Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/139497
Mood Swings & Menaces & Maladies: Oh My! Baby's first year can deal up challenges, but prepared parents can draw a winning hand It doesn't matter if they are an everyday couple or the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; all first-time parents are likely to find it both wondrous and terrifying when they bring baby home. To add more wonder to the equation, Dr. Dena Lichfield, a primary care physician with The Medical Center of Aurora who specializes in women's health care, and Dr. Donna Ackerman, a pediatrician with North Suburban Medical Center, offer some survival tips below for this tough but amazing part of life. Expect an emotional ride Moms Combine whacky hormone levels with mind-numbing sleep deprivation, and it's no wonder new moms suffer from mood swings. One minute they're in awe of the powerful love they feel for this miracle creature they've created; the next minute they're wondering: What have I done? "It's a big transition, having that first baby," Lichfield says. "It's such a shock and such a change to your world. You actually have to think about this other person all the time. It can be a tough adjustment to make." Moms' biggest mistake? "Feeling like she can't ask for help," Ackerman says. "I think as women, we feel this should come naturally for us." But her new moms — facing the challenging realities of everything from breastfeeding to baby's unending demands — are often tearful and overwhelmed. Ackerman's advice: Ask for help (a family member to clean or cook, a friend to babysit), and keep in mind that "it will get easier." Dads New dads often feel helpless, left out, and cheated of bonding time, especially when Mom is breastfeeding. Once baby has nursing down, moms can pump and let Dad experience the connection that comes with feeding his little one. Dads also can help by changing and bringing the baby to Mom for feedings. Since infancy, Lichfield's husband has had "DaddyDaughter Day" with their two girls, now 6 and 9. "It's their time. I'm not invited," she says. Dad takes an afternoon off for activities that have grown with the girls, from parks and baby-swings to movies and museums — and Mom gets a break. Red Flags Feelings of sadness, anxiety and irritability are normal, but if any of the following symptoms arise and intensify, new parents should call their doctors immediately: Loss of appetite Insomnia Intense irritability and anger Overwhelming fatigue Loss of interest in sex Lack of joy in life Feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy Severe mood swings Difficulty bonding with baby Withdrawal Thoughts of harming self or baby For more information: www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/ depression/index.htm Health and Wellness Magazine • 45