Welcoming a newborn into the world is a joyous occasion, filled with love, hope, and excitement. As new parents, we often turn to our cultural heritage for guidance on how to care for our little ones. However, it's important to critically examine the myths surrounding newborn baby care and make informed decisions based on expert advice.
In this blog, we will explore common Indian myths about newborn baby care and share a personal experience that sheds light on the potential risks associated with blindly following traditional remedies. Let's debunk these myths and prioritize evidence-based care for our precious babies.
Myth 1: You Should Bathe Your Newborn Immediately After Birth.
Fact: There is no need to bathe your newborn immediately after birth. Delaying the first bath for a few days can help regulate their body temperature and prevent dry skin. The natural protective coating on their skin, called vernix, can also provide additional benefits.
Myth 2: You Should Apply Kajal to Your Baby’s Eyes.
Fact: Applying kajal to your baby's eyes is not recommended as it can lead to eye infections and other complications. It's essential to keep the baby's eyes clean and avoid introducing any foreign substances that can potentially harm their delicate eyesight.
Myth 3: You Should Massage Your Baby with Mustard Oil.
Fact: While massage can be beneficial for your baby, using mustard oil is not recommended as it can cause skin irritation and other issues. It's best to opt for baby-safe oils or consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate massage techniques and products.
Myth 4: You Should Avoid Breastfeeding If You Have a Cold or Fever.
Fact: Breastfeeding is safe and recommended even if you have a cold or fever. In fact, breast milk contains antibodies that can help protect your baby from infections. It's important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands and wearing a mask, to minimize the risk of transmission.
Myth 5: You Should Avoid Taking Your Baby Outside for The First Few Months.
Fact: It is safe to take your baby outside as long as you take necessary precautions such as dressing your baby appropriately for the weather and avoiding crowded places. Fresh air and exposure to natural surroundings can be beneficial for your baby's overall well-being.
Myth 6: You Should Feed Your Baby on A Strict Schedule.
Fact: Feeding on demand is recommended for newborns as it helps ensure they get enough nutrients and can help establish a healthy breastfeeding routine. Babies have different hunger cues, and it's important to respond to their needs rather than rigidly following a strict schedule.
Myth 7: You Should Avoid Using Diapers as They Can Cause Diaper Rash.
Fact: Diapers are safe and convenient for newborns. However, it's crucial to change them frequently and use diaper cream to prevent diaper rash. Maintaining proper hygiene and regularly checking for wetness can help keep your baby comfortable.
Myth 8: Gripe Water or Janam Ghutti Is Good for Digestion and Colic in Babies.
Fact: Newborn babies have a weak digestive system, and the only thing good for their delicate tummies is their mother’s milk. Many people believe that gripe water can be given to them after a month, however, it is best to avoid giving any external things like gripe water to a baby up until the age of six months.
Personal Experience:
I would like to share my personal experience that resonates with Myth 8. When my first child experienced colic at the age of two months as an infant, my in-laws strongly insisted on using balgutti, a traditional herbal mixture, to alleviate the symptoms. It was deeply ingrained in their beliefs and had been passed down through generations. Despite their insistence, I recognized the importance of seeking professional advice and ensuring my child's well-being.
Consulting healthcare professionals, I discovered that balgutti might not be suitable for my child's specific condition. It was a difficult decision to navigate the clash between traditional beliefs and modern medical knowledge. However, prioritizing my child's health, I chose to follow evidence-based care recommended by healthcare experts. This experience taught me the significance of making informed decisions and seeking expert advice, even when faced with family pressure.
Conclusion:
As parents, it's natural to rely on cultural traditions and beliefs to guide us in newborn baby care. However, it's vital to critically evaluate these myths and prioritize evidence-based practices for the well-being of our children. By debunking common Indian myths about newborn baby care and sharing personal experiences, we can create awareness and foster informed decision-making. Let's embrace the balance between cultural heritage and modern medical knowledge to provide the best care for our precious little ones.