Apart from beliefs about confinement, there are also plenty of beliefs or superstitions regarding newborns. Here are some that might raise an eyebrow or two (partially because some of them, sometimes, do hold some water) :
1 You should never say anything to a newborn's face otherwise, she or he will do the opposite. e.g. "Wow, you really take a lot of milk don't you?" Next day, she will not be taking milk. "Wow, you listen to dad a lot don't you?" Next day, he listens to everyone but the dad.
2 You should not touch the soles of the baby's feet or else it will be reluctant to take its first steps, or it will start walking comparatively late.
3 You should not leave the baby's tummy exposed to the air or she will get gas in her tummy which will lead to constant crying due to discomfort. Hence, when you are done bathing the baby, you should ensure that the windows and doors to the room you dress the baby in is closed; switch off the fan and air conditioning while you're at it. Or so they say.
4 You should not let the baby drink cold to lukewarm milk; adds to the stomach 'wind' problem.
5 Babies should not be left crying too much, again due to the wind problem. Since the baby has to cry upon childbirth to ensure its lungs open up, it may have a problem getting rid of the wind during its first week. That would explain why some babies need to burp a lot or poop a lot in the first week.
New parents, do not be alarmed, all you need is some medicated oil. Get the kind that is useful for treating joint pains. Put two drops on your palm, rub them together until you feel a little heat between your two rubbing hands, then carefully place your palm on your baby's tummy (be careful of the umbilical cord) for a few seconds or until the baby has calmed down. You can do the same for the soles of the feet. The effect is almost immediate if the problem is gas.
This has been brought to you by sleepless nights, a sister with two kids she took care of by herself and too much time in my hands. Thank you.
2 comments:
6. Babies who look at the mirrors will suffer from diarrhea later.
7. Babies who look at their own hands will fall sick.
Altogether now, raise one of your eyebrows and drop your jaws.
No poo?! babies who look at their own hands will fall sick? My baby has been looking at her hands since day 1!
Post a Comment