Becoming a parent is a very exciting, emotional, and sometimes stressful process. As you prepare to bring your baby home, there are many new things to consider in order to give your baby the best possible start to a healthy life.
Keeping your baby healthy and safe is a full time job, but we are here to help with information, reminders, resources and suggestions. Share this information with family and friends and anyone who might care for your baby
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding an infant exclusively for the first six months of life with breastfeeding continuing for 1 year and beyond with appropriate supplemental foods. This is recommended because breast milk is widely considered to be the best food for human babies. Learning about the benefits and joys of breastfeeding can help you decide if it is right for you and your baby.
Breast milk contains many components that help babies get the best start in life. And in some cases, the longer a baby is breastfed, the greater the benefits! Some benefits of breastfeeding for babies include:
Moms also see great benefits while breastfeeding their baby. Some of those benefits include:
Health benefits for both mother and baby are great reasons to breastfeed! However, when asking breastfeeding moms what the best benefit of breastfeeding is, many will say that the bonding time they have with their baby is by far the greatest thing about nursing!
Breastfeeding lowers the risk of many medical conditions in both mothers and babies. Infants that are breastfed have been shown to have a lower risk of SIDS, allergies, and diabetes later in life. Moms that breastfeed have a lower risk of developing cancer. Because of these great benefits, your community most likely has breastfeeding support to help you overcome barriers and breastfeed longer. Look for these breastfeeding supporters in your community!
It can be a very powerful feeling to know that you are not alone in wanting to provide the best nutrition and health for your baby. Coming into contact with any of these breastfeeding supporters can give you a helping hand, which will benefit both you and your baby for years to come!
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding an infant exclusively for the first six months of life with breastfeeding continuing for 1 year and beyond with appropriate supplemental foods. This is recommended because breast milk is widely considered to be the best food for human babies. Learning about the benefits and joys of breastfeeding can help you decide if it is right for you and your baby.
Breast milk contains many components that help babies get the best start in life. And in some cases, the longer a baby is breastfed, the greater the benefits! Some benefits of breastfeeding for babies include:
Moms also see great benefits while breastfeeding their baby. Some of those benefits include:
Health benefits for both mother and baby are great reasons to breastfeed! However, when asking breastfeeding moms what the best benefit of breastfeeding is, many will say that the bonding time they have with their baby is by far the greatest thing about nursing!
Breastfeeding lowers the risk of many medical conditions in both mothers and babies. Infants that are breastfed have been shown to have a lower risk of SIDS, allergies, and diabetes later in life. Moms that breastfeed have a lower risk of developing cancer. Because of these great benefits, your community most likely has breastfeeding support to help you overcome barriers and breastfeed longer. Look for these breastfeeding supporters in your community!
It can be a very powerful feeling to know that you are not alone in wanting to provide the best nutrition and health for your baby. Coming into contact with any of these breastfeeding supporters can give you a helping hand, which will benefit both you and your baby for years to come!
Congratulations! You have a new baby to care for. But it’s also important that you care for yourself. You went through many changes while you were pregnant and there are still some emotional and physical changes yet to come. Here are some common questions and answers:
Bleeding is normal and means you are healing. The flow of blood should slowly become a lighter color and decrease in amount in 1 to 3 weeks after the birth of your baby. If you notice a fever over 100 degrees, are passing clots or clumps of blood, or increased discharge with a bad odor – call your health care provider.
Stitches used to repair your episiotomy do not have to be taken out. They will dissolve. In the meantime, do not wipe the area, rather rinse with clear warm water or blot dry.
If you are breastfeeding, use only water to clean the breasts and nipples. Avoid soap or creams that contain alcohol and wear a clean, well-fitting bra day and night. If you are not breastfeeding, use ice packs for no more than 15 minutes at a time and do not empty the breasts by pumping or massage as this will make more milk come in.
If you are breastfeeding, your period may take several months to return. If you are bottle feeding your baby, your periods may return in 4 to 8 weeks. You may be able to become pregnant before your first period.
Most health care providers advise waiting at least 6 weeks after your baby is born.
Some women have times of highs and lows or a “blue” feeling after having a baby. These feelings may come and go or may last for a period of time. If they last for several days or you become concerned about yourself, contact your health care provider or call the national hotline for “Depression After Delivery” at 1-800-944-4773
Find out more about taking care of yourself after having a baby.
Mothers with postpartum depression experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that may make it difficult for them to complete daily care activities for themselves or for others.
Postpartum depression does not have a single cause and does not occur because of something a mother does or does not do, and without treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or years. But, there are effective treatments available.
For more on symptoms, risk factors, and treatment, visit NIH: Postpartum Depression Facts
If you are experiencing postpartum depression or are concerned about someone who may be, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Congratulations! You have a new baby to care for. But it’s also important that you care for yourself. You went through many changes while you were pregnant and there are still some emotional and physical changes yet to come. Here are some common questions and answers:
Bleeding is normal and means you are healing. The flow of blood should slowly become a lighter color and decrease in amount in 1 to 3 weeks after the birth of your baby. If you notice a fever over 100 degrees, are passing clots or clumps of blood, or increased discharge with a bad odor – call your health care provider.
Stitches used to repair your episiotomy do not have to be taken out. They will dissolve. In the meantime, do not wipe the area, rather rinse with clear warm water or blot dry.
If you are breastfeeding, use only water to clean the breasts and nipples. Avoid soap or creams that contain alcohol and wear a clean, well-fitting bra day and night. If you are not breastfeeding, use ice packs for no more than 15 minutes at a time and do not empty the breasts by pumping or massage as this will make more milk come in.
If you are breastfeeding, your period may take several months to return. If you are bottle feeding your baby, your periods may return in 4 to 8 weeks. You may be able to become pregnant before your first period.
Most health care providers advise waiting at least 6 weeks after your baby is born.
Some women have times of highs and lows or a “blue” feeling after having a baby. These feelings may come and go or may last for a period of time. If they last for several days or you become concerned about yourself, contact your health care provider or call the national hotline for “Depression After Delivery” at 1-800-944-4773
Find out more about taking care of yourself after having a baby.
Mothers with postpartum depression experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that may make it difficult for them to complete daily care activities for themselves or for others.
Postpartum depression does not have a single cause and does not occur because of something a mother does or does not do, and without treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or years. But, there are effective treatments available.
For more on symptoms, risk factors, and treatment, visit NIH: Postpartum Depression Facts
If you are experiencing postpartum depression or are concerned about someone who may be, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
It’s very common for women to have times of highs and lows or to feel “blue”after having a baby. These feelings usually start 2-3 days after birth and can come and go. New mothers may experience feelings of worry, unhappiness, and fatigue. These feelings typically get better within a few weeks.
If these feelings last for more than a few weeks or you become concerned about yourself or a new mom, you (or she) could be experiencing postpartum depression. Contact your healthcare provider or call the national hotline for “Depression After Delivery” at 1-800-944-4773.
Moms with baby blues can experience:
Approximately 70-80% of all new mothers experience some negative feelings or mood swings after the birth of their child. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common problems women experience during and after pregnancy.
We now know that women may also experience anxiety around the time of pregnancy, beyond just being nervous about having a baby. Anxiety during and after pregnancy is as common as depression and may even happen at the same time as depression. No matter what you call them, depression and anxiety that happen during pregnancy or after birth are real medical conditions, and they affect many women.
Some things moms can do to help relieve baby blues include:
For more information download our PDF.
Or visit: American Pregnancy.org Baby Blues
Mom’s Mental Health Matters: Moms-to-be and Moms – NCMHEP
Postpartum depression is more serious than “baby blues” and can start within the first few weeks after birth. It interferes with mom’s ability to care for herself and her family. It can occur up to a year after birth. Mothers with postpartum depression experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that may require treatment.
If you are concerned about yourself or a new mom who could be experiencing postpartum depression, contact your healthcare provider or call the national hotline for “Depression After Delivery” at 1-800-944-4773.
Moms with postpartum depression:
On average, 13% of women have symptoms of depression after the birth of a baby. In South Dakota, that average is slightly higher and is more common among American Indian mothers, younger mothers, mothers with less education, lower household income, and unmarried mothers (PRAMS 2018).
Postpartum depression does not have a single cause and does not occur because of something a mother does or does not do. Without treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or years. But, there are effective treatments available.
For more on symptoms, risk factors, and treatment, visit NIH: Postpartum Depression Facts
To find a behavioral health specialist in your area, visit: South Dakota Department of Social Services
If you are experiencing postpartum depression or are concerned about someone who may be:
For more:
For Dads: What To Do, What Not To Do When Your Wife Has PPD
It’s very common for women to have times of highs and lows or to feel “blue”after having a baby. These feelings usually start 2-3 days after birth and can come and go. New mothers may experience feelings of worry, unhappiness, and fatigue. These feelings typically get better within a few weeks.
If these feelings last for more than a few weeks or you become concerned about yourself or a new mom, you (or she) could be experiencing postpartum depression. Contact your healthcare provider or call the national hotline for “Depression After Delivery” at 1-800-944-4773.
Moms with baby blues can experience:
Approximately 70-80% of all new mothers experience some negative feelings or mood swings after the birth of their child. Researchers believe that depression is one of the most common problems women experience during and after pregnancy.
We now know that women may also experience anxiety around the time of pregnancy, beyond just being nervous about having a baby. Anxiety during and after pregnancy is as common as depression and may even happen at the same time as depression. No matter what you call them, depression and anxiety that happen during pregnancy or after birth are real medical conditions, and they affect many women.
Some things moms can do to help relieve baby blues include:
For more information download our PDF.
Or visit: American Pregnancy.org Baby Blues
Mom’s Mental Health Matters: Moms-to-be and Moms – NCMHEP
Postpartum depression is more serious than “baby blues” and can start within the first few weeks after birth. It interferes with mom’s ability to care for herself and her family. It can occur up to a year after birth. Mothers with postpartum depression experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that may require treatment.
If you are concerned about yourself or a new mom who could be experiencing postpartum depression, contact your healthcare provider or call the national hotline for “Depression After Delivery” at 1-800-944-4773.
Moms with postpartum depression:
On average, 13% of women have symptoms of depression after the birth of a baby. In South Dakota, that average is slightly higher and is more common among American Indian mothers, younger mothers, mothers with less education, lower household income, and unmarried mothers (PRAMS 2018).
Postpartum depression does not have a single cause and does not occur because of something a mother does or does not do. Without treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or years. But, there are effective treatments available.
For more on symptoms, risk factors, and treatment, visit NIH: Postpartum Depression Facts
To find a behavioral health specialist in your area, visit: South Dakota Department of Social Services
If you are experiencing postpartum depression or are concerned about someone who may be:
For more:
For Dads: What To Do, What Not To Do When Your Wife Has PPD
Babies change and grow quickly. Well Baby check-ups are important to make sure that your baby is growing and developing properly. Each visit will include a complete physical examination, which can help your provider identify any problems early.
During these check-ups, your baby will get any needed immunizations and screenings. You can expect to be given information about normal development, nutrition, sleep, safety, diseases, and other important topics. This is also a good time to ask your health care provider any questions you may have.
Find out more about well-child visits.
Immunizations improve the health of babies and children and can reduce worry and anxiety for parents. Having your baby vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect your baby from harmful diseases.
Get the facts and learn more:
Vaccine Information from the Immunization Action Coalition
For Parents: Vaccines for Your Children from the CDC
Immunizations from the American Academy of Pediatrics
Parents’ Guide to Childhood Immunizations from the CDC
If you are concerned about the cost of well baby care, check to see if your baby qualifies for medical coverage through the South Dakota Medicaid program. The Department of Social Services has information about Medicaid eligibility.
The South Dakota Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides quality health care (including regular check-ups, well-child care exams, dental and vision care) for children and youth. To be eligible for CHIP, children must be under the age of 19 and current residents of South Dakota. Children who are uninsured or already have health insurance may be eligible for CHIP based on income and eligibility guidelines.
Babies change and grow quickly. Well Baby check-ups are important to make sure that your baby is growing and developing properly. Each visit will include a complete physical examination, which can help your provider identify any problems early.
During these check-ups, your baby will get any needed immunizations and screenings. You can expect to be given information about normal development, nutrition, sleep, safety, diseases, and other important topics. This is also a good time to ask your health care provider any questions you may have.
Find out more about well-child visits.
Immunizations improve the health of babies and children and can reduce worry and anxiety for parents. Having your baby vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect your baby from harmful diseases.
Get the facts and learn more:
Vaccine Information from the Immunization Action Coalition
For Parents: Vaccines for Your Children from the CDC
Immunizations from the American Academy of Pediatrics
Parents’ Guide to Childhood Immunizations from the CDC
If you are concerned about the cost of well baby care, check to see if your baby qualifies for medical coverage through the South Dakota Medicaid program. The Department of Social Services has information about Medicaid eligibility.
The South Dakota Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides quality health care (including regular check-ups, well-child care exams, dental and vision care) for children and youth. To be eligible for CHIP, children must be under the age of 19 and current residents of South Dakota. Children who are uninsured or already have health insurance may be eligible for CHIP based on income and eligibility guidelines.
Babies and children are fast learners. Before you know it, they are able to roll over, sit, crawl, stand, walk and climb – and they will reach and grab at almost anything.
In the United States, every year hundreds of children under the age of 1 die due to injuries that could have been prevented. Falls, burns, drowning, poisoning, choking, strangulation, and suffocation can often be avoided by taking steps to “baby proof” your home.
Here are a few resources to help you make your home a safer place for baby:
Safety for Your Child: Birth to 6 Months
Safety for Your Child: 6 to 12 Months
Keeping your baby safe in the car is more important than ever. Motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of death among children in the United States. But more than half of those deaths could be prevented simply by placing babies in age and size appropriate car seats and making sure they are secured properly.
To learn how you can keep your baby safe with South Dakota’s Child Safety Seat Distribution program, or if you qualify for a child seat, get in touch with your local Department of Social Services office.
The CDC has even more information and safety guidelines.
Choking is a leading cause of death among young children and toddlers. Paying close attention to your child when they are eating and checking your house routinely for small objects can help prevent accidents. Please remember:
Find out more ways to prevent choking.
Babies and children are fast learners. Before you know it, they are able to roll over, sit, crawl, stand, walk and climb – and they will reach and grab at almost anything.
In the United States, every year hundreds of children under the age of 1 die due to injuries that could have been prevented. Falls, burns, drowning, poisoning, choking, strangulation, and suffocation can often be avoided by taking steps to “baby proof” your home.
Here are a few resources to help you make your home a safer place for baby:
Safety for Your Child: Birth to 6 Months
Safety for Your Child: 6 to 12 Months
Keeping your baby safe in the car is more important than ever. Motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of death among children in the United States. But more than half of those deaths could be prevented simply by placing babies in age and size appropriate car seats and making sure they are secured properly.
To learn how you can keep your baby safe with South Dakota’s Child Safety Seat Distribution program, or if you qualify for a child seat, get in touch with your local Department of Social Services office.
The CDC has even more information and safety guidelines.
Choking is a leading cause of death among young children and toddlers. Paying close attention to your child when they are eating and checking your house routinely for small objects can help prevent accidents. Please remember:
Find out more ways to prevent choking.
Choosing a day care or child care center for your baby can be challenging. There are many things you should consider to make sure your baby gets the best care, but here are a few questions that may help guide your decision:
Learn more about choosing a day care center.
Choosing a day care or child care center for your baby can be challenging. There are many things you should consider to make sure your baby gets the best care, but here are a few questions that may help guide your decision:
Learn more about choosing a day care center.
All babies cry. They have to. It’s how they communicate. And, it can be very frustrating for parents when you don’t know what they are trying to tell you.
But NEVER shake or hurt a baby or young child when they are crying. It can cause permanent brain damage and even death.
Here are some of the reasons babies cry:
Newborns often go through periods when they seem to cry more often and for no reason. Although this is normal, it doesn’t mean it is easy. Here are a few things you can try to help comfort your baby:
Learn more about reasons why babies cry and ways to cope.
You can find out more violence prevention from the CDC.
The South Dakota Family Planning Program helps men and women to determine the number and spacing of their children and maintain or improve general and reproductive health. Staff provides education, counseling, nursing, medical and birth control services. All services provided by the program are strictly confidential and disclosed to others only with your written consent or as required by law.
Family planning services include:
Find a family planning clinic in South Dakota, or use this national clinic locator.
