Changing Nappies And Other Worries When Becoming A Parent

Changing Nappies And Other Worries When Becoming A Parent

I am considering having a baby for the first time. In the mean time, I have friends who are already parents and have looked after them for only couple hours. Just once it was for longer and I had to change the baby's nappies. I felt awkward,embarrassed, and for fear of doing anything wrong or harming them in any possible way I didn't change the nappie, which was bad too because she got a rash I was told. I have this fear that I might harm them, but I never in a million years would want to do anything to harm my friends babies, but still I feel this way. Considering having my own baby, I would like to understand my feelings to try and move on, because in the end it is just a practical thing that needs to be done. I have never changed any babies nappies, and sometimes I think it might be just a beginners thing. Could you please advise? Thank you.

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Changing Nappies And Other Worries When Becoming A Parent

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Feb 24, 2010

It Takes Practice
by: Baby Help Line- Annie

Hi,

Many people feel scared and uncertain about handling little babies, and it does take a little practice. In years gone by, families and extended families were in close proximity and young children would get experience and practice in changing nappies and holding a newborn baby. Then hospitals taught new parents how to bathe and change a baby. These days parents are often sent home the next day to figure it out for themselves!

First of all, just relax, a baby is actually pretty robust. You certainly did not cause the nappy rash! It may be you didn't know which wipes or cleansers they use, but nappy rash does not pop up from one incident. Many many babies get nappy rash, and it is not a result of unintentional harm. Babies do need changing frequently, although disposable nappies (diapers) do draw the moisture away from the skin more than cloth nappies. However the environmental impact of disposables is a huge issue. Babies also need fresh air on their skin, and of course to be kept clean. Just water is fine to wash a newborn baby, most of the fancy lotions and creams are unnecessary and wash away the bodies natural immunity and good bacteria.

I am sure you will be a wonderful Mother, after a couple of weeks and a few dozen nappies you will be an expert! The best thing is get some practice in while you have friends with young babies - so long as they are going to be supportive and not critical.

If you think your fears are stopping you having a baby, then think about getting some counseling to help you overcome it. It is perfectly normal to feel some anxiety for anything we have not tried before or have not learned, and more so when there is a tiny life in our hands. Babies tune in to their Moms and a relaxed happy Mom makes for a happy baby. It doesn't matter if the nappy goes on backwards or is too loose (you will soon find out!). What is more important is bonding and enjoying and playing with your baby.

All the best,

Annie Desantis

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Feb 24, 2010
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Submitted by: Baby Help Line- Annie

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Hi, Many people feel scared and uncertain about handling little babies, and it does take a little practice. In years gone by, families and extended families were in close proximity and young children would get experience and practice in changing nappies and holding a newborn baby. Then hospitals taught new parents how to bathe and change a baby. These days parents are often sent home the next day to figure it out for themselves! First of all, just relax, a baby is actually pretty robust. You certainly did not cause the nappy rash! It may be you didn't know which wipes or cleansers they use, but nappy rash does not pop up from one incident. Many many babies get nappy rash, and it is not a result of unintentional harm. Babies do need changing frequently, although disposable nappies (diapers) do draw the moisture away from the skin more than cloth nappies. However the environmental impact of disposables is a huge issue. Babies also need fresh air on their skin, and of course to be kept clean. Just water is fine to wash a newborn baby, most of the fancy lotions and creams are unnecessary and wash away the bodies natural immunity and good bacteria. I am sure you will be a wonderful Mother, after a couple of weeks and a few dozen nappies you will be an expert! The best thing is get some practice in while you have friends with young babies - so long as they are going to be supportive and not critical. If you think your fears are stopping you having a baby, then think about getting some counseling to help you overcome it. It is perfectly normal to feel some anxiety for anything we have not tried before or have not learned, and more so when there is a tiny life in our hands. Babies tune in to their Moms and a relaxed happy Mom makes for a happy baby. It doesn't matter if the nappy goes on backwards or is too loose (you will soon find out!). What is more important is bonding and enjoying and playing with your baby. All the best, <a href="http://www.easybabylife.com/annie-desantis.html">Annie Desantis</a>

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