You’ll want to know exactly how many cups you can have and what to look out for if your baby has caffeine sensitivity

There’s nothing that a morning cup of joe can’t fix—well, a crying newborn, but at least it’ll give you more energy to soothe them and go about your day. And you’re probably going to need all the fuel you can get while settling into new motherhood, whether you’re craving a gingerbread latte from Starbucks or an americano from your local coffee shop. But if you’re planning on bodyfeeding your baby, we’d guess there’s one big question on your mind: can you drink coffee while breastfeeding?

To get to the bottom of this, we asked the experts whether consuming caffeine while breastfeeding or chestfeeding is safe for both you and the baby—and exactly how much of that sweet, sweet energy juice you can have each day.

Can you drink coffee while breastfeeding or chestfeeding?

Breathe in a big sigh of relief because the answer is yes, you can drink coffee while nursing. Phew! What’s important is moderation and keeping an eye on your baby for any potential caffeine sensitivity, says Ashley Georgakopoulos, IBCLC, a certified lactation consultant and lactation director at Motif Medical.

How much coffee can you drink while breastfeeding?

You’re probably painfully aware of exactly how many cups you were allowed to drink while expecting, and the good news is you can have a little more once baby is on the outside. “During pregnancy, the recommendation is no more than 200 mg of caffeine a day,” says Dr. Denise Scott, a pediatrician and JustAnswer expert. “Caffeine intake while breastfeeding should be limited to 200-300 mg daily, which is equivalent to 2-3 cups of coffee.”

Georgakopoulos agrees, saying you should cap your caffeine intake at 300 mg per day. To put that into perspective, an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee has around 96 mg of caffeine, a cup of black tea contains 47 mg, a shot of espresso has 64 mg, and a can of Coca-Cola has 32 mg.

Every body reacts differently to caffeine, especially if you’ve weaned yourself off of it for pregnancy, so if you start to suspect that your Grande latte is messing with your sleep, consider drinking even less.

Do babies ever react to caffeine? What are the signs and symptoms?

The way a baby responds to your beloved java generally varies based on the individual. And while caffeine does pass into breastmilk, your baby only gets around 1.5% of the amount of caffeine that you drank, according to La Leche League Canada.

“Agitation, crankiness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and a change in stool are common side effects that a mother might see in her baby,” explains Nicole Peluso, IBCLC, who manages lactation education at Aeroflow Breastpumps. “Some caffeine side effects are more difficult for a mother to observe in her baby, such as heart arrhythmias.” Peluso adds that this isn’t common, but if you notice any of these symptoms or feel like something isn’t right, you’ll want to consult your pediatrician to see what’s going on.

Related: Can you get a tattoo while breastfeeding?

Additionally, caffeine consumption may affect the quality of breastmilk. Coffee intake of more than 450 mL daily (approximately two cups) may decrease breastmilk iron concentrations and result in mild iron deficiency anemia in some breastfed infants, according to the Drugs and Lactation Database.

Since most babies are born with sufficient iron for their first six months of life, this isn’t usually a problem until they’re older, according to the CDC. After that time, breastmilk no longer provides sufficient iron, and even less so if you’re consuming tons of caffeine. So it’s best to keep your coffee in check while nursing and make sure your little is getting sufficient iron from solids.

Is it better to drink decaf coffee while breastfeeding?

Most decaffeinated coffee still has caffeine in it but much less than traditional black coffee or espresso. According to La Leche League Canada, a 250 ml cup (8 oz.) of decaffeinated coffee contains between 3 and 15 mg of caffeine. This means you can either have more coffee throughout the day or enjoy your usual amount of coffee with significantly less caffeine, limiting the chance of any negative side effects. But it’s totally up to each parent since experts agree that drinking some regular coffee isn’t a concern.

What is the best time of day to have caffeine while nursing?

You’ll want to have your caffeinated beverage a few hours before you intend to breastfeed. “Caffeine peaks in the breastmilk an hour after consumption, so if you enjoy your cup a few hours before breastfeeding, that will help keep taste changes (and caffeine content) to a minimum,” says Dr. Navya Mysore, primary care doctor in New York City.

Additionally, Peluso adds that opting to drink coffee and other caffeinated beverages in the morning (before noon) will give both mom and baby the best chance of getting restful nighttime sleep. It’s also a good idea to limit caffeine intake when your baby is cluster feeding since there’s less time between feeds and this usually happens at night.

Are the guidelines different for newborns and premature babies?

“Babies who are premature, under six months, or have other health issues may be more likely to be sensitive to caffeine compared to older babies as they take longer to clear caffeine from their system,” says Dr. Mysore.

Caffeine guidelines are the same across the board, but remember that every baby is different, and if you suspect that yours might be sensitive to caffeine give your doctor a call to discuss decreasing your consumption.

What other foods and beverages contain caffeine?

To keep your total daily caffeine intake in check while breastfeeding, here’s a list of some other sources of caffeine, some of which you may not have realized:

  • White and green teas (15-39 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Soft drinks (30-35 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Dark chocolate bar (80 mg caffeine per bar)
  • Energy drinks (70 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Yerba mate or guarana (85 mg for 8 oz.)
  • Some over-the-counter medications (like pain relievers, cold remedies, and diuretics) also contain caffeine.

You can rest assured that no one is coming to pry that lukewarm cup of coffee out of your deeply exhausted hands. Just stick to the recommended amount, watch your little for signs of sensitivity, and check in with your pediatrician if you think something’s not right.

Holly and Keely Petitt are the first mother and daughter pair to pilot a Southwest flight.

The ultimate mother-daughter activity is in the history books! Captain Holly Petitt and First Officer Keely Petitt are the first ever mother and daughter pilot duo for Southwest Airlines, flying their first flight together on Sat. Jul. 23.

“It’s been a dream come true,” said Holly in a Southwest press release. “First, I found this career and fell in love with it, and then that one of my kids fell into this and in love with this career too. It’s surreal.”

The pair made their first trip together from their home base in Denver on Flight #3658 to St. Louis. “Not only are Holly and Keely making Southwest history, but also they’re breaking barriers and empowering women of all ages to pursue their dreams in aviation, and pun intended, reach for the skies,” says Southwest.

Captain Holly has been working in the field of aviation since college, starting out as a flight attendant. After realizing she wanted to fly planes instead, she worked on her certifications so she could pursue her dreams.

Having a mom in the cockpit inspired Keely to follow in her footsteps. After scoring an internship with Southwest in 2017, it became clear that this was the company she wanted to work for. “Southwest was always the end goal for me,” says Keely. “There was really never any other option.”

For Captain Holly, it all comes back to that irresistible mother’s love. “It’s been a very emotional morning for me. One moment you are holding this tiny premature baby in your arms and in a blink of an eye she is sitting next to you on the flight deck of a Boeing 737 jet” she says in a Facebook post.

Our kids never cease to amaze us.

HALO BassiNest, the co-sleeping must-have, just got a major upgrade. Cue the baby registry re-do! HALO now offers the only bassinet baby product that swivels a full 360° for even easier experiences with your newborn. The refreshed 2-in-1 system also features a portable lounger, or nest, that you can move around your home or bring along with you on-the-go.

The lounger features breathable (and a collapsible) mesh sides, an open top, and an elevated , flat sleeping surface. It’s ideal for new moms and dads who want to work or take a shower with their newborn baby close by.

Check out the sleek lounger:

new halo bassinet, baby product new release

The HALO BassiNest 3.0 includes all of the classic features, like the collapsible wall for effortless access to baby and mesh walls for air flow and visibility. The new version features a base that’s 30% lighter than previous models, which earns big points amongst mamas recovering from childbirth.

The new HALO BassiNest is ideal for all new parents, but particularly convenient for breastfeeding moms supporting a cluster-feeding schedule or parents with premature babies who many require more frequent feedings throughout the night or closer monitoring. In middle of those blurry baby nights, it’s a real game-changer to be able to gently bring baby down to you.

brand new halo bassinet product release

 

The BassiNest Swivel Sleeper 3.0 comes with a waterproof mattress and fitted sheet. It’s safe for babies until five months or until the baby is 20 pounds. When baby can roll or push with their hands and knees or legs, it’s time to discontinue use and store away the BassiNest for your next baby!

 

 

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If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


These structured and hybrid baby carriers are filled with features you’ll love, like pockets, breathable material and elements borrowed from wraps. As a bonus, we’ve included our favorite carriers and wraps from previous years, so you’ll have no problem finding the baby carrier best suited to your lifestyle and baby. From the Colugo baby carrier to new releases from MOBY, Tula, Solly Baby, Ergobaby, Graco, LÍLLÉbaby, BABYBJÖRN and more, you’re sure to find your fave. Read on for the best baby carrier for newborns and older kids.


Solly Baby Wrap

$69 BUY NOW

Reduce infant crying, increase connection, and enjoy hands-free wearing in our buttery-soft and breathable Solly Wrap. Even weight distribution makes the Solly Baby Wrap so comfortable for both baby and the wearer, year round. Available in multiple colors and prints!


new baby carriers contours wonders 3

Contours Wonder 3-Position Baby Carrier

$52 BUY NOW

Babies can be carried facing in or out in this easy-to-put-on carrier. All the buckles are in front, so you don't need to reach back to adjust or remove it. It fits petite wearers and sixes up to XL, and it fits baby from 8 to 30 pounds. There are two zippered storage pockets for all your essentials, and the adjustable head support flips up or down as needed to support baby's head. Machine-washable for easy cleaning.


BABYBJÖRN Harmony

$230 BUY NOW

3D mesh fabric keeps you and your baby cool and comfortable in this new soft-yet-sturdy carrier from BABYBJÖRN. As your child grows, you can adjust the length, seat area and leg position for maximum comfort. And three head positions give your child the head and neck support needed. For the wearer, two height positions let you adjust the waist belt to either the waist (for newborns) or the hips (for older kids) to better distribute the weight. Babies can be carried facing in, facing out or back carry.


new baby carriers ergobaby omni breeze

Ergobaby Omni Breeze

$200 BUY NOW

Keep your baby (and yourself) cool and comfortable with this new carrier from Ergobaby. The Omni Breeze is made with mesh fabric to maximize airflow in key areas, including the waist belt. The shoulder straps are cushioned and crossable for a close, cozy fit and there's lumbar support in the waist belt for longer strolls and hikes. Reflective areas on the front and back of the carrier add safety, and the built-in side pockets store essentials. There's also a detachable pouch for larger items, like your phone, keys and credit cards. Babies can be carried facing inward, outward and on your back.


new baby carriers boppy comfy hug hybrid baby carrier

Boppy ComfyFit

$40 BUY NOW

The name says it all. Created with the help of NICU experts and parents of premature babies, this baby carrier envelops your newborn in a soft, comfy hug. It's designed for babies 5-20 pounds and has a size-inclusive design that makes it comfortable for petite and plus-size caregivers. There's a soft, structured center panel and yoga-inspired wraps that hold baby securely and comfortably. A removable bolster keeps the littlest babies in the right position. Babies can be carried facing in, with either legs in frog position or legs out.


Moby Easy-Wrap

$50 BUY NOW

Keep cool with this lightweight carrier designed with airflow and comfort in mind. The soft, flex-knit fabric has breathable mesh panels that supports babies as they grow, and the softly structured design supports baby's neck and torso whether facing inward or outward. There's an integrated side pocket for keys and money and a pacifier clip. This carrier is designed for babies 8-33 pounds and adults of all shapes and sizes. Machine-washable.


ErgoBaby Aerloom

$219 BUY NOW

The Aerloom baby carrier from Ergobaby makes it easier to get out and about with your baby. At 1.45 pounds, it's one of the lightest structured baby carriers on the market, and the streamlined design folds down small. The eco-friendly fabric (it's made with 87% of post-consumer recycled polyester; that's about 26 water bottles!) is stretchy, supportive and features built-in airflow to keep you and your child cool. Kids can sit facing in, facing out and back carry in this machine-washable carrier designed for kids 7-35 pounds.


Moby Bump and Beyond

$50 BUY NOW

Designed both for pregnancy and motherhood, this soft wrap is a game-changer. Wear it like a t-shirt during pregnancy to support your belly and back, and then slip your newborn in the soft, stretchy wrap to cradle them close. The breathable fabric helps regulate baby's temperature, and the carrier's shape is designed to support nursing and skin-to-skin contact. Babies can be carried up to 19.8 pounds, and the wrap is machine-washable and comes in plus sizes.


new baby carriers ergobaby omni 360

Ergobaby Omni 360 Baby Carrier All-In-One

$159 BUY NOW

We're all more aware of cleanliness these days, and for good reason. This Omni 360 baby carrier from Ergobaby is made with a soft, anti-microbial fabric for an extra hygiene barrier between you and baby. The anti-microbial protection also eliminates stinky odors by neutralizing odor-causing bacteria, and the non-toxic material is safe for babies to chew. Babies, from newborns to 4 years old, can sit four ways: facing in, facing out, hip carry and back carry. This carrier comes in both cotton (pictured above) and Cool Air Mesh and includes a matching face mask for adults.


Chicco SideKick Plus 3-in-1

$80 BUY NOW

This clever carrier grows with your family: Use it first as an infant carrier, then baby can sit inward-facing or outward-facing in the hip seat carrier. For older kids who like to hop on and off, you can remove the straps and use it as a hip seat only. And if another baby comes along, they can use the infant carrier while your older child sits on the hip seat. The hip seat carrier comes with padded lumbar support to evenly distribute a child's weight and protect your back. It also contains a zippered pocket for your valuables. The infant carrier is designed for kids 7.5-33 pounds; the hip seat carrier is for kids 6 months-33 pounds; and the hip seat is meant for kids 4 months-33 pounds.


new baby carriers tula lite carrier

Tula Lite Baby Carrier

$79 BUY NOW

Looking to pack light for travel or daily errands? This budget-friendly, ultra-compact carrier can be tucked away into its own hip pouch, while still leaving room for your essentials. The woven ripstop material is lightweight, durable and and quick-drying, and there's a detachable hood you can pull up for naps and shade. Kids can be carried on your front or back, facing in, between 12-30 pounds, and mesh padding on the leg, waistband and shoulder straps means comfort for you.


new baby carriers lillebaby seatme all seasons

LILLEBABY SeatMe All Seasons

$150 BUY NOW

LÍLLÉbaby has upgraded and relaunched its SeatMe carrier with improved padding on the straps, a longer waistbelt and an inner-front waistbelt for improved comfort on the wearer. This soft-structured carrier converts to a hip seat when your baby gets older for easy on/off carrying. There's also a roomy zippered pocket to fit all your necessities. Kids can sit inward-facing, outward-facing, back carry and on your hip. An infant pillow, sold separately, is required for babies up to 3 months, and the carrier is designed for kids 7-45 pounds.


new baby carriers Countours Journey GO 5-in-1 Baby Carrier

Countours Journey GO 5-in-1 Baby Carrier

$88 BUY NOW

Great for city strolls and nature walks, the Journey GO is made from breathable 3D mesh and moisture-wicking fabric and is machine-washable. It also sports reflective trim for safety and has a zippered pocket for essentials. It holds kids 8-45 pounds and kids can sit inward-facing, forward-facing, hip carry and back carry; no infant insert required. There's a UPF 25+ sunshade that can be removed or tucked into a zippered pocket when not in use.


Cocoon Buckle-Tie Carrier from Contours

$61 BUY NOW

Also from Contours, the Cocoon hybrid carrier is soft and cozy like a wrap with the secure fit of a buckled waistband. It is made from knit fabrics with air vents for comfort and fits babies 8-33 pounds. This carrier adjusts easily for different wearers and as your child grows; kids can sit inward-facing, forward-facing, hip carry and back carry. There's reflective trim along the shoulder straps for safety, and there are four storage pockets for your and baby's essentials. Attach a toy for baby on the toy loop to keep them entertained. Machine washable.


Ergobaby Embrace

$80 BUY NOW

This hybrid baby carrier has soft, stretchy knit fabric and cross-back straps like a wrap carrier but with the buckles and waist belt of a structured carrier. It's machine-washable and rolls up compactly so you can easily pack it in a diaper bag or suitcase for outings and travel. Babies can sit inward-facing or forward-facing, and the carrier is intended for babies between 7 and 25 pounds (no infant insert required).


new baby carrier moby move

Moby Move

$68 BUY NOW

This four-position carrier (inward-facing, forward-facing, hip carry, back carry) has only one set of adjustments to give a growing baby the perfect, cozy fit. The waist belt incorporates lumbar support for added comfort for the wearer, and there are padded shoulder straps and padded head and neck support for baby. Breathable mesh fabric keeps you both cool, and the carrier is machine-washable. Designed for babies from 7 pounds to 45 pounds without an infant insert, the carrier also features two storage pockets and a UPF 45+ hood to block the sun.


Calugo The Baby Carrier

$145 BUY NOW

This lightweight, machine-washable carrier features breathable mesh between you and baby to keep you both cooler, and magnetic buckles that make it easier to get baby safely situated. It supports both inward-facing and outward-facing seating and has pockets big enough to store diapers, wipes, keys, wallet, phone and more. There’s also a UPF 50+ hood for sunny outings. It’s suitable for kids from 7 pounds (without an infant insert) to 30 pounds. And because this is a direct-to-consumer company (meaning you buy directly from Colugo), you’ll get a great price and stellar customer service with your purchase.


LILLEbaby Pursuit All Seasons

$125 BUY NOW

Also from LILLEbaby, the Pursuit comes in the All Seasons material with a zipdown panel and breathable mesh, along with a water-resistant shell, as well as Pro material, which is made from a durable, soft-knit fabric. There's also a Sport version with water-resistant ripstop fabric. They all boast seven storage pockets, reflective details and multiple seating positions: Kids can sit inward fetal, with legs tucked in; inward-facing; forward-facing; hip carry; and back carry. This carrier is designed for use between 7 and 45 pounds.


baby carriers mamapod all position

Mamapod All-Position

$100 BUY NOW

If you need to stand for extended periods, like at an older child’s sports games, the Mamapod carrier is one to check out, thanks to its optional support pole you can attach to alleviate pressure on your neck, back and shoulders. This machine-washable carrier features a cozy hood, soft mesh for breathability, and a hip seat that folds down when not in use. Baby can sit facing inward or forward, and you can remove the front panel and just use the hip seat to prop baby on. The support pole weighs less than 1 pound and can be folded up and stored in the seat pocket when not in use. Designed for babies 12-44 pounds.


Cybex Maira Tie Baby Carrier

$136 BUY NOW

Safety, function and impeccable style are just a few reasons we can’t get enough of Cybex. And their newest carrier, the Maira.Tie, epitomizes everything we love about this brand. The carrier offers an ergonomic seating panel and a multi-functional head and neck rest for newborns to toddlers. With padded shoulder straps for crossed and parallel wearing, this carrier can be tied for front, side and back carrying.

—copy by Erin Lem & Eva Ingvarson Cerise; photos courtesy of each retailer

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It might feel like you have nine long months to figure out what you need to know about pregnancy and raising a tiny human, but trust us, your delivery date will come faster than you think. This is the time to speed-learn some of the answers to common new-mom problems that will inevitably pop up. Here are 26 helpful infographics and guides for new parents that cover everything from feeding to finally mastering that baby wrap. Scroll down to see them all.

Pregnancy Nutrition Guide

You might not know which types of fish are high in mercury. Or maybe you don't remember if you can eat cheese or not—it's okay if it's pasteurized, right? It's easy to forget exactly what foods are best for expecting moms. This handy graphic will fill you in quickly.

Partner

Finding the Right Bottle for Baby

It's important to find a bottle that just right for your baby. The First Feed Bottle from Tomee Tippee is a great choice because the unique extra-slow flow nipple was designed with newborns and premature babies in mind. The milk flows at a slower rate, which allows for easier first feeds, and the bottle is designed with a natural feel, an “easy latch” nipple and a venting valve, so your baby won’t take in as much air as a regular nipple. It even comes with a Breast Milk Storage Pot, so pumping moms can express milk and feed their little one in a flash.

Making Sure Baby Is Drinking Enough

This clear guide helps you determine that baby is getting enough breastmilk or formula as well as how to balance liquids with solid foods.

Pregnancy Weight Chart

Wondering how much weight you should gain during your pregnancy? Check out this chart that gives weight averages by BMI and tells you where all those new pounds are coming from.

Baby Weight Chart

Keep track of how big baby is during pregnancy with this handy chart that offers helpful visuals for each week, starting at week four.

Pumping 101

If you're pumping, it's important to know how to safely store breastmilk. Keep this cheat sheet on your fridge so you remember the rules.

Milk Supply Hacks

On that note, if you're planning on pumping when going back to work, use these tricks and tips to keep up your breastmilk supply.

Rx for Nursing Moms

What medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding? Check out this list, and be sure to ask your health provider before taking anything.

Baby Habits Month by Month

Wondering what typical sleep, feeding and playtimes look like for babies? Check out this graphic for baby details by month, from newborn to the first birthday.

 

Poop Happens

You've been baptized into the parenting world of bodily fluids, but what does it all mean? Unravel the mystery of baby poop with this insightful graphic.

 

Baby Bathing How-To

There are always questions when it comes to bathtime: How often? What products do you need? How can you keep baby safe? When it's time to give baby a bath, take a peek at these useful tips to make cleaning your little one safe and fun.

Recognize Those Hunger Cries

Trying to understand the signals your baby sends you may be easier said than done. This feeding cues chart will give you visuals to help explain what your baby might be trying to tell you.

 

Master Swaddling

In the hospital, nurses will hand you your baby as a perfectly swaddled burrito, but how do you replicate that magical cuteness at home? Here's a visual how-to.

Nail Baby's Sleep Outfit

The age-old dilemma: How should I dress baby for bedtime? What's appropriate at different temperatures? This guide offers handy tips that promote safe and comfortable sleep. 

 

Dressing Baby for the Weather

It's handy to know whether your baby is dressed warm enough for cold weather, and this cute visual will help you out!

Pack the Ultimate Diaper Bag

Having a checklist to use when packing and repacking your diaper bag is clutch! Check out this cool list, which has all sorts of great suggestions about what you might want to have on hand at all times. 

Up Your Baby Photography Game

A baby is born, and the family paparazzi descends like no other. How does one get those super cute, Instagram-sensation style newborn photos? This newborn photography guide can help you out.

Milestones to Photograph

You now know how to get those cute staged shots, and you have basic ideas on effective ways to make your photos look super professional. Next, consult this list of milestones for those sweet moments you won't ever want to forget.

Be a Wrap Star

You're super excited about the baby wrap you received for your shower, but you have no idea how on earth to tie it! Don't worry, here are six ways to wrap your baby.

Babywearing Positions

You've figured out the baby wrap, but what's the best position for your baby to be in while using other types of carriers? The visual above from Baby Wearing International will help.

Review CPR Steps

Getting certified in baby CPR is a helpful skill for new parents and caretakers. Also handy is this chart, which you can keep as a reference on the fridge, for family as well as babysitters.

 

First Aid Reference Guide

Like CPR training, a first aid class is critical with a new, tiny human around the house. Use the infographic above to review when needed.

Fever Guide

It can be hard to know when a baby's fever is worth a trip to the doctor. Use this infographic guide to help you figure out when not to worry and when to call your pediatrician.

First Baby Foods

Here's a cheat sheet on foods to try when your baby starts solids. This valuable graphic reveals which foods are beneficial (and tasty!) for baby, and it also shows what foods are good as your baby grows into a toddler and beyond. 

Get More Sleep

Every parents' biggest question is "How can I help my baby sleep?" You can find sleep training tips here that are worth their weight in gold.

Teething Tips

Oh, the dreaded teething phase that seems to last forever. Use this teething chart to add some levity to your toothy ordeal.

featured photo: Suhyeon Choi via Unsplash 

Sarah Blight

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Our new series, Tiny Birth Stories, is aimed at sharing real-life stories from our readers to our readers. In just 100 words or less, we’re bringing you the raw, the funny and the heartwarming stories you’ve lived while bringing babies into the world. Here are five stories that will have you laughing, crying and nodding your head in solidarity. 

Interested in telling your birth story? Click here.

Pregnancy with a broken uterus by Christina F. 

My uterus is broken. I have a bicornuate uterus, a condition that’s present in only 0.1%-0.5 of American women. What makes my reproductive organ even more rare is that it functioned completely “normally” and grew to full-term my two beautiful children. You see, a bicornuate uterus put you at higher risk of infertility, miscarriage, extremely premature baby, and needing a c-section. And yet, with both my pregnancies (each in different “horns” of my uterus), and both my babies, we conceived within a few months, we luckily did not miscarry, we made it to 40 weeks, and I delivered vaginally!

The stomach flu brought on my labor by Erica W.

What my husband thought was food poisoning at work was actually the stomach flu. I wasn’t due for 7 more days and at my appointment the day before this kid was nowhere near dropping. The next day the stomach flu hit after what everybody can imagine vomiting and sitting on the toilet for hours started contractions. We rushed to the hospital and the contractions were closer too dehydrated for an epidural I labored for 14 hours. Finally I got an epidural and it made me shake, so I they gave me propofol after that Demerol pretty much the opposite of natural birth. Have a very loose birth plan.

A wonderful double blessing by Dawn L. 

I was 29 years old when I had my first baby. When I was 37, I found out that I was pregnant with my second child in the month of August. Unfortunately, at 11 weeks I found out that the baby stopped growing around 8 weeks. Many doubts and why’s came to pass. The very next summer in July I told my mom if I don’t get pregnant by December that God has given me the one child that I was meant to raise and I was going to be content. In the month of August (freaky timing) I found out that I was pregnant this time with twins. My “Double Blessing”!!

Big baby surprise by Tracey S. 

Ever since I became pregnant, I was terrified of giving birth, especially to a large baby, as my husband and I are both very tall. My doctors kept assuring me that due to my stomach size, the baby would not be big. The day that I went into labor ended up being one of the more painful days of my life! The contractions were very strong from about 6 am until I went to the hospital at 1:30 pm. In the hospital, I was able to get an epidural rather quickly and was pain free! Three hours later, I was 10 cm dilated, and ready to push. I pushed for 40 minutes, and couldn’t feel any of it. Not long after I started pushing, out popped my beautiful, 9 pound, 9 ounce baby boy. So much for not having a big baby!

My husband caught our son, in our living room by Jessica P. 

Labor started slowly. As we were preparing to leave, I had an incredibly strong contraction. My husband tried to call 911, my water broke, and I started to have another contraction. In a voice much calmer than reality, I said ‘Honey, I either need to go to the bathroom or we are having a baby.’ A quick check made clear our baby was crowning. I looked for a place to lie down quickly, then decided squatting was a perfect position. He put out his hands and caught our son, about 10 minutes after that first contraction, in our living room.

Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford’s NICU recently hosted a bedside book event for families. In its third year, this event highlights the importance of talking and reading to premature infants.

Clinical associate professor of pediatrics and medical director of NICU Development Care Dr. Melissa Scala, MD and assistant professor of pediatrics and developmental cognitive neuroscientist at Packard Children’s Dr. Katherine Travis, Ph.D., together understand the importance spoken language has on premature babies. Through their research, Scala and Travis have found a connection between listening to parents’ voices and better short-term health outcomes for babies in the NICU.

When it comes to talking or reading to preterm infants Scala said, in a press release, “We hypothesize that it’s very important for brain development for these babies.” With this in mind, the hospital staged its third NICU reading event.

This year’s book is the ever-iconic Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, in both English and Spanish. The parents were given the book and information on the importance of reading and language exposure from infancy on.

Of the event, Scala said, “For some families, this is a way they can really engage with their kids, and it’s sort of beautiful to see parents doing it during this event.” She went on to add, “It’s important to remember that the work we’re doing is truly meant to foster a normal parent-infant interaction and solidify a bond that is core to the care we provide to families in our NICU.”

—Erica Loop

Photos: Courtesy of Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford 

 

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Bringing your premature baby home from the hospital is an exciting milestone. To help both of you adjust to life at home, we’ve rounded up the products you’ll need for your preemie, from baby gear to bottles and much more. Congratulations to your NICU graduate!

photo: bingngu93 via Pixabay 

Talk to your pediatrician and the NICU staff for specific recommendations for your baby. Then read on for products designed with preemies in mind.

Preemie Basics

Keep germs away from your sensitive babe by stocking up on hand sanitizer, antibacterial soap and face masks for your family and visitors.

You’ll also need a baby thermometer and preemie-size diapers. Brands including Pampers, Huggies, Seventh Generation and Earth’s Best make disposable diapers in preemie sizes. If you’re using cloth diapers, check out the Green Mountain Diapers website for preemie options and recommendations on what you’ll need.

photo: Three Little Tots

Baby Gear

When purchasing a car seat, look for seats that accommodate newborns starting at 4 pounds, such as the Chicco Keyfit. Add a mirror to the backseat positioned at the car seat so you can monitor your child while you’re driving.

Place a tag on your car seat and stroller letting people know they should keep their distance for your baby’s health. We love the Tags4Tots tags from Three Little Tots (shown above). They come in a variety of colors, styles and phrases to get your point across clearly. The company also sells car seat covers and pacifier clips with friendly reminders not to touch baby. If your child needs medications, Three Little Tots also sells a handy medicine chart that attaches to your fridge to help you remember dosages and when to give them.

Baby wraps are a must for baby’s comfort (and to help you get things done). If you have a baby store in your area, visit one to try out the wraps to see which suits your body and your baby best. Check out wraps from Solly Baby, Baby K’Tan and MOBY, all of which preemie moms recommend. A store clerk can also help you get past the learning curve of tying a wrap—if you’re still stuck, head to YouTube for instructional videos on the wrap you choose. 

If you’re looking for an infant seat, the Mamaroo with an infant insert is a great bet. The Mamaroo sways side to side and gently bounces up and down to mimic parents’ comforting movements and comfort little ones. It’s used in many hospital NICU units to soothe premature babies.

photo: Dr. Brown’s

Feeding Tools

Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding or both, preemie babies have special needs when it comes to nourishment. Look for bottles with preemie nipples (some brands to check out include Dr. Brown’s (shown above), Comotomo, Munchkin Latch and nanobebe).

If you’re pumping, invest in a good breast pump and pumping bra (check out our favorite breastfeeding tips, tricks and gear). And if you need a nursing pillow, read about top pillows with features that can help with your baby’s specific nursing needs.

Finally, the Hatch Baby Grow changing pad features a built-in scale to help you track baby’s weight gain, feeding amount and diaper changes for added peace of mind.

photo: Tracey Shaw via Pexels

Sleep Products for Preemies

There are monitors that track sound, movement, room temperature and much more. Consider your home’s configuration and talk to your pediatrician about specific features you should look for. Choose a monitor that addresses baby’s needs and your top concerns for baby’s sleep safety so you can both rest soundly.

In terms of sleepers, choose swaddle blankets or a sleepsack that’s safe for preemies, such as the HALO SleepSack. If your child is coming home with tubes still attached, look for sleepers with snaps rather than zippers.

Pacifiers also come in preemie size from companies including Philips and RaZbaby.

Bathing

The Puj tub cradles kids who are too small for other baby tubs and is made of a soft foam that conforms to standard-size sinks. When bathing baby, choose natural baby soaps and lotions that are more gentle on sensitive skin.

photo: Carters

Clothes for Premature Babies

Preemie parents are in luck when it comes to finding cute, teeny outfits, hats and socks for their little warriors. Find your favorites from brands such as Carters (shown above), Feltman Brothers, Kickee Pants, Preemie Clothes Mart and Perfectly Preemie.

Pro tip from preemie moms: Choose kimono tops that open and wrap around baby, rather than a traditional top that you have to put baby’s head through.

Parent Self-Care

Treat yourself to a high-quality hand cream (you’ll need it with all the hand-washing), and buy or make a keepsake box to hold your NICU items. Get a non-toxic, washable ink pad to help you remember just how small those hands and feet really were, and fill out a memory book to document the amazing journey you’re on.

Eva Ingvarson Cerise

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An incredible new tool known as the pacifier-activated lullaby (PAL) device could significantly shorten the need for preemies to stay in the NICU. And it’s all thanks to the power of music. Read on to see how this amazing innovation works.

The device, which plays parents’ recorded lullabies whenever a baby sucks on the pacifier is already being successfully test by researchers at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles, California. Their study has shown that 70 percent of babies who use a PAL device improve their proficiency using a pacifier, which plays a role in developing feeding skills. This translates into shorter stays in the NICU after delivery.

“Babies born before 34 weeks gestation often struggle to feed orally because they have not yet developed the reflex to suck, breathe and swallow,’’ Shelly Frisco, a nurse in the NICU at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital, says. “With the PAL device, babies learn to feed faster and gain weight because they want to keep hearing their parents’ voices.”

Music therapists help parents record themselves singing a lullaby of their choosing. The recorded song then plays when the infants suck on their pacifiers, stopping only when they stop sucking.

Jenna Bollard, an expressive arts therapies manager at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital explains, “Giving parents a way to be part of their babies’ treatment helps them feel more bonded with their baby and gives them a very important role in their health and development.”

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital

 

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