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Being a new mum comes with a set of new questions and concerns, with some of the most common being about breastfeeding. Is my baby eating enough? Long enough? And what is this I heard about my baby sleeping through the night by 3 months?

Being a new mum comes with a set of new questions and concerns, with some of the most common being about breastfeeding. Is my baby eating enough? Long enough? And what is this I heard about my baby sleeping through the night by 3 months?

After baby arrives, many new mums place their focus on shedding the "baby weight" and don't put enough energy into eating healthy, nutritious foods. Breastfeeding mums need to be particularly conscientious about their diet since what they eat will have a direct effect on the nutrition that their baby receives from her breastmilk.

After baby arrives, many new mums place their focus on shedding the "baby weight" and don't put enough energy into eating healthy, nutritious foods. Breastfeeding mums need to be particularly conscientious about their diet since what they eat will have a direct effect on the nutrition that their baby receives from her breastmilk.

What is it?
A baby who refuses to breastfeed, and is not in the process of being weaned, is said to be on a "nursing strike." A nursing strike is your baby's way of telling you that something's wrong. And it'll probably take a little detective work to figure out the problem.
What causes it?
According to the La Leche League International, some of the most common reasons for a nursing strike include:

Getting a good night's sleep with a newborn baby in the house, as many parents know, is not going to happen anytime soon. Despite the odd waking hours of babies, the first 6 months of life are critical to helping a baby set their circadian rhythms (regular sleeping and rising patterns) that will stay with them for years to come. Some babies, however, may have some hurdles to overcome as a new study explains babies' with depressed mothers experience disruptive sleep.

If you are having a child for the first time, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by questions, fears, and just not knowing what to expect. Many new parents find that birthing classes can really help calm their worries and answer many questions.

Fortunately, preparing for a second child can be as rewarding and special as the first time. Helping your older child understand what to expect can lessen anxiety for both of you, and being aware of the changes involved in having a second child is the best way to prepare for this joyous event.

Many parents assume that all birth defects are severe or even fatal, but the fact is that many are treatable, often immediately after birth - and sometimes even before the baby is born. It's especially important to know the risk factors involved and what you can do to prevent birth defects. However, it's also important to realize that most children born with congenital defects are born to two healthy parents.