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Diaper Rash Demystified: Solutions for Parents

Diaper rash is a common skin irritation that almost every baby experiences at some point. It can be uncomfortable for your little one, leading to fussiness and tears, which can be tough on parents, too. The good news is that diaper rash is typically easy to treat and prevent with a few simple steps.

What is Diaper Rash?
Diaper rash is a type of skin irritation that occurs in the diaper area, typically appearing as red, inflamed patches on your baby’s skin. This rash can range from mild to severe, sometimes leading to soreness, discomfort, or even a bit of swelling.

Common Causes of Diaper Rash
Wet or Soiled Diapers: Prolonged contact with moisture and stool can irritate the sensitive skin in your baby’s diaper area.
Chafing or Rubbing: A diaper that’s too tight or doesn’t fit properly can rub against your baby’s skin, causing irritation.
Sensitivity to Products: Some babies have sensitive skin that reacts to certain diaper brands, wipes, or creams.
Introduction to New Foods: When babies start solids, it can change the composition of their stools, sometimes leading to more diaper rash.
Antibiotics: If your baby or a breastfeeding mother is on antibiotics, it can lead to yeast overgrowth, causing a type of diaper rash.

Tips for Preventing Diaper Rash
Frequent Diaper Changes: Aim to change your baby’s diaper as soon as it’s wet or soiled.
Avoid Tight Diapers: Make sure your baby’s diaper fits comfortably, not too tight. A looser fit can improve air circulation and reduce chafing.
Use a Barrier Cream Regularly: Applying a thin layer of barrier cream or ointment at each diaper change can protect your baby’s skin from irritation.
Consider Diaper-Free Time: Allowing your baby some diaper-free time daily can reduce moisture buildup and help prevent diaper rash.
Be Mindful of New Foods: When introducing new foods, keep an eye on any skin reactions in the diaper area, as certain foods can affect stool composition and lead to diaper rash.

How to Prevent or Treat Diaper Rash
Here are some effective strategies for treating diaper rash:
Opt for Fragrance-Free Products: If your baby has sensitive skin, switch to fragrance-free diapers, wipes, and detergents. Many baby products contain scents or additives that can irritate delicate skin.

Treating Diaper Rashes and When to See a Doctor
Gently Clean the Area: When changing diapers, gently clean the diaper area with warm water and a soft cloth or unscented, alcohol-free wipes. Pat the skin dry gently; avoid rubbing, as it can further irritate the skin.
Most diaper rashes clear up with these treatments within a few days. However, consult a pediatrician if:
The rash doesn’t improve after a few days of home treatment.
You notice open sores, blisters, or pus.
The rash is accompanied by a fever.
The rash appears very red and swollen, as this can indicate a yeast or bacterial infection.

Final Thoughts
Diaper rash is a common part of babyhood, but it doesn’t have to be a major source of stress. With a few preventive steps and gentle care, you can help keep your baby’s skin comfortable and rash-free. By being attentive to diaper changes, using gentle products, and keeping the diaper area as dry as possible, you can make diaper rash a rare occurrence for your little one.

DISCLAIMER: This information is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a healthcare or pediatric professional for specific advice.

Understanding Newborn Sleep Cues: Signs Your Baby is Tired

Newborns sleep a lot, but they don’t have set sleep schedules like adults do. This can make it challenging for new parents to know when their baby is ready for sleep, especially since each baby is unique in how they express tiredness. Recognizing your newborn’s sleep cues early on can make it easier to put them down for a nap or bedtime, helping them avoid becoming overtired or fussy.

Here’s a guide to some common sleep cues in newborns and how you can use them to establish healthy sleep habits for your baby.

1. Yawning and Stretching
Yawning is a clear sign of tiredness. When a baby starts yawning, it usually means they’re ready for sleep. Some babies may also stretch or have a slightly “dazed” look as they become tired. These are often the earliest and most gentle signals that your baby needs rest.

2. Fussiness and Crying
When babies start to feel tired but aren’t put to sleep, they may begin to fuss or cry. This fussiness may start as gentle whimpering and escalate to more intense crying if they become overtired. Crying is usually one of the later signs of tiredness, so if your baby reaches this point, try calming them with a familiar soothing method, like rocking or swaddling, before laying them down.

3. Rubbing Eyes and Ears
Rubbing eyes or ears is a classic sign of fatigue in newborns and is often accompanied by a change in facial expression. Babies may pull on their ears or rub their eyes as they get sleepy, which can be their way of signaling it’s time for rest.

4. Zoning Out or Glazed Eyes
If your baby seems to lose interest in their surroundings or gets a “zoned-out” expression, this is often a sign they’re becoming sleepy. Newborns have limited energy and can’t stay engaged for long periods; when they’ve had enough, they naturally start tuning out.

5. Decreased Activity and Slower Movements
A tired baby may start to move less or slow down their movements. If you notice your little one is less active, seems less interested in toys or interactions, or begins to rest their head on your shoulder, they’re likely ready for a nap.

How to Use Sleep Cues in Your Routine
By watching for these cues, you can help your newborn develop a more consistent sleep pattern. Newborns typically need to sleep every 1-2 hours, so once you start noticing these signs, try setting up a simple sleep routine, like dimming the lights, singing a lullaby, or swaddling.

Why Understanding Sleep Cues Matters
Recognizing and responding to your baby’s sleep cues can make a big difference in their mood, as babies who are well-rested are usually more content and better able to engage in play and interactions. Knowing when your baby is tired also helps prevent overtiredness, which can make it harder for them to fall asleep and may lead to more fussiness.

Final Thoughts
Newborn sleep cues may seem subtle at first, but with a little practice, you’ll start to notice patterns that signal your baby’s readiness for rest. Establishing these early sleep habits can help both you and your baby find a rhythm that supports healthy sleep as they grow. Remember, every baby is different, so take time to learn and respond to your little one’s unique cues.

Happy napping!

DISCLAIMER: This information is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a healthcare or pediatric professional for specific advice.

Navigating Bath Time Anxiety: Tips for Soothing a Fussy Baby in the Tub

Bath time can be a soothing, bonding experience for both you and your newborn – but not every baby takes to the tub right away. Some newborns find bath time stressful or overstimulating, resulting in tears and fussiness. The good news is there are simple ways to make bath time more comfortable and enjoyable for your baby.

Here are some practical tips to help ease bath time anxiety and turn this routine into a calming experience.

1. Keep the Temperature Just Right
Newborns are sensitive to temperature, so ensuring the water is comfortable can help reduce any discomfort. Aim for a warm bath of around 98-100°F (37-38°C), which is similar to body temperature. If you’re unsure, use a bath thermometer or simply test the water with your wrist to ensure it feels pleasantly warm but not hot.

Tip: Pre-warm the bathroom before bath time to avoid any chills when your baby leaves the water.

2. Start Small and Gradual
If your baby seems overwhelmed by the bath, start by introducing water slowly. Try a sponge bath in the beginning, especially for very young babies, and gradually work up to putting them in the tub. You might also consider a few short baths throughout the week to get your baby accustomed to the experience in small doses.

Tip: Hold your baby securely to help them feel safe and supported as they adjust to the new sensation of water.

3. Create a Calm Environment
Babies are sensitive to sights and sounds, so creating a calming atmosphere can go a long way. Dim the lights, use a soft voice, or play soothing music. Keeping things gentle and quiet can help prevent overstimulation and make bath time more enjoyable.

Tip: If your baby seems to enjoy it, consider singing a lullaby or talking to them in a calming tone. This can help them feel more secure and create positive associations with bath time.

4. Try a Warm Towel or Blanket
The transition from dry to wet can be jarring for some babies. Try wrapping your baby in a warm towel or blanket during the start of the bath, then slowly unwrap them once they’re comfortable. You can also keep a warm, damp washcloth on their chest or tummy during the bath to help them feel secure and cozy.

Tip: Keep a warm towel ready for when bath time is over. Quickly wrapping your baby in a warm towel after the bath can prevent any discomfort from the change in temperature.

5. Use Gentle Products
Newborn skin is delicate, so using fragrance-free, gentle baby wash and shampoo can make a difference. Harsh scents or foamy products may be overwhelming to some babies. Opt for a mild cleanser designed for newborns and use only a tiny amount, rinsing it off thoroughly.

Tip: Look for baby-friendly, hypoallergenic products to help prevent any irritation to your baby’s sensitive skin.

6. Make It a Bonding Experience
Babies love skin-to-skin contact, which can be especially comforting during bath time. Holding your baby close, making eye contact, and using a gentle touch can help them feel safe and connected to you, easing any anxiety they may have.

Tip: Talk to your baby throughout the bath to reassure them, and keep your movements gentle and slow.

7. Keep Bath Time Short and Sweet
Baths don’t need to be long to be effective. Aim for a 5-10 minute bath to help your baby stay relaxed and comfortable. Over time, as they get more comfortable, you may find they enjoy bath time longer, but keeping it brief in the beginning can reduce stress and make bath time something to look forward to.

Tip: Try to incorporate bath time into a calming bedtime routine, as a short, warm bath can help them wind down before sleep.

Final Thoughts
A little patience and a gentle approach can go a long way in making bath time a peaceful part of your day. If your baby continues to fuss, don’t worry! Many newborns simply need time to adjust to the sensation of water. By keeping the experience calm, warm, and brief, you’re building trust and helping your baby feel comfortable with bath time.

With these tips, bath time can become an enjoyable ritual that leaves your baby feeling clean, calm, and ready for snuggles!

DISCLAIMER: This information is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a healthcare or pediatric professional for specific advice.

IMPORTANT: Safety is paramount; never leave your baby unattended during bathtime.

Caring for Delicate Baby Skin: Dos and Don’ts for Parents

Babies have incredibly soft and delicate skin that requires special care. As a new parent, understanding how to protect and nourish your baby’s skin is essential. Here’s a straightforward guide on the dos and don’ts of baby skin care to help you keep your little one’s skin healthy and happy.

Dos for Baby Skin Care

1. Do Use Gentle Products
Choose products specifically designed for babies, such as mild, fragrance-free soaps and shampoos. Look for labels that say “hypoallergenic” and “dermatologist-tested” to minimize the risk of irritation.

2. Do Moisturize Regularly
Baby skin can dry out quickly, especially after baths. Apply a gentle, baby-safe moisturizer to keep the skin soft and hydrated. Opt for products free from dyes and perfumes.

3. Do Bathe Your Baby Properly
Bathing your baby 2-3 times a week is sufficient for keeping them clean without drying out their skin. Use lukewarm water and keep baths short, around 5-10 minutes. Always pat the skin dry gently with a soft towel.

4. Do Use Sunscreen
If your baby is older than six months, apply a baby-specific sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when going outside. For younger babies, keep them in the shade and dress them in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and hats.

5. Do Change Diapers Frequently
To prevent diaper rash, change your baby’s diapers frequently. Clean their bottom with gentle wipes or a damp cloth, and let the skin air dry before putting on a new diaper. Use a barrier cream to protect the skin from moisture.

6. Do Dress Your Baby Appropriately
Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid overdressing to prevent overheating and sweating, which can irritate the skin.

Don’ts for Baby Skin Care

1. Don’t Use Harsh Products
Avoid using adult skincare products on your baby, as they can contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that irritate delicate skin. Stay clear of antibacterial soaps and bubble baths, which can be too drying.

2. Don’t Over-Bathe Your Baby
Frequent bathing can strip away natural oils from your baby’s skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Stick to 2-3 baths per week and use a gentle cleanser.

3. Don’t Ignore Diaper Rash
If your baby develops a diaper rash, don’t ignore it. Use a diaper rash cream to soothe the skin, and give your baby some diaper-free time to let the skin breathe. Consult a pediatrician if the rash persists.

4. Don’t Expose Your Baby to Direct Sunlight
Babies under six months should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Use protective clothing, hats, and sunshades when outside. Older babies should have sunscreen applied and be kept in the shade as much as possible.

5. Don’t Forget to Test New Products
Before using any new skincare product, do a patch test on a small area of your baby’s skin to ensure there’s no adverse reaction. Wait 24 hours and check for any signs of redness or irritation.

6. Don’t Ignore Signs of Skin Problems
If you notice persistent dryness, redness, or unusual spots on your baby’s skin, don’t ignore them. Consult your pediatrician for advice and appropriate treatment.

By following these simple dos and don’ts, you can help ensure your baby’s skin remains soft, healthy, and irritation-free. Always consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s skin or overall health.

Caring for your baby’s delicate skin doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach and gentle products, you can keep your little one comfortable and happy.

DISCLAIMER: This information is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a healthcare or pediatric professional for specific advice.

The Joy of Bonding: How Bath Time Fosters Connection Between Parents and Babies

Bath time is more than just a routine task for keeping your baby clean; it’s a precious opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. The warm water, gentle touch, and playful interaction can strengthen the connection between you and your baby. Here’s how bath time can foster that special bond.

1. Creating a Calm and Comfortable Environment
Setting up a calm and comfortable environment is the first step to making bath time enjoyable. Use a warm room, fill the tub with comfortably warm water, and gather all necessary supplies like baby soap, shampoo, and a soft towel. A relaxed atmosphere helps your baby feel secure and sets the stage for a positive experience.

2. Gentle Touch and Skin-to-Skin Contact
Bath time provides an excellent opportunity for gentle touch and skin-to-skin contact, which are crucial for your baby’s development. The feeling of your hands on their skin can be very soothing and comforting. This physical closeness helps your baby feel loved and safe, reinforcing your bond.

3. Making Eye Contact and Talking
While bathing your baby, make eye contact and talk to them. Your voice is familiar and comforting to your baby, and speaking to them during bath time can enhance their sense of security. Singing lullabies, talking softly, or simply narrating what you’re doing can make bath time interactive and enjoyable.

4. Play and Exploration
Bath time can be fun and playful. Introducing simple bath toys, like rubber ducks or cups, allows your baby to explore and engage with their environment. Playful interactions, such as splashing water gently or making funny sounds, can make bath time enjoyable and help build a joyful connection between you and your baby.

5. Establishing Routine and Predictability
Babies thrive on routine and predictability. Having a regular bath time routine helps your baby know what to expect, which can be comforting. This routine can include specific steps like gently washing their face first, followed by their body, and ending with a relaxing rinse. Consistency helps reinforce the bond and provides a sense of stability.

6. Encouraging Relaxation and Comfort
A warm bath can be incredibly relaxing for your baby. The soothing effect of the water, combined with your gentle touch, can help calm your baby, especially before bedtime. A relaxed and content baby is more likely to have a good night’s sleep, which benefits both you and your baby.

7. Sharing the Experience with Your Partner
Bath time is an excellent opportunity for both parents to engage and bond with the baby. Taking turns or participating together can strengthen the family connection and allow each parent to share in these special moments. This shared responsibility also helps in building teamwork and mutual support.

8. Listening and Responding to Cues
Pay close attention to your baby’s cues during bath time. Some babies may love the water right away, while others might need more time to get used to it. Being responsive to their needs and adjusting your approach based on their reactions helps build trust and deepens your bond.

Final Thoughts
Bath time is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your baby. By creating a calm environment, engaging in gentle touch and eye contact, introducing play, and establishing a comforting routine, you can make bath time a cherished experience for both you and your baby. Embrace these moments, and enjoy the joy of bonding during bath time.

IMPORTANT: Safety is paramount; never leave your baby unattended during bathtime.

The Newborn Sleep Survival Guide: Tips for Parents

Welcoming a newborn into your family is a wonderful experience, but it often comes with sleepless nights and unpredictable schedules. Newborns have unique sleep patterns that can be challenging for parents to navigate. Here are some straightforward tips to help you survive and thrive during those early months.

1. Understand Newborn Sleep Patterns
Newborns sleep a lot—typically 16 to 18 hours a day—but their sleep is divided into short periods. They might sleep for 2-4 hours at a time, day or night. Understanding this can help you adjust your expectations and better cope with the irregular sleep schedule.

2. Create a Calm Sleep Environment
A calm and comfortable sleep environment can help your newborn sleep better. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using a white noise machine to mask household noises and create a soothing background sound.

3. Establish a Bedtime Routine
Even though your newborn might not have a set schedule, a simple bedtime routine can signal that it’s time to sleep. This might include a warm bath, gentle rocking, singing a lullaby, or reading a short story. Consistency helps your baby recognize these cues over time.

4. Swaddle Your Baby
Swaddling can make your newborn feel secure and prevent their startle reflex from waking them up. Use a lightweight blanket to wrap your baby snugly, ensuring their hips can move freely. Stop swaddling once your baby can roll over.

5. Practice Safe Sleep
Always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet. Keep the crib free of soft bedding, pillows, toys, and bumpers to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Following safe sleep guidelines is crucial for your baby’s safety.

6. Feed and Burp Before Bed
A hungry or gassy baby is less likely to sleep well. Ensure your baby is well-fed before bedtime and take the time to burp them to release any trapped air. This can help prevent discomfort and longer periods of wakefulness.

7. Watch for Sleep Cues
Learn to recognize your baby’s sleep cues, such as rubbing their eyes, yawning, or becoming fussy. Putting your baby down when they show these signs, rather than waiting until they are overtired, can help them fall asleep more easily.

8. Take Shifts with Your Partner
Sharing nighttime duties with your partner can help both of you get more rest. Take turns handling nighttime feedings, diaper changes, and soothing your baby. This teamwork approach ensures that each parent gets a chance to sleep.

9. Nap When Your Baby Naps
It might be tempting to use your baby’s nap times to catch up on chores, but try to rest whenever your baby sleeps. Short naps throughout the day can help you stay energized and better cope with nighttime awakenings.

10. Seek Support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or a healthcare provider. Many parents struggle with newborn sleep, and seeking support can make a significant difference in your well-being.

Final Thoughts
Adjusting to your newborn’s sleep patterns takes time and patience. By creating a calm sleep environment, establishing a bedtime routine, and practicing safe sleep, you can help your baby—and yourself—get better rest. Remember, this phase is temporary, and as your baby grows, their sleep patterns will become more predictable. Hang in there, and take it one night at a time.

Disclaimer: Please note that this is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific advice.

Created for

Most parents aren’t expecting their newborn to come early or to be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and when it does happen, “parents are very frightened,” says Jeanette Doherty, a social worker who specializes in the NICU at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. “They’re processing a huge amount of information at once, and they also have a lot of practical needs in the background.”

That’s where friends and family come in. There are plenty of ways to make having a preemie a little bit easier on new parents.

1. Bring food, food and more food

The birthing parent will likely be spending long days in the NICU, and like anyone recovering from birth, they will be hungry. Hospital cafeterias can get old (and expensive) pretty fast, so organize a meal train with others in their community. Bring frozen pre-prepared meals to heat up at the hospital (most have microwaves), packed lunches, healthy snacks like fruit (which can be pricey and hard to come by at some hospitals), and of course some of her favourite treats. If they’re breastfeeding, chestfeeding or pumping, bake up a batch of lactation cookies or muffins. And don’t forget about their partner or family. If they have other kids at home, feed them too. After spending a long day at the hospital, cooking is the last thing that preemie parents will want to do.

2. Offer a ride

“Rides to the hospital were the best—it took away the worry of getting there or getting home,” says one NICU veteran, a mom of twins who had to spend several weeks in the hospital. Depending on where the hospital is located, they may need help with transit getting back and forth. Driving your friend provides a time for you both to catch up and they don’t have to get behind the wheel in a sleep-deprived state. You can also offer to buy her a gift card for Uber or a local taxi service.

3. Deliver diapers

Most new parents go into nesting mode before baby comes, stocking up on essentials like diapers, but if labour starts early, they may not be prepared yet and even if they are, the diapers they have will likely be too big. Buy special diapers specifically for preemies and deliver them so they’re at home when the baby goes home (the hospital will provide diapers for preemies in the NICU). Pampers Swaddlers fit babies as small as one pound, have a contour-fit core that adjusts to the hip width of growing preemies, and a notch in the front to make room for the umbilical cord. Plus, they’re made to be extra soft to protect preemie babies’ sensitive skin.

4. Make a care package

Hospital stays can be lonely, exhausting and even boring. A goodie-filled care package can make hospital life more hospitable. Doherty recommends packing it with treats (all the snacks!), a water bottle (to combat dry hospital air), face wipes, a blanket, books, magazines, a travel phone charger, a pillow, and an eye mask. Include a journal and a pen as well. “Journals have been shown to be very useful to help [parents] cope with what’s happening,” says Doherty. “Some people write letters to their babies.” A journal is also a great way to track the baby’s progress and procedures.

5. It takes a village

Life outside the hospital goes on, and parents with other kids will need as much help as they can get. Offer to take the kids on playdates, drop them off or pick them up at school (making sure you’re on an approved pickup list) or take them to and from their activities. It’s likely a stressful time for these kiddos as well, so offering them emotional support is key. Even delivering little care packages for the kids can be nice while a parent is away.

6. Help out at home

Organize to have someone clean their house, do their laundry, or walk their dog. If the baby arrived very early, offer to go over and put together a crib or finish setting up the nursery, so they don’t have to do those time-consuming chores when they arrive home.

7. Celebrate the baby

“Parents do like small gifts for their baby—they often don’t get any, as people don’t know what to do,” explains Doherty. You can shop for specialty items like preemie-safe stuffies and NICU crib cards, or even just books to read to the baby. Most preemie parents recommend against gifting baby clothes, because depending on what treatment is necessary, the baby may not be wearing any clothing at all. But if you do want to pick out something cozy, keep in mind that outfits with buttons and snaps accommodate monitors and wires better than zip-up clothing does.

8. Offer emotional support

Sometimes, friends and family who aren’t sure of what to say end up saying nothing, which can make parents feel lonely. Moms with babies in the NICU are at a higher risk for postpartum depression, says Doherty. She recommends offering an ear and kind words, but to be aware of your language. Avoid comparing babies in any way, says Doherty. It’s also worth asking new parents if they’d like to designate one friend or family member to field questions and provide updates on their behalf. “We try and reinforce that the mom’s well-being is really important—they need to be careful they’re not running themselves into the ground and spending the whole time on the phone to other people,” explains Doherty.

9. Keep up the momentum

“People don’t stop needing support after the first couple of weeks,” says Doherty. Families can spend days, weeks or even months in the hospital with a premature baby. “As it goes on, it actually gets more difficult for parents, because one partner has to return to work and the other kids in the family still need to get back to their routine,” says Doherty. The new-parent adrenaline may have run out by then, and they might need help now more than ever, as they slowly recover from birth, navigates nursing or pumping (if that’s an option), and continues to care for the new baby. Stay in touch with their friends and family and be there for them, for as long as they needs.

10. Give what you can

Having a NICU baby is not only exhausting and stressful, but it’s also expensive. Hospital parking is often very pricey, as is eating out constantly. Diapers are always appreciated and are always needed. Offer to pay for gas or parking (you could pool your money from friends), buy them gift cards for restaurants or coffee shops in or near the hospital, send them a meal delivery service credit, or buy them a gift card for a food delivery service so they can have things delivered and mix it up a bit. You can also offer to pay their phone bills or top up their data plans (there’s usually a lot of texting, calling and social media updates to keep everyone looped in). 

11. Offer, but don’t expect, to visit

Doherty says that many of the moms she works with seem to look forward to visitors as a way to break up the long days. Offer to meet your friend for a coffee at the hospital. “But I would never ask to see the baby,” she adds. Do not show up unannounced—most babies (and moms) are on a strict schedule of feeding, changing and pumping, so keep that in mind if you want to visit. Your friend probably does want to see you, but timing is tricky. Never visit if you are at all sick, as newborns and preemies are vulnerable to viruses. (Don’t bring your germy preschooler to the hospital, either.)

The post 10+ ways to support a friend with a preemie appeared first on Today’s Parent.

Tima’s* experience with motherhood was unlike anything she could have imagined. The Toronto-based new mom knew about the postpartum period and expected her body to change. What she didn’t anticipate was how simply giving birth could cause her to lose her mind.

Tima couldn’t eat. She couldn’t sleep. “I thought the police were watching me with cameras,” she said. She saw police cars everywhere and even told police she knew they were out to kill her.

Postpartum psychosis has been at the root of some high-profile tragedies involving mothers taking the lives of their children. But not everyone knows that the condition has a name, or that it is highly treatable; public awareness of the condition can prevent not only a mental health crisis but suicide and infanticide.

We talked to an expert to learn more about this condition.

What is postpartum psychosis?

Postpartum psychosis is a severe mental illness that causes a complete break with reality. “Psychosis only occurs in one or two out of every thousand women who give birth,” says Dr. Diana Lynn Barnes, a psychologist specializing in perinatal mood disorders at the Center for Postpartum Health in Los Angeles. “About four percent of those women will commit infanticide, and five percent will commit suicide.”

For these reasons, postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency that usually requires immediate hospitalization.

What are the symptoms of postpartum psychosis?

“It’s a sudden onset illness,” says Barnes. “Generally speaking, we start to see symptoms within the first month.”

The main symptoms that characterize postpartum psychosis are:

Hallucinations: These can be visual, auditory, olfactory and/or tactile sensations that are real to the person experiencing them.

Delusions: A patient with psychosis may develop false beliefs that are not grounded in reality. Such beliefs cannot be changed even in the face of factual evidence.

Cognitive disorganization: Psychosis often causes irrational thoughts, confusion and disorientation.

People with postpartum psychosis can also experience extreme agitation, insomnia, feelings of detachment, memory loss and extreme mood fluctuations.

Too often, the terms postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis are used interchangeably, especially by the media. “While postpartum psychosis falls under the umbrella of perinatal illness, it’s not even in the same ballpark,” says Barnes. For those concerned, the difference is simple: “Once you see [hallucinations], then you’re talking about postpartum psychosis. You’re not talking about depression.”

When it came to Tima’s symptoms, she never doubted the police cars she saw everywhere were real and as a result never entertained the notion she could be ill. It’s when she hallucinated and saw her deceased grandfather coming toward her, that she became really scared. “I thought that I was going to die. I thought it was the end of the world and it was time for me to die,” she says.

In terms of her delusions, Tima experienced several simultaneously. And though her husband was the first to recognize that Tima was ill and tried his hardest to convince her to get help, his efforts only worsened her delusions.

“I thought that my husband was trying to kill me,” says Tima. Fully convinced of that delusion—which she now acknowledges couldn’t be further from reality—she called the police on him. While staying with friends in the aftermath, Tima grew frightened of her worsening hallucinations. They urged her to seek help, which is what finally pushed her to go to a hospital.

What are the risk factors for this kind of psychosis?

“Any psychotic illness or an illness with psychotic features is a significant risk factor,” says Barnes. This includes a history of bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder or major depression with psychotic features in oneself or even one’s extended family.

Having a history of trauma is an additional risk factor, adds Barnes, noting that some kinds of trauma “can cause brain damage [and/or] central nervous system damage.”

Sleep deprivation is another potential risk factor Barnes says to keep in mind. “One thing people have to be aware of is the importance of sleep hygiene after giving birth.

While such risk factors do make an individual more prone to postpartum psychosis, about 50 percent of women who experience postpartum psychosis have no previous history of mental illness.

What is the treatment for postpartum psychosis?

Hospitalization is initially needed for women experiencing the symptoms of postpartum psychosis, to quickly stabilize them. “We want to protect them, and we want to protect their babies,” says Barnes.

Once stabilized, many patients then begin a medication and psychotherapy regimen, the latter to address the emotional issues that may have contributed to the psychosis. Psychotherapy can also help the patient deal with the trauma of the illness, and their sadness over lost time with their newborn.

How long does postpartum psychosis last?

Postpartum psychosis typically emerges within the first month after giving birth. While it’s possible for the condition to resolve on its own, it is never advisable to leave it untreated, given the potential for infanticide and suicide.

According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the acute symptoms can last anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks, and a full recovery can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

How to support a partner with postpartum psychosis

Supporting a partner with postpartum psychosis should begin before one even embarks on parenthood. “There’s a tendency not to want to think about these things during pregnancy. It’s kind of like, ‘That’s not going to happen,’” says Barnes. Foresight, she says, is the first line of defence against postpartum psychosis: “Know your risks. Educate yourselves and your family.”

Her second piece of advice for partners is to not overlook concerning signs, and to seek out help from a health professional who specializes in perinatal mental health disorders.

Lastly, Barnes says, families should not hesitate or be afraid to take a loved one to the hospital. “If you’re worried that your partner or your daughter or your daughter-in-law is suffering with psychosis, it’s really important that you be in a safe place [with them],” adds Barnes. With a severe condition like postpartum psychosis, that action alone could prove life-saving.

* Name has been changed

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If you’re thinking about quitting breastfeeding/chestfeeding because you aren’t making enough milk for your baby, you aren’t alone. Low milk supply is one of the most common reasons new parents stop nursing and transition to bottle feeding.

There’s nothing wrong with formula feeding. But in my experience as a nurse and a lactation consultant, I’ve seen new parents perceive their milk supply as insufficient when it actually wasn’t. I’ve also seen many cases where a mom’s supply was indeed low, but could be increased relatively easily. If you’re about to give up breastfeeding because of low supply, but wish you didn’t have to, read on.

Possible causes of low milk supply

As a lactation consultant, how do I determine a client’s milk supply levels? I start by taking a detailed health history, asking questions to determine if there are existing health factors that could be impacting supply. For example, labour induction, epidurals, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, breast hypoplasia, breast surgeries, low iron, thyroid disorders, PCOS or obesity could all potentially have an impact.

It’s also important to determine how the baby is behaving during and after breastfeeding. Is the baby satisfied with relaxed arms and hands at the end of the feed? Are they having the appropriate number of wet and dirty diapers, is the baby sleeping well in between feeds, is jaundice decreasing, is the baby gaining weight appropriately?

Next, I perform a test weight, weighing the baby before and after breastfeeding to determine how much milk they drank when feeding. I never rely on the numbers alone, though. I also pay close attention to how the baby is positioned, latching, swallowing and the overall quality of the feed. After observing the entire breastfeeding session, it is time to create a feeding plan that supports the family’s feeding goals while helping to manage any milk supply concerns.

The “fourth trimester” can be stressful, so I never neglect possible internal barriers to successful breastfeeding, such as mental health, lack of education or lack of informed feeding choices. Things like stress, postpartum depression or anxiety can affect the release of the hormone oxytocin, which allows for milk let-down. When a mother feels relaxed, her oxytocin and prolactin will remain at therapeutic levels, enabling her milk to flow and be remade. External factors that can impact supply include scheduling feeds, separation at birth, maternal stress, waiting for your baby to cry before feeding and bottle-feeding unnecessary supplements.

When low milk supply actually isn’t

There are all sorts of things that can seem like symptoms of low milk supply, but often aren’t. For example, most newborns feed 10-12 times per day, plus periods of cluster feeding. This is the normal way for the baby to support the build-up and regulation of the milk supply, but some new parents assume their baby is eating so often because they aren’t getting enough at each feed.

A breast pump is a poor indicator of milk production. Babies are more efficient than the pump and will do a much better job of pulling out milk. It should not be your go-to guide for whether or not you are producing a sufficient milk supply. Other things that can seem like signs you don’t have enough milk, but usually aren’t: Your breasts don’t feel “full,” they don’t leak (or have stopped leaking), or you don’t feel the let-down (or never did). Remember, softer breasts mean they contain creamier/fattier milk.

You aren’t alone

The most important thing to remember while on your breastfeeding journey is that you aren’t alone. Online and in real life, there are resources and support available, no matter your stage of parenthood. Motherhood already comes with its challenges but if we work to remove the shame and guilt of milk supply struggles and encourage access to external resources, a mother and her baby have one less barrier to face.

Leanne Rzepa, RN BN IBCLC, is the founder of Nourish Lactation Consulting, a Calgary-based breastfeeding support and education company that supports new mothers and families with a range of tools and services to help families establish skills, resolve feeding challenges and achieve breastfeeding goals.

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I knew nothing about baby sleep before I became a mom.

Throughout my pregnancy, I spent countless hours reading about the stuff I thought was most important: pregnancy, birth, postpartum recovery, nutrition, milestones, education, speech… Pretty much everything except sleep. I naively assumed that, after a few weeks, my baby would naturally start sleeping longer stretches, and those 3 a.m. wake-ups would naturally fade away. (Spoiler: They didn’t.) In fact, it wasn’t until my son was three months old that I learned from another mom about the concept of a “wake window.” This ignited the beginning of my journey to learn all there was to know about baby and toddler sleep. I became passionate about helping other parents find sleep, completed a sleep-consulting certification and launched my small business, marketing primarily through social media.

I really enjoyed building my sleep-focused Instagram account, publishing daily posts and stories about sleep tricks and tips, while also sharing my own personal experiences of the ups and downs of my child’s sleep journey. I revelled in being able to help other parents improve their child’s sleep, and ultimately their own, as finding sleep with a baby can sometimes feel like trying to locate the holy grail. I loved being able to work with parents to find what worked best for their families. Sometimes that meant reassuring them that they weren’t “ruining their baby” or “creating crutches” by rocking or nursing them to sleep. Other times it meant teaching parents how to use sleep training methods, reminding them there was zero shame in doing so. It was never my place to judge what a family decided to do, I was simply there to support and guide them.

Unfortunately, I quickly realized that the world of baby sleep was a very divided, and ultimately, toxic one. When I would share a post about safe co-sleeping practices, I’d receive comments and private messages about how I should be ashamed of myself for condoning unsafe practices and endangering babies. But when I would share a post about sleep-training methods to encourage babies to sleep alone in their cribs, I’d receive an equal number of comments and messages about how I should, once again, be ashamed of myself for condoning unsafe practices and endangering babies. It began to feel like no matter what I posted or how non-judgemental I tried to be, I would be bombarded with hate. I would get daily messages from strangers telling me that I simply could not believe in co-sleeping while also believing it’s acceptable to sleep train.

I knew that having a public social media account would open me up to criticism. Still, after about a year, I decided to quit sleep consulting. I still find the endless knowledge on social media about baby sleep quite fascinating, but it also comes with strong and fierce opinions, ones I was tired of navigating and defending. The constant need to explain my eclectic and wide approach to baby sleep, which I was so proud of, no longer brought me the joy it once did.

I’m still grateful for my time as a sleep consultant. Interestingly, working in the field allowed me to see the importance of, and gain a passion for, something outside of baby sleep: compassionate and supportive parenting, which is the new focus of my social media account (which you can find here, if you’re curious). I am passionate about parenting from a place of empathy and understanding, rather than judgement and intolerance, to model for our children that we can take different paths, but still support each other in the process. So whether you co-sleep or sleep train, use purees or baby-led weaning, gentle parenting practices or Triple P, know that you are supported in deciding what is best for your family.

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