dr lethabo machaba logo
Dr L Machaba • Jul 12, 2022

5 THINGS YOU SHOULDN'T WORRY ABOUT AS A NEW PARENT

Are you a new parent? Here’s a list of 5 things you shouldn’t stress about.

1. BABY CRYING OFTEN

Crying is a baby’s way of communicating. It’s their way of telling you they need a feed or their nappy needs a change. Some babies cry more often and louder than others and this doesn’t mean you are constantly doing something wrong.


If they seem to be inconsolable and have prolonged patterns of crying and discomfort, particularly at night, you can ask your paediatrician about the possibility of colic. A medical check-up will also help diagnose a serious medical condition if present.


2. YOUR FIGURE

If you’re a mom, you have just carried an entire human for close to a year and you should be proud. Your figure and going back to the size you were before you got pregnant should be the last thing on your mind once you give birth.


This is something that many moms worry about and shouldn’t as it can cause unnecessary stress. Focus on eating well and healthy, especially if breastfeeding, and focus on taking good care of your baby. Gentle exercise as often as you are able is fine, but don’t go overboard.


3. BABY SNEEZING

This does not always mean they are coming down with a cold, in fact, your baby might likely sneeze a few times on day one and this is completely normal. They have just exited a water-filled sack remember?


They need to clear out their little nasal passages to keep air flowing through properly so don’t be alarmed if you hear a couple of “atchoos” now and again.


4. DELAYS IN WALKING AND TALKING

Some parents tend to compare their children’s development with that of other children.


Remember that milestones are different in every child. Some children begin walking as early as nine months while others are still only just crawling or learning to stand at fourteen months.


If you are concerned about your baby not reaching any milestones, you can chat to your paediatrician for guidance.


5. BREASTFEEDING VS BOTTLE FEEDING

It can be stressful for a new mom when their child has not latched properly at the breast the first time or first few times. Breastfeeding is a new process for both you and baby and may take some practice.


In the beginning, you may be concerned that baby is feeding too much but it does take some time to establish a steady supply of breast milk. Some moms do not produce enough breast milk and need to supplement feeds with formula or formula-feed their babies altogether.


This may come with feelings of guilt and may take some time to get over it but as long as your baby is thriving and happy, you should not worry.

Dr Machaba is a paediatrician based at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital. Get in touch if you’d like to book an appointment for a routine check up or to assess any arising health concerns in your child.

Share this post


Recent Posts

A poster for secrets of super powered moms TV show on TBN
By Dr L Machaba 14 Jul, 2023
"Dr. Lethabo Machaba Presents 'Secrets of Superpowered Moms' Show, Exploring Motherhood with God."
A teacher and 4 children in nursery school classroom
By Dr L Machaba 05 Jul, 2022
As a parent you may feel excited at the thought of your little one starting creche but also nervous. Not only because it’s a new environment for them altogether but because you’ve likely heard some stories from other parents that go along the lines of: “I just know, if one child is sick, everyone is going to get sick” or “these kids just pass on everything to each other!”
Baby with dirty mouth crying and mother wiping it's mouth
By Dr L Machaba 27 Jun, 2022
Infant reflux (when your baby spits up), is completely normal. We often scale it at mild, moderate or severe. Most infants experience it and with the exception of a few very specific cases, it is not a sign of any serious health issue.
Show More

Leave your little one's health in good hands.

Track your child's growth and development, or assess arising health issues with a paediatrician you can trust.

Share by: