Baby Update
Friday, September 5th, 2008Thanks to all who weighed in with congratulations on the baby and support of dairy-restricted nursing. Baby girl is now 3 weeks and 2 days old. Here are some thoughts from the past few weeks:
- I ended up needing small quantities of hypoallergenic formula in the hospital. I had a very small, very hungry newborn who screamed around the clock because she was hungry and my milk had not yet come in. When I asked the hospital for hypoallergenic formula — first, the nurses told me I shouldn’t use it/didn’t need it. Then, they told me that I needed a doctor’s prescription for it. Tough to get at 3 am. I’m really glad I brought my own. And I’m even more glad that several weeks later, I no longer need to use it.
- I don’t know why I was so worried about producing milk on a dairy-free diet. Wasn’t an issue. But for those who have similar concerns, I discovered a delicious calcium source: calcium-fortified 100% cranberry juice. I like it much better than calcium-fortified OJ.
- I keep looking for clues that could indicate whether baby 2 will become allergic kid 2. But my initial observations point both ways. It’s just too early to tell.
- Could be allergic: is very fussy after I eat dairy or onions (I should know better on both counts), born with big allergic shiners under the eyes (could also be newborn puffiness)
- Could be not allergic: less sensitive skin than my first born (no eczema, cradle cap, diaper rash), less alert than my first born.
Time will tell. I’m going to stop beating myself up too much. I will watch what I eat (in moderation). I’m still not giving her solids until 6 months, and keeping her dairy and nut free until an allergist indicates otherwise.