Seeing the two pink lines on the pregnancy tracker is a whole new feeling, isn’t it? However, amidst the excitement of bringing a new life into this world, it’s easy for new moms to overlook certain safety concerns that are crucial for both their and their baby’s well-being.
“Amidst the joy and excitement of welcoming a new family member, it’s easy to overlook some essential safety precautions,” says Madurai based gynecologist Dr Divya Siva. From baby-proofing your home to ensuring safe sleep practices, here are some important but often neglected safety concerns:
Safe Sleep Practices
It’s essential to create a safe sleep environment by placing the baby on a firm mattress in a crib or bassinet, without any loose bedding, pillows, or toys that could pose a suffocation hazard.
Car Seat Safety
Proper use of car seats is important for ensuring the safety of infants during travel. From incorrect installation to improper harnessing, there are several common mistakes that can compromise the effectiveness of a car seat in the event of a crash.
Babyproofing The Home
Conducting a thorough babyproofing assessment of the home and addressing any potential hazards can significantly reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Certain areas that require babyproofing are securing furniture to prevent tipping, covering electrical outlets, and keeping small objects out of reach to prevent choking.
Supervision Around Water
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death among young children, making water safety a crucial concern for new moms. While it’s essential to never leave a baby unattended near water, including bathtubs, pools, or even buckets, many new ignore the dangers or become distracted during water-related activities.
Handling Of Breast Milk And Formula
Improper storage or handling of breast milk and formula can lead to contamination and potentially harmful bacteria, compromising the baby’s health. New moms should educate themselves on safe practices for expressing, storing, and warming breast milk, as well as preparing and storing formula to ensure optimal safety and nutrition for their baby.There are more to this. Co-founder of AreoVeda, Taru Mayur who shares essential safety and health aspects concernig new moms.
Do Not Ignore The Mood Swings
The postpartum period can be challenging because of the hormonal fluctuations and mood changes the new moms go through. A study published in 2017 suggested that over 22% of new mothers report postpartum depression in India. While this statistic can be scary, the real picture is more worrisome. “Many incidences of depression go unrecognised and unreported. This is compounded by the fact that minor mood fluctuations that do not meet the diagnostic category of depression often go unnoticed,” says Taru who also shares a sigh of relief that the help is readily available which the mothers should avail.
“Owing to the growing awareness of this issue, access to mental health care is easier than ever. If you are a family member of a new mother, it is vital to be cognizant of these symptoms and to make her feel loved, comfortable and cared for. The smallest gesture can go a long way in ensuring better mental health,” she adds.
Take Care Of Your Skin
Another aspect of self-care during and after pregnancy is paying adequate attention to one’s skin and body. While the stress of delivery and subsequently caring for a newborn may force new mothers to ignore their skincare to the bottom of the priority list, there is an alarming reason why it is more important than ever. A study from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) revealed that there are over 200 kinds of toxins present in the cord blood, and these may have disastrous consequences for the baby and the mother. A large proportion of these pollutants are present in skincare products and enter the bloodstream through the skin.
“Therefore, it is of utmost importance to opt for clean, natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals so that one can help soothe and nourish the delicate postpartum skin while also ensuring the safety of both the mother and the nursing infant,” explains Taru.
Use Safe And Clean Ingredients
Given the impact of chemicals and toxins, the safety of the products used by new mothers and their infants has become a pressing concern. “From personal care items mentioned above to household cleaners, exposure to potentially toxic ingredients can be very harmful,” warns the expert who suggests that the new moms are often flooded with a vast array of product options, making it challenging to come to a conclusion on safe and effective products to trust. “One should be educated about reading labels, understanding ingredient lists, and seeking out clean, natural alternatives that can empower them to make informed choices and provide a safer environment for their families,” she adds.
Staying Hydrated
Dehydration among new mothers and infants is a pressing concern. Several studies show that lack of proper hydration could potentially lead to lower birth weights for their babies. “It is therefore of prime importance to monitor your daily water intake and to look out for signs of dehydration in your baby. This may include infrequent urination, dry, patchy skin, cracked lips, and general sluggishness,” advises the expert.
Navigating Food Allergies
The introduction of solid foods and the management of potential food allergies can be a source of immense stress and confusion for new parents. From identifying and avoiding allergens to coping with the shift to solids, it can be daunting.
“An effective way to go about it is to work closely with your healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive feeding plan that addresses their child’s unique needs,” says Taru which includes understanding common food allergens, implementing proper food introduction protocols, and being vigilant about ingredient labels and food preparation.
What The Expert Says,
“The postpartum period is a delicate and transformative time, filled with both the joys and challenges of new motherhood. While the focus is often on the physical and practical aspects of caring for a newborn, one must not overlook the safety concerns that new moms face.”