Months ago, I would daydream of taking my newborn out for walks in the park, slung across my belly on grocery excursions, or just in and around the neighborhood. However, these daydream sagas were dashed months ago when I became aware of the so-called baby "Lock Down", which involves staying chained indoors for the first 6 weeks as the baby's immune system develops. I argued that it didn't make sense with a baby that had a perfectly normal immune system even if they are more susceptible. However, my arguments were shot down by family or friends. I guess there's quite a bit of stigma about it. Six weeks??? I go stir crazy after one day of being stuck indoors.
I just can't buy it. I did some research and found that unless I live in Mexico city or near some sort of rank garbage dump, taking a newborn outside is perfectly fine. I just need to exercise a certain amount of good sense- keeping him close to me, avoiding crowded areas, keeping strangers at bay, dressing him appropriately etc. Also, I will be passing my own immunities to my son via breastmilk, which further inhibits scary germ infections. Plus I worry that it would be over-protective to practically keeping my baby in a bubble for six weeks. Therefore, a stroll about the neighborhood with the little guy wrapped up in a sling is perfectly fine. So, I will be taking him out and about social stigma and all.
4 comments:
There is actually alot of good physiology that shows its actually to your babies benefit to be exposed to a few germs, because then the newborn willdevelop anti-bodies better and will have a stronger immune system for the rest of his life. You should take your newborn every where with you.
That's right, it's always fine to expose baby to the elements, with some cautions, like not around crowds or on the bus, or in the cold weather. :)
I agree w/the other commenters. I've heard from doctors and mothers alike that it's ok and a little beneficial to allow your spawn contact w/the great outdoors before the 6 week mark. So be a rebel...with a clean conscience!
It makes total sense to ME that exposing the baby to some germs will help them develop a defense against them. Also, I've recently had a woman come into my work with a tiny baby that she said was only a few weeks old...and they were definately walking out and about shopping in an outdoor mall.
Post a Comment