Health Tip: Postpartum Depression
Depression that follows the birth of a baby is common, as new moms are overwhelmed by the changes in their bodies and routines.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers this list of reasons for why postpartum depression affects some new mothers:
* New moms can suffer from lack of sleep after the baby's birth, which can lead to fatigue, stress and depression.
* New moms can feel overwhelmed by all of the new things to do, and by other changes in their lives. They may even feel unsure of their parenting skills.
* New moms may set unrealistic expectations for themselves.
* New moms have less time for themselves, with their partners, and less time to do what they want.
Health Tip: Use a Child-Safety Gate
Safety gates are an important way to prevent injuries among children in the home.
Here are guidelines for how to choose a safety gate, courtesy of the Nemours Foundation:
* Choose a gate that is securely mounted to the door frame with hardware, and that doesn't leave any openings to pinch little fingers.
* Be careful with gates that use pressure or tension to keep them secured in a doorway. Never place this type of gate in front of stairs, as it may be more easily removed by children.
* Make sure that the bar on pressure gates is on the side away from the child's access.
* Leave no more than 2 inches at the bottom of the gate to prevent a child from trying to slide underneath.
* Choose a gate that is difficult to climb on or over.
* Only use gates that are safety approved and certified, and have no sharp or dangerous parts that could hurt a child.
No comments:
Post a Comment