Common Concerns for Parents of 3-Month-Old Babies: Expert Answers

Could you please provide the specific questions you have about the baby?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask...
My baby is already 3 months old! However, my baby prefers to be held upright, and every time I hold him/her lying down, he/she cries loudly.
Will holding him/her upright affect his/her skeletal development? What kind of cough is considered a cold? Sometimes my baby coughs once or twice and sneezes a lot.
Does my baby have to be at least 4 months old to start solid foods? Recently, my baby has not been fond of drinking milk, having only about 90-100cc six times a day.
Can I introduce anything at 3 months? My baby sometimes has a bowel movement only once a day; is that considered constipation? My baby often refuses to drink milk when it's time, but wants to drink water instead.
I usually let him/her have a few sips of water before offering milk (formula), but when my baby realizes it's not water, he/she cries continuously.
I have to let him/her drink water first, and even when I switch back to milk, he/she still cries if it's not water.
Often, my baby finishes the 100cc of water but refuses to drink milk.
Is this a sign of milk aversion? I'm really at a loss! Thank you for your answers, doctor!

Ben Ma Mi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/28

Dr. Cai Zhengxian reply Pediatrics

Dr.
Tsai Cheng-Hsien, attending physician of the Neonatology Department at Tainan Hospital, responds: Dear attentive mother, you are a very caring and observant parent! Your observations are quite detailed, and most of them are not concerning.
However, we strongly advise against introducing water to your baby at this stage.
Infants under six months do not need any plain water; breast milk or infant formula provides all the necessary nutrition during this period.
Introducing water may actually reduce their normal nutrient intake, as an infant's stomach capacity is limited.
The more water (calories = 0) they consume, the less breast milk or formula (calories = 66 Kcal/100cc) they will take in.

We suggest you closely observe your baby for signs of hunger, such as rooting reflexes when they wake up.
At that time, you can feed them without waiting for a fixed schedule.
If your baby seems hungry, feed them sooner.
If the weather is hot and your baby's lips appear dry between feedings, you may offer a small amount of water to moisten their throat.
Generally, solid foods should be introduced around 4-6 months of age because a newborn's gastrointestinal mucosa is not fully developed, and introducing solids too early can be counterproductive.

You are truly attentive parents.
As long as your baby is feeding and having normal bowel movements, and gradually growing each day, their gastrointestinal function will normalize over time.
Thank you for your inquiry, and please relax and observe your baby patiently.
Tainan City Hospital cares for you!

Reply Date: 2005/04/28

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your 3-month-old baby. It's completely normal for new parents to have concerns about their child's development, feeding habits, and overall health. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Holding Baby Upright: It's common for babies to prefer being held upright, as it allows them to see their surroundings better and feel more secure. Holding your baby upright should not negatively impact their skeletal development as long as you are supporting their head and neck properly. However, it's essential to give your baby time on their back and tummy to promote muscle development and coordination. Always ensure that when you hold them, their spine is aligned and they are comfortable.

2. Coughing and Sneezing: A few coughs or sneezes can be normal, especially if they are clearing their throat or reacting to a change in temperature or environment. However, if your baby has a persistent cough, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, it may indicate a cold or other respiratory issue. It's best to consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.

3. Introducing Solid Foods: The general recommendation is to start introducing solid foods around 6 months of age. However, if your baby is showing signs of readiness (such as being able to sit up with support, showing interest in food, or losing the tongue-thrust reflex), you might consider introducing small amounts of pureed fruits or vegetables around 4 months. Always consult your pediatrician before introducing solids, especially if your baby is showing signs of milk aversion.

4. Constipation: A baby having a bowel movement once a day is generally considered normal, but every baby is different. If your baby seems to be straining excessively or if their stools are hard and dry, they may be experiencing constipation. If you have concerns about your baby's bowel movements, it's best to consult your pediatrician.

5. Milk Aversion: It's not uncommon for babies to go through phases where they may refuse to drink formula or breast milk. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including teething, illness, or simply a preference for something different. If your baby is drinking water but refusing milk, it may be a sign of milk aversion. You can try different feeding positions, ensure they are hungry enough, or even try different brands of formula to see if they prefer one over another. However, it’s crucial to maintain their nutritional needs, so if the aversion continues, please consult your pediatrician.

6. Hydration: While it's okay for babies to have small amounts of water, especially in hot weather, it should not replace their milk intake. Milk provides essential nutrients that water does not. If your baby is refusing milk, focus on finding ways to encourage them to drink it rather than substituting it with water.

In summary, it's essential to monitor your baby's growth and development closely. If you notice any significant changes in behavior, feeding patterns, or if you have ongoing concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. They can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your baby's specific needs. Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Stay patient and attentive, and you'll navigate this journey successfully!

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