Becoming a parent for the first time is like venturing into the unknown. No matter how many articles you’ve read or how much advice you’ve absorbed from every corner of the globe, there always seems to be uncertainty about what is best for your baby. My husband and I experienced the same whirlwind of doubt and chaos. However, amidst it all, we held onto one invaluable golden rule: always trust your doctor and follow their logical guidance.

Easier said than done, right? The journey wasn’t without its challenges, especially as we navigated well-meaning but outdated traditional practices that our elders swore by. While some of these age-old methods were genuinely beneficial (which I plan to discuss in my next blog), here are four that we firmly declined – and we’re immensely grateful for our decision.

Foreskin Pulling

If you’re raising a baby boy, you’ve likely encountered this suggestion. Our elders advised us to pull back our son’s foreskin during massages. Regrettably, I tried it once, and my son’s cries of pain were enough to convince me something was amiss. When reassurances like “it’s normal” didn’t sit well with me, I sought advice from our pediatrician. Their explanation was eye-opening.

Forcing the foreskin back before its natural separation can lead to the tearing of connective tissue, severe pain, and a heightened risk of infection. The process of foreskin separation happens naturally over time, sometimes taking several years. No intervention is necessary unless recommended by a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about any delays, always consult your pediatrician.

Hard Massages

Massaging a baby is often seen as a cornerstone of early development, promoting strength and relaxation. For my baby, massages were a soothing ritual that lulled him into a peaceful sleep. But during a visit to a friend, I witnessed a nanny administering a massage so vigorous that the baby was crying inconsolably, and his skin reddened with irritation.

This experience underscored a critical point: a baby’s bones and muscles are still developing and cannot withstand undue pressure. Rough massages can cause pain and even injury. Gentle, loving strokes are all your baby needs. When in doubt, consult your pediatrician or a certified infant massage therapist.

Nipple Squeezing

This peculiar practice baffled me. Some elders advised us to squeeze milk out of our infant’s chest to prevent future swelling or “large man breasts”. They insisted that failing to do so would lead to pain and cosmetic issues later in life. Thankfully, our pediatrician quickly debunked this myth, emphasizing the risks of irritation, tissue damage, and even neonatal mastitis – a serious infection.

If you notice any unusual swelling or symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. Traditional methods like this can do more harm than good.

Excessive Sun Exposure

Sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D and offers numerous health benefits, but the exposure method and timing matter immensely. For babies, doctors recommend brief exposure to early morning sunlight and light clothing to prevent direct skin contact.

On one occasion, our infant was left completely naked under the sun for an extended period, following an elder’s advice. This resulted in rashes all over his delicate skin.

While older generations’ wisdom has its merits, it’s crucial to factor in today’s environmental changes and each baby’s unique needs. Monitor your baby’s reactions to new practices and always prioritize their comfort and safety.

Our commitment to consulting our pediatrician and making informed choices saved us from potentially harmful outcomes. Babies are fragile and deserve the utmost care and caution. Whenever you’re faced with new or questionable advice, take a step back, research, and consult your doctor. By doing so, you’re ensuring your little one’s health and happiness—and that is priceless.

The views expressed in this blog represent the perspective of the platform and are not intended to provide medical advice or to disrespect any beliefs or cultural practices.