I thought I was doing okay and finally getting my grip on motherhood but no! I did not know teething was coming for me. Teething can bring about a variety of symptoms, some of which can be challenging to handle as a new mom. Here are the most common signs that your baby may be teething:
- Increased drooling – Excessive drool is one of the first signs of teething. You may notice your baby drooling more than usual, leading to a wet chin or even rashes around the mouth.
- Fussiness and irritability – The discomfort from swollen gums can make your baby cranky, especially at night when it can feel worse.
- Chewing on objects – Babies instinctively try to chew to relieve gum pressure. You might notice them gnawing on toys, their hands, or even your clothes.
- Changes in appetite – Teething can make babies reluctant to eat, either because chewing is painful or because their gums are sensitive. On the flip side, some babies may nurse or bottle-feed more often for comfort.
- Sleep disturbances – Teething can interfere with your baby’s sleep, causing them to wake up more frequently at night or have trouble falling asleep. Trust me she is not sleeping at ALLL!
- Slight fever – Some babies experience a mild fever (usually below 101°F), although this isn’t always linked to teething and could indicate something else.
How to Soothe Your Teething Baby
As a first-time mom, seeing my baby in discomfort can be heartbreaking. Here are some of the following things that I have been doing to help soothe my baby.
1. Teething Rings and Toys
Chewing on a teething ring can provide your baby with relief. I am using teething rings made from safe, BPA-free materials. Some teething rings can be chilled in the fridge, which has really helped comfort by numbing the sore gums.
2. Cold Washcloths
Wet a clean washcloth, place it in the fridge for a little while, and give it to your baby to chew on. The coldness will provide soothing relief for sore gums.
3. Gentle Gum Massage
You can use a clean finger to gently massage your baby’s gums. The pressure can help ease discomfort, and it’s a great bonding experience. Just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before doing this.
4. Pain Relief (With Pediatrician Approval)
If your baby seems especially uncomfortable, you may consider using over-the-counter pain relief options, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, you should always consult with your pediatrician before administering any medication to ensure it’s safe for your baby. Ibuprofen specifically I would not use until after 6 months.
5. Soft, Cool Foods
If your baby is eating solids, you can try giving them cool, soft foods, such as mashed bananas or chilled applesauce.
6. Distraction
Sometimes, all your baby needs is a little distraction. I will have to be honest I thought I would never give my baby who is less than 2 year old screen time but I had to. I just could not listen to her cry any longer.
How to Take Care of Yourself
Teething can feel like a never-ending phase for both you and your baby. As a first-time mom, I have been trying to take some moments for self care.
- Take breaks when you can – It’s okay to step away for a few minutes and let someone else help, even if it’s just for a short break. Taking time for yourself can refresh you for the next round of teething battles.
- Get help and support – Don’t hesitate to reach out to your partner, family members, or friends for help. The more support you have, the easier it will be to manage the teething process.
- Sleep when your baby sleeps – If your baby is waking up more frequently at night, it’s crucial to take naps when they do. Catching up on rest will help you keep your energy levels up.
- Stay patient and positive – Teething is a phase that will eventually pass. Remember that the discomfort is temporary and that your baby is going through a developmental milestone that will eventually bring big smiles when those first teeth appear!
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