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Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding (for Parents)

Choosing whether to breastfeed or formula feed their baby is one of the biggest decisions expectant and new parents will make.

Healt experts believe breast milk is the best nutritional choice for infants. But breastfeeding may not be possible for all women. For many, the decision to breastfeed or formula feed is based on their comfort level, lifestyle, and specific medical situations.

For moms who can't breastfeed or who decide not to, infant formula is a healthy alternative. Formula provides babies with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Some mothers worry that if they don't breastfeed, they won't bond with their baby. But the truth is, loving mothers will always create a special bond with their children. And feeding — no matter how — is a great time to strengthen that bond.

The decision to breastfeed or formula feed your baby is a personal one. Weighing the pros and cons of each method can help you decide what is best for you and your baby.

All About Breastfeeding

Nursing can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby. It provides ideal nourishment and a special bonding experience that many mothers cherish.

A number of health organizations — including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) — recommend breastfeeding as the best choice for babies. Breastfeeding helps defend against infections, prevent allergies, and protect against a number of chronic conditions.

The AAP recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months. Beyond that, breastfeeding is encouraged until at least 12 months, and longer if both the mother and baby are willing.

Here are some of the many benefits of breastfeeding:

Fighting infections and other conditions. Breastfed babies have fewer infections and hospitalizations than formula-fed infants. During breastfeeding, antibodies and other germ-fighting factors pass from a mother to her baby and strengthen the immune system. This helps lower a baby's chances of getting many infections, including:

  • ear infections
  • diarrhea
  • respiratory infections
  • meningitis

Breastfeeding also may protect babies against:

  • allergies
  • asthma
  • diabetes
  • obesity
  • sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Breastfeeding is particularly beneficial for premature babies.

Nutrition and ease of digestion. Often called the "perfect food" for a human baby's digestive system, breast milk's components — lactose, protein (whey and casein), and fat — are easily digested by a newborn.

As a group, breastfed infants have less difficulty with digestion than do formula-fed infants. Breast milk tends to be more easily digested so that breastfed babies have fewer bouts of diarrhea or constipation.

Breast milk also naturally contains many of the vitamins and minerals that a newborn requires. One exception is vitamin D — the AAP recommends that all breastfed babies begin receiving vitamin D supplements during the first 2 months and continuing until a baby consumes enough vitamin D-fortified formula or milk (after 1 year of age).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates formula companies to ensure they provide all the necessary nutrients (including vitamin D) in their formulas. Still, commercial formulas can't completely match breast milk's exact composition. Why? Because milk is a living substance made by each mother for her individual infant, a process that can't be duplicated in a factory.

Free. Breast milk doesn't cost a cent, while the cost of formula quickly adds up. And unless you're pumping breast milk and giving it to your baby, there's no need for bottles, nipples, and other supplies that can be costly. Since breastfed babies are less likely to be sick, that may mean they make fewer trips to the doctor's office, so fewer co-pays and less money are paid for prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines.

Different tastes. Nursing mothers usually need 300 to 500 extra calories per day, which should come from a wide variety of well-balanced foods. This introduces breastfed babies to different tastes through their mothers' breast milk, which has different flavors depending on what their mothers have eaten. By tasting the foods of their "culture," breastfed infants more easily accept solid foods.

Convenience. With no last-minute runs to the store for more formula, breast milk is always fresh and available whether you're home or out and about. And when women breastfeed, there's no need to wash bottles and nipples or warm up bottles in the middle of the night.

Smarter babies. Some studies suggest that children who were exclusively breastfed have slightly higher IQs than children who were formula fed.

"Skin-to-skin" contact. Many nursing mothers really enjoy the experience of bonding so closely with their babies. And the skin-to-skin contact can enhance the emotional connection between mother and infant.

Beneficial for mom, too. The ability to totally nourish a baby can help a new mother feel confident in her ability to care for her baby. Breastfeeding also burns calories and helps shrink the uterus, so nursing moms may be able to return to their pre-pregnancy shape and weight quicker. Also, studies show that breastfeeding helps lower the risk of breast cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, and also may help decrease the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer.

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Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding can be easy from the get-go for some mothers, but take a while to get used to for others. Moms and babies need plenty of patience to get used to the routine of breastfeeding.

Common concerns of new moms, especially during the first few weeks and months, may include:

Personal comfort. Initially, many moms feel uncomfortable with breastfeeding. But with proper education, support, and practice, most moms overcome this.

Latch-on pain is normal for the first week to 10 days, and should last less than a minute with each feeding. But if breastfeeding hurts throughout feedings, or if their nipples and/or breasts are sore, it's a good idea for breastfeeding mothers to get help from a lactation consultant or their doctor. Many times, it's just a matter of using the proper technique, but sometimes pain can mean that something else is going on, like an infection.

Time and frequency of feedings. Breastfeeding requires a big time commitment from mothers, especially in the beginning, when babies feed often. A breastfeeding schedule or the need to pump breast milk during the day can make it harder for some moms to work, run errands, or travel.

And breastfed babies do need to eat more often than babies who take formula, because breast milk digests faster than formula. This means mom may find herself in demand every 2 or 3 hours (maybe more, maybe less) in the first few weeks.

Diet. Women who are breastfeeding need to be aware of what they eat and drink, since these can be passed to the baby through the breast milk. Just like during pregnancy, breastfeeding women should not eat fish that are high in mercury and should limit consumption of lower mercury fish.

If a mom drinks alcohol, a small amount can pass to the baby through breast milk. She should wait at least 2 hours after a single alcoholic drink to breastfeed to avoid passing any alcohol to the baby. Caffeine intake should be kept to no more than 300 milligrams (about one to three cups of regular coffee) or less per day because it can cause problems like restlessness and irritability in some babies.

Maternal medical conditions, medicines, and breast surgery. Medical conditions such as HIV or AIDS or those that involve chemotherapy or treatment with certain medicines can make breastfeeding unsafe. A woman should check with her doctor or a lactation consultant if she's unsure if she should breastfeed with a specific condition. Women should always check with the doctor about the safety of taking medicines while breastfeeding, including over-the-counter and herbal medicines.

Mothers who've had breast surgery, such as a reduction, may have difficulty with their milk supply if their milk ducts have been severed. In this situation, a woman should to talk to her doctor about her concerns and work with a lactation specialist.

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All About Formula Feeding

Commercially prepared infant formulas are a nutritious alternative to breast milk, and even contain some vitamins and nutrients that breastfed babies need to get from supplements.

Manufactured under sterile conditions, commercial formulas attempt to duplicate mother's milk using a complex combination of proteins, sugars, fats, and vitamins that aren't possible to create at home. So if you don't breastfeed your baby, it's important to use only commercially prepared formula and not try to make your own.

Besides medical concerns that may prevent breastfeeding, for some women, breastfeeding may be too difficult or stressful. Here are other reasons women may choose to formula feed:

Convenience. Either parent (or another caregiver) can feed the baby a bottle at any time (although this is also true for women who pump their breast milk). This allows mom to share the feeding duties and helps her partner to feel more involved in the crucial feeding process and the bonding that often comes with it.

Flexibility. Once the bottles are made, a formula-feeding mother can leave her baby with a partner or caregiver and know that her little one's feedings are taken care of. There's no need to pump or to schedule work or other obligations and activities around the baby's feeding schedule. And formula-feeding moms don't need to find a private place to nurse in public.

Time and frequency of feedings. Because formula is less digestible than breast milk, formula-fed babies usually need to eat less often than breastfed babies.

Diet. Women who opt to formula feed don't have to worry about the things they eat or drink that could affect their babies.

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Formula Feeding Challenges

As with breastfeeding, there are some challenges to consider when deciding whether to formula feed.

Lack of antibodies. None of the antibodies found in breast milk are in manufactured formula. So formula can't provide a baby with the added protection against infection and illness that breast milk does.

Can't match the complexity of breast milk. Manufactured formulas have yet to duplicate the complexity of breast milk, which changes as the baby's needs change.

Planning and organization. Unlike breast milk — which is always available, unlimited, and served at the right temperature — formula feeding your baby requires planning and organization to make sure that you have what you need when you need it. Parents must buy formula and make sure it's always on hand to avoid late-night runs to the store.

And it's important to always have the necessary supplies (like bottles and nipples) clean, easily accessible, and ready to go — otherwise, you will have a very hungry, very fussy baby to answer to. With 8-10 feedings in a 24-hour period, parents can quickly get overwhelmed if they're not prepared and organized.

Expense. Formula can be costly. Powdered formula is the least expensive, followed by concentrated, with ready-to-feed being the most expensive. And specialty formulas (such as soy and hypoallergenic) cost more — sometimes far more — than the basic formulas. During the first year of life, the cost of basic formula can run about $1,500.

Possibility of producing gas and constipation. Formula-fed babies may have more gas and firmer bowel movements than breastfed babies.

Making a Choice

Deciding how you will feed your baby can be a hard decision. You'll really only know the right choice for your family when your baby comes.

Many women decide on one method before the birth and then change their minds after their baby is born. And many women decide to breastfeed and supplement with formula because they find that is the best choice for their family and their lifestyle.

While you're weighing the pros and cons, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant. These health care providers can give you more information about your options and help you make the best decision for your family.

Breastfeeding FAQs: How Much and How Often (for Parents)

Breastfeeding is a natural thing to do, but it still comes with its fair share of questions. Here's what you need to know about how often and how long to breastfeed your baby.

How Often Should I Breastfeed?

Newborn babies should breastfeed 8–12 times per day for about the first month. Breast milk is easily digested, so newborns are hungry often. Frequent feedings helps stimulate your milk production during the first few weeks.

By the time your baby is 1–2 months old, he or she probably will nurse 7–9 times a day.

In the first few weeks of life, breastfeeding should be "on demand" (when your baby is hungry), which is about every 1-1/2 to 3 hours. As newborns get older, they'll nurse less often, and may have a more predictable schedule. Some might feed every 90 minutes, whereas others might go 2–3 hours between feedings.

Newborns should not go more than about 4 hours without feeding, even overnight.

How Do I Count the Time Between Feedings?

Count the length of time between feedings from the time your baby begins to nurse (rather than at the end) to when your little one starts nursing again. In other words, when your doctor asks how often your baby is feeding, you can say "about every 2 hours" if your first feeding started at 6 a.m., the next feeding was around 8 a.m., then 10 a.m., and so on.

Especially at first, you might feel like you're nursing around the clock, which is normal. Soon enough, your baby will go longer between feedings.

How Long Does Nursing Take?

Newborns may nurse for up to 20 minutes or longer on one or both breasts. As babies get older and more skilled at breastfeeding, they may take about 5–10 minutes on each side.

How long it takes to breastfeed depends on you, your baby, and other things, such as whether:

  • your milk supply has come in (this usually happens 2–5 days after birth)
  • your let-down reflex (which causes milk to flow from the nipple) happens right away or after a few minutes into a feeding
  • your milk flow is slow or fast
  • the baby has a good latch, taking in as much as possible of your areola (the dark circle of skin around your nipple)
  • your baby begins gulping right away or takes it slow
  • your baby is sleepy or distracted

Call your doctor if you're worried that your baby's feedings seem too short or too long.

When Should I Alternate Breasts?

Alternate breasts and try to give each one the same amount of nursing time throughout the day. This helps to keep up your milk supply in both breasts and prevents painful engorgement (when your breasts overfill with milk).

You may switch breasts in the middle of each feeding and then alternate which breast you offer first for each feeding. Can't remember where your baby last nursed? It can help to attach a reminder — like a safety pin or small ribbon — to your bra strap so you'll know which breast your baby last nursed on. Then, start with that breast at the next feeding. Or, keep a notebook handy or use a breastfeeding app to keep track of how your baby feeds.

Your baby may like switching breasts at each feeding or prefer to nurse just on one side. If so, then offer the other breast at the next feeding. Do whatever works best and is the most comfortable for you and your baby.

How Often Should I Burp My Baby During Feedings?

After your baby finishes on one side, try burping before switching breasts. Sometimes, the movement alone can be enough to cause a baby to burp.

Some infants need more burping, others less, and it can vary from feeding to feeding.

If your baby spits up a lot, try burping more often. While it's normal for infants to "spit up" a small amount after eating or during burping, a baby should not vomit after feeding. If your baby throws up all or most of a feeding, there could be a problem that needs medical care. If you're worried that your baby is spitting up too much, call your doctor.

Why Is My Baby Hungrier Than Usual?

When babies go through a period of rapid growth (called a growth spurt), they want to eat more than usual. These can happen at any time. But in the early months, growth spurts often happen when a baby is:

  • 7–14 days old
  • 2 months old
  • 4 months old
  • 6 months old

During these times and whenever your baby seems extra hungry, follow your little one's hunger cues. You may need to breastfeed more often for a while.

How Long Should I Breastfeed My Baby?

That's a personal choice. Experts recommend that babies be breastfed exclusively (without formula, water, juice, non–breast milk, or food) for the first 6 months. Then, breastfeeding can continue until 12 months (and beyond) if it's working for you and your baby.

Breastfeeding has many benefits for mom and baby both. Studies show that breastfeeding can lessen a baby's chances of diarrhea, ear infections, and bacterial meningitis, or make symptoms less severe. Breastfeeding also may protect children from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), diabetes, obesity, and asthma.

For moms, breastfeeding burns calories and helps shrink the uterus. In fact, breastfeeding moms might return to their pre–pregnancy shape and weight quicker. Breastfeeding also helps lower a woman's risk of diseases like:

  • breast cancer
  • high blood pressure
  • diabetes
  • heart disease

It also might help protect moms from uterine cancer and ovarian cancer.

"Terrible beast" staphylococcus / "My baby and me"

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September 2010

Natalia Rubina; consultants: Irina Perren, head of the pediatric department of the European Medical Center; Natalya Taran, neonatologist, candidate of medical sciences, researcher I employee of the scientific advisory department of the 1st Research Institute of Nutrition of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences

Immediately after birth, the baby faces a very dangerous enemy - Staphylococcus aureus. How to recognize a staph infection and, if possible, avoid it? nine0003

The story of a mother

On the 12th day after being discharged from the maternity hospital, Olesya discovered that her little daughter's eyes were swollen and began to fester, and redness appeared on her buttocks. At the same time, the baby did not stop crying. The district doctor examined the girl and suggested that the redness on her skin was the result of errors in her mother's diet. Olesya went on a severe diet. However, after another two weeks, some rashes appeared around the child’s mouth, the skin began to desperately peel off, and Olesya herself had cracks on the nipples, her chest became hard and very painful, her temperature jumped. nine0003

At the children's polyclinic, she was asked to have her breast milk tested. A couple of days later, its results became known - epidermal and Staphylococcus aureus were found in milk. The district doctor insisted on stopping breastfeeding and prescribed a mixture. Olesya and her daughter took antibiotics for a month. At the same time, she continued to express milk, not giving it to the child. During this month, the baby became noticeably better, and there was no need to give her medication. The second analysis of milk showed the presence of only epidermal staphylococcus in it, but the doctor still insisted on the abolition of breastfeeding. Then Olesya decided to seek advice from another doctor, and he assured her that the presence of any type of staphylococcus in milk is not dangerous for the child. When Olesya's daughter was 2 months old, she was again eating exclusively her mother's milk. nine0003

We asked neonatologist Natalya Taran to comment on this situation: “Most likely, the girl contracted a staphylococcal infection at the maternity hospital, and after discharge, the disease turned into an active form. And already from the child, through the cracks in the nipples, the mother also became infected. Those rashes on the skin, which the local doctor took as the result of malnutrition of the mother, most likely were also caused by a staphylococcal infection. At the same time, it is strange that the doctor did not pay any attention to the symptoms of conjunctivitis. After all, it can also be caused by staphylococcus aureus. Purulent discharge from the eyes had to be analyzed to identify the pathogen. But the doctor clearly overdid it, abolishing breastfeeding. If a mother receives antibiotics against a staphylococcal infection, then the child receives treatment against the disease with milk. Breastfeeding is canceled in the only case - if the mother has purulent mastitis. But the child will not drink milk with purulent discharge on his own. It’s good that my mother was not at a loss and, feeling doubts, she turned to another specialist for additional advice.” nine0003

Staphylococci are a whole genus of bacteria. Today, many types of staphylococcus are known, many of which live on the skin and mucous membranes of a person, as well as in the intestines. Most staphylococci are absolutely harmless, only three members of this family can cause disease - epidermal, saprophytic and golden staphylococci. And the last one is the most dangerous. The body of a healthy person can easily cope with staphylococcus aureus. However, if for some reason immunity decreases, staphylococcus goes on the attack, causing various diseases. This microbe can also enter the body where the integrity of the skin is broken (in a woman in labor, for example, through cracks in the nipples, and in a newborn, through the umbilical wound). nine0003

Acquaintance with staphylococcus aureus is possible immediately after birth - a baby can get this bacterium passing through the birth canal or from the mother's skin as soon as she puts it to the breast for the first time. Most children easily cope with the microbe, but in premature babies and those born with reduced immunity due to complications during pregnancy, staphylococcus aureus can cause various diseases.

Symptoms

In both children and adults, a distinction is made between early and late forms of staphylococcal infection. The early one manifests itself within a few hours after the bacteria enters the body, the disease begins acutely and severely - the temperature rises sharply, diarrhea and vomiting may begin, the child becomes lethargic, loses appetite. Tellingly, in infants, all infections begin with such symptoms. Therefore, do not even try to make a diagnosis yourself, and when the first signs of the disease appear, consult a doctor. The late form of staphylococcal infection appears after 3-5 days. As a rule, the infection primarily affects the skin and, if not treated on time, can go deeper, affecting the internal organs, and even cause sepsis. nine0003

However, in some cases the disease is asymptomatic or with minor pustular skin lesions. So, if you notice any rashes on the child's skin, do not rush to write them off as errors in your diet or prickly heat - show them to the doctor. If the doctor suspects that they are infectious in nature, he will prescribe the necessary tests to identify the pathogen. As a rule, in such cases, skin scrapings and a complete blood count are made, which will show whether the child is sick. nine0003

Asymptomatic carriage in an adult is extremely dangerous for others - after all, a person does not know that he is sick and does not take any measures, being a source of infection. At the same time, in the body of a sick person, the amount of staphylococcus increases sharply, and its pathogenic properties increase. Since staphylococcal infection is transmitted by contact, it can be contracted by simply touching the patient.

“In the body of a child whose immunity is weakened for certain reasons, the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria is disturbed, and Staphylococcus aureus can begin to multiply actively,” says Irina Perrin, a pediatrician at the European Medical Center. - But I want to emphasize: even if staphylococcus aureus is found in the tests, but there is no clinical picture of the disease (the child feels well, gains weight), then no medical treatment is required. Treat the patient, not the tests. nine0003

You need to sound the alarm if the child has signs of a bacterial infection: fever, loss of appetite, decreased weight gain, pustules on the skin, inflammation of the umbilical ring, diarrhea, etc. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe necessary treatment."

HOW IS STAPHYLOCOCCUS INFECTION?

Staphylococcal infection causes many different diseases in newborns. All of them are extremely dangerous, so if you find the first symptoms, consult a doctor. nine0003

ENTERITIS (ENTEROCOLITIS)

Signs of disease
Frequent (up to 15 times a day) mushy, slimy, watery mortar, the child cries, often burps, his tummy is swollen. A high temperature may rise and vomiting may begin. The latter is especially dangerous for babies, as it leads to rapid dehydration.

Treatment
Hospitalization required. As soon as you notice the first symptoms, call your doctor as soon as possible. In the meantime, the doctor is traveling, make up for the lack of fluid in the child's body - every 10 minutes, give him a tablespoon of water. nine0003

Folk remedies - they can only be used in parallel with treatment in the hospital or after discharge.

  • Calendula flower infusion: 1 tsp. flowers in a glass of water. Give your baby a little in between feedings.
  • Infusion of chamomile flowers: 1 tbsp. l. dry flowers pour a glass of boiling water, boil for 5 minutes, leave for 4 hours, strain. Give 1 tsp. after feeding.

A decoction of pomegranate peels: take 20 g of dry peels or 50 g of pomegranate seeds, pour a glass of water, simmer for 30 minutes, strain. Give to drink 1 tsp. 2 times a day. nine0025
INFECTIOUS CONJUNCTIVITIS

Signs of illness
The child is crying, his eyes are reddened, swollen and watery, pus is released from them, yellow-green crusts are formed. After sleep, the eyelashes are glued together with pus so that the baby can hardly open his eyes.

Treatment
The doctor prescribes. It is necessary to pass the discharge from the eyes to the laboratory for analysis in order to identify the causative agent of the disease and choose the right antibiotic. nine0003

Folk remedies

  • Wipe baby's eyelids with breast milk. However, this remedy is not suitable if staphylococcus aureus is found in the mother's milk analysis.
  • Wipe the child's eyes with cotton swabs soaked in tea leaves (a strong solution of black tea).
  • Boil one teaspoon of honey in a glass of water for 2 minutes. When the honey water has cooled down, eye lotions are made from it 2 times a day for 20 minutes. The same water is dripped into the eyes 2-3 drops 2 times a day. nine0025
  • One teaspoon of calendula flowers pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 30-40 minutes, then strain thoroughly. Rinse the eyes of the child with the resulting solution several times a day.

NEWBORN BUBBLE (PEmphigus)

Signs of disease
On the skin (in the lower abdomen, in the folds of the neck, on the back), a lot of bubbles with cloudy contents form. The skin in these places is edematous, reddened. The child is lethargic and refuses to eat. nine0003

Treatment
Medicines are prescribed only by a doctor. As a rule, this is a course of antibiotics.

Folk remedies

  • Wipe the blisters with a cotton swab dipped in camphor oil (up to 4-5 times a day).

MULTIPLE ABSCESSES

Signs of illness
Purple-red pustules appear on the skin, which open with the release of yellow-green pus. The child has a fever, he is lethargic or, conversely, capricious. nine0003

Treatment
At the first sign of disease, consult a doctor.

SEPSIS

According to the course of the disease, septicemia and septicopyemia are distinguished. Septicemia begins rapidly with the development of jaundice, rapid weight loss, tachycardia. The child is restless and may have seizures. Septicopyemia begins with the appearance of pustules on the skin, sometimes abscesses develop. With umbilical sepsis, the umbilical wound becomes inflamed, the skin around is edematous, red. nine0003

Treatment
Treatment is prescribed by a doctor. As a rule, these are broad-spectrum antibiotics, stimulating therapy - blood transfusion, plasma injection, vitamins.

Nona Hovsepyan, Medical Consultant, Independent Laboratory "INVITRO"

In order to determine the presence of staphylococcus, as well as other harmful bacteria in breast milk, it is necessary to inoculate milk for microflora and Staphylococcus aureus with the determination of sensitivity to antibiotics. For analysis, breast milk is expressed into a sterile test tube or jar (you can purchase them at a pharmacy or laboratory). Before decanting, the hands and mammary glands must be treated with soap, the areola of the nipples should be wiped with 70% alcohol (each breast is treated with a separate swab). nine0003

The first portion (5-10 ml) of the test is not used, it is decanted into a separate container, and the second (10 ml) - into a sterile container for analysis. Milk from the left and right breasts must not be mixed, it must be collected in separate containers. For an accurate analysis result, no more than 3 hours should elapse between expressing milk and delivering it to the laboratory.

In parallel with determining the quantity and quality of bacteria in milk, their resistance to antibiotics and bacteriophages is studied, this is necessary for the correct selection of a drug for the treatment of staphylococcal infection. nine0003

If a staphylococcal infection is suspected in a newborn, it is necessary to examine the feces for pathogenic and opportunistic microflora. The material for this analysis is feces after natural defecation, which must be collected in a disposable container and delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible (within 3 hours). In order for the results to be more reliable, it is recommended to conduct a 2-3-fold study at intervals of 1-2 days.

Staphylococcus aureus can cause bronchitis, pneumonia and a number of other inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system. In such a situation, sowing is taken from the pharynx and nose in order to identify Staphylococcus aureus. All patients, including the smallest, take this analysis strictly on an empty stomach, and adults should not brush their teeth before this analysis (since the true picture may be distorted). nine0003

The culture is taken with a special probe, which is then placed in a special medium for bacterial growth.

In case of conjunctivitis, it is advisable to take the material for analysis in the morning before washing. In the presence of abundant purulent discharge, a sterile swab is used. Pus is collected from the inner surface of the lower eyelid by moving from the outer to the inner corner of the palpebral fissure. At the same time, the eyelids must be held with your hands so that when blinking, the eyelashes do not touch the tampon. If there is a small amount of pus, then the tampon is pre-moistened with distilled water. nine0003

For skin diseases caused by staphylococcus, it is necessary to take a skin scraping or examine the discharge from the wound for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus. To do this, treat the skin around the wound with an antiseptic or a cotton swab moistened with 70% ethyl alcohol. Necrotic (dead) masses and pus are removed with a sterile gauze napkin, then, with the help of a special cotton swab, the discharge from the wound is taken.

"Hospital" infection nine0003

A staphylococcal infection is called hospital or maternity. In patients of these institutions, immunity is usually weakened, and staphylococcus against this background goes on the attack. However, in order for the infection to become widespread, it must have a focus - a sick person. It can be someone from the staff, one of the women in labor or a sick child. The mechanism of transmission of infection is simple - through the hands. For example, the carrier of the infection is a nurse in a maternity hospital. She has small pustules on her skin, which she did not attach due importance to. Swaddling or treating a newborn without disposable gloves, this nurse immediately infects him. Or if a child is sick, and the nurse took him in her arms, then she is already infected. And it can pass the infection to the next baby with whom it comes into contact. nine0003

To prevent outbreaks of infection from the hands of medical staff, from furniture and equipment, swabs are regularly made - the epidemiological service treats them with a special solution, and then examines it for the presence of various bacteria, simultaneously determining the degree of their pathogenicity. For the same purpose, maternity hospitals are closed twice a year for washing (and, of course, this is done unscheduled as soon as an infection is detected). At the same time, all surfaces, including the ceiling, are treated with disinfectant solutions that destroy staphylococcus bacteria. Therefore, when choosing a maternity hospital, ask when was the last time it was closed for washing. If it was a few months ago, maybe it makes sense to go to another maternity hospital. nine0003

Is milk safe?

The main "gateway" for a staphylococcal infection in a woman is cracked nipples. Therefore, as soon as they appear, they must be immediately treated with aniline solutions, to which staphylococcus is very sensitive - brilliant green, fucorcin or methylene blue. At the same time, it is necessary to breastfeed the baby, using special linings on the nipples (including to relieve pain). It is not necessary to wash the mammary glands with soap before each feeding, it is quite enough to take a shower twice a day. Frequent washing dries out the skin, and this, in turn, contributes to the appearance of new cracks in the nipples, where infection can penetrate. nine0003

If the fissure is sharply painful, inflamed, a seal appears around it, and pus is released from the chest, then we may be dealing with a staphylococcal infection. In this case, the doctor may recommend that you donate breast milk for analysis. However, if you just have cracks, this is not a reason to run with milk for analysis. For this, there must be symptoms of inflammation (sharp throbbing pain in the chest and purulent discharge). In any case, you should come for an examination to a doctor who will determine what is wrong with you and help you cope with cracks faster. nine0003

If an epidermal staphylococcus is found in the analysis of milk, most likely, the analysis was taken incorrectly, and the microbe got there from the skin. If Staphylococcus aureus is found in milk, then with a high probability it can be argued that it is also in the blood of a woman. And this is already a serious situation that cannot proceed asymptomatically - there must be manifestations of a bacterial infection (high temperature, weakness).

But it is important to remember that the presence of any kind of staphylococcus in milk (if the woman does not have purulent mastitis) is not a reason to stop breastfeeding. In this case, the woman will need to undergo a course of antibiotic treatment, which is allowed during lactation, which, getting to the baby with breast milk, at the same time protect him from infection. nine0003

Treatment

Only a doctor should make a diagnosis, let alone prescribe treatment for a staphylococcal infection. As a rule, antibiotics of the penicillin series and bacteriophages (microorganisms that selectively infect bacterial cells) are prescribed.

The most common mistake moms make is self-treatment. As soon as you or your child has pustular skin rashes, high fever, diarrhea or vomiting, loss of appetite, contact your doctor immediately. nine0003

The biggest mistake doctors make is overestimating the gravity of the situation. If you think that your doctor is playing it safe, for example, by canceling breastfeeding, do not be too lazy to seek additional advice from another specialist.

QUESTION FROM A VISITOR OF THE SITE WWW.KROKHA.RU

Staphylococcus aureus was found in the feces of a child, while there are symptoms of normal dysbacteriosis (slight disturbance of the stool, regurgitation, mild anxiety). Is it necessary to treat staphylococcus aureus? And in this case, what to do in general? nine0136

NATALYA TARAN: Staphylococcus does not cause dysbacteriosis. The reason for the appearance of staphylococcus in the analysis is most likely that it (the analysis) was not collected correctly, and the microbe got there from the skin. So, first of all, such an analysis must be retaken (see above). And then look for and eliminate the cause of dysbacteriosis.

PREVENTION OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS IN NEWBORN

Discharge from the maternity hospital with the baby home as soon as possible, of course, if the doctors do not mind. During your stay in the maternity hospital, if possible, stay in a single room and together with the child. nine0003

Be sure to wash your hands before feeding and caring for your baby. If you have cuts, scratches on your hands, then treat them with fucorcin or green paint. Well, if pustules, inflamed places appear on your skin, then be sure to show them to the doctor. Until their cause is clarified, it is better for the father or grandmother to take care of the child.

Watch your child carefully. A rise in temperature, lethargy, refusal to eat, "unreasonable" crying, skin rashes, diarrhea - all this should alert you and prompt you to call a doctor. nine0003

Be sure to ask all relatives, doctors from the polyclinic who want to come and pick up a newborn, wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water. Give them a separate towel. Do not hesitate to refuse people whose health inspires you with fear.

Harden your baby from the first days of life (see article in My Baby and Me #5, 2010) so that he has good immunity.

The 12 Best Pets for Kids

Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet for Your Child

Pets bring joy and help instill a sense of responsibility in a child. At the same time, a thoughtless choice can end badly for both you and the animal.

In an article on PetMD, veterinarian Lauri Hess says that many people get frustrated with their pets simply because they don't know how to take care of them and what to expect.

So before you go to the pet store or look for listings, think of a few things:

  • How much space is needed. Estimate where your pet will live and whether you can place him away from the bed. Some animals, such as rats and hamsters, are nocturnal and can interfere with sleep.
  • How much does it cost to take care of an animal. Will you be able to buy a spacious cage for a rodent and a suitable terrarium for a reptile, will you have enough money for quality food, bedding, training and a visit to the veterinarian.
  • What will be interesting for the child. Some animals are well attached to people, others almost do not pay attention to them. What does your child want: to watch, to hold, to play, to walk with a pet? nine0061
  • Will the child be able to interact with the animal. Think about whether your children are ready to carefully handle fragile animals, gradually tame disturbing ones and take care of those who require constant attention.
  • What will you do if your child loses interest in a pet. Even if the kids beg you to buy a furry friend, after a week they may completely forget about him. Think about whether you can take care of the animal yourself and how you will look for him a new home if you are not ready for the extra trouble. nine0061

In any case, before you take an animal, bird or reptile, learn as much as possible about them. Watch videos from experienced breeders, read grooming articles, and talk to people who already have such pets.

Below we list a few popular pets for kids, the main features and problems you may encounter.

What kind of pets can you get for children

1. Cat

Photo: Anastasia Naumtseva / Lifehacker

A great option for any living conditions. For the most part, cats are affectionate, playful and non-aggressive animals that do not require special care and give their owners a lot of positive emotions.

If you want to get a kitten, it is better to do it not earlier than your child is 3-4 years old. It is more difficult for kids to explain that a cat is not a toy, but a living being, which can also be painful and unpleasant if, for example, the tail is pulled or held against its will.

In addition, an older child can take on some of the responsibility for the cat. For example, at 5 years old, he is able to pour food and change water, and at 6–7 years old, he can comb his pet and clean the toilet. nine0003

You should not get a cat if:

  • you are very worried about repairs and furniture. A pet can choose doorposts or a favorite sofa as a scratching post;
  • someone in the family is allergic to cats;
  • you are not ready to brush wool from clothes, furniture and everything in the house.

2. Dog

Photo: Evgenia Sevastyanova / Lifehacker

As a rule, families with children are advised to choose non-aggressive, friendly and non-competitive dogs. The list of the best usually includes Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Bulldog, Beagle, Irish Setter, Collie, French Bulldog. nine0003

But one must understand that even dogs of the same breed can differ greatly from each other due to their mental characteristics, and with proper education, almost any dog ​​can become an affectionate and faithful friend.

The question is whether you are ready to devote enough time to it. Unlike cats and many other pets, dogs do require a lot of time and effort. We can say that when you get a dog, you bring another family member into the house. If you're not ready to expand just yet, consider other options. nine0003

A dog is not suitable for you as a pet if:

  • you are not ready to pay for food, trips to the veterinarian and cynologist;
  • you don't have time for daily walks and training;
  • at home you value peace and quiet.

3. Budgerigar

Photo: pixel2013 / Pixabay

Bright, sociable and noisy birds are great for home keeping. They become attached to their owners, imitate speech and are even able to learn a few words. nine0003

Since a small child can inadvertently harm a fragile pet, it is better to get parakeets for children over five years old. And it is advisable to immediately take at least two, so that they are not bored.

In addition, it is worth considering that parrots need periodic flights to keep their wings in good shape. At this time, you will need to monitor the feathered one so that it does not harm itself and does not spoil things and wallpapers.

It is better not to have a parrot if:

  • you are not ready to put up with constant noise; nine0061
  • you plan to have only one bird and are not ready to devote much time to it;
  • you are not sure that the child will be able to handle the pet carefully.

4. Rat

Photo: Iya Zorina / Lifehacker

Rats are smart and active, they are not afraid of people and other pets, they climb well, jump far and love to explore something new. Watching them is pure pleasure.

The child will be able to carry a pet on his shoulder, play with him and even take him for a walk. Decorative rats are very friendly, quickly get used to the owners and do not bite. nine0003

But their claws leave micro-scratches on the skin, which then itch. This passes quickly, but is still unpleasant, so it is better if the rat runs on clothes, and not on bare shoulders and neck.

Even if the children promise to spend a lot of time with the rodent, it is better not to keep the rat alone - she will be bored. It is better to take two individuals of the same sex or a whole company.

It's better not to have rats if you:

  • are going to keep a cage in the room where you sleep. Rodents are active at dusk and make noise at night; nine0061
  • know that a child is very attached to pets. Rats live for about 3 years and often get sick;
  • you want to have only one animal and are not ready to devote much time to it.

Learn 🐭

  • What you need to know before getting a pet rat

5. Chinchilla

Photo: Lidia Suyagina / Lifehacker

These cute rodents have very soft and fluffy fur, big eyes and cute paws that look like little hands. But at the same time, you should think twice before giving such a charming child to a child.

Chinchillas are not particularly contact, they need to be tamed, and if they get scared, they can bite. Moreover, the rodent should not be kept in your arms for a long time, so that the pet does not overheat, and its dry fur does not get wet from wet hands.

Therefore, you should not get a chinchilla for a child under 10-12 years old. First you need to make sure that he can learn all the rules for handling a gentle animal and treat him with care. nine0003

As far as care is concerned, chinchillas need a large cage with a plastic or wooden bottom as the rods can irritate the animal's paws, sand baths and temperature control - they are very sensitive to overheating.

You shouldn't get a chinchilla if:

  • you want a contact pet that can be picked up all the time;
  • there is no room for a large cage in the apartment;
  • you are allergic to animals;
  • you don't have the opportunity to put the cage where the fuss and cries of the chinchilla will not be heard at night. nine0061

6. Rabbit

Photo: Daria Gromova / Lifehacker

These fluffy pets are quite smart. They can be trained, they can remember their name and respond to it, they are accustomed to the tray. If a rabbit is accustomed to a person, it can be quite affectionate and playful, happy to sit in your arms.

However, it must be taken into account that it must be taken correctly and in no case should it be grabbed by the ears. Otherwise, a frightened rabbit may bite the offender or hit him hard enough with his hind legs. nine0003

It is best to get a rabbit for a child from 7–8 years old, so that the little owner treats the pet with care and can take care of him.

An adult rabbit is about the size of a cat, but requires much more attention. He needs a cage at least 120 x 60 x 120 cm or a special paddock in which he can move freely.

Some owners keep rabbits without a cage. If you decide to do this, keep in mind that pets will gnaw on everything wooden, including your furniture, they can ruin wires and other things. So it's better not to leave them unattended. nine0003

Don't get a rabbit if you:

  • can't buy a spacious cage or pen;
  • are not ready to sweep up the debris, wool and feces that a rabbit will leave free-range;
  • you are afraid that furniture, wallpaper and everything on the floor may be damaged.

7. Bearded dragon

Photo: Regina Smetankina

These are reptiles that like to sit on their hands. So if your child is into lizards, the bearded dragon is the best choice. nine0003

Keep this lizard in a spacious glass terrarium with dimensions of about 120 x 60 x 60 cm. They also need ultraviolet lamps, a temperature of about 35-40 ° C and an air humidity of 30-40%.

In addition, the bearded lizard needs to be fed live insects - they make up 80% of the reptile's diet, while only 20% comes from fruits, vegetables and greens. If you (and the child) are not scared by this, it will be very interesting.

The Bearded Dragon is not for you if you are:

  • are not ready to spend money on a spacious terrarium, lamps and heating;
  • are not sure that you will carefully monitor the temperature and the presence of light;
  • you hate the insects that you have to feed the lizard.

8. Hamster

Photo: metalboy25 / Pixabay

Hamsters look very nice, do not require much free space and tolerate loneliness well. Unlike rats or birds, they do not need the company of relatives to live a happy life. Moreover, these rodents will not be upset if they are not taken out of the cage at all. nine0003

Despite their cute appearance, hamsters are not very sociable, require gradual taming and bite quite strongly if frightened. Therefore, you should not get such pets for small children, who so far cannot recognize a living creature in a soft ball with their needs and fears.

In terms of housing, the hamster needs a cage with dimensions of at least 50 x 40 x 30 cm, with a running wheel and a distance of no more than 1.5 cm between the bars so that the rodent does not escape. This animal cannot exist on a free range and, if lost, is very likely to get into trouble and die. nine0003

You shouldn't have a hamster if:

  • you can't stand noise at night. Rodents are active at dusk, so if you put the cage where you sleep, it will interfere;
  • the child is strongly attached to pets. Hamsters live only 2-3 years;
  • you want to be able to play with your pet. It all depends on the nature of the particular animal and your domestication efforts, but still some hamsters can avoid contact with people, so the child will only have to watch him. nine0061

9. Achatina snail

Photo: Valeriia Miller / Pexels

If your child likes exotic pets, giant Achatina can be a great choice. Such pets will not cause any inconvenience - they will not make noise and scatter garbage, they will not bite or scratch the baby. At the same time, they live for quite a long time - up to 10 years.

Snail care is also easy. Achatina live in a terrarium or a ventilated container with a volume of 10 liters or more, on a bedding of soil or coconut substrate. It is important to maintain a temperature of 24-28 ° C and a humidity of 70-85% in the habitat, and change the filler and water in a timely manner. nine0003

Snails eat once a day, fruits and vegetables such as apples, cucumbers, carrots, lettuce. Achatina is also recommended to give calcium supplements, for example, from crushed eggshells.

You should not get a snail if:

  • your child wants an active pet that will be interesting to play with;
  • you are not ready to seriously approach the arrangement of the terrarium, maintaining the desired temperature and humidity. If the snail is cold, it can hide in its shell and fall into suspended animation. nine0061

10. Canary

Photo: Ralphs_Fotos / Pixabay

Canaries are great for kids who enjoy watching animals rather than interacting with them.

These bright and beautiful birds do not require special care. Unlike parrots, they cannot pinch a finger painfully and do not need occasional flights outside the cage.

However, canaries do not tolerate loneliness, so it is advisable to take several individuals at once. If you want songbirds, take males - they are more vociferous, and their trills are more melodic. nine0003

A rectangular cage with several perches is suitable for keeping a canary. It must be installed in a well-ventilated and well-lit area. Daylight in the morning and darkness at night are necessary for the health of the birds. It also depends on whether they will sing.

Do not take a canary if:

  • you are annoyed by noise, fuss and chirping;
  • your child is not careful enough and can harm a fragile pet.

11. Yemeni chameleon

Photo: aixklusiv / Pixabay

This is a bright and beautiful reptile with a long tongue, lightning-fast reaction and eyes that rotate independently of each other. The chameleon is active during the daytime, so that the child can watch him and take the pet in his arms without fear.

To keep a chameleon, you will need a 60 x 45 x 90 cm terrarium with good ventilation, woody soil bedding and various snags and branches to crawl on.

As with the bearded lizard, the Yemeni chameleon definitely needs UV lamps, which should shine for 11-13 hours and then turn off. In order not to disturb its natural cycles, it is advisable to set a timer. nine0003

Particular attention should be paid to the heating of the terrarium. In the place where the chameleon is kept, there should be two zones: cold with a temperature of about 26 ° C and warm - from 35 ° C. In the second, the lizard will bask after eating.

Chameleons feed mainly on insects. They do not notice standing water, so you will have to install a drip drinker or waterfall.

As for taming a chameleon, at first the child can feed him from his hands, and when the lizard gets used to it, take it out of the terrarium. However, everything here depends on the particular individual - some get along well with people and become attached to the owners, others do not tolerate relationships outside their zone. nine0003

You shouldn't have a chameleon if:

  • you have an aversion to insects, as they form the main part of the lizard's diet;
  • are not ready to seriously approach the arrangement of the terrarium - take care of temperature, humidity, the presence of various snags and lighting.

12. Guinea pig

Photo: rubyclement / Pixabay

Guinea pigs rarely bite, but they are very shy and require some effort to tame. In order for the pet to feel comfortable and not be afraid of the owners, you need to gradually accustom it to hands, lure it with goodies and wait until the animal gets used to it and stops being scared. nine0003

If you are not sure that the child is attentive enough to cope with it on their own, try not to leave them unattended with the pet at first. Otherwise, the furry friend will be in constant stress, which will have a bad effect on his health.

Like rats, guinea pigs cannot stand loneliness, and a person cannot always replace his fellows with him. Therefore, it is better to have two individuals of the same sex at once so that they are not bored.

Since these rodents are quite large, keep them in a spacious cage at least a meter long and sometimes let them out for walks, making sure that the environment is safe.

Learn more