Category: Baby Care

Understanding Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Safe Sleep Practices for Your Baby
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a heartbreaking and unexplained phenomenon where an apparently healthy baby dies during sleep. While the exact cause remains unknown, research has identified several risk factors and preventive measures that can significantly reduce the likelihood of SIDS. This article aims to provide parents and caregivers with essential information on SIDS and practical steps to create a safe sleep environment for infants.

What is SIDS?

SIDS refers to the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under one year of age, typically occurring during sleep. Despite thorough investigations, including autopsies and reviews of medical histories, no definitive cause is found in these cases. SIDS is also known as “crib death” due to its occurrence during sleep in a crib or bassinet.

Risk Factors

Several factors have been linked to an increased risk of SIDS:
- Sleep Position: Placing a baby to sleep on their stomach or side increases the risk compared to the back-sleeping position.
- Sleep Environment: Soft bedding, pillows, and stuffed animals in the crib can pose suffocation hazards.
- Maternal Factors: Smoking during pregnancy, young maternal age, and inadequate prenatal care are associated with higher SIDS risk.
- Premature Birth: Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight have a higher susceptibility.
- Overheating: Excessive clothing or high room temperatures can increase the risk.
Safe Sleep Practices to Reduce SIDS Risk

Implementing the following guidelines can help create a safer sleep environment for your baby:
- Back to Sleep: Always place your baby on their back for naps and nighttime sleep.
- Firm Sleep Surface: Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet in a safety-approved crib or bassinet.
- Keep the Crib Bare: Avoid placing soft objects, toys, or loose bedding in the crib.
- Room Sharing: Keep your baby’s sleep area in the same room where you sleep for at least the first six months.
- Pacifier Use: Offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime may reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Temperature Control: Dress your baby appropriately for the room temperature to avoid overheating.
- Avoid Smoking: Maintain a smoke-free environment during pregnancy and after birth.
Common Myths and Misconceptions About

It’s essential to address and dispel common myths about infant sleep:
- Myth: Babies are more comfortable sleeping on their stomachs.
  Fact: Back-sleeping is the safest position and does not increase the risk of choking.
- Myth: Using sleep positioners can prevent SIDS.
  Fact: Sleep positioners are not recommended and can pose suffocation hazards.
- Myth: Co-sleeping is safe and promotes bonding.
  Fact: Sharing a bed increases the risk of SIDS; room-sharing without bed-sharing is safer.
Emotional Support for Parents

Understanding and implementing safe sleep practices can be overwhelming for new parents. It’s important to seek support from healthcare providers, parenting groups, and trusted resources. Remember, taking proactive steps to ensure your baby’s safety is a significant and commendable effort.

Conclusion

While SIDS remains a tragic and unexplained occurrence, adopting recommended safe sleep practices can significantly reduce the risk. By staying informed and vigilant, parents and caregivers can create a secure sleep environment that promotes the health and well-being of their infants.

References
1. AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS. Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2016 Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment. Pediatrics, v. 138, n. 5, p. e20162938, 2016.
2. CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION. Providing Care for Babies to Sleep Safely. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/sudden-infant-death/sleep-safely/index.html. Accessed on: May 6, 2025.
3. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT. Safe Sleep Environment. Available at: https://safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov/reduce-risk/safe-sleep-environment. Accessed on: May 6, 2025.
4. MAYO CLINIC. Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) – Symptoms and causes. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sudden-infant-death-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20352800. Accessed on: May 6, 2025.
5. HEALTHYCHILDREN.ORG. How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/sleep/Pages/a-parents-guide-to-safe-sleep.aspx. Accessed on: May 6, 2025.
May 6, 2025
Your Baby’s Silent Clues: How to Spot Early Signs of Autism and Why Acting Early Matters
Signs of autism in babies: Every mother dreams of the day her baby looks into her eyes and smiles back. That magical moment of connection—a glance, a giggle, a first word—feels like a promise of all the beautiful milestones ahead. But what if those moments don’t come as expected?

It’s natural for babies to develop at their own pace. Yet, sometimes, subtle signs in the first months and years could be whispering a message many parents aren’t prepared to hear: your baby might be showing early signs of autism.

This isn’t about placing labels or fears. It’s about empowering you with knowledge. Knowing what to watch for could mean giving your child the chance to grow with more support, more tools, and more hope.

What Is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. It’s called a “spectrum” because it looks different in every child—some may speak, some may not; some may make eye contact, others may avoid it.

Most diagnoses happen around 2-4 years old. But research shows that signs can appear much earlier—sometimes as early as a few months old .

The earlier we notice, the earlier we can help.

The Early Signs of Autism in Babies You Might Not Notice

Imagine you’re trying to read a map in a foreign language. That’s how confusing early autism signs can feel. They’re not always obvious. But they matter.

Here’s what experts suggest parents keep an eye on:
1. Lack of eye contact: If your baby doesn’t seem interested in faces or avoids looking into your eyes during feeding or play.
2. Not responding to name: By 6-9 months, babies usually turn when you call their name. If they don’t, it might be worth exploring why.
3. No big smiles or joyful expressions by 6 months: Babies love to smile. A lack of social smiling can be a red flag.
4. Limited babbling by 12 months: No “ba-ba,” “da-da,” or similar sounds could indicate a delay in communication development.
5. Not pointing or gesturing by 12-14 months: Babies point to show interest. If yours doesn’t, it might be a sign of social communication challenges.
6. Repetitive movements: Flapping hands, rocking, spinning objects repeatedly. These movements can be soothing for some children with autism.
7. Extreme reactions to sensory input: Very sensitive to sounds, lights, textures—or not reacting at all.
8. Regression: A baby who was talking or waving but suddenly stops.
Not every baby who shows one or two of these signs has autism. But trust your intuition. If you notice more than one, or if something feels “off” to you, it’s time to talk to your pediatrician.

Why Early Detection of Signs of Autism Changes Everything

Some parents worry: “Maybe they’ll grow out of it.” And while it’s true every child develops at their own rhythm, early intervention can transform a child’s future.

Studies show that children who receive help before age 3 develop better language skills, improved social interactions, and greater independence .

One mom, Ana, shared:

“When my son was diagnosed at 2, I felt lost. But looking back, I wish I’d asked sooner. Starting therapy at 18 months could have helped him talk earlier. I didn’t know the signs.”

That’s why this conversation matters. Early doesn’t mean rushing into labels—it means opening doors to support.

How to Talk to Your Pediatrician about Signs of Autism

Feeling nervous about bringing up autism? You’re not alone. But pediatricians are trained to listen.

Here’s how you can prepare for the visit:
- Write down specific examples of what you’re observing.
- Share videos if possible (for example, showing no response to name or lack of gestures).
- Ask about developmental screenings or tools like M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers).
Remember: asking questions isn’t accusing—it’s advocating.

Overcoming the Fear and Stigma

Many families hesitate to explore autism because of fear, denial, or stigma. In some cultures, seeking a diagnosis feels like accepting blame or shame.

But knowing earlier doesn’t change who your child is. It simply helps you understand how they experience the world—and how you can guide them through it.

Your child isn’t broken. They’re unique. They see, hear, and feel differently. And with your love and support, they can thrive in ways you never imagined.

You Are Not Alone

If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. Thousands of parents have stood where you’re standing. And they’ve found communities, resources, and joy in their parenting journey.

Ask. Reach out. Keep going.

You are your child’s strongest advocate. By noticing, asking, and acting—you’re already making a difference.

When to Seek Help

If your baby shows multiple signs, or if milestones feel delayed, don’t wait for the next check-up. Book an appointment.

The earlier you ask, the more options you’ll have. Pediatricians can refer you to specialists, speech therapists, developmental psychologists, and early intervention programs.

Every step you take now builds a bridge for your child’s future.

Final Words: Trust Yourself

Parenting doesn’t come with a crystal ball. But your heart already knows when something needs attention.

If you’re wondering, questioning, observing—trust yourself enough to speak up.

Because love doesn’t wait. And neither should we.

References

AL-BELTAGI, M. Pre-autism: What a paediatrician should know about early diagnosis of autism. World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics, v. 12, n. 5, p. 273-294, 2023. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.5409/wjcp.v12.i5.273.

ZWAIGENBAUM, L. et al. Early Screening of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Recommendations for Practice and Research. Pediatrics, v. 136 Suppl 1, p. S41-S59, 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2014-3667D.

JONES, W.; KLIN, A. Attention to eyes is present but in decline in 2–6-month-old infants later diagnosed with autism. Nature, v. 504, p. 427-431, 2013. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nature12715.
May 4, 2025
Colic, Gas, Crying: What Worked for Me (And Might Work for You)
Published on: May 3, 2025

Baby colic and gas : If you’re a parent holding a crying newborn at 2 a.m., wondering what’s wrong, know this: you’re not alone. Infant colic affects up to 40% of babies, causing intense, unexplained crying that can last for hours—usually peaking in the first 3 months of life.

All babies cry. But some cry a lot — for hours, sometimes for no clear reason. If you’re holding your baby in the middle of the night, feeling helpless while they clench their fists and pull their legs, you’re not alone. It could be normal gas. But it could also be colic — or a sign that something else is going on.

Baby colic and gas are incredibly common in newborns. They’re part of the adjustment as your baby’s digestive system matures. But as a parent, it’s hard to know when to stay calm and when to worry. How do you tell the difference between normal discomfort and something that needs medical attention?

This article will help you understand the basics: what causes colic and gas, what symptoms are typical, and when you should contact your pediatrician. You’ll also get simple, evidence-based tips for soothing your baby and taking care of yourself in the process.

Let’s break down the 5 warning signs that your baby’s discomfort might be more than just gas — and what you can do about it, starting today.

What Is Baby Colic?

Colic is traditionally defined as crying for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for 3 consecutive weeks in an otherwise healthy infant (StatPearls, 2023).

Possible Causes
- Immature digestive system
- Gut microbiota imbalance
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Overfeeding or underfeeding
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Overstimulation from the environment
The reassuring news? Colic usually resolves on its own by 3–4 months of age.

What Actually Helped Baby Colic(From One Mom to Another)

1. Baby Massage

Gentle clockwise tummy massages made a noticeable difference. I’d warm my hands first and softly press in circular motions to help trapped gas pass.

2. Warm Baths

Giving my baby a warm bath during her usual “witching hour” seemed to soothe her body and calm her crying episodes.

3. Probiotics

Adding Lactobacillus reuteri drops, as recommended by our pediatrician, reduced crying time over a few weeks (American Family Physician, 2015).

4. Feeding Adjustments

Ensuring she burped after every feed—and not overfeeding—helped prevent excess gas buildup.

5. White Noise

Playing gentle white noise mimicked the womb and helped her settle faster during crying spells.

6. Swaddling and Gentle Rocking

Swaddling securely (but safely) combined with rhythmic rocking calmed her nerves and seemed to shorten episodes.

7. Maternal Diet Changes (If Breastfeeding)

I trialed eliminating dairy for two weeks, which appeared to reduce her discomfort—though the evidence is mixed (PubMed, 2013).

Things That Didn’t Work (But Might for You)

I tried gripe water, gas drops, and herbal teas—with little success. But many parents report positive results, so it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While colic is common and harmless, excessive crying can sometimes mask other issues. Contact your healthcare provider if your baby has:
- Fever
- Vomiting (especially green or forceful)
- Blood in stool
- Poor feeding or weight gain
- Lethargy or reduced responsiveness
Your instincts as a parent matter. If something feels off, trust them.

The Emotional Toll of Baby Colic

No one warns you how hard it is to hear your baby cry inconsolably. Research shows that infant colic can increase parental stress, anxiety, and even risk of postpartum depression (BMC Pediatrics, 2019).

If you find yourself overwhelmed, angry, or hopeless—put the baby down safely in the crib and take a break. Call a partner, friend, or hotline. You matter too.

Takeaways

There’s no perfect cure for colic. What worked for me might not work for you—and that’s okay. This phase is tough but temporary. You’re not failing; you’re surviving.

Above all: ask for help. Let others cook, clean, hold the baby so you can nap. Caring for a crying newborn takes a village—and you deserve support.

Want more guidance? Visit vittafemme.com for evidence-based articles and listen to our podcast for real stories from parents like you.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician for concerns about your baby’s health.

References :
1. StatPearls. Infantile Colic. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519512/
2. American Family Physician. Infantile Colic: A Clinical Review. Am Fam Physician. 2015;92(7):577–582.
  https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2015/1001/p577.html
3. Szatkowski A, Kandel R. Maternal hypoallergenic diet for treating infantile colic. Pediatrics. 2013;131(6):e1572–e1580.
  https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2012-1795
4. Olsen AL, Reeder MR, Magnusson BM. Impact of infantile colic on parental stress and depression. BMC Pediatr. 2019;19:1422.
  https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-019-1512-2
May 4, 2025
10 Things Every New Mom Needs—But No One Tells You
Becoming a mom changes everything. But while everyone rushes to tell you about diaper brands and baby bottles, very few people talk about what you, the mother, really need in those raw, beautiful, exhausting first weeks.

Here’s what no one tells you—but every new mom deserves to know.

1. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Permission to Rest (Without Guilt)

The world will expect you to bounce back—physically, emotionally, even socially. But your body has just done something miraculous and massive. You’re bleeding, healing, leaking, aching, and adjusting.

Science shows that postnatal recovery is an intense physiological process, with hormonal shifts, uterine involution, perineal healing, and fatigue from interrupted sleep (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2021).

You need rest. Sleep. Stillness. And you deserve it without guilt.

Let the dishes pile up. Ignore the texts. The only priority? Healing and holding your baby close.

2. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Emotional Safety Nets

Everyone wants to hold the baby. But who’s holding you?

Postpartum emotions can range from joy to tears to numbness—all in one hour. While mild “baby blues” affect up to 80% of mothers, it’s crucial to know when sadness or anxiety becomes something more (NICE, 2021).

You need people who check on you, not just the baby. Whether it’s a partner, friend, doula, or therapist—find someone who asks, “How are YOU really feeling?” and listens without judgment.

3. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need a Plan for Feeding Support

Whether you breastfeed, pump, combo feed, or formula feed—you need support, not pressure.

Breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Pain, latching issues, low supply—it’s common and normal to struggle. Research shows that early support increases breastfeeding success and reduces maternal distress (NICE, 2021).

Call a lactation consultant. Ask for help. Or don’t breastfeed at all—your worth isn’t measured in ounces.

4. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Easy, Nourishing Food (You Didn’t Cook)

Feeding yourself can feel impossible with a newborn. Yet postpartum recovery requires good nutrition to promote healing, energy, and milk production (NICE, 2021).

The solution? Accept every food drop-off. Fill your freezer in advance. Buy snacks you can eat one-handed while holding a baby.

And if it’s cereal for dinner some nights? That’s fine too. Fed is best—for moms too.

5. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Pain Relief Plans

No one warns you that postpartum can hurt—even if you didn’t have a C-section. Uterine cramps (as the womb shrinks), perineal stitches, hemorrhoids, breast engorgement, and lingering aches are real.

Stock up on padsicles, perineal spray bottles, stool softeners, and approved pain relievers. Science supports simple interventions like cold packs, pelvic floor exercises, and gentle analgesics to ease discomfort (NICE, 2021).

You shouldn’t suffer in silence. Pain is not a badge of honor.

6. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need a Realistic Picture of Baby Sleep

“Is she a good sleeper?” people will ask within days. But newborns are supposed to wake frequently for feeds—it’s biologically normal.

Safe sleep guidance recommends placing babies on their backs in a clear crib, in the parents’ room, for at least six months to reduce SIDS risk (NICE, 2021).

Forget pressure to “sleep train” immediately. Forget comparisons. Your baby’s sleep isn’t a reflection of your parenting. It’s a reflection of being a baby.

7. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Warning Signs—For You and Baby

Not everything postpartum is normal. But no one hands you a checklist.

You should know when to seek help for you: heavy bleeding soaking pads in an hour, severe headaches, leg pain, chest pain, fever, extreme sadness or scary thoughts (NICE, 2021).

And for baby: poor feeding, jaundice, fever, trouble breathing, fewer than 6 wet diapers by day 5.

You deserve to feel safe, not scared. Don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider.

8. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Boundaries (And the Right to Say “Not Yet”)

Everyone wants to visit. Everyone wants to hold the baby. But you get to choose.

If you’re not ready for visitors, say so. If you want visitors to bring food, wash hands, or mask up—say so. If you’d rather nap than entertain—say so.

The postpartum period is called the “fourth trimester” for a reason. Your only obligation is to bond, recover, and adjust.

9. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need Space to Process Birth

Whether your birth was magical, traumatic, or somewhere in between—you deserve space to tell your story.

Birth can bring pride, disappointment, joy, fear, empowerment, loss. Processing it matters. Research shows that debriefing birth experiences can reduce postnatal distress and promote emotional wellbeing (NICE, 2021).

Tell someone you trust. Write it down. See a therapist. Your feelings are valid.

10. Every New Mom Should Know: You Need to Know You’re Enough

You don’t need to “bounce back.” You don’t need a flat stomach or perfect nursery or sleep-through-the-night baby.

You’re enough exactly as you are.

The world may rush you to “get back to normal.” But you’ve been forever transformed. Motherhood remakes you—physically, emotionally, spiritually.

Let the world wait. Let the chores wait. Let comparison wait.

You are learning. You are growing. You are healing. And you are enough.

The Bottom Line

Motherhood isn’t a checklist of products. It’s a journey that needs support, compassion, and community.

So here’s what you really need: people who show up. Food that fuels you. Knowledge that empowers you. Rest that restores you.

Everything else? You’ll figure it out. One moment, one feed, one cuddle at a time.

Want More Support?

Visit Vittafemme.com for expert articles on postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, mental health, and newborn care. And listen to our podcast for real stories from moms like you.

References
1. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Postnatal care. London: NICE, 2021.
  https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng194
May 2, 2025