Ten Questions Every New Mom Asks

This is a 2-part series exploring the most common questions asked by new parents and all the answers out there. Despite what you read here, remember, nothing is stronger than a Mother’s instinct so trust that above everything you read. Mother Nature set you up to know what to do.

Now, onto all the things you think you don’t know.

1. Should we let the baby cry it out?

Pediatricians agree to varying degrees, that all babies cry. Letting an infant cry for hours and hours should only be attempted if you can a.) stand it b.) justify it and c.) make up the sleep during the next day. For the most part, babies cry when there is something distressing them. So if it’s bedtime, the baby is tired, and you’ve already checked for hunger, diaper rash, teething, upset stomach, and a high temperature, chances are, the little one is a bit fussy and you’ll be hearing tiny baby snores within a half hour.

2. Is there a difference between spit up and vomit?

Gross? Welcome to parenthood. Spit up is generally the result of relaxed muscles below the esophagus, or, overfeeding, and can be minimized by keeping babies upright after feeding, and keeping any pressure off their tummies. Spit up occurs among about 40% of babies and is most common around 3-5 months old. It’s generally nothing to worry about, just try not to wear anything dry clean only. On the other hand, you’ll know it’s a gastronomical problem if it doesn’t happen in congruence with feeding times. Babies spit up, which is normal, but if a baby is vomiting outside of feeding times, it could be a virus.

3. If my baby doesn’t have teeth yet, do I have to worry about oral hygiene?

Candidisis or Thrush are two of the most common fungal infections associated with poor oral hygiene during infancy. Keep your babies’ mouths thrush-free by wrapping a piece of gauze or a sterile wash cloth around your finger and gently wiping out the inside. Once teething begins, it’s time to upgrade to a finger brush with soft nylon bristles. During teething, don’t forget to stimulate the gums and always keep a teething ring or two in the freezer.

4. Do we still have time for the two of us, now that there are three of us?

Nursing mothers experience a special bond with their babies because of the truckloads of oxytocin (the cuddle chemical) released during nursing. Many mothers often feel the emotion of being “totally in love with their babies” according to Louann Brizendine, M.D. and author of The Female Brain. Because mothers are experiencing this special bond, sometimes fathers feel a little jealous. It’s important to remember to take time for your relationship, but as new parents, you often would rather sleep. A special dinner, a football game, or even a high-five are little ways to let your co-parent know that he’s important too.

5. How do we get our baby to sleep through the night?

If you find a no-fail method, patent it! That being said, every baby is different, and here are a few tips I’ve gleaned.

-To get the baby to sleep, walk in a pattern. A gentle “waltz” is a no-fail method I’ve found for calming an anxious baby into a subdued slumber.

-Have a routine blanket or stuffed animal that is always there when baby goes to sleep.

-If your baby is upset during the night, go in and comfort, but don’t take them out of the crib. They are learning to settle themselves, and this takes time.

Stay tuned for 5 more questions every new parent asks. Have a question yourself? Feel free to leave it below.