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Healthy Pregnancy and Childbirth

Mom's and Baby's First Weeks

Baby's First Weeks
If this is your first child, you're probably wondering what lies ahead. If you're already a parent, the duties may be more familiar, but the new baby is no less amazing or unique. As you and your baby adjust to life together, you're bound to feel some uncertainty. That's why it's important to trust yourself and allow time for you and baby to get to know each other.
Mom's First Weeks
As a new mother, you're probably feeling excited but tired. This is normal. Give yourself some time to deal with the physical and emotional changes you'll experience. Your body will need at least 6 weeks to recover from a vaginal birth. Full recovery after a cesarean (surgical birth) takes longer, possibly a few months.
Breast and Bottle Feeding
Work, school, or even a late-night movie can require you to be away from your baby. This doesn't mean you have to give up breastfeeding. You can transfer milk from your breast to a bottle (expressing). But remember, don't give your baby bottles or pacifiers until he's at least 4 weeks old. This is so he can get used to your natural nipple first.
Special Concerns
Exposure to germs is a normal part of a baby's development and, thankfully, most outgrow the frequent-illness stage. Because babies cannot verbalize their feelings, however, adults must always stay alert for warning signs of illness.
Postpartum Depression Assessment

It's natural to feel strong emotions just after you've had a baby. You may feel elated, or you may feel sad. But for some women, feelings of sadness are much more intense. These intense feelings are called postpartum depression. Postpartum depression can be treated with medication and counseling.

Infant Immunization Quiz

A pregnant woman passes antibodies to her unborn baby through the placenta to protect against certain diseases. How long does this natural immunity last?

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