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Birth Is Good for Babies
by Marcy White
A healthy, full-term fetus responds to the stress of labor with a surge in the level of catecholamines, mainly adrenalin (epinephrine) and noradrenalin (norepinephrine). This article provides an overview of the role of catecholamines during labor and birth. Specifically, catecholamines 1.) help the fetus conserve energy and oxygen; 2.) redistribute circulation to the fetal brain, heart, and kidneys/adrenal glands; 3.) increase fetal carbohydrate metabolism and heat production; 4.) are beneficial for the newborn's breathing; and, 5.) stimulate the nervous system so that the newborn is aroused and alert for the first one to two hours after birth. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that high catecholamine levels are beneficial for the baby -- a built-in defense to provide protection during birth and to help the newborn adapt to life outside the uterus.
Sensitive Care for Newborns
by Sandy Jones
Observation and research show that newborns enter the world with sophisticated survival mechanisms and remarkable sensibilities. They also arrive equipped with an extensive repertoire of reflexes and responses. Unfortunately much of what is known about newborn capabilities has not been translated into "best practice" when it comes to routine care of the newborn in the hospital setting. This article provides an overview of newborn senses and reflexes, and discusses strategies for creating a baby-sensitive, post-birth environment.
Early Versus Delayed Cord Clamping
by Lynne Bluff
Early cord clamping has only been predominantly done since the 1960s; however, there is much research to say that delayed cord clamping is immensely beneficial. Early cord clamping results in hypovolemia and, as a result, can cause severe hypoxia. Particularly significant in preemies, delayed cord clamping can reduce the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing entero-colitis, and brain damage due to hypoxia. It also increases iron storage and so prevents anemia and related problems.
The Baby Who Follows the Loss of a Sibling: Special Considerations in the Postpartum Period
by Joann M. O'Leary
To view this article (in pdf format), click here.
The Joy of Giving Infant Massage
by Rosalie Moore
The miraculous changes a woman's body goes through during pregnancy and birth, and the demands of caring for a newborn while coping with sleep deprivation, all add up to tension and anxiety which can become habitual in the early weeks and months of parenthood. A baby's daily massage offers a time for parents to relax, clear their minds, and unwind. This article examines the ancient art of infant massage, its psychological and physiological benefits, and explores how infant massage therapy could be a fulfilling new addition to your career.
The Childbirth Educator's Role in Preparing New Parents to Transport Infants
by Lorrie Walker
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injury to American children. Childbirth educators have enviable access to expectant parents and are well-positioned to educate them about motor vehicle risks to infants. This article summarizes important information for educators working with expectant parents. It is important to note that, of the nearly 4 million live births in the United States annually, approximately 12 percent of newborns are delivered prematurely. Premature infants require special attention and equipment during transport.
Family Focus
by Susan S. Bartell
Is it Always Love at First Sight?
Although mothers expect to fall instantly in love with their newborn, they are sometimes disappointed. In some situations it may take days or even months for a mother to experience that intense, expected feeling. This article explores the primary situations that can impede the development of immediate love and also provides childbirth educators with suggestions for how to help parents anticipate and manage the anxiety and guilt that may accompany the feeling of not falling immediately in love with their newborn.
The Cochrane Library: What's New and Noteworthy
Statistics
by Dale King
Infant and Neonatal Mortality Rates in the United States
Nutrition News
by Davorka Monti
Can My Six-Week-Old Eat Thanksgiving Dinner? Early Introduction of Solids to Infants
Certification Update
Resources
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