Worried about my baby not being able to hold his head up or roll over after 4 or 5 months?
A complete guide to the side effects of four vaccinations and preparing for solid food
"My neck is still wobbly, so I'm afraid to hold my child upright..."
"What if I get four vaccinations at the same time and develop a fever?"
When your baby turns 4 or 5 months old,
Don't you think mom's worries are suddenly becoming more complicated?
In fact, this is a good time for babies
This is a special time when you will be taking your first big step in growth in life .
When the baby has completed holding up its head, is ready to roll over, and is it time to start solid food?
And an intensive vaccination schedule...
"Other kids have already done it, but is my child okay?"
What if I make a wrong decision and it affects my growth?
With such anxiety and uncertainty,
I can picture my mother lovingly interacting with me every day.
But don't worry.
Over the past 25 years, I have looked after over 2,500 babies and mothers.
From midwifery experience,
"I see, that's the reason!" I thought with understanding.
We will provide you with reliable knowledge that will deepen your love for your child .
By the time you finish reading, you will surely
"Let's trust this child's pace and walk together."
You will be able to look at your baby with a warm feeling.
Worried about not being able to hold up his head or roll over yet?
How to promote development when your baby is 4 or 5 months old and doesn't like being held upright or lying face down
"My baby is already 4 months old, but his neck still wobbles when I hold him upright..."
"When I put him on his stomach to help him practice rolling over, he immediately starts crying."
Moms who are worried about their baby's ability to hold their head up or roll over,
First, there's an important fact you need to know.
The time when development is complete varies by up to three months .
**Time when baby can hold head up:**
・Early baby: 3 months old
・Average age: 4-5 months
・Late baby: 6 months old
**When baby starts rolling over:**
・Early babies: 3-4 months old
・General age: 5-6 months
・Late babies: 7-8 months old
・Children who don't: About 15% of the total
Why is there such individual variation?
Development is influenced by a combination of "muscle strength," "brain commands," and "personality."
Children with a cautious personality will only act after making sure it is safe,
Even though it may seem "slow" at first glance, it is actually a wise decision.
**Self-check for baby's ability to hold head up:**
□ Lie face down and lift your head at least 45 degrees (for at least 30 seconds)
□ When you lift the baby from his back by pulling his hand, his head follows.
□ Hold the baby's head upright for more than 5 seconds without support
□ Head can be moved freely from side to side
All four tests were cleared and the baby was able to fully support his head.
**Step-by-step practice for babies who hate lying face down:**
**Step 1: Prone on your knees (Week 1)**
Start with one minute with the baby on mom's lap, with his face firmly supported.
"What a beautiful view," I said to her.
**Step 2: Cushion Use (Week 2)**
Place a thin cushion under your chest to reduce strain.
Use mirrors and colorful toys to instill in your child the idea that "face down = fun."
**Step 3: Short, frequent practice (Week 3)**
Ten sessions of 30 seconds are more effective than two sessions of 5 minutes.
Don't push yourself too hard, just go at your baby's pace.
**Safe way to encourage turning over:**
"Rolling over" involves lying on your back, holding your legs, and slowly tilting them from side to side.
Don't force it to rotate, just get it to look something like this.
The important thing is to "trust your child's pace."
"This child is a laid-back person," and we watch over them with a warm heart.
It's love that matters most.
Is it safe to give four vaccinations at the same time?
How to deal with side effects of Hib, pneumococcus, BCG, and 37-degree fever and swelling
"My child gets four injections... is it really safe?"
"After receiving the vaccine, I developed a fever of 37 degrees and am concerned about swelling..."
Moms who are worried about simultaneous vaccinations,
First, here's an important fact to reassure you.
Simultaneous vaccination is a safe method that is standard worldwide .
According to a survey by the Japanese Pediatric Society,
The incidence of serious side effects from simultaneous vaccination is
It has been proven that there is no difference between the two vaccinations.
**Standard vaccination schedule for 4-5 months old:**
**At 4 months:**
・Hib vaccine (3rd dose)
・Pneumococcal vaccine (3rd dose)
・Four-in-one vaccine (3rd dose)
・BCG (1st dose)
**At 5 months:**
・Additional vaccinations and adjustments for delayed vaccinations
Why is simultaneous vaccination recommended?
At 4 months of age, babies lose a lot of the immunity they receive from their mothers.
You will enter an "immunity gap period."
To get through this dangerous period as quickly as possible,
We need to ensure that people acquire immunity as quickly as possible.
**Normal side effects and how to deal with them:**
**Fever of 37-37.5°C (24-48 hours after vaccination)**
→ This is proof that the immune system is properly developed.
→ Stay hydrated and monitor your condition
**Swelling and redness at the injection site (normal up to the size of a 500 yen coin)**
Cool gently with a cold towel
→ Do not rub or press
**Bad mood/fussy (1-2 days)**
→ More physical contact than usual
→ Don't force them to play, prioritize rest
Symptoms requiring emergency medical attention:
・Continued high fever of 38.5 degrees or higher
The injection site becomes abnormally swollen and hard
- Hives all over the body
Convulsions, loss of consciousness
**Special precautions after BCG vaccination:**
The appearance of small red spots 2-3 weeks after vaccination is a normal reaction.
Koch phenomenon, in which a strong reaction occurs within 10 days, is rare.
In that case, you should see a pediatrician immediately.
Vaccinations to protect our beloved children.
Side effects should be seen as "proof that immunity has been achieved."
Please keep an eye on them and be safe.
👉Check the timing for starting solid food
💡Please also refer to safety measures
How to determine the right time to start weaning
5 months vs 4 months: Signs of loss of suckling reflex and allergy measures
"Should I start weaning at 5 months? Or is it okay to start at 4 months?"
"How do I know if my baby still has the sucking reflex?"
Moms who are unsure about when to start weaning their babies,
Did you know that your baby is actually giving you signs that he or she is ready?
The most important sign of starting solid food: "Loss of sucking reflex"
The sucking reflex is the reflex that causes a baby to push something out with their tongue when it is placed in their mouth.
While this reflex remains,
The baby's body "cannot accept anything other than breast milk or formula yet"
They are teaching us.
**How to check for loss of sucking reflex:**
□ When the spoon is placed against the lower lip, the tongue does not push it away.
□ Watching adults eat
□ Mimicking chewing movements
□ The amount of drooling has clearly increased
□ Able to sit alone (with support)
If three or more apply, you're ready to begin.
**The Truth About Starting at 5 Months vs. Starting at 4 Months Early:**
**Benefits of starting at 5 months (recommended):**
-Sufficient secretion of the digestive enzyme amylase
・Intestinal development improves, reducing the risk of allergies
・The baby is able to hold its head up, reducing the risk of aspiration
Risks of starting 4 months early:
・Increased burden on the digestive organs
・Increased risk of developing allergies in the future
Poor absorption of nutrients
Why wait until 5 months?
Your baby's digestive system undergoes major changes around the age of five months.
Digestive enzymes that break down starch begin to be secreted in earnest,
The intestinal wall also matures and develops a barrier function that prevents the entry of foreign substances.
**Safe procedure starting with 10x rice porridge:**
**Week 1: 10x rice porridge only**
Start with 1 teaspoon
・Same time every day (recommended around 10:00 AM)
- Observe the baby's facial expression carefully
**Week 2: Add vegetables**
- Sweet vegetables such as carrots and pumpkins
・One new item added per day
・New ingredients are served on weekday mornings
**Weeks 3-4: Adaptation and dosage adjustment**
・Focus on getting used to it rather than the amount of food you eat
Gradually increase to 5-6 teaspoons
**Golden rules for allergy prevention:**
・ Always try one new ingredient at a time
- Keep an eye on your baby for 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating
- Eggs, dairy products and wheat should be introduced with caution after 6 months of age
・First try on a weekday when you can consult with your family doctor
Not "I have to start early," but "at the right time."
Don't miss the signs of your child's growth
Please give them loving support.
Measures for night crying and sudden changes in sleep rhythm
Drastic reduction from 15 hours to 12 hours. How to fix it.
"I used to sleep 15 hours a day, but now I only sleep 12 hours a day..."
"I started waking up multiple times during the night, and my day and night cycle was reversed."
Moms who are confused by the changes in sleep patterns of their babies at 4 and 5 months old,
In fact, this is evidence that a baby's brain is becoming more like an adult's .
**Why does sleep time decrease so suddenly?**
Most newborn babies spend their time in REM sleep (light sleep),
From around four months of age, the proportion of "non-REM sleep" (deep sleep) increases.
At the same time, the secretion of the sleep hormone melatonin begins.
They begin to develop sleep cycles similar to those of adults.
**Changes in sleep time by age:**
・Newborn: 18-20 hours
・1-3 months: 16-18 hours
4-5 months: 14-16 hours
・After 6 months: 12-14 hours
A decrease in sleep time is a sign of growth.
**3 reasons why night crying suddenly starts:**
Reason 1: Disrupted sleep cycles
In the process of achieving the same 90-minute cycle as adults,
It makes it easier to wake up during light sleep.
Reason 2: Daytime Stimulus Processing
When the head is upright, the field of vision widens and the amount of stimulation received increases dramatically.
Your brain goes into a state of agitation as it tries to process that information in the middle of the night.
Reason 3: Separation anxiety develops
While the attachment to mom deepens,
This is the time when you start to feel anxious about not having your mom there.
**Three-step approach to resolving day-night reversal:**
**Stage 1: Light Management (Week 1)**
7am: Open the curtains and let in bright light
・Daytime: Get outside and take a walk to get some sunlight
After 8pm: Dim the lights and avoid watching TV
**Stage 2: Nap Adjustment (Week 2)**
Morning nap: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Afternoon nap: 1-2 hours
- Avoid taking naps after 3pm
- Limit your naps to a total of 3 hours
**Stage 3: Establishing a Bedtime Routine (Week 3)**
・Bathe at the same time every day (7-8pm)
- Fixed flow of breastfeeding → picture book → lullaby
- Darken the room to let your body know it's time to sleep
**How to deal with night crying:**
・Even if your baby cries, don't pick him up right away, wait for 2-3 minutes and see how he reacts.
・Reassure them with "tapping" and "whispering" sounds
・If your baby won't stop crying, just hold him/her.
・Don't aim for perfect sleep, aim for "gradual improvement"
**Mom's sleep tips:**
- Rest together while your baby is napping
・Take turns with your partner when breastfeeding at night
・Prioritize "sleep over housework"
The change in sleep rhythm is temporary.
They will calm down by around 6 months of age.
We believe that this is an important time for brain development.
Please keep an eye on them without rushing.
Increased drool Hand Regard Worry
The cause of sudden increase in gum itching at 4 and 5 months of age and its developmental relationship
"He's been drooling a lot lately, so I have to change his bib several times a day..."
"I can't stop staring at my hands and putting them in my mouth"
Moms who are worried about sudden drooling and hand regurgitation,
In fact, these are important signs that your baby is developing well .
**3 reasons for sudden increase in drooling:**
**Reason 1: Digestive development**
The salivary glands begin to function properly around four months of age.
In preparation for the secretion of the digestive enzyme amylase,
The amount of saliva increases dramatically.
**Reason 2: Maturity of oral function**
Because the muscles that swallow saliva are still immature,
The saliva produced will overflow from your mouth.
**Reason 3: A sign of teething**
Itchy gums and increased saliva production.
In some babies, changes in the gums begin as early as 4-5 months of age.
**Developmental Implications of Hand Reguarding:**
Hand respect is the act of staring intently at your hands.
This is a breakthrough moment for your baby.
- The recognition that "this is a part of my body"
・Development of coordination between vision and touch
・The first step to improving dexterity
・Evidence of development of the frontal lobe of the brain
**Putting your hand in your mouth means:**
The mouth is a baby's most sensitive sensory organ.
By putting your hand in your mouth:
- Learns hand shape, size, and texture
・Understanding the boundary between "yourself" and the "outside world"
・Preparing for future baby food
Stress relief and self-stabilization
**Check for signs of itchy gums:**
□ Sudden increase in drooling
□ Wants to put everything in his mouth
□ Doesn't like having his gums touched with your fingers
□ Increased crying at night
□ I've been in a bad mood more often
□ My gums look a little swollen
If three or more of these apply, it is a sign that teeth are starting to grow.
**Drool rash prevention and treatment:**
**Precautions:**
・Change the bib frequently (4-6 times a day)
・Wipe gently around the mouth
・Don't scrub, just lightly tap
**If you experience a rash:**
・Wash gently with lukewarm water
- After it has completely dried, apply a thin layer of Vaseline
If it is severe, consult a pediatrician
**Points to note when hand guarding:**
Wash your hands gently with soap
・Cut your nails short frequently
・Do not place dangerous objects within reach
Do not force your hand away from your mouth
**How to relieve itchy gums:**
Gently wipe your gums with a cool towel
Gently massage your gums with clean fingers
Give your child a chilled teething toy
Drooling and hand guards,
All of these are signs that your baby is growing well.
It's not a problem because it gets dirty,
Please watch over them with a warm heart and tell them, "They're growing up."
Development during this period is directly linked to future dexterity and learning ability.
It’s a very important step.
Uneven breastfeeding and changes in weight gain
Signs of insufficient breast milk: decreased intake and when to switch from exclusive breastfeeding to mixed breastfeeding
"Recently, I feel like my baby's feeding time has become shorter and he's drinking less..."
"My baby's weight gain has slowed down, so maybe I'm not getting enough breast milk?"
Moms who are worried about changes in breastfeeding,
In fact, between four and five months of age, breastfeeding patterns change dramatically .
**Why does uneven breastfeeding occur?**
**Reason 1: Development of the baby's satiety center**
During the newborn period, he would "drink as much as he could,"
This is the time to start feeling full.
I was able to control the dosage myself.
**Reason 2: Improved breastfeeding efficiency**
The suction power is strengthened, allowing the required amount to be taken in in a short period of time.
You'll be able to drink the same amount in half the time you used to.
**Reason 3: Broadening interests**
They become interested in the sounds and scenery around them,
Even while breastfeeding, babies tend to look around and their concentration is distracted.
Normal variations in weight gain:
-Newborn: Gain 30-40g per day
・1-3 months: Gain 20-30g per day
4-6 months: Gain 15-20g per day
After 6 months of age: Increase by 10-15g per day
Slowing down is a normal part of growth.
**Real signs of low breast milk:**
**Warning Signs:**
□ Weight gain of less than 100g per week
□ Urinating less than five times a day
□ Urine is dark yellow
□ Frequently fussy even after breastfeeding
□ Skin is not firm (it takes a long time to return to its original shape when pinched)
□ Dry lips and mouth
If three or more of these apply to you, you may not have enough breast milk.
**When to switch from breastfeeding to mixed feeding:**
**Consider switching when:**
・Multiple signs of insufficient breast milk
Mom's health continues to be poor
- Preparation for returning to work is required
-Baby's weight gain is extremely poor
**How to proceed with mixed feeding:**
**Week 1: Mixed wait-and-see approach**
Only after breastfeeding, if baby still wants
Add 20-40ml of milk.
**Week 2: Establishing a pattern**
Observe the breastfeeding rhythm and identify periods of time when breastfeeding is insufficient.
Add milk only at that time.
**After 3rd week: Stabilization**
Watching the baby's reaction,
Find the perfect balance between breast milk and formula.
**How to deal with uneven breastfeeding:**
**Environmental adjustment:**
・Feed in a quiet and calm place
- Don't watch TV or use your smartphone
- Adjust the lighting to be a little darker
**Timing Adjustment:**
When your baby shows signs of hunger
- Aim for a time when they're in a good mood
Don't try to force them to drink.
**Mom's Mental Care:**
"Not producing breast milk = lack of love" does not mean
Whether exclusively breastfeeding or mixed,
Your love for your baby will never change.
What's important is that your baby grows up healthy.
If you think about it from a "baby first" perspective,
The best choice should become apparent.
Breastfeeding is about quality over quantity.
Please cherish the time spent breastfeeding and be full of love.
Developmental anxiety about silent speech
How to spot early signs of autism: decreased cooing and inability to track
"He used to make a lot of noise like 'ah ah,' but he's gotten quieter recently..."
"I feel like my eyes don't meet, so I don't really follow them."
Moms who are worried about their child's language development,
The first thing you need to know is that development includes "quiet periods."
**Why might cooing decrease?**
Reason 1: The "input period" of development
There is a period when babies focus more on listening than speaking.
This is evidence that your child is diligently analyzing and learning the sounds and words around them.
**Reason 2: Focus on new developments**
When the brain's energy is focused on physical development, such as neck support and hand movements,
There may be a temporary decrease in speech.
Reason 3: Developmental pace varies from person to person.
Language development is the area in which there is the greatest individual variation.
There are many babies who prefer "slow and steady."
**Language development guidelines by age:**
**2-3 months: Cooing stage**
・Vowels such as "ah-ah" and "uh-uh"
・Expression of pleasant and unpleasant emotions
**4-5 months: Babbling preparation period**
More variety of voices
・Exclamations of joy such as "Kyaakya"
・Time to focus on listening
**After 6 months of age: Babbling stage**
・Consonant + vowel such as "bababa" and "mamama"
The beginning of meaningful speech
**Step-by-step check of pursuit development:**
**Level 1: Basic tracking (2-3 months old)**
□ When a toy is moved from side to side at a distance of about 30 cm, the baby follows it with its eyes.
□ Baby follows mom's face when you move it sideways
**Level 2: Advanced Pursuit (4-5 months old)**
□ You can follow the up and down movements with your eyes.
□ Tracking possible within a range of 90 degrees or more
□ Even if you lose it once, you can find it again.
**Level 3: Stereoscopic vision (5-6 months old)**
□ Distinguishing between distant and nearby objects
□ Understand the depth of objects
□ The gesture of measuring the distance before reaching out
**Early signs of autism vs. normal development:**
**Signs to watch out for (if multiple symptoms occur after 6 months of age):**
□ Avoid eye contact at all (intentionally avoids eye contact)
□ Doesn't turn around even when you call his name
□ No interest in people at all
□ I can't smile
□ Doesn't like being held
□ Repeating the same action over and over again
**Range of normal individual variation:**
・I'm shy and don't make eye contact with people I meet for the first time.
・When they are concentrating, they don't respond even if you call them
・Smile less when tired
・Doesn't like being held when sleepy
**Effective ways to encourage language development:**
**1. Live breastfeeding and care coverage**
"Let's change your diaper," "Milk tastes good," etc.
We take care of them by explaining their actions in words.
2. Responsive Communication
When your baby says "ahh,"
"You said 'ah'" I reply.
**3. Picture book reading**
Even if you still don't understand,
Learn the rhythm and intonation of words.
**4. Songs and hand games**
"Peek-a-boo" and "Dustcloth"
Rhythmic games stimulate interest in words.
**When to consult if you have concerns:**
- 6 months old baby not making any noise
- 7 month old baby can't make eye contact at all
・At 8 months old, no smiles are seen
However, in most cases it is within the realm of individuality.
"This child is cautious" or "observant"
The most important thing is to watch over them with love.
When it comes to language development, haste wins the race.
Talk a lot, hug a lot,
Please create a safe environment.
4 months after giving birth, mother is depressed and exhausted
Edinburgh rating scale: 9 points or higher. Measures to combat fatigue and increased irritability.
"Babies are supposed to be cute, but for some reason I find them irritating..."
"Even though it's only been four months since I gave birth, I'm suddenly overwhelmed with fatigue and feel like I've reached my limit."
Moms who feel this way,
You are never alone.
Why do we reach our limit of fatigue around four months after giving birth?
**Reason 1: Re-balancing hormones**
Around four months after giving birth, the sudden changes have settled down.
Now the readjustment to "normalize" begins.
Hormonal fluctuations during this time are surprising.
**Reason 2: Accumulation of childcare fatigue**
During the newborn period, the fatigue of "trying desperately to get by"
It suddenly started to surface around this time.
When you "relax your mind," fatigue suddenly hits you.
Reason 3: Tired of the monotony of childcare
Repeating the same thing every day,
I begin to feel anxious, wondering, "Is this really okay?"
**Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (short form):**
Check how you've been feeling over the past week by:
□ I can't see the funny side of things and laugh.
□ I can't look forward to things.
□ I blame myself unnecessarily
□ I feel anxious or worried for no apparent reason
□ Feelings of fear for no apparent reason
□ I feel overwhelmed because there is so much to do.
□ I have trouble sleeping because I feel unhappy.
□ Feeling sad or miserable
□ Crying because I feel unhappy
□ Thoughts of harming myself have occurred to me.
**If you score 9 or more, we strongly recommend that you see a specialist**
**Mental changes unique to the 4th month after giving birth:**
**Change 1: The Perfectionism Trap**
The expectations of those around me, such as "You're used to it by now, aren't you?", are a burden.
In reality, things are still difficult, but I can't complain.
**Change 2: Anxiety about returning to society**
It's time to start thinking about returning to work.
This raises new concerns: "Will I be able to balance work with childcare?"
**Change 3: Feeling of loss of personal time**
"Who am I?"
The feeling of losing one's identity outside of parenting.
**Specific ways to deal with increased irritability:**
**Fast fix:**
Take 5 deep breaths (inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, exhale through your mouth for 6 seconds)
Wash your face with cold water
- Be alone with your baby in a separate room for 5 minutes
・Listen to one song of your choice
**Medium to long term solutions:**
・Set aside 15 minutes of "me time" per day
・Going out for more than two hours once a week
・Create a list of household chores you don't want to do
・Reviewing the division of roles with dad and family
**Emergency response when you feel extremely tired:**
**What you can do right now:**
・It's okay if your baby cries a little in a safe place.
・Even if you're not a perfect mother, your love will be conveyed
・Think of shortcuts in housework as a "time-saving skill"
・You can get nutrition from convenience store bento
**The courage to ask for support:**
・Use temporary childcare (no need to feel guilty)
・Consider using housekeeping services
・Specific requests to parents and friends
・Utilizing local childcare support centers
**When to see a specialist:**
・Edinburgh rating scale: 9 points or higher
- Depressed mood lasting for more than two weeks
I can't feel love for my baby
I feel like I want to hurt myself
**Important Message:**
Postpartum depression is not a result of being spoiled or a personality problem.
It's a treatable condition that can happen to anyone.
You don't have to be the "perfect mom."
Being a loving mom is the most important thing.
Asking for help is a sign of being a strong mom.
You work really hard every day.
First of all, give yourself lots of praise.
When to start preparing for daycare when returning to work
Breast milk pumping and freezing schedule and immune system support for successful childcare
"I'm worried about going back to work... Can I really balance work and childcare?"
"I'm worried about leaving my child at daycare, where should I start preparing?"
Survey results show that 96% of mothers who are about to return to work have some level of anxiety.
When should you start preparing to return to work?
**3 months before returning to work (around 3 months old):**
・Nursery school visits and applications
・Negotiate with your workplace regarding conditions for returning to work
・Confirmation of family support system
**2 months before returning to work (around 4 months old):**
・Start of milking practice
・Preparing frozen breast milk
・Confirm the childcare schedule for the adjustment period
**One month before returning to work (around 5 months old):**
・Full-scale childcare adjustment begins
・Establish a time-saving morning routine
・Establishment of an emergency contact system
**Complete Schedule for Expressing and Freezing Breast Milk:**
**Milking timing:**
- After morning feeding (the highest amount of milk produced in the day)
・Baby taking a nap
・Between nighttime feedings
・Every 3 hours at work
**How to freeze:**
Use a special freezer bag
・Single serving (80-120ml)
・Be sure to write the date and time of milking
Can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months
**How to thaw and reheat:**
- Thaw naturally in the refrigerator the night before
・Bathe in lukewarm water (about 40 degrees)
・Microwave ovens are strictly prohibited
Once thawed, use within 24 hours
**Importance of immune system measures:**
Why does the increase in infectious diseases occur when children start attending nursery school?
From around 6 months of age, the immunity (transfer antibodies) received from the mother begins to decrease.
At the same time, living in a group environment means encountering various viruses and bacteria for the first time.
**How to strengthen your child's immune system before entering kindergarten:**
**Vaccination Completion:**
・Hib, pneumococcus, four types of mixture, BCG
-Rotavirus (optional but recommended)
・Complete one month before enrollment
**Improvement of intestinal environment:**
・Continued breastfeeding (to the extent possible)
・Improvement of mother's dietary balance
・Ensuring sufficient sleep
**Stabilizing daily rhythms:**
・Regular waking up and going to bed
・Improve your natural immunity by going out moderately
・Stress reduction
**Five tips for a successful childcare adjustment:**
**Tip 1: Gradually increase the time**
Day 1: 1 hour → Day 7: Full-time
Don't rush, go at your baby's pace
**Tip 2: Smile when you pick them up**
"Good job! Did you have fun?"
Rather than feeling guilty, see it as an opportunity for growth
**Tip 3: Collaborate with childcare workers**
Share details about what's happening at home
Feeding timing, nap habits, etc.
**Tip 4: Thorough infection prevention measures**
Making hand washing and gargling a habit
Early detection of changes in physical condition
**Tip 5: Prepare Mom Mentally**
It's normal to cry at first
Determination to "help my child grow"
**Tips for balancing work and family life after returning to work:**
**Time-saving techniques for the morning:**
・Make a preparation list the night before
・Use frozen stock side dishes
・Breakfast menu that can be completed in 5 minutes
**Emergency Preparedness:**
・Pre-registration for sick child care
・Register for family support
・Cooperation with grandparents
**Important things to prepare mentally:**
No one can achieve perfect balance.
"I got through today safely" is a perfect score of 100.
Showing the backs of working mothers,
It is an important education for children.
It's natural to feel anxious, but you can definitely overcome it.
I'm rooting for you!
Concerns about resuming sexual life in a marriage
4 months after giving birth, awkwardness, contraception while breastfeeding, partnership repair techniques
"After giving birth, my relationship with my husband has become somewhat strained..."
"I don't know how to talk about resuming my sex life."
Moms who are worried about their marital relationship after giving birth,
These changes are not uncommon.
Why do marital relationships become strained around four months after childbirth?
**Reason 1: Hormonal imbalance**
Prolactin, which is secreted during breastfeeding,
It has the effect of suppressing sexual desire.
This is a natural reaction to help you focus on raising your child.
**Reason 2: Accumulation of childcare fatigue**
Lack of sleep and mental fatigue
It's tempting to prioritize "rest" over "time for the couple."
Reason 3: Dissatisfaction with role division
"I'm the only one who's having a hard time."
This feeling can deepen the rift between couples.
**The best time to resume sexual activity:**
**Medical Resumption Date:**
・If there are no problems at the one-month checkup, the baby is physically OK.
However, in reality, it is common to resume slowly over a period of 3-6 months.
・Mother's feelings and health are given top priority
**Signs that you're ready:**
□ Feel comfortable with physical contact
□ You can reaffirm your love for your partner.
□ My lack of sleep has improved a little.
□ I have more time to take care of my children.
**Contraception methods while breastfeeding:**
**Important Fact: You can still get pregnant while breastfeeding**
Even if you are exclusively breastfeeding and your period hasn't resumed yet,
Ovulation can occur even while breastfeeding.
**Safe methods of birth control:**
1. Condoms (the easiest and safest)
No effect on breastfeeding
- Also effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases
・Use with caution when dealing with postpartum vaginal dryness
**2. Progestin-based pills (mini-pills)**
Can be taken while breastfeeding
- Estrogen-free and has little effect on breast milk
・Determine after consulting with a doctor
**3. IUD (intrauterine device)**
-Long-term validity (3-5 years)
No effect on breastfeeding
・Can be inserted 6-8 weeks after giving birth
**What to avoid:**
- Basal body temperature method (inaccurate when breastfeeding)
・Outside the vagina (less reliable)
- Estrogen-containing pills (risk of reduced breast milk production)
**Five Steps to Repairing Your Partnership:**
**Step 1: Share your current understanding**
"Right now, I'm busy raising my child," "But I love you."
Communicate frankly
**Step 2: Start again with physical contact**
Don't rush into sexual relations, start with holding hands and hugging
Reaffirming the comfort of "touching"
**Step 3: Create some alone time**
Make time for conversation between husband and wife, even if it's just for 15 minutes once a week
After the baby goes to sleep, while drinking tea
**Step 4: Expressing gratitude**
"Thanks for changing the diaper" "Good job"
Express gratitude even for small things
**Step 5: Share your hopes for the future**
"I want to do ○○ with my family of three"
Talk about a positive future
**Points to note when resuming sexual activity:**
**Physical Considerations:**
- Use lubricating jelly (dryness tends to occur after childbirth)
・Take your time
If you feel pain, don't force yourself
・Be careful of breast tenderness caused by breastfeeding
**Psychological Considerations:**
・Completely adapt to mom's pace
・Show understanding even when they say "NO"
Don't put pressure on others
- Confirm that affection is not limited to sexual relations
**Communication Tips:**
"I'm tired right now, so I need a little more time."
"I'm happy about the physical contact, but I can't think about what comes next right now."
"I love you, but I can't afford it right now."
Expressing honest feelings,
This is the first step towards a true partnership.
A good relationship is good for your baby
The best growth environment.
Don't rush, just keep moving forward together
You'll definitely build a stronger bond than ever before.
Accidental ingestion safety check
1-meter height rule, suffocation prevention, SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) prevention
"My baby is starting to move around and puts everything in his mouth..."
"Every time I see news about an accidental ingestion, I worry about whether my family is safe."
Moms who are worried about safety measures for babies from 4 to 5 months old,
Accidents can be prevented with knowledge and preparation.
Why does the risk of accidents suddenly increase from 4 to 5 months of age?
**Rapid expansion of range of action:**
・Once the baby can sit up, the field of vision expands
・Hand movements become more dexterous and they can grasp things
・Rolling over expands the range of movement
- They become more curious and want to put everything in their mouths
**Oral development characteristics:**
The mouth is a baby's most sensitive sensory organ.
Using the mouth to test the shape, texture, and size of objects is a normal developmental behavior.
**Ranking of dangerous goods based on Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare data:**
**1st place: Tobacco (40% of total)**
Even one cigarette can be life-threatening
・Water in ashtrays is equally dangerous
E-cigarette liquid is also toxic
**No. 2: Pharmaceuticals (20%)**
・Cold medicine for adults, stomach medicine, etc.
Even children's medicines are dangerous for overdose
Be careful with supplements
**3rd place: Button cell batteries (15%)**
・Remote controls, thermometers, clocks, etc.
If swallowed, it can cause chemical burns
If emergency surgery is required
**4th place: Coins (10%)**
・500 yen coins are too big to easily get stuck in your throat
・100 yen coins also pose a choking risk
**How to implement the 1 Meter Height Rule:**
**Basic Rules:**
Within reach when baby stands up
Do not place dangerous items within 1 meter of the floor.
**Checkpoint:**
□ Small items on tables and shelves
□ Coins in the gap between the sofas
□ Contents of the bag (when placed on the floor)
□ Siblings' toys (small parts)
□ Pet food and toys
□ Houseplants (some are poisonous)
**Specific measures to prevent choking:**
**Food choking prevention:**
・Baby food should be in sizes appropriate for the baby's age.
・Cut the grapes and cherry tomatoes into quarters
-Don't give nuts to children under 3 years old
・Avoid konjac jelly
**Prevent choking by objects:**
・Objects with a diameter of 3.9cm or less are dangerous
・The size that fits through the toilet paper roll is ×
-Balloon fragments are particularly dangerous
・Be careful with string-like items (such as plastic bags)
**SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) Prevention:**
**Three steps to reduce the risk of SIDS:**
**1. Sleeping on your back**
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach until your baby is 1 year old
・Avoid sleeping on your side (return to lying on your back)
・If your baby rolls over, just let it do its thing.
**2. Strictly prohibit smoking**
- Complete smoking cessation during pregnancy
- Avoid passive smoking
E-cigarettes are just as dangerous
3. Promoting breastfeeding
Continue breastfeeding as much as possible
・Immunity boosting effect
**How to create a safe sleep environment:**
**How to choose bedding:**
Use a firm mattress
-Do not place soft pillows or stuffed toys
The quilt is light and breathable
- Adjust so that it does not come into contact with your face
**Room temperature/humidity control:**
・Maintain room temperature at 20-23 degrees
・Humidity 50-60%
・Don't dress them too thickly
**First aid in emergencies:**
**What to do in case of accidental ingestion:**
1. Don't panic, check inside your mouth first
2. If you can see it, scrape it out with your fingers.
3. If you can't see it, don't try to remove it.
4. Call an ambulance immediately (119)
5. Make a note of what you drank and when
**What to do in case of choking:**
1. Turn your baby upside down and slap his back
2. Check inside the mouth and remove any visible debris
3. If the problem does not improve, call 119 immediately.
4. Learning CPR is also important
**Poison 110 (24-hour service):**
・Osaka: 072-727-2499
・Tsukuba: 029-852-9999
Safety measures are not "overprotection" but "love."
Although it is difficult to come up with a perfect solution,
It makes a big difference whether you know it or not.
To protect the smile of my beloved child,
Start with what you can do today.
How to relieve fatigue from comparing yourself to other children
Excessive internet searching leads to illness, individual differences in development, anxiety and parenting, regaining confidence, and mental care
"Children of the same age can already sit up, but my child still..."
"Every time I search online, my worries increase and I can't sleep."
Moms who are tired of comparing their children to others,
I understand how you feel very well.
Why does comparison fatigue occur?
**Reason 1: We live in an age of information overload**
We live in an age where it's easy to find information about other babies on social media and parenting sites.
It's easy to only see information about "early adopters,"
The anxiety will increase.
Reason 2: Mother's perfectionism
The love of wanting the best for my child
This turns into a sense of urgency, "I don't want to fall behind."
Reason 3: Increased loneliness
Due to the trend towards nuclear families, there are fewer people close to you to talk to,
We tend to rely on information from the internet.
**Why internet searches can be "sick":**
Search Pitfalls:
The more you search, the more "worst case scenarios" you find
・Searching for keywords such as "developmental disorder"
Generalizing personal experiences
・Information without medical evidence is also included
**Dangers of searching at night:**
When you're tired or anxious, search
It robs you of your ability to make calm judgments and increases your anxiety more than necessary.
**The scientific facts about developmental differences:**
**A 3-month difference between babies of the same age is normal:**
・Can hold head up: 3-6 months
・Rolling over: 4-7 months
・Sitting: 6-9 months
・Crawling: 7-10 months (15% of children do not crawl)
**Factors that cause individual differences:**
・Birth weight and height
- Speed of muscle development
・Personality (cautious vs. aggressive)
Environmental factors
Genetic factors
**5 ways to overcome comparison fatigue**
**Method 1: Compare to my child yesterday**
Compare your child not with other children, but with yesterday, last week, and last month.
"I'm smiling more" "I can speak more"
Find and record small improvements.
**Method 2: Limiting time spent on internet searches**
・Childcare information searches are limited to 30 minutes per day
-Searches are prohibited after 10pm
· Search for your worries in the daylight the next morning
- Only browse trusted sites
**Method 3: Change your perspective and see it as your personality**
"My child is independent," "careful," "likes to observe"
View developmental delays positively as a part of a child's personality.
**Method 4: Expert opinion comes first**
I place more importance on the opinions of my family doctor and public health nurse than on information from the internet.
If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to talk to us.
**Method 5: Interact with other moms who have the same concerns**
At local child-rearing circles and support centers
Make real mommy friends.
**Mental care techniques to restore parenting confidence:**
**3 habits to boost self-esteem:**
**Habit 1: Daily "Done" List**
・I was able to breastfeed
・I was able to change the diaper
I was able to interact with them with a smile
Even small things make me feel like "I'm trying my best"
**Habit 2: Look for your child's good points**
・Laughs a lot
・Quiet
・Good appetite
Find one each day and make a note
**Habit 3: Say "Thank you for your hard work" to yourself**
Before going to bed, I praise myself by saying, "Thank you for your hard work today."
Even if you're not perfect, acknowledge that you tried your best
**Tips for thinking in a lighter way:**
**"Fast" does not equal "good"**
Development is not a competition.
The goal is the same, just the walking speed is different.
**The range of "normal" is very wide**
In fact, children who develop according to textbooks are in the minority.
The "normal range" is very broad.
**Cherish the present**
Rather than worrying about the future, I enjoy the cuteness of my child in the present moment.
This time will never come back.
**When to consult a professional:**
- Obvious developmental delay
・Childcare anxiety interferes with daily life
・I can't sleep for days because of comparative fatigue
I can no longer love my child
Finally, an important message.
You think about your child every day,
She is a wonderful, loving and nurturing mother.
Without any comparison,
Your baby is the most precious thing in the world.
Cherishing "this child's individuality"
Have confidence and enjoy raising your child.
You and your baby
I'm rooting for you from the bottom of my heart.
Raising a 4-month-old baby at 5 months old: Even if it's not perfect, love is still conveyed
Thank you very much for reading this far.
The first four and five months of life are a difficult time for both babies and mothers.
This is a special time of great growth and change.
Worries about baby's neck support, anxiety about vaccinations, and confusion about baby food.
Recurrence of night crying, change in breastfeeding amount...
Each one may seem like a big deal,
All of these are signs that your baby is developing normally.
And while adapting to these changes,
You are lovingly interacting with people every day.
You are truly an amazing mom .
There's no need to worry about comparing yourself to other kids.
There's no need to aim for perfect parenting.
If you have the feeling that "I love my child,"
That is the most important nutrition.
When in doubt, remember this guide.
With the discovery of "Oh, so that's the reason,"
You should be able to face your child with confidence.
Don't try to handle it alone, but make good use of the support of those around you.
Please enjoy this precious time to the fullest.
You and your beloved baby
I sincerely hope you have a happy day.
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