Once your new baby has arrived, so does a whole set of new questions! Here’s some basic information to get you started on your journey as parents to this beautiful little bundle. Feel free to contact our office with other questions or concerns: 502.891.8700.
If you have a vehicle made after September 2002, it should be equipped with the new LATCH car seat attachment system. This new anchor system makes safety seats easier to install because you no longer need to use seat belts to secure them. Be sure to purchase your baby’s car seat, install it, and bring it with you to the hospital.
Babies who sleep on their stomachs are much more likely to die of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than babies who sleep on their backs. To reduce your risk of SIDS, always place your baby on his or her back to sleep, for naps and at night. Do not co-sleep or put your baby in bed with you. Place your baby on a firm sleep surface. Never place your baby on pillows, and keep baby’s crib free of bumper pads, loose blankets and stuffed toys. Don’t overheat the baby during sleep. Do not smoke around your baby.
“Tummy time” when your baby is awake and you are nearby is good for your baby and helps reduce molding of baby’s head, but not when baby is sleeping. For more information, go to www.sids.org.
For most women, having a baby is an exciting time. Yet, after childbirth, many mothers feel sad, angry, afraid, or anxious. Most new mothers (about 70–80%) have these feelings in a mild form called postpartum blues. This is a passing state of heightened emotions.
About 10% of new mothers have a more serious condition called postpartum depression (PPD). Postpartum depression is more intense and lasts longer. Women with PPD have strong feelings of sadness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, tearfulness, fatigue, suicidal thoughts or impaired concentration. PPD often requires counseling and treatment. Postpartum depression can occur after any birth. Please call us if you feel you have any of these signs. Help is readily available.
Women First refers to a wonderful therapist Donna Huber. Donna is a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in the mental health field for more than 15 years. She specializes in the treatment of perinatal mood disorders, as well as other concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Donna treats women between the ages of 18–55, is in-network with Anthem® and Humana® insurance, and accepts many other plans as out-of-network coverage. You may schedule an appointment with Donna by calling 502.550.7718.
