************************
Why pregnancy takes your breath away
Breathlessness is quite common throughout pregnancy. In late pregnancy
especially, as the uterus begins pushing your diaphragm toward your
lungs, you'll probably experience some labored breathing, especially
if you're carrying your fetus high. Though you might feel like the
little engine that could as you huff and puff up a short flight of
stairs, don't worry. This breathlessness is harmless; you're not
depriving your baby of oxygen. Your respiratory system adapts during
pregnancy so your body can process oxygen more efficiently.
Breathlessness is benign, but if you notice other alarming symptoms,
such as chest pain, palpitations, a racing pulse, or clammy fingers
and toes, call your doctor or midwife. If you're asthmatic, discuss
your condition with your healthcare provider.
No doubt the first sight of your baby will take your breath away, but
after that both of you will be breathing normally.
*************************************
Urinary tract infections during pregnancy
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial inflammation in the
urinary tract that is common among women between the ages of 20 and 50
(about one in five women will have a UTI at least once). If left
untreated, UTIs can be quite painful -- and even dangerous because the
infection can travel to other organs such as the kidneys. The changes
your body goes through during pregnancy may make you more susceptible
to UTIs. Progesterone relaxes the muscles of your ureters, slowing the
flow of urine from your kidneys to your bladder (your growing uterus
also slows the flow), creating the perfect breeding ground for
bacteria because they have more time to grow before they're flushed
out. UTIs can be safely treated with antibiotics during pregnancy.
Doctors usually prescribe a three- to seven-day course of amoxicillin,
nitrofurantoin, or cephalosporin. An untreated UTI that leads to a
kidney infection can cause premature labor, so talk to your doctor or
midwife about treatment as soon as you notice any symptoms.
*****************************
Why does vitamin B6 work for morning sickness?
No one knows for sure how vitamin B6 (also known as pyridoxine)
relieves queasiness. It helps the body metabolize certain amino acids
(proteins), which may somehow reduce nausea. Doctors first used
vitamin B6 in the 1940s to relieve morning sickness during early
pregnancy. It doesn't work for all women, though. Vitamin B6 is also
important because it strengthens the immune system, aids nerve impulse
transmission, assists with energy metabolism, and synthesizes red
blood cells. You can get the B6 you need from food sources as well as
a vitamin supplement. A large banana provides almost an entire
milligram of this B vitamin. Brown rice, lean meats, poultry, fish,
avocados, liver, whole grains, corn, and nuts are also high in vitamin
B6. So, provided you can stomach them, you may want to add some of
these foods to your diet along with the vitamin.
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How to treat croup
Since a virus causes croup, antibiotics won't help. But you can reduce
the symptoms dramatically and help your baby feel more comfortable
with this time-tested steam treatment: Make a temporary steam room in
your bathroom by running the shower at the hottest temperature
possible. Close the bathroom door to keep the steam in. Sit in the
bathroom for at least 15 minutes with your baby on your lap, holding
her and reassuring her. Try reading a book or singing to her to calm
her down if she's agitated by the cough. Letting her inhale the warm,
steamy air should relieve the cough and allow you to settle her back
to sleep.
*************************************
When to wean
Most breastfeeding advocates recommend gradual child-led weaning.
Abrupt weaning can be traumatic for the baby and uncomfortable for
you. Generally speaking, a baby will not choose to wean earlier than 9
to 12 months of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently
issued a new policy statement that recommends breastfeeding
exclusively for the first six months, then gradually introducing solid
foods and continuing to breastfeed for at least six more months and
after that for as long as mutually desired. The World Health
Organization recommends breastfeeding for at least two years -- the
worldwide average. In the United States, most mothers wean their
babies before they're 6 months old. Ultimately, though, the decision
to wean is a personal one; if it feels like the right time, it
probably is.
*************************************
Play music to your baby
Babies enjoy music as much as you do. Whether listening to it actually
makes infants smarter, as some studies claim, is hard to support.
Music can have another benefit: By associating it with bedtime you can
use it to train your child to sleep. Try playing quiet music as you
complete your bedtime routine -- a CD of classical music or lullabies
works well. Check out BabyCenter's article on favorite music for
babies for specific recommendations.
**************************************
Installing a car seat
The safest place to install a car seat is in the center of the rear
seat, or in the center seat of a van or station wagon. If you have a
passenger-side air bag, never place a car seat in the front. However,
if your car doesn't have airbags, or has no shoulder belts in the back
seat (most cars built before 1988 don't), the front seat may be the
safest place for a child weighing between 40 and 60 pounds (about ages
4 to 8), who should sit in a booster seat.
************************************
Talk about those baby blues
Postpartum blues aren't just a mom thing -- up to 62 percent of dads
get depressed and moody following the birth of their baby. If you're
feeling anxious, stressed, or simply depressed about all the tasks of
new fatherhood, BabyCenter's online therapist Karen Kleinman
recommends that you talk things through with your partner. You'll gain
a lot more perspective and support than you would holding it in. For
more on dads, moms, and the new baby blues, visit BabyCenter.
*************************************
Computers and toddlers
Neither computers nor television are evil. But as with TV, there is a
right and a wrong way to introduce the computer to your toddler. The
key to helping your child get the most out of it is limiting the
amount of time on the computer and making it an experience you share
together. Some tips to make it a good experience for all: Hold off
until the child is at least 9 months to a year old, start when your
child shows an interest, and select programs with big, easy-to-see
images.
*************************************
Eating out with a baby
Babies and toddlers are notoriously picky eaters, and it's hard enough
finding foods they like at home, let alone at a restaurant. You may be
looking forward to sampling haute cuisine, but your child may be less
excited about conch fritters and sauteed snails. If you're going out
to a restaurant, bring a supply of your toddler's favorite foods (such
as goldfish crackers, Cheerios, fruit, or peanut butter and jelly
sandwiches) to keep him satisfied and entertained while you enjoy your
own meal.
*************************************
Don't wait to poison-proof
Children, especially very young ones, discover the world by putting
things in their mouth. Not all hazardous substances are obvious. For
children under 6, the number-one killer is iron pills. Lock up all
medications. Here are some other tips to keep your baby safe: Know who
to call in case of a poisoning and post the number near your phone.
Don't trust child-resistant containers. Keep medicines, pesticides,
even detergents in their original containers -- if a child does
accidentally ingest a poison, you'll know where it came from. For more
safety tips, see BabyCenter's article on poison-proofing.
*************************************
Relief for teething
To soothe a troubled teething child: Gently massage her gums with one
finger. Give her something cold to chew on, such as a plump frozen
bagel, gel-filled teething ring, or chilled wet washcloth to help numb
the gums. (If you use a plastic teething ring, be sure to remove it
from the freezer before it becomes rock hard or it may bruise already
tender gums.) Try dabbing the gums with an over-the-counter anesthetic
product. Most pediatricians say, however, because these products are
quickly eliminated by a baby's copious amounts of saliva, they aren't
much help. Sorry, but we must advise against the time-honored remedy
of rubbing a whiskey-dipped cloth on an infant's sore gums. Although
alcohol is a sedative, pediatricians don't endorse giving liquor to
babies. If pain relief is needed, a doctor may recommend acetaminophen
drops.
************************************
Breastfeeding is good for Mom, too
Breastfeeding helps build a strong bond between mother and infant and
speeds a mother's recovery from pregnancy and delivery. Nursing
stimulates hormones that help your uterus contract back to its
pre-pregnancy size. Breastfeeding also helps you lose weight, is more
convenient than formula feeding, and once you've established a good
nursing relationship with your baby, can even help you relax.
"Breastfeeding Your Baby" cites research that says women who
breastfeed for at least three months:
- Are 50 percent less likely to get pre-menopausal breast cancer
- Are less likely to get ovarian cancer
- Are at a lower risk for osteoporosis
********************************
Is baby powder really unsafe for my baby?
Baby powder may smell good, but it can get into your baby's lungs,
swelling and irritating them, and lead to breathing problems. It can
also cause an inflammatory reaction in some children when it hits the
broken skin of a diaper rash. A better choice all around for reducing
rubbing and preventing diaper rash is cornstarch, which is coarser and
safer than talcum powder.
Whichever you decide to use, dump a small amount into your hand and
then apply it to the diaper area. Never shake the powder directly on
or near your baby. Also be careful to wash away any powder that may
have accumulated in her skin folds. If it cakes there, it can create a
breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to infections.
**********************************
Be an active participant in your wife's labor
Remember, dads, that you're going to be a critical part of birth and
labor. In the days and weeks before your baby's due date, make sure
your car's gas tank isn't running on empty. Make sure both you and
your wife are packed for the hospital, including a change of clothes,
toothbrush, mouthwash, and camera or camcorder. During early labor,
make sure your wife drinks plenty of liquids. Pour her a glass of
non-acidic juice such as apple or pineapple juice, honey and water, an
herbal tea, or just plain water to ward off dehydration. Offer her a
bagel, yogurt, or something bland -- she won't get anything solid to
eat at the hospital for many hours after the baby's birth. Finish
packing and just revel in this special time.
************************************
Is my baby developing normally?
Remember, each baby is unique and meets cognitive milestones at his
own pace. These are simply guidelines to what your baby has the
potential to accomplish -- if not right now, then shortly.
And if your baby was born prematurely, you'll probably find that he'll
need time before he can do the same things as other children his
chronological age. That's why most babies born prematurely are given
two ages by their pediatricians -- their chronological age, calculated
from their birthday, and their adjusted age, calculated from their due
date. You should measure your child against his adjusted age, not his
chronological one. Don't worry. Most doctors assess a pre-term child's
development from the time he should have been born and evaluate his
skills accordingly.
************************************
Establish a routine to get your baby to sleep
The sooner you establish a bedtime routine the better. When your child
is as young as 6 or 8 weeks old, start following a set pattern every
night; she'll quickly come to appreciate the consistency and
predictability. "Your child will be more relaxed if she knows what is
coming next," says BabyCenter sleep expert Jodi Mindell in her book
Sleeping Through the Night. "The more relaxed she is, the more likely
she is to go to bed easily and fall asleep quickly." Stick to your
routine as best you can even when you're not home -- it can make it
easier for your child to settle down in unfamiliar surroundings. What
you include in your ritual is up to you. There's the standard bath,
putting on pajamas, reading a story, and having a cuddle, or you can
play a quiet game. Just make sure you choose something that helps calm
your baby. And while you can certainly start your ritual in the
bathroom or the living room, it should end in your child's bedroom.
***************************************
First aid for poisoning
If you think your baby has swallowed poison, don't wait for symptoms
to develop. Call 911 or your local poison control center immediately
for instructions. (Post a list of emergency numbers, including the one
for poison control, next to your phone.) You'll need to provide an
emergency doctor with as much information about the suspected poison
as possible so he can determine the appropriate treatment.
Depending on the ingested substance and the child's age, the doctor
may instruct you to use syrup of ipecac, which induces vomiting, or
activated charcoal, which binds poison in the intestinal tract,
allowing it to be safely excreted. More than likely he'll also tell
you to go to the nearest emergency center. Do not induce vomiting
unless the doctor or poison-control adviser instructs you to do so.
For instance, never give ipecac after your child swallows drain or
oven cleaner, gasoline, turpentine, furniture polish, bleach, or
detergent. These are corrosive substances, and vomiting them up can
damage your child's esophagus.
Both syrup of ipecac and activated charcoal are available at
drugstores, but neither should be used without expert advice from a
poison-control center or doctor.
******************************************************
Halloween fire safety
Look for flame-resistant labels when buying costumes, masks, beards,
and wigs. According to Yolanda Fultz-Morris of the U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission, such products not only resist burning but
also burn out quickly if they do catch on fire. Costumes made of 100
percent nylon or polyester are inherently flame resistant. To avoid
any contact with fire, avoid dressing your little goblin in any
costume with billowing material such as baggy sleeves or flowing
skirts. In 1997 a girl in Texas died of severe burns when her costume
made of burlap strips caught fire from a lighted jack o' lantern. Of
course, even if you've dressed your child in the safest costume, make
sure he stays clear of pumpkins that contain lighted candles. These
are sometimes a magnet for curious children, who may try to touch,
pick up, or peek inside them.
**********************************************************
Encourage Your Child to Draw and Write
Your child's early attempts at writing certainly won't look much like
words and sentences, but his scribbles, lines, and drawings are all
helping him get ready to learn his ABCs — and perhaps someday produce
the next great American novel. As with any of your child's new skills,
your job is to provide encouragement and support — and, in this case,
supplies. Starting as early as your baby's first birthday, be sure to
have crayons and paper or coloring books on hand for when he starts
showing an interest in scribbling. (Skip pens and pencils until he's
older — they're much sharper than crayons and could hurt your toddler
if he fell on them or accidentally poked himself in the face.) Let him
practice scribbling as often as he likes, but take breaks if he gets
frustrated. Teach your child to limit his artistic endeavors to the
piece of paper in front of him, although no matter how many times you
tell him not to, he's bound to find the wallpaper (or the floor, or
your brand-new paperback) irresistible. So be prepared to clean up
after him a few times; to that end, invest in washable crayons.
**************************************************
The Best Baby Clothes
It's hard to know exactly what clothing you need for a new baby, but
we can help simplify it. For everyday wear, look for soft, roomy,
durable clothes. These generally cost more than less well made
clothes, but many parents feel it's worth it because a baby's skin is
very sensitive to harsh fabric and rough seams. The durability of
higher-quality clothes also means you can buy fewer because they'll
better survive the wash cycle. Finally, buy big. You won't believe how
quickly your child will grow into and out of clothes. Buy sizes at
least three months ahead of your child's age. Look for one-piece
outfits: Pop your baby into one of these and you're done with
dressing, something you'll appreciate after time spent with waving
arms and legs. For easy changes, look for jumpers or coveralls that
snap down the front or completely down the leg. Denim overalls wear
well and make sense for a crawling baby. Test the snaps to make sure
they hold -- having to re-snap pants over and over again is
frustrating. Buy only those clothes that open at the bottom for easy
diaper changes.
****************************************************
Toys for 9- to 12-Month-Old Babies
By the time babies are 9 or 10 months old, they're usually able make
their way around the room in some fashion -- creeping, crawling, or
cruising (walking with the furniture's assistance). By 12 months, many
babies have risen to their feet and can stand and even walk. On all
fours or on two feet, giddy with the freedom of movement and mobility,
a baby at this age will want to move, grab, and get to whatever used
to be out of reach. To help him hone his motor and cognitive skills,
try these toys:
- Push toys, or walkers: Choose those, such as wagons, that are
heavily weighted so your baby can lean into them and take a lap or two
around the living room. New mobility is a heady experience.
- Shape sorters: Trying to figure out why the square block won't go
through the round opening is a nice challenge for early
problem-solvers.
- Balls: He's encountered them before, but balls get even more
thrilling when he can assume a standing position and actually bounce
them off the floor.
*******************************************************
Do Pets and Newborns Mix?
Generally speaking, it's all right to allow your pet near your new
baby, as long as the pet is well behaved. It's common for a pet, who
has until recently been the focus of the family's attention, to act
jealous toward a new baby. You should allow your pet to become
accustomed to the new baby while in your presence. Also, continue to
give your pet plenty of attention, both when the baby is present and
when you have time alone with your pet. This will keep the jealous
behavior at a minimum. If your pet shows any aggressive or hostile
behavior toward the new infant, you should quickly reprimand him. He
will learn fast what behavior is allowed near the baby. When the baby
is very young, don't allow the family dog or cat to lick the baby's
face. This could possibly transmit infectious material (such as feces)
into the baby's mouth or eyes. As your baby grows older, her immune
system will get much stronger and she can play with and even be licked
by your pet without any consequences.
*****************************************************
When Baby Needs New Shoes
When she starts walking outside, and not before then. Babies need to
be able to stand and walk on bare feet to balance and strengthen their
legs, so if your child is at home, she'll be more stable without
shoes. If your floors are cold, let your baby wear socks with non-skid
bottoms, or footed pajamas. Once she's ready to walk outdoors, she'll
likely need a firm, stable shoe because hard or rough surfaces such as
sidewalks can be dangerous to little feet -- you wouldn't want her to
stub her toe. You don't need to buy expensive shoes; in fact, they're
impractical because little feet grow so fast. What matters most is
that they provide enough support and flexibility for your child. Make
sure there's a space as wide as your index finger (about 1/2 inch)
between the tip of the shoes and your baby's toes. Shoes should also
be wide and flexible enough to allow your child's feet room to wiggle.
You may want to stop by a children's shoe store so a salesperson can
measure your child's feet properly.
*****************************************************
Babies Love Music, Too
Think about how music affects you -- how an upbeat tune fends off the
blues and soft music helps you fall asleep. Your baby is no different.
Lullabies have a proven track record for soothing infants -- ask any
parent who has ever resorted to singing them when the baby wakes up at
two in the morning. Music may even help strengthen premature babies.
Researchers from Brigham Young University studied the effect of music
on 33 premature infants in the neonatal intensive care unit at Utah
Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo. Cassette players piped the
voices of men and women singing lullabies into each baby's isolette
for 40 minutes a day for four days. When doctors examined the babies
on the fourth day, they found that babies who were exposed to music
gained more weight and had lower blood pressure and a stronger
heartbeat.
Music can benefit you, too. It has the power to lift your spirits,
soothe your frayed nerves, and move you to dance. And music helps with
bonding. Imagine the joy you'll share with your child when you sway to
the beat of a lovely melody (try Stevie Wonder's "You Are the Sunshine
of My Life"). Or how soothing it will be for you and your baby when
you sing him a lilting lullaby ("Hush Little Baby" is always a
winner).
More BabyCenter resources:
Music and Your Baby:
http://www.pcworld.com/r/tw/1%2C2061%2Ctw-prg6-26c%2C00.html
Lullaby Lyrics:
http://www.pcworld.com/r/tw/1%2C2061%2Ctw-prg6-26d%2C00.html
***********************************************************
Keep your baby safe in the bathtub
There are several things to remember when bathing baby, but the most
important is to never leave baby unattended in a bathtub, even for a
minute. If the phone rings and you must answer it, wrap the baby in a
towel and take him with you.
- Cover the tub surface with a rubber suction mat to prevent
slipping and fill the tub with only 3 to 4 inches of warm water.
Support his back at all times if he can't sit up securely on his own.
- Don't allow your child to drink the bath water or submerge his eyes
and head. The soap and shampoos could irritate his eyes and intestinal
tract.
- Keep the toilet lid and bathroom door closed when not in use, or get
a lid lock for the toilet
***********************************************************
Finding time for each other after the baby comes
Life is a lot different after you have children. You won't ever find
time for your partner -- you have to make it. The standard wisdom:
Make a weekly date night, get a babysitter, and get out of the house
together. The standard reality: Easier said than done. What can you
do? First, acknowledge to each other that life really has changed and
that it's expected that your relationship will play second fiddle to
the new baby in your home. Strive for a real date night. It doesn't
have to be a full-fledged night on the town: The goal is simply to get
some time alone with each other. So take a walk, grab a bite, go to
the movies. Or, make date night at home. Once your baby has settled
down for the night -- or at least for a few hours -- seize some couple
time. Resist collapsing on the couch and switching on the TV, or
slouching off to finish work. Sit together for some face-to-face time.
Focusing on each other for as little as 10 minutes can make a huge
difference.
***********************************************************
The signs of heat stroke
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that results when a person
becomes extremely overheated, with a temperature rising above 104 or
105 degrees F. Heat stroke can come on quickly in babies, not only
after prolonged sun exposure, but also during long rides in a closed
vehicle or as a result of being dressed too warmly.
In addition to a high temperature, other symptoms include:
- Hot, red, dry (no sweating) skin
- Rapid pulse
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Vomiting
- Poor feeding
- Rapid breathing
- Lethargy / diminished level of response when you call your baby's
name or tickle or pinch his skin
You should also keep an eye out for the signs of dehydration: dry
mucous membranes, no tears when your baby cries, and a diminished
urine output. If you suspect your baby has heat stroke, first undress
him and sponge his body down completely with a washcloth dipped in
cool (not cold) water. Then call 911 and continue sponging him off and
fanning him until help arrives.
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Are girls easier to potty train than boys?
Girls are usually easier, but there isn't any research that explains
why this is so. Additionally, fewer girls wet the bed, and again,
nobody really knows why.
If you watch for the signs that your child is ready to be toilet
trained, it won't matter whether you have a boy or a girl. The main
signs are:
- She can wait several hours before urinating, and, when she pees,
she empties her bladder instead of urinating only a small amount at a
time, which is typical of younger children.
- She knows the words that your family uses in connection with
toileting, such as "pee" and "poop."
- She can get on and off of the toilet or the potty-chair by herself
and can raise and lower her pants unassisted.
- She generally understands and goes along with your verbal
instructions. If your child typically won't follow most of your
instructions, you should work on that for now and wait to start toilet
training.
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All about fifth disease
If your baby's cheeks suddenly turn bright red, he may have contracted
fifth disease, also known as "slapped cheeks disease." The virus is
most common in preschool and school-aged children, but babies can get
it, too. A lacy red rash may appear on his trunk and extremities. He
may run a slight fever and feel achy, as if he has the flu -- or have
no other symptoms at all. Another non-rash symptom, much more common
in adults who get fifth disease, is joint pain. Like most viruses,
fifth disease just needs to run its course. If a fever lasts longer
than a few days or spikes, however, a different infection may be the
culprit. It's not uncommon for the rash to linger for up to a month.
Treat the virus as you would a cold, with fluids and acetaminophen, if
your practitioner recommends them. Sometimes the rash can reappear
months later in response to exposure to sunlight or heat, for
instance, after a hot bath or exercise. Don't worry if it does -- it's
not a recurrence of the infection.
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Stay in sight on Halloween night
Even if you plan to keep your little one in hand on Halloween night,
reflector tape is not a bad idea if you'll be out after dark.
Decorating or trimming her costume with strips of tape could prevent
an accident if she should happen to slip away, even for just a few
seconds. You can buy reflector tape in most hardware, bicycle, and
sporting goods stores. A flashlight may also come in handy for
negotiating long walkways or dimly lit doorways. If your schedule
permits, you may want to start hitting the neighbors' homes while it's
still light outside. Some communities have designated hours for
trick-or-treating, which may include early hours for the youngest
ones.
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Halloween candy care
The CPSC recommends that parents scrutinize treats for evidence of
tampering before letting children eat them. Carefully examine each
wrapper to make sure there's no sign of its having been opened. Accept
homemade treats only from neighbors you know, and cut up fruit before
serving it. Keep in mind, too, that many treats are not appropriate
for babies or toddlers. Hard candies, nuts, popcorn, lollipops, and
anything you can't cut into small pieces are all choking hazards.
With very young children you can easily control the amount and kind of
candy they eat by visiting just a few houses, then making most of
their small haul "disappear" overnight. Often they will enjoy
answering the door and handing out candy as much as trick-or-treating
itself. Another idea is to combine everyone's goodies at the end of
the night in a community collection. This works well if you have a mix
of older and younger children because the booty gets distributed more
evenly. Keep the collection bowl somewhere up high, such as on top of
the refrigerator. That way you can keep an eye on the candy and give
out a couple of pieces at appropriate moments.
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Which holiday plants are poisonous?
Contrary to a myth that refuses to die, poinsettias are not poisonous
to humans. Consuming large amounts of any plant can cause cramping and
diarrhea, but no one has ever died or become seriously ill from eating
poinsettias. Your pets, however, may have a bad reaction if they munch
on these plants, so you'd be wise to keep them out of Fido's range.
The plant really to beware of during the holiday season is mistletoe.
While standing beneath it may earn you the pleasure of a kiss or two,
ingesting the stuff will cause severe stomach cramps and diarrhea and
even can be fatal. If you decide to hang a sprig over your doorway,
make sure it's well secured and won't be knocked to the floor where
pets and young children could happen upon it. Holly and pyracantha,
also frequently used in holiday decorations, are toxic as well, so
keep them out of reach.
If you suspect poisoning from any plant source, contact your local
poison control center immediately. Add the number to your list of
emergency numbers by the phone.
Also, keep in mind that even nonpoisonous plants can present hazards
to young children. Check the soil in which they're planted to make
sure it contains no rocks or solid items that your child could choke
on or surface fertilizer that could be toxic. The most frequently
overlooked plant-related hazard is actually that posed by heavy pots
that could fall on your child. Never place a heavy pot on a stand that
could be shaken or toppled by a determined toddler. And watch out for
dangling leaves or vines that she could use to pull a large plant
over.
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Make sure your child is getting enough sleep:
Most children need lots of sleep. Often if a child has poor sleep
habits or refuses to go to bed before 11:00 at night, his parents will
think that he just doesn't need a lot of sleep. That's probably not
true -- in fact, it's likely that such a child is actually
sleep-deprived. To see whether your child falls into that camp, ask
yourself these questions: Does your child fall asleep almost every
time he's in a car? Do you have to wake your child almost every
morning? Does your child seem cranky, irritable, or overtired during
the day? On some nights, does your child seem to crash much earlier
than his usual bedtime? If you answered yes to any of these, your
child may be getting less sleep than he needs. To change this pattern,
you'll need to help him develop good sleep habits and set an
appropriate bedtime.
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