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My baby’s first vaccination appointment was the source of immense stress in our house. Despite being well aware of the tremendous protection that vaccines offer babies against deadly diseases, the thought of offering my newborn up on a platter while a doctor inflicted pain on her made me sick to my stomach. I knew that I would be a mess that day, so during the week leading up to her appointment, I did a few things to prepare. I’m so thankful that I did my footwork ahead of time. Appointment day arrived and while it was heartbreaking seeing my little girl in such distress, we survived. Having a plan was key. Here’s everything you’ll need to survive your newborn’s first vaccination appointment.
A shoulder to lean on
First and foremost, having a supportive relative or friend tag along (if your baby’s second parent is unavailable) is ideal. Knowing that your little one is going to be upset and in pain can make parents very emotional. No mother wants to see her baby in distress. Having a little moral support can go a long way.
Infant Tylenol
Vaccinations are known to cause pain, soreness, fevers, and fussiness, in infants. To combat this, most doctors will recommend offering your baby a dose of acetaminophen such as Infant Tylenol. It is best to prepare by purchasing a bottle ahead of your little one’s appointment so that you will have it on hand as needed. I was able to purchase mine on Amazon a few days prior to our appointment and slipped it into our diaper bag the night before. This helps to cut down on things you have to remember the day of.
Comfortable attire for baby
Your baby will more than likely be upset then drowsy after her shots are administered. To make your departure as painless as possible, consider dressing her in comfortable attire that you can get her in and out of with ease such as zip-up sleepers for the winter and rompers for the summer. You’ll want to avoid multi-piece outfits if possible.
Infant thermometer
As previously stated, a common side effect of vaccinations is a fever. You’ll want to monitor your baby closely for this as it’s a sign of a potential reaction. Having a good infant thermometer on hand will help you to manage this with ease. There’s nothing worse than suspecting your baby has a fever, but not having the equipment available to confirm.
A nursing-friendly outfit for mom or a bottle for baby
According to Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson, one of the fastest ways to soothe a baby after shots is by offering milk.
“Often, babies are soothed so quickly by feeding that they stop crying before they even leave the exam room,” Dr. Swanson, who serves as a community pediatrician at Seattle Children’s Hospital, told Parents.
Having an outfit that allows you to nurse your baby with ease or a bottle of milk prepared and ready to go after shots have been administered will help you to calm your baby after.
