Many mothers panic when they discover that their newborn has a rash on the bottom, genitals and upper thighs. But diaper rash is very common. It is not usually a serious skin disorder and often resolves on its own with a few simple measures. However, there are instances where untreated and severe diaper rash can have serious consequences. But this is largely preventable.  Diaper rash is not a poor reflection on the part of the mother, nanny or caregiver. Even the most conscientious mother may be unable to prevent diaper rash entirely. However, there are several ways to reduce the chances of your baby developing diaper rash and to help it resolve as soon as possible.

continue reading Ways to Prevent Diaper Rash in Babies

Macrosomia Definition

Macrosomia is the medical term for a baby that has a significantly higher birth weight than the average for newborns. The term is also known by the common term big baby syndrome. The other common term that overlaps with macrosomia is large for gestational age. Macrosomia is usually defined as a birth weight of more than 8 pounds 13 ounces (4 kilograms). It may also be defined by the gestational age which in turn is influenced partly by the gender of the newborn and ethnicity.  Since male newborn babies are typically larger and heavier than females, macrosomia is more likely in male newborns. Overall, macrosomic babies are significantly larger compared to average infants.

continue reading Macrosomia (Big Baby Syndrome)

What is seborrheic dermatitis?

Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that tends to occur on the oily areas of the body, most noticeably on the face, scalp and chest. The rash usually appears as scaly skin with greasiness and yellow crusting that flakes off to reveal underlying redness and a flat or slightly raised plaque. Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition that occurs for unknown reasons. There seems to be a link with abnormal immune responses and a certain type of yeast (fungus) that normally dwells on human skin. When it occurs on the scalp, it is commonly referred to as dandruff. However, the term dandruff may also be used to describe similar scalp conditions that differs in the disease mechanism and appearance to some extent. Seborrheic dermatitis can also affect newborn babies and the scalp presentation is usually referred to as cradle cap. It may also cause severe diaper rash.

continue reading Seborrheic Dermatitis Pictures, Treatment (Face, Scalp, Newborns)

What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is not a single disease but a range of disorders which include numerous physical and mental problems, as well as various developmental defects, that may occur as a result of alcohol consumption by the mother while pregnant. No amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy since alcohol passes easily through the placenta to reach the fetus, where it may also affect the fetal brain. Consuming even a small amount of alcohol carries the potential danger of irreversible birth defects in the baby. However, the risk may be lower with occasional drinking than with regular heavy drinking.

continue reading Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) – Alcohol and the Unborn Baby

What is Premature Birth?

The duration of most pregnancies is usually about 40 weeks but it is quite normal for a baby to be born a week or two earlier. However, when a baby is born before 37 weeks of gestation, it is said to be a premature birth and such babies are known as premature babies or preemies. Prematurity is a leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity.

Premature babies born around 36 to 37 weeks of gestation may be relatively free from complications, whereas those born much before the due dates are more likely to have serious problems which may require management in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Babies born before 24 weeks have less of a chance of survival. Complications usually arise as a result of immaturity of the lungs and other organs which have not yet developed fully at the time of birth and which may not be ready to function outside the uterus.

Early and regular prenatal care can reduce the risk of a premature birth.

continue reading Premature Baby (Preterm Birth)