Cold Remedies and Breastfeeding

Quite often, nursing mothers will wonder if it is safe to take cold medicine while breastfeeding. Generally speaking, there is little risk to your baby from taking over-the-counter remedies for a brief period of time. However, some drugs are safer than others; and a few can have a negative impact on milk production. The InfantRisk Center of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at Amarillo has a helpful analysis of common cough and cold remedies.

On a personal note, although I try to avoid all drugs while pregnant or nursing, if I am really miserable with a cold I will take Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil). Not only does it relieve the pain of a headache, sore throat, etc., but its anti-inflammatory property will reduce swelling in mucous membranes such as your nose and sinuses, making it easier to breathe. And, according to InfantRisk, Ibuprofen is "the preferred analgesic in breastfeeding mothers as only small amounts get into milk".

Breastfeeding Facts for Fathers

Check out Molly Remer's book review of Breastfeeding Facts for Fathers at the Citizens for Midwifery blog.

Labor is Good for Babies

A nice concise summary of Why Labor is Good for Babies.

Cesarian Sections

The Academic OB/Gyn has an interesting, if somewhat technical, discussion of single vs. double layer suturing to close up the uterus after a c-section. For what it's worth, my birth plan includes a request for double-layer suturing should surgery be necessary.

And speaking of surgical births, the Philadelphia Inquirer this week published Dangerous delivery shows peril of multiple C-sections:

The case points out a fundamental truth about surgical delivery: a first cesarean for most women leads to a cesarean with every pregnancy. And while a first section is quick, easy to perform, and rarely complicated, each repeat surgery carries greater risk.

A risk which, sadly, most women are not made aware of.

Homebirth Dads

Natural Papa Derek Markham has a series on his blog, 10 Questions for Homebirth Dads. One of the dads interviewed, Jorge Cuevas, is the producer of the video Homebirth Dads. Haven't seen it, but it looks neat.

The Good and the Bad about Baby Slings

Secrets of Baby Behavior posts The Good and The Bad about baby slings.

The Case of the Virgin Gut

This is so important for parents to know... Even the Occasional Bottle of Formula Has Its Risks.

Sling Recall

Babywearing advocates and organizations are rejoicing today at the news of Infantino's recall of its bag-style slings. Expert babywearers have been saying for years that these types of slings are unsafe. Check Babywearing International for more safety info.