News

Parenting

Mama will make it feel better

Associated Press
Published April 13, 2005

---

As much as parents would like to eliminate it altogether, babies are likely to experience some pain. Shots, bumps and bruises are, after all, part of growing up.

But that doesn't mean parents have to sit idly on the sidelines either.

BabyTalk magazine worked with the American Academy of Pediatrics on a list of things parents can do to minimize pain:

-- Give the simplest soother. Sucking has been a comfort to babies since time immemorial. Breast-feeding, bottle-feeding or giving a pacifier after a painful procedure may help calm and relax your child.

-- Bundle. Most infants under 3 months like to be swaddled, and after having a shot, it can provide a sense of security.

-- Keep them close. Skin-to-skin contact, such as snuggling or a light massage, has been shown to reduce stress.

-- Speak up. Don't assume that pain relief will be given automatically. Talk to your pediatrician about pain relievers before a potentially painful procedure.

[Last modified April 11, 2005, 11:16:02]